Leazes Park, Newcastle: A Serene Escape in the Heart of the City
Need a breather from the city buzz? Just a stone’s throw from St James’ Park football stadium lies one of Newcastle’s most cherished green spaces—Leazes Park. With its Victorian charm, shimmering lake, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for a picnic, a quiet stroll, or a moment to unwind among nature.
Newcastle’s Oldest Park
Opened in 1873, Leazes Park holds the honour of being Newcastle’s oldest public park. It was created following a campaign by local residents who wanted a recreational space amid the industrial cityscape. Today, the park remains a symbol of urban tranquillity, offering visitors a lush, historic retreat without ever leaving the city centre.
Winding paths, traditional bandstands, ornate balustrades, and mature trees blend to create a space that feels both timeless and welcoming.
What to See and Do in Leazes Park
🌳 Relax by the Lake
The heart of the park is its picturesque boating lake, home to ducks, swans, and other birdlife. It’s the ideal spot to sit on a bench with a coffee or enjoy a lazy afternoon with a book. The views of the surrounding trees reflected in the water are especially beautiful in autumn.
⚽ Sports and Recreation
Leazes Park offers tennis courts, basketball courts, and grassy spaces perfect for a kickabout. Joggers often use the park’s circular paths for a scenic run, while others enjoy a brisk walk during lunch breaks or weekend mornings.
🎨 Victorian Features and Gardens
Keep an eye out for the Victorian balustrades, decorative ironwork, and beautifully kept flowerbeds. These elements offer a glimpse into the park’s 19th-century roots. The Memorial Gardens are a peaceful space ideal for reflection.
🍭 Playground and Family-Friendly Fun
A children’s play area near the Morden Street entrance makes the park a favourite for families. There’s plenty of space for kids to roam safely while grown-ups relax under shady trees.
🍽 Food & Drink Options
☕ The Tower Café
Located within Leazes Park, The Tower Café is a family-run pizzeria and art café. It serves coffee, teas, snacks, ice cream, paninis, and delicious stone-baked pizzas. The outdoor seating by the lake makes it a perfect spot to relax with refreshments. Students and NHS staff get a 10% discount with ID.
🎯 Planning Your Visit
💚 Accessibility
The park has paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and prams. There are accessible entrances and benches throughout. Public toilets, including accessible facilities, are located near the park’s centre.
📍 Location & Getting There
Leazes Park is located right behind St James’ Park and is easily accessible from the city centre. The nearest Metro stop is St James Station, just a 3-minute walk away. Several buses also stop nearby.
Why Visit Leazes Park?
Whether you’re in Newcastle for a weekend or a local looking for a break, Leazes Park offers a breath of fresh air. It’s the kind of place where time slows down: where you can hear birdsong over city noise, admire blooms in spring, or just clear your head with a quiet walk.
It’s not flashy. It’s not over-designed. It’s simply a beautiful, welcoming green space that’s always there when you need it.
