Ouse Burn Stepping Stones in Jesmond Vale, Newcastle upon Tyne
Historic stepping stones crossing a tranquil woodland stream in Jesmond Vale, blending natural beauty with Newcastle’s rich heritage.
Nestled in the tranquil Jesmond Vale area of Newcastle upon Tyne, the Ouse Burn Stepping Stones offer a charming natural crossing over the Ouse Burn stream. This historic ford and stepping stones provide a peaceful spot for nature lovers and walkers to experience a blend of serene woodland, flowing water, and local heritage within an urban setting. The stones invite visitors to pause, explore, and connect with the area's rich ecological and cultural past.
A brief summary to Ouse burn stepping stones
- Newcastle upon Tyne, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during dry weather for easier crossing and safer footing on the stones.
- Bring a camera to capture the scenic woodland and water reflections.
- Explore the surrounding Jesmond Vale woodland trails for a peaceful nature walk.
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven, possibly slippery surfaces near the burn.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Newcastle city centre to Jesmond Vale, which takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, but check schedules for evening or weekend services. The stop is a short walk from the stepping stones. A single fare costs around £2.50 GBP.
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Walking
From Jesmond Metro Station, it is a 20 to 25 minute walk along well-maintained urban paths through Jesmond Dene and Jesmond Vale to reach the stepping stones. Terrain is mostly gentle but includes some uneven woodland paths, suitable for most walkers with moderate mobility.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Newcastle city centre to the Ouse Burn Stepping Stones typically takes 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience, with fares generally ranging from £8 to £12 GBP.
Ouse burn stepping stones location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ouse burn stepping stones
A Historic Crossing in an Urban Woodland
The Ouse Burn Stepping Stones are located in Jesmond Vale, a wooded valley within Newcastle upon Tyne, where the Ouse Burn stream gently flows. This crossing point dates back centuries, originally serving as a ford used since at least Roman times. The stepping stones themselves form part of this ancient crossing, allowing pedestrians to traverse the burn safely. Jesmond Vale’s steep slopes and dense woodland have preserved a natural oasis amid the city's bustle, making the stepping stones a serene gateway into this green urban retreat.Natural Beauty and Ecological Richness
Surrounded by ancient woodland, the area around the stepping stones is a haven for wildlife and native plants. The Ouse Burn supports a variety of habitats, with mosses, liverworts, and lichens thriving on stones and tree bark. Seasonal flora such as winter heliotrope carpets parts of the banks, adding fragrance and color. Birdsong from species like blackbirds and robins fills the air, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. The stream’s natural meanders and clean waters contribute to a vibrant ecosystem that contrasts with the nearby urban environment.Connection to Newcastle’s Industrial and Cultural Heritage
The Ouse Burn valley has a layered history, from industrial uses to a creative arts hub. Historically, the burn was a transport route for coal and pottery, with early industries such as the Maling pottery works located nearby. While the stepping stones mark a simple crossing, they stand as a reminder of the area's evolution from an industrial heartland to a valued green space treasured by locals. The surrounding Jesmond Vale and Ouseburn areas are rich with heritage sites, including historic churches and former industrial buildings, reflecting Newcastle’s dynamic past.Visitor Experience and Scenic Ambience
Crossing the stepping stones offers a tactile, sensory experience—feeling the cool water flow around your feet and hearing the gentle splash as you step stone to stone. The setting invites quiet reflection or a leisurely stroll through the woodland paths. The stones themselves provide a playful and interactive element, popular with families and nature enthusiasts. The peaceful environment, punctuated by natural sounds and dappled sunlight, makes it a favored spot for relaxation and photography.Preservation and Community Engagement
Jesmond Vale and the Ouse Burn area benefit from local conservation efforts aimed at maintaining the natural habitat and historic features. Community groups and environmental projects work to protect the biodiversity and promote sustainable enjoyment of the site. The stepping stones are part of a broader network of walking routes along the Ouse Burn, encouraging exploration of the valley’s diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks.Seasonal Changes and Accessibility
The experience of the stepping stones varies with the seasons—from vibrant greenery and blooming plants in spring and summer to the crisp, quiet beauty of autumn and winter. Water levels in the burn can fluctuate, occasionally affecting the ease of crossing. The site is accessible via gentle woodland paths suitable for most visitors, though care is advised during wetter periods. Overall, it offers a refreshing natural escape within easy reach of Newcastle’s urban centre.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jesmond Dene Mill
0.2 km
Historic Jesmond Dene Mill ruins nestled beside a scenic waterfall in Newcastle’s tranquil Victorian woodland park.
