Newcastle

Exploring Newcastle’s Best Running Routes: A Detailed Guide

Newcastle upon Tyne, often referred to simply as Newcastle, is a vibrant city in the northeast of England known for its iconic bridges, historic architecture, and scenic riverside. For runners, Newcastle offers a diverse range of routes that showcase its urban landscapes, riverside paths, and nearby countryside. Whether you’re a local looking to explore new trails or a visitor seeking to experience the city’s beauty on foot, Newcastle provides running routes that cater to all levels of fitness and interests. This comprehensive guide explores some of the best running routes in Newcastle, highlighting their unique features, terrain specifics, and practical tips for a memorable running experience.

1. Quayside and Millennium Bridge

Overview: Newcastle’s Quayside area, along the banks of the River Tyne, offers runners a picturesque route with iconic landmarks and scenic views.

Route Highlights:

  • Distance: 3-5 miles (round trip)
  • Terrain: Flat, paved paths
  • Difficulty: Easy

Route Description: Start near the Millennium Bridge and follow the riverside path alongside the River Tyne. Pass by iconic landmarks such as the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, Sage Gateshead, and the Tyne Bridge. Enjoy panoramic views of the river and Newcastle’s skyline as you run towards the Ouseburn area. The Quayside route is perfect for a leisurely run or interval training sessions with ample opportunities to appreciate the city’s architecture and cultural sites.

Practical Tips:

  • Facilities: Numerous cafes, toilets, and water fountains along the Quayside.
  • Best Time to Run: Early mornings for quieter paths; evenings for vibrant sunset views.
  • Safety: Well-lit and popular; suitable for evening runs.

2. Town Moor

Overview: Town Moor, located near the city center, is one of the largest urban parks in the UK and offers runners expansive green spaces and scenic trails.

Route Highlights:

  • Distance: Variable, from 2-5 miles (multiple loops and paths)
  • Terrain: Mixed terrain with grass, gravel paths, and some paved sections
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Route Description: Start near Exhibition Park and explore the paths that wind through Town Moor. Runners can enjoy open fields, tree-lined paths, and views of grazing cattle and horses. Extend your run towards Nuns Moor and the outer edges of the park for longer distances. Town Moor is popular with runners, cyclists, and dog walkers, offering a peaceful retreat from the city with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Practical Tips:

  • Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available near Exhibition Park.
  • Best Time to Run: Early mornings for quieter paths; weekends can be busier with recreational users.
  • Safety: Shared paths; be courteous to other users and watch for cyclists.

3. Jesmond Dene

Overview: Jesmond Dene, a wooded valley in the heart of Newcastle, offers runners a scenic route through lush greenery, alongside the Ouseburn River, and past historic landmarks.

Route Highlights:

  • Distance: 2-4 miles (loop options)
  • Terrain: Mixed terrain with trails, gravel paths, and some hilly sections
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Route Description: Start near Armstrong Bridge and follow the paths that wind through Jesmond Dene. Run alongside the Ouseburn River, passing waterfalls, bridges, and scenic viewpoints. Explore Armstrong Park and Jesmond Vale for additional trails and historic features. Jesmond Dene provides a tranquil escape into nature within Newcastle’s urban boundaries, making it ideal for both leisurely runs and interval training.

Practical Tips:

  • Facilities: Toilets and cafes available near Armstrong Bridge and Jesmond Dene.
  • Best Time to Run: Mornings for quieter trails; weekends popular with local residents.
  • Safety: Some trails can be muddy or slippery; wear appropriate footwear.

4. Hadrian’s Wall Path

Overview: For runners seeking a longer-distance and historical route, Hadrian’s Wall Path offers a scenic trail through countryside and Roman ruins.

Route Highlights:

  • Distance: Variable, from 3-10+ miles (out-and-back or loop options)
  • Terrain: Mixed terrain with trails, gravel paths, and some hilly sections
  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging due to length and varied terrain

Route Description: Start at Segedunum Roman Fort in Wallsend and follow the Hadrian’s Wall Path westwards. Run through fields, woodlands, and past ancient Roman forts and milecastles. Enjoy panoramic views of the Northumberland countryside and visit historical sites such as Housesteads Roman Fort along the way. Hadrian’s Wall Path is ideal for long-distance training runs or leisurely explorations of Roman history and natural landscapes near Newcastle.

Practical Tips:

  • Facilities: Limited facilities along the trail; plan for water and rest stops.
  • Best Time to Run: Early mornings for quieter paths; weekends can be busier with visitors.
  • Safety: Some sections may be isolated; run with a buddy if possible.

5. Gosforth Park

Overview: Gosforth Park, located to the north of Newcastle, offers runners a peaceful route through parkland, woodlands, and alongside a scenic lake.

Route Highlights:

  • Distance: Variable, from 2-5 miles (multiple loops and paths)
  • Terrain: Mixed terrain with trails, gravel paths, and some paved sections
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Route Description: Start near the Grandstand Road entrance and explore the paths that wind through Gosforth Park. Runners can enjoy views of Gosforth Racecourse, woodlands, and the tranquil Gosforth Park Lake. Extend your run towards East Gosforth and the outer edges of the park for longer distances. Gosforth Park is popular with local residents and offers a serene escape into nature close to Newcastle’s city center.

Practical Tips:

  • Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available near the Grandstand Road entrance.
  • Best Time to Run: Early mornings for wildlife spotting; weekdays for quieter paths.
  • Safety: Some paths can be muddy or uneven; use caution, especially in wet weather.

6. Wylam Waggonway

Overview: The Wylam Waggonway, located west of Newcastle, offers runners a scenic route through countryside, along the River Tyne, and past historical landmarks.

Route Highlights:

  • Distance: Variable, from 3-8 miles (out-and-back or loop options)
  • Terrain: Mixed terrain with gravel paths, trails, and some road sections
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Route Description: Start at Wylam railway station and follow the Waggonway path alongside the River Tyne. Run through woodlands, fields, and past the George Stephenson Birthplace Museum. Enjoy views of the river and countryside as you explore this historical route. The Wylam Waggonway is ideal for runners looking to combine a workout with sightseeing and offers a peaceful escape into rural landscapes near Newcastle.

Practical Tips:

  • Facilities: Limited facilities along the Waggonway; plan for water and rest stops.
  • Best Time to Run: Early mornings for quieter paths; weekends can be busier with cyclists and walkers.
  • Safety: Some sections may be shared with cyclists; be mindful of other users.

Conclusion

Newcastle’s running routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from urban riverside paths and historic parks to countryside trails and scenic parklands. Whether you’re a local runner looking to explore new routes or a visitor seeking to experience Newcastle’s natural beauty and historical landmarks on foot, there’s a route to suit every preference and fitness level. Lace up your running shoes, explore these diverse routes, and enjoy staying active while discovering the best of Newcastle’s outdoor spaces.