Gosforth Nature Reserve
Gosforth Nature Reserve is a haven for people and wildlife on the outskirts of Newcastle
100
Volunteers working to protect local wildlife
Over 1,600
Species recorded by visitors
61
Hectares of woodland and wetland
Discover the North East’s Oldest Nature Reserve
Explore woodlands, wetlands and reedbeds where nature changes day by day and season by season. From elusive Bitterns and hunting Barn Owls to Roe Deer and rare orchids, more than 1,600 species have been recorded here.
Open year-round, the reserve offers a peaceful place to experience North East nature. Visit with a Visitor Pass or become an NHSN member to explore its network of hides, boardwalks and quiet trails.
Plan Your Visit
Gosforth Nature Reserve is open year-round to NHSN Members and those who purchase a visitor pass. Visitor passes can be purchased online or at the gate.
- Click here to download a short guide to the reserve
- Download a map of the reserve
- Only guide dogs are permitted on site
Occasionally, strong winds mean that the reserve will be closed for visitors’ safety. Please see here for future updates.
Non-Members
9am – 4 pm (last entry 3pm)
NHSN Members
NHSN members can visit during extended hours. Get in touch with us at nhsn@ncl.ac.uk to receive more information about accessing the reserve during these times.
- January-February (8am-sunset)
- March (7am-sunset)
- April-September (6am-sunset)
- October (7am-sunset)
- November-December (8am-sunset)
Prices
Gosforth Nature Reserve is free to enter, all year round for NHSN members. Non-members are welcome to visit by purchasing a visitor pass online.
| with Gift Aid | without Gift Aid | |
| Adult (18+) | £5.50 | £5.00 |
| Student (ID required) | £2.20 | £2.00 |
| Child | £1.10 | £1.00 |
| Annual Household – join us! | from £39.00 | from £39.00 |
Join NHSN as an annual-paying member on the same day you visit and we will reimburse your visitor pass! Chat to a Ranger or get in touch with our office at nhsn@ncl.ac.uk
Facilities
Three wildlife hides and a viewing screen provide a great opportunities for visitors and photographers to enjoy nature. Hides are unlocked during opening hours.
The welcome area at reserve entrance, provides opportunities to find out more about the reserve and meet the Volunteer Rangers who help protect it.
Toilet facilities include accessible toilet at the Field Studies Room and an eco-loo, located on the main path to the south of the reserve.
Visitors are welcome to use the Field Studies Room honesty cafe, and the browse books from the reserve’s nature library, when not in use for events.
Accessibility
Partly accessible grounds as there are some slopes, damp areas and uneven woodland paths. The key route to the Ridley Hide features an accessible boardwalk, and the Lawrence Hide is also accessible. Please email nhsn@ncl.ac.uk with any queries.
Getting Here
Walking/By Bicycle
Coming from Newcastle, there is a cycle path alongside the A189 Salters Lane that goes past the reserve entrance.
There is also a cycle route along Heathery Lane that links Longbenton and Melton Park. Cycle racks can be found just beyond the reserve welcome area.
By Public Transport
The nearest bus stops are the two stops named ‘BT Call Centre’ on Gosforth Park Way, which are a 10 minute walk from the reserve. From these bus stops, use the footpath along the A189 to reach the reserve entrance. See directions here.
Stagecoach (X63 and 62) and Arriva (X7 MAX and X8 MAX) bus services from these stops cover various areas including Newcastle City Centre, Gosforth, Longbenton, Killingworth, West Moor and further afield. Further service details can be found on the bus company websites.
The nearest Metro stop is Longbenton, a 30 minute walk from the reserve.
By Car
The reserve can be reached using the following postcode in your Sat Nav: NE3 5EP.
The reserve is not signposted, and the entrance is easily missed but there are roundabouts at either end of the road for you to retrace your steps! There is car parking outside the reserve entrance or on Gosforth Park Way road opposite the Greggs factory.
Celebrating 100 years of Your Reserve
Entry to Gosforth Nature Reserve
Gosforth Nature Reserve is open year-round to NHSN members and members of their households. Non-members are welcome to visit by purchasing a visitor pass online. These cost £5.00 per adult, £2.00 per student and £1.00 per child.
Join NHSN as an annual-paying member on the same day you visit, and we will reimburse your visitor pass! Chat to a Ranger or get in touch with our office at nhsn@ncl.ac.uk
Explore the Reserve’s History
Established as a haven for wildlife in 1924, Gosforth Nature Reserve exists thanks to the passion and support of NHSN members, volunteers and visitors.
Once a Victorian pleasure ground, the site has evolved into a thriving wildlife sanctuary. Discover the story of the reserve and how it has changed from its earliest days to the present.
Learning Opportunities
Our friendly volunteers love sharing their knowledge with children, school groups and students.
Whether you’re bringing a small group or a full class, we offer tailored opportunities for young people to explore natural history in a quiet and safe outdoor setting.
Caring for Gosforth Nature Reserve
Central to NHSN members’ vision for Gosforth Nature Reserve is a future where wildlife is protected, restored and celebrated through greater public awareness, understanding, enjoyment and action.
To make this a reality, dedicated volunteers are helping deliver an ambitious management plan to safeguard this special place and its surrounding landscape.
One of my favourite nature reserves to visit on a regular basis. With many varieties of birds and other wildlife here, it’s a lovely place to stroll around at your leisure whilst observing nature at its best.
Babs Baker, NHSN member
Thanks to the great work of a dedicated, onsite warden AND numerous volunteer members, the regular upkeep and maintenance of the reserve is allowing many varieties of wildlife to breed successfully in a natural, safe environment.
The Latest from Gosforth Nature Reserve
Explore updates, helpful blogs and exciting discoveries at Gosforth Nature Reserve in the blogs below
Become a Member ›
Your support protects Gosforth Nature Reserve, supports learning and enables wildlife conservation.
When you become a member, you’ll receive year-round access to the reserve for you and your household.
