Jesmond Dene Quarry: A Tranquil Historic Sandstone Haven in Newcastle
Discover the peaceful Jesmond Dene Quarry, a historic sandstone site transformed into a scenic garden oasis within Newcastle’s ancient woodland valley.
Jesmond Dene Quarry is a serene former sandstone quarry nestled within the wooded valley of Jesmond Dene in Newcastle upon Tyne. Once a source of high-quality sandstone used worldwide, the quarry was later transformed by Lord Armstrong into a picturesque Chinese garden, with remnants of bamboo plants and an elegant stone arch. Today, it offers visitors a peaceful natural retreat surrounded by ancient woodland and historic features along the Ouseburn River.
A brief summary to Jesmond Dene Quarry
- 50 Jesmond Dene Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne, South Gosforth, NE2 3QL, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during spring or autumn to experience vibrant foliage and softer light ideal for photography.
- Explore nearby Jesmond Dene park trails to combine your quarry visit with waterfalls, historic mills, and woodland walks.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the quarry’s suntrap area on fine days for a relaxing break surrounded by nature.
- Look for the stone arch built into the quarry edge, a remnant of Lord Armstrong’s landscaping vision.
- Wear sturdy footwear as paths can be uneven and some areas may be muddy after rain.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus services 11 or 12 from Newcastle city center towards South Gosforth; journey time approximately 20-25 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening and weekend services. From the bus stop near Jesmond Dene Road, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the quarry entrance.
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Walking
From Jesmond town center, enjoy a scenic 25-minute walk along well-marked paths through Jesmond Dene park to reach the quarry. Terrain is mostly gentle but includes some uneven woodland trails; suitable for most walkers but not wheelchair accessible.
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Car
Drive to Jesmond Dene Road where limited on-street parking is available. Parking can be busy during weekends and holidays. From the parking area, the quarry is a short 5-minute walk. Note that some roads near the park may have restrictions or be narrow.
Jesmond Dene Quarry 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 Jesmond Dene Quarry
Origins and Industrial Heritage of Jesmond Dene Quarry
Jesmond Dene Quarry, historically known as Blaeberry Crags, was once an active sandstone quarry renowned for producing high-quality stone. This sandstone was prized for making grindstones that were shipped globally, reflecting the quarry's industrial significance. The quarry's stone also contributed to local construction and industrial processes, including the production of flint glaze for nearby pottery factories. The quarry’s location within Jesmond Dene, a wooded valley following the Ouseburn River, situates it within a landscape rich in both natural beauty and industrial history.Transformation by Lord Armstrong and Landscape Design
In the mid-19th century, much of Jesmond Dene, including the quarry, was acquired by William George Armstrong, later Lord Armstrong, a prominent industrialist and landscape architect. Armstrong transformed the quarry area into a Chinese garden, introducing exotic plants such as bamboo, some of which still survive today. He also constructed an elegant stone arch into the quarry edge, blending industrial remnants with artistic landscaping. Armstrong’s vision extended throughout Jesmond Dene, where he created waterfalls, weirs, and rock islands to sculpt the river and enhance the natural scenery, making the quarry part of a larger picturesque estate.Natural Environment and Wildlife Setting
Jesmond Dene Quarry lies within ancient woodland characterized by a diverse mix of native and exotic trees. The quarry is a suntrap on fine days, offering a peaceful spot for reflection and nature appreciation. The surrounding valley is a vital wildlife corridor in Newcastle, home to species such as red squirrels, kingfishers, and various woodland birds. The quarry’s quiet atmosphere and natural features make it a favored location for visitors seeking tranquility amid the urban environment.Visitor Experience and Scenic Highlights
Today, Jesmond Dene Quarry invites visitors to explore its historic and natural charm along well-maintained paths. The quarry’s stone arch and remnants of Armstrong’s garden provide unique photo opportunities. Nearby, the Ouseburn River flows gently, complemented by bridges and woodland trails that connect to the wider Jesmond Dene park. The quarry’s sheltered position and scenic vistas make it an ideal spot for picnics, quiet contemplation, and photography, especially during golden hours when the light softens the rugged stone and lush greenery.Jesmond Dene’s Broader Historical and Cultural Context
Jesmond Dene itself is a celebrated green space gifted to Newcastle by Lord Armstrong in 1883, who intended it as a sanctuary blending natural beauty with industrial heritage. The quarry is part of this legacy, linking the area's geological past with Armstrong’s Victorian-era landscaping innovations. Nearby historic features include the Old Mill ruins and the Armstrong Bridge, all contributing to the park’s rich tapestry of history and nature. The quarry’s preservation within this context underscores its importance as both a scenic point and a cultural landmark.Seasonal and Practical Information for Visitors
Open year-round from dawn until dusk, Jesmond Dene Quarry is accessible without charge. The quarry’s sheltered nature offers a pleasant visit in all seasons, with spring and summer showcasing vibrant foliage and autumn bringing dramatic leaf colors. Facilities such as toilets, cafes, and visitor centers are available nearby within Jesmond Dene park. The quarry’s peaceful environment and historical significance make it a rewarding destination for walkers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jesmond Dene Mill
0.5 km
Historic Jesmond Dene Mill ruins nestled beside a scenic waterfall in Newcastle’s tranquil Victorian woodland park.
