Town Moor: Newcastle’s Historic Urban Common and Vibrant Green Heart
Newcastle’s vast historic common land offering open green spaces, grazing cattle, vibrant events, and a peaceful urban escape.
Town Moor is a vast historic common land in Newcastle upon Tyne, spanning over 1,000 acres—larger than Hyde Park and Hampstead Heath combined. Established in the 13th century, it offers extensive open pasture, grazing cattle, recreational spaces, and hosts major events like the Hoppings funfair. Its rich history, natural beauty, and proximity to the city centre make it a beloved spot for walking, running, picnics, and community gatherings.
A brief summary to Town Moor
- Grandstand Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, GB
- +441912787878
- Duration: 1 to 4 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 on a Saturday morning to join the popular weekly parkrun, a great way to experience the moor’s community spirit.
- Be mindful of grazing cattle; they are generally harmless but can occasionally block paths.
- Plan your visit during June to experience The Hoppings, Europe’s largest travelling funfair hosted here.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing meal with scenic views of Newcastle’s skyline.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve stops near Town Moor, including services from Newcastle city centre. Travel times range from 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point. Buses run frequently throughout the day, but check schedules for evening and weekend variations. A single adult fare typically costs around £2.00 to £3.00 GBP.
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Walking
Town Moor is within walking distance from Newcastle city centre, approximately 20 to 30 minutes on mostly flat terrain. The paths are accessible and suitable for most fitness levels, making it an easy and pleasant urban walk.
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Car
Access Town Moor via Grandstand Road near the Blue House roundabout. Parking is limited and can be challenging during major events such as The Hoppings. Paid parking options may be available nearby, with typical costs of £3 to £6 GBP per day. Consider alternative transport during busy periods.
Town Moor 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Town Moor
A Living Legacy of Medieval Common Land
Town Moor’s origins date back to the 13th century when it was established as common land for the people of Newcastle. This expansive area of open pastureland, covering around 1,000 acres, has been preserved through centuries, maintaining its role as a grazing ground for cattle owned by the city’s freemen. The land is divided into parcels with historic names such as Nunsmoor, Castle Leazes, Hunters Moor, Dukes Moor, and Little Moor, reflecting its layered past. Archaeological surveys reveal traces of prehistoric enclosures, medieval ridge and furrow agriculture, and later industrial and military uses, making Town Moor a living tapestry of Newcastle’s evolving landscape.Natural Beauty and Urban Escape
Despite its proximity to Newcastle city centre, Town Moor feels like a world apart. Its vast green fields, dotted with grazing cattle and bordered by mature trees, provide a tranquil retreat from urban life. The moor supports diverse birdlife, and the presence of a lake adds to its natural charm. Visitors enjoy walking, running—especially the popular weekly parkrun—and kite flying across the open skies. The moor’s generous space invites picnics and casual strolls, offering scenic views of the city skyline and surrounding neighborhoods like Jesmond and Gosforth.A Hub for Community and Celebrations
Town Moor is not only a natural haven but also a vibrant venue for events and gatherings. It famously hosts The Hoppings, Europe’s largest travelling funfair, every June, drawing crowds for thrilling rides and family entertainment. The moor’s role as a communal space continues with fairs, exhibitions, and sports activities, fostering a strong sense of local identity. Its accessibility from major roads and proximity to Exhibition Park enhance its status as a central recreational hub.Historic Features and Modern Uses
The moor’s landscape holds remnants of its multifaceted past, including medieval trackways, Victorian turnpikes, and military sites from World War II such as pillboxes and trenches. These historic elements coexist with modern amenities like water troughs and pens for cattle, reflecting ongoing agricultural traditions. The moor’s land tenure is uniquely regulated by its own Act of Parliament, underscoring its special status and the importance of preserving its heritage.Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Town Moor experience a blend of history, nature, and lively community spirit. The open skies and expansive fields create a refreshing atmosphere ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities. The sight of grazing cattle adds a pastoral charm rarely found so close to a city centre. Whether attending a bustling funfair or enjoying a quiet walk, Town Moor offers a dynamic yet peaceful environment that connects people to Newcastle’s past and present.Conservation and Urban Green Space
As one of the UK’s largest urban commons, Town Moor plays a crucial role in Newcastle’s green infrastructure. It supports wildlife habitats and contributes to the city’s ecological health. Managed by Newcastle City Council, the moor balances public access with conservation efforts, ensuring that its natural and historic values endure for future generations. The adjacent Exhibition Park complements this green expanse, together forming a vital recreational and environmental asset in the heart of the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
W.D.Stephens Memorial
1.0 km
Historic memorial fountain honoring Newcastle’s civic leader W.D. Stephens, symbolizing philanthropy and maritime heritage in Jesmond.
Old Library Building
1.4 km
A historic university building at the heart of Newcastle’s campus, now home to the School of Modern Languages and academic events.
The Tower Cafe Ltd
1.4 km
Charming café in Newcastle’s Leazes Park, famed for vegan pizzas and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere amid scenic greenery.
Claremont Tower
1.4 km
Modernist landmark housing humanities scholarship at Newcastle's academic heart.
Lord Armstrong Memorial
1.5 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
1.6 km
Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
1.6 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
1.6 km
A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
Saint Mary's Well
1.7 km
Discover Saint Mary's Well, a serene historic pilgrimage site in Jesmond, Newcastle, famed for its healing waters and medieval sacred legacy.
Jesmond Dene Mill
1.8 km
Historic Jesmond Dene Mill ruins nestled beside a scenic waterfall in Newcastle’s tranquil Victorian woodland park.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
2.0 km
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
2.1 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Morden Tower
2.1 km
A medieval drum tower turned iconic poetry venue, Morden Tower blends Newcastle’s rich history with vibrant cultural legacy.
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.
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
2.2 km
Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Unmissable attractions to see
Freemen's Clock
0.8 km
Historic clock tower in Exhibition Park commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and Newcastle’s Freemen legacy.
Exhibition Park
1.0 km
A historic green oasis in Newcastle city centre blending Victorian charm, active recreation, and vibrant cultural events.
The Seeing Stone
1.0 km
Discover The Seeing Stone, a tranquil and intriguing outdoor attraction nestled in the lush parks of Newcastle upon Tyne.
The Lonsdale
1.0 km
A two‑level West Jesmond pub serving classic pub food, wide beers and lively sport‑watching with pool and darts upstairs.
Great North Museum: Hancock
1.5 km
Discover natural wonders, ancient civilizations, and local heritage at Newcastle’s free Great North Museum: Hancock.
Hatton Gallery
1.5 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant modern art scene at Hatton Gallery, where historic charm meets contemporary creativity on a university campus.
Farrell Centre
1.6 km
Explore Newcastle’s architectural heritage and urban future at the vibrant, free-to-visit Farrell Centre.
Leazes Park
1.6 km
Newcastle’s oldest Victorian park, a tranquil green retreat with a scenic lake and rich heritage in the city centre.
Ouse burn stepping stones
1.7 km
Historic stepping stones crossing a tranquil woodland stream in