Discover North East nature

NHSN is a community for those who study nature and enjoy wildlife in Northumberland, Durham and Tyne & Wear. Founded in 1829, we work to inspire wonder in the natural world, from the Tees to the Tweed.

Natural History Society of Northumbria

North East nature needs people committed to protecting and understanding it.

NHSN is a community of people connected by a shared interest in the natural world.

Get involved today and join a community of over 2,800 members passionate about local nature.

What’s On

From family events and nature walks to courses, talks and volunteering, there are lots of ways to get involved with NHSN. Explore the latest opportunities below.

NHSN Talks

Your NHSN Talks and early-career 1829 Talks are back with a brand new programme!

Join us in Newcastle University’s Curtis Auditorium each Monday from 6.00pm for talks on ponds, photography, dragonflies and lots more.

All are welcome. Please see below for the programme.

Conservation Volunteering

Keen to get your hands dirty for local nature?

Join us on the final Saturday of each month between October and March for a morning of conservation volunteering at Gosforth Nature Reserve. Tasks include habitat management, tree planting and scrub clearance.

All are welcome. The next sessions will be held on 22 Feb and 29 March, 10am-1pm.

Natural History Society of Northumbria (NHSN) ›
Start exploring North East nature by joining one of many events, courses and activities taking place across North East England….
Natural History Society of Northumbria (NHSN) ›
Could you help inspire wonder in the natural world? By offering just a few hours of your time as a…
Natural History Society of Northumbria (NHSN) ›
Gosforth’s Wild Web is a chance for you to explore, record and enjoy wildlife across Newcastle’s urban nature corridors. By…

Gosforth Nature Reserve

Established in 1924, Gosforth Nature Reserve is the oldest nature reserve in North East England. Why not pay a visit to enjoy a relaxing walk among the trees and discover the wealth of wildlife thriving in the heart of urban Newcastle?

A Haven for People & Nature

Established in 1924, Gosforth Nature Reserve is the oldest nature reserve in North East England.

A haven for wildlife, the reserve is nationally important for its rare wildlife and plants, many of which you won’t encounter anywhere else in the city.

With quiet woodland trails and stunning wetland views, it is the perfect place to relax, unwind and experience the joys of the natural world.

Plan Your Visit

The reserve is open for you and your family to enjoy year-round.

To visit, join NHSN today or purchase a Visitor Pass to experience the sights and sounds of nature through a range of hides, boardwalks and scenic trails.

To plan your next visit and experience the wonder of Gosforth Nature Reserve, please see the visitor information below.

Noticing Nature Near You

Did you know that you can help protect nature simply by sharing what you see? Wherever you are in the North East, you can help monitor and protect wildlife by taking part in citizen science projects across the region.

Natural History Society of Northumbria (NHSN) ›
The North East Bee Hunt is back for a fifth year! Join in today and help put our region’s bees…
Natural History Society of Northumbria (NHSN) ›
Join the North East Ladybird Spot today and help protect these colourful insects across the North East Join the North…
Natural History Society of Northumbria (NHSN) ›
Wherever you are in the North East, we need your help to put orchids on the map in 2024. Join…