Saint Mary's Well
1.3 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
2.1 km
Historic memorial fountain honoring Newcastle’s civic leader W.D. Stephens, symbolizing philanthropy and maritime heritage in Jesmond.
King John's Palace
2.4 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
2.7 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
2.7 km
Modernist landmark housing humanities scholarship at Newcastle's academic heart.
Old Library Building
2.7 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
2.7 km
A striking bronze tribute at Barras Bridge honoring Lord Armstrong’s pioneering engineering and lasting legacy in Newcastle’s industrial history.
King's Gate
2.8 km
Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
2.8 km
A powerful and historic war memorial honoring the Northumberland Fusiliers’ spirit and sacrifice in World War I, set in serene Newcastle gardens.
1914 Monument
2.8 km
A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
The Tower Cafe Ltd
3.0 km
Charming café in Newcastle’s Leazes Park, famed for vegan pizzas and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere amid scenic greenery.
Little Buildings
3.2 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
3.3 km
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
3.4 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
Ouse burn stepping stones
0.5 km
Historic stepping stones crossing a tranquil woodland stream in Jesmond Vale, blending natural beauty with Newcastle’s rich heritage.
Jesmond Dene Falls
0.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Jesmond Dene Falls, a tranquil woodland oasis in the heart of Newcastle.
Jesmond Dene
0.6 km
A serene Victorian woodland park in Newcastle, rich with history, wildlife, and scenic riverside trails.
Paddy Freeman's Park
0.6 km
A peaceful urban retreat in Newcastle with scenic trails, a boating lake, sports facilities, and a welcoming café for all ages.
The Lonsdale
1.2 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
1.3 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St Mary's Chapel, a medieval pilgrimage site with a sacred healing well nestled in tranquil Jesmond Dene.
Town Moor
1.9 km
Newcastle's 1,000-acre medieval commons—larger than Hyde Park, home to Europe's biggest fair.
Freemen's Clock
2.1 km
Historic clock tower in Exhibition Park commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and Newcastle’s Freemen legacy.
The Seeing Stone
2.2 km
Discover The Seeing Stone, a tranquil and intriguing outdoor attraction nestled in the lush parks of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Exhibition Park
2.2 km
A historic green oasis in Newcastle city centre blending Victorian charm, active recreation, and vibrant cultural events.
Armstrong Park
2.3 km
Historic woodland park in Newcastle with sports facilities, scenic walks, and Victorian-era charm for all ages.
Adam of Jesmond's House
2.4 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
2.7 km
Discover natural wonders, ancient civilizations, and local heritage at Newcastle’s free Great North Museum: Hancock.
Farrell Centre
2.8 km
Explore Newcastle’s architectural heritage and urban future at the vibrant, free-to-visit Farrell Centre.
Hatton Gallery
2.8 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
0.9 km
Michelin-listed modern Mediterranean restaurant in Jesmond, blending seasonal British and European ingredients with warm, unpretentious dining.
Sohe Restaurant
1.2 km
Sophisticated pan-Asian dining in Jesmond, Newcastle – where bold flavours meet modern style and attentive service.
Fat Hippo Jesmond
1.3 km
Original Fat Hippo in Jesmond serves bold, messy burgers and dirty fries in a lively, inclusive atmosphere with vegan and gluten-free options.
