A very popular and majestic urban park, located in the heart of the City. Opened in 1873; Leazes Park is the oldest park in Newcastle. The site contains a large lake, which is home to Canada Goose, Coot, Mallard, Moorhen, Mute Swan and Tufted Duck.
Other birds of note can include Brambling, Cormorant, Grey Heron, Goldeneye and Goosander. Recent highlights have included a Green Woodpecker in 2015, a Kingfisher in 2016 and a female Mandarin 2018-19.
In the spring/summer Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers can be heard whilst Great-Spotted Woodpeckers can be seen all year round. The site remains a favourite for Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Mistle Thrush and Song Thrush. Redwings can be easily found during the winter months.
Visitors can relax close to the waters edge on nearby seating or enjoy a relaxing walk through the park and the surrounding well-established woodland, which towers above.
Long gone are the rowing boats, which used to be available to hire for a small charge. Leazes Park underwent major restoration work during 2002-04 and was drained during the process. Since the park re-opened bulrushes and other vegetation has been installed around the lakes edge to improve the habitat.
In 2013 there was a rare inland visit from a Slavonian Grebe, whilst in 2016 a first winter Mediterranean Gull came to stay and remained in the area for a few weeks. The freshwater is always popular with the local Gulls, and at times over a hundred can be present. Leazes Park and the nearby Hospital became famous in 1986, when two rare gulls came to visit; a Laughing Gull and a Ring-billed Gull. A major event at the time and a huge surprise to find both.
A Goosander from 2017
This large man-made lake is truly more attractive in the present day and the variety of wildlife it is home to is increasing. Following sweeping council budget cuts, Urban Green Newcastle now manage the park to ensure the next generation can inherit the wonders of Leazes Park.
Visitors are recommended to also visit the nearby Exhibition Park and Jesmond Dene. Only a short drive over the river as you travel into the Durham Bird Club recording area, there is another Victorian park, which is as elegant and as beautiful as Leazes Park. This is known as Saltwell Park.
County
Tyne & Wear, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Map Reference
NZ 243 649
Habitats
- Freshwater Lake
- Mature Woodland
- Park Land
Access
The park is accessible to the public and wheelchair users.
Facilities
There are shops and toilets nearby in Newcastle City Centre.
Parking
There is paid parking available nearby.