Saint Mary's Well
0.8 km
Discover Saint Mary's Well, a serene historic pilgrimage site in Jesmond, Newcastle, famed for its healing waters and medieval sacred legacy.
W.D.Stephens Memorial
1.7 km
Historic memorial fountain honoring Newcastle’s civic leader W.D. Stephens, symbolizing philanthropy and maritime heritage in Jesmond.
King John's Palace
2.0 km
Explore the fortified ruins of a 13th-century manor house in Newcastle’s Heaton Park, steeped in medieval history and royal intrigue.
Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19
2.2 km
Explore the Jess Moore Memorial Wall in Newcastle upon Tyne, a heartfelt tribute to love and community resilience that reflects the spirit of the local culture.
Claremont Tower
2.2 km
Modernist landmark housing humanities scholarship at Newcastle's academic heart.
Old Library Building
2.2 km
A historic university building at the heart of Newcastle’s campus, now home to the School of Modern Languages and academic events.
Lord Armstrong Memorial
2.3 km
A striking bronze tribute at Barras Bridge honoring Lord Armstrong’s pioneering engineering and lasting legacy in Newcastle’s industrial history.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
2.4 km
A powerful and historic war memorial honoring the Northumberland Fusiliers’ spirit and sacrifice in World War I, set in serene Newcastle gardens.
King's Gate
2.4 km
Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.
1914 Monument
2.4 km
A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
The Tower Cafe Ltd
2.6 km
Charming café in Newcastle’s Leazes Park, famed for vegan pizzas and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere amid scenic greenery.
Little Buildings
2.7 km
An intimate live music venue in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, perfect for discovering new bands and enjoying craft beers in a laid-back, buzzing atmosphere.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
2.9 km
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
2.9 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jesmond Dene Falls
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Jesmond Dene Falls, a tranquil woodland oasis in the heart of Newcastle.
Jesmond Dene
0.3 km
A serene Victorian woodland park in Newcastle, rich with history, wildlife, and scenic riverside trails.
Paddy Freeman's Park
0.4 km
A peaceful urban retreat in Newcastle with scenic trails, a boating lake, sports facilities, and a welcoming café for all ages.
Jesmond Dene Quarry
0.5 km
Discover the peaceful Jesmond Dene Quarry, a historic sandstone site transformed into a scenic garden oasis within Newcastle’s ancient woodland valley.
The Lonsdale
0.7 km
A two‑level West Jesmond pub serving classic pub food, wide beers and lively sport‑watching with pool and darts upstairs.
St Mary's Chapel
0.8 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St Mary's Chapel, a medieval pilgrimage site with a sacred healing well nestled in tranquil Jesmond Dene.
Freemen's Clock
1.7 km
Historic clock tower in Exhibition Park commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and Newcastle’s Freemen legacy.
Town Moor
1.7 km
Newcastle's 1,000-acre medieval commons—larger than Hyde Park, home to Europe's biggest fair.
The Seeing Stone
1.7 km
Discover The Seeing Stone, a tranquil and intriguing outdoor attraction nestled in the lush parks of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Exhibition Park
1.8 km
A historic green oasis in Newcastle city centre blending Victorian charm, active recreation, and vibrant cultural events.