Jam Jar
1.3 km
Savor Anglo-American comfort food in a sleek, industrial-chic setting with craft drinks and lively vibes in Jesmond’s heart.
Florence Jesmond
1.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Florence Jesmond, the heart of Jesmond’s vibrant dining scene.
Branches Restaurant
1.7 km
Elegant British dining in Jesmond with seasonal menus, handcrafted cocktails, and a unique blossom tree ambience.
Dosa Kitchen
1.7 km
Experience authentic South Indian cuisine with vibrant dosas and flavorful curries in Jesmond’s welcoming Dosa Kitchen.
Peace & Loaf restaurant
1.9 km
Innovative modern British cuisine with nostalgic flavors and exceptional service in Jesmond’s stylish, relaxed setting.
Fratello's
2.2 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and stonebaked pizzas in the heart of Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.
As You Like It
2.5 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Fuego
3.2 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean tapas, Napoli-style pizzas, and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Newcastle at Fuego by Fenwick.
Red Mezze
3.2 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
3.3 km
Discover the flavors of Newcastle at Cook House - where fresh ingredients meet creative cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
El Coto
3.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm rustic charm in the heart of Newcastle at El Coto.
The Botanist Newcastle
3.3 km
Discover The Botanist Newcastle: a lush botanical bar and restaurant blending inventive cocktails, seasonal food, and live music in a secret garden setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
St Oswald's Hospice Charity Shop - Jesmond
1.0 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.
Gourmet Gifts
1.2 km
Discover unique gourmet treats and expert gift wrapping supplies in the cozy charm of Jesmond’s Gourmet Gifts shop.
Second Skin
1.2 km
Luxurious leather and sheepskin coats that fit like a second skin, in the heart of Jesmond's stylish enclave.
Watchtraderuk Limited
1.2 km
Shop unique fashion accessories at Watchtraderuk Limited in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, where style meets local charm.
Jules B Ladieswear
1.3 km
A curated Jesmond boutique for designer womenswear with attentive personal service and seasonal collections in a relaxed, stylish setting.
Zen Wardrobe
1.3 km
Discover serene style at Zen Wardrobe, Jesmond's haven for minimalist women's fashion on lively Osborne Road.
Antiquites Francaises
1.6 km
Discover restored French antiques in Jesmond: elegant 19th-century furniture sourced and polished since 1997 for your timeless home.
Fern Avenue Antiques Centre
1.6 km
Uncover hidden gems and timeless tales in Jesmond's premier family-run antiques haven, where every aisle brims with history and surprise.
KEYring
1.9 km
Discover fresh organic produce and eco-friendly goods at KEYring, Gosforth’s beloved hub for sustainable living and artisanal delights.
JBC Signatures Gift Shop
2.0 km
A compact Jesmond boutique for thoughtful jewellery, home accessories and gift-ready treats tucked into Clayton Road’s village feel.
Blush
2.0 km
Discover designer elegance at Blush, Jesmond's go-to boutique for ladies' fashion and accessories on trendy Clayton Road.
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
2.7 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant vintage hub blending retro style, handmade crafts, and unique collectibles all under one roof.
The Curiosity Box
2.8 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and timeless style at The Curiosity Box in Newcastle’s vibrant Chillingham Road district.
The One World Shop
2.9 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
1.2 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
1.3 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
1.4 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
1.4 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
1.5 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
2.0 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
2.1 km
A traditional Jesmond pub with long bar, local prints, lively evenings and a straightforward menu that suits regulars and visitors alike.
Holy Hobo
2.5 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
2.8 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
3.1 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
3.1 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
3.2 km
Step into Billy Bootleggers for authentic Americana vibes, live rockabilly tunes, and legendary bourbon brews in Newcastle’s lively Ouseburn district.
Bar Loco
3.3 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
3.3 km
A cozy, quirky micropub in Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square, famed for its eclectic ales and welcoming atmosphere.
The Alchemist Newcastle
3.4 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
3.4 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
3.6 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
3.6 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
3.6 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
3.6 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
3.7 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
3.7 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
3.7 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
3.7 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
3.8 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
3.8 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
3.8 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Social Club
3.8 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Powerhouse
4.1 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Digital
4.2 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly