CATEGORY · FRESH AIR INCLUDED
Lakes, Reservoirs & Riversides in Newcastle
If you fancy water without a drive halfway up the county, Newcastle's options are small but well matched. Stargate Ponds and Bewes Hills in Ryton is free and flat, a loop round ponds and low hills that takes about half an hour, good for spotting ducks and getting muddy boots on without spending a penny. For something more active, H2oTrails out at Newcastle upon Tyne runs outdoor swimming and paddleboarding in booked one-hour slots, with dedicated H2oKids sessions if your children want their own turn on the water. Choose Stargate Ponds for a free, short, gentle walk that suits toddlers and anyone after fresh air rather than adrenaline. Choose H2oTrails if your kids are a bit older and keen to get in or on the water, though you will need to book ahead and it costs from £7 a slot. One is outdoor and unstructured, the other outdoor and timetabled, so pick based on how much organising you fancy that day.
2 places 1 free to visit
from £7H2oTrails
Newcastle upon Tyne
Outdoor swimming, paddleboarding and dedicated H2oKids sessions on the water, booked in one-hour slots.
Booking required
FreeStargate Ponds and Bewes Hills
Ryton
A quiet, free wander round ponds and low hills with flat paths, good for spotting wildlife in about half an hour.
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