Armstrong Park
1.9 km
Historic woodland park in Newcastle with sports facilities, scenic walks, and Victorian-era charm for all ages.
Adam of Jesmond's House
2.0 km
Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Adam of Jesmond's House, a 13th-century fortified manor nestled in Newcastle's Heaton Park.
Great North Museum: Hancock
2.2 km
Discover natural wonders, ancient civilizations, and local heritage at Newcastle’s free Great North Museum: Hancock.
Farrell Centre
2.3 km
Explore Newcastle’s architectural heritage and urban future at the vibrant, free-to-visit Farrell Centre.
Hatton Gallery
2.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant modern art scene at Hatton Gallery, where historic charm meets contemporary creativity on a university campus.
Essential places to dine
Lovage Jesmond
0.5 km
Michelin-listed modern Mediterranean restaurant in Jesmond, blending seasonal British and European ingredients with warm, unpretentious dining.
Sohe Restaurant
0.7 km
Sophisticated pan-Asian dining in Jesmond, Newcastle – where bold flavours meet modern style and attentive service.
Jam Jar
0.8 km
Savor Anglo-American comfort food in a sleek, industrial-chic setting with craft drinks and lively vibes in Jesmond’s heart.
Fat Hippo Jesmond
0.8 km
Original Fat Hippo in Jesmond serves bold, messy burgers and dirty fries in a lively, inclusive atmosphere with vegan and gluten-free options.
Florence Jesmond
1.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Florence Jesmond, the heart of Jesmond’s vibrant dining scene.
Branches Restaurant
1.2 km
Elegant British dining in Jesmond with seasonal menus, handcrafted cocktails, and a unique blossom tree ambience.
Dosa Kitchen
1.3 km
Experience authentic South Indian cuisine with vibrant dosas and flavorful curries in Jesmond’s welcoming Dosa Kitchen.
Peace & Loaf restaurant
1.4 km
Innovative modern British cuisine with nostalgic flavors and exceptional service in Jesmond’s stylish, relaxed setting.
Fratello's
1.7 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and stonebaked pizzas in the heart of Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.
As You Like It
2.0 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Fuego
2.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean tapas, Napoli-style pizzas, and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Newcastle at Fuego by Fenwick.
Red Mezze
2.8 km
A lively Turkish mezze restaurant in Newcastle, perfect for sharing bold flavours, grilled dishes, and a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Cook House
2.8 km
Discover the flavors of Newcastle at Cook House - where fresh ingredients meet creative cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
The Botanist Newcastle
2.9 km
Discover The Botanist Newcastle: a lush botanical bar and restaurant blending inventive cocktails, seasonal food, and live music in a secret garden setting.
El Coto
2.9 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm rustic charm in the heart of Newcastle at El Coto.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
St Oswald's Hospice Charity Shop - Jesmond
0.5 km
Discover designer bargains and unique treasures at Jesmond's Boutique by St Oswald's Hospice, where every purchase powers compassionate care in the North East.
Second Skin
0.7 km
Luxurious leather and sheepskin coats that fit like a second skin, in the heart of Jesmond's stylish enclave.
Gourmet Gifts
0.7 km
Discover unique gourmet treats and expert gift wrapping supplies in the cozy charm of Jesmond’s Gourmet Gifts shop.
Watchtraderuk Limited
0.8 km
Shop unique fashion accessories at Watchtraderuk Limited in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, where style meets local charm.
Jules B Ladieswear
0.8 km
A curated Jesmond boutique for designer womenswear with attentive personal service and seasonal collections in a relaxed, stylish setting.
Zen Wardrobe
0.8 km
Discover serene style at Zen Wardrobe, Jesmond's haven for minimalist women's fashion on lively Osborne Road.
Antiquites Francaises
1.1 km
Discover restored French antiques in Jesmond: elegant 19th-century furniture sourced and polished since 1997 for your timeless home.
Fern Avenue Antiques Centre
1.1 km
Uncover hidden gems and timeless tales in Jesmond's premier family-run antiques haven, where every aisle brims with history and surprise.
JBC Signatures Gift Shop
1.6 km
A compact Jesmond boutique for thoughtful jewellery, home accessories and gift-ready treats tucked into Clayton Road’s village feel.
Blush
1.6 km
Discover designer elegance at Blush, Jesmond's go-to boutique for ladies' fashion and accessories on trendy Clayton Road.
KEYring
2.0 km
Discover fresh organic produce and eco-friendly goods at KEYring, Gosforth’s beloved hub for sustainable living and artisanal delights.
House of Kiki Boutique Gosforth
2.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, quirky accessories, and handcrafted treasures at House of Kiki Boutique in the heart of Gosforth.
Flea Circus
2.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant vintage hub blending retro style, handmade crafts, and unique collectibles all under one roof.
The Curiosity Box
2.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and timeless style at The Curiosity Box in Newcastle’s vibrant Chillingham Road district.
The One World Shop
2.4 km
Discover ethically sourced gifts and natural foods in a historic church setting, supporting fair trade and sustainability in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
97 & Social
0.7 km
Lively Jesmond gastro bar with innovative cocktails, comfort food, and fireside charm on buzzing Osborne Road – perfect for brunches, dates, or casual nights out.
Spy
0.8 km
Catch the action at Spy Bar Jesmond—big screens, juicy burgers, premium pints, and unbeatable sports vibes on lively Osborne Road.
Phoenix Bar Jesmond
0.9 km
Refurbished Jesmond gem with grilled British fare, creative cocktails, sports screens, pool tables, and a heated outdoor forecourt—perfect for casual hangs or lively nights.
Soho Jesmond
0.9 km
Jesmond's sprawling modern bar hub: live sports, cheap student drinks, quizzes, buskers, and outdoor sheisha vibes draw lively crowds to this Osborne Road powerhouse.
Bar Blanc
1.0 km
Jesmond's go-to bar for cheap pints, pub grub, sports screens, and happy hours in a lively Osborne Road setting.
The Punch Bowl
1.5 km
Jesmond's wood-paneled gem: quirky wines, world tapas, epic roasts, and a lively vibe in a classic pub setting.
The Collingwood Arms under new management
1.6 km
A traditional Jesmond pub with long bar, local prints, lively evenings and a straightforward menu that suits regulars and visitors alike.
Holy Hobo
2.0 km
Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.
Cosy Dove
2.5 km
A friendly, village-style pub in Newcastle offering freshly prepared food, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere seven days a week.
Mean-Eyed Cat
2.6 km
A vibrant micropub in Newcastle offering an evolving selection of craft beers, ciders, and lively community events in a quirky, intimate setting.
The Exchange
2.7 km
Discover The Exchange, Newcastle’s speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a cozy alcove, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
Billy Bootleggers
2.7 km
Step into Billy Bootleggers for authentic Americana vibes, live rockabilly tunes, and legendary bourbon brews in Newcastle’s lively Ouseburn district.
Bar Loco
2.8 km
A vibrant split-level bar in Newcastle with live music, quirky vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual drinks and social nights.
The Wobbly Duck
2.8 km
A cozy, quirky micropub in Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square, famed for its eclectic ales and welcoming atmosphere.
The Alchemist Newcastle
2.9 km
Experience Newcastle’s premier cocktail laboratory with dramatic drinks, creative dining, and a captivating gothic atmosphere in Eldon Square.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
World HQ
3.0 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Cosmic Ballroom
3.1 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Sinners
3.2 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Greys Club
3.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Popworld - Newcastle
3.2 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
3.2 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Flares - Newcastle
3.2 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
3.3 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
3.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Bohemia Newcastle
3.3 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
Tup Tup Palace
3.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
TheCUT Newcastle
3.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Social Club
3.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Powerhouse
3.7 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Digital
3.7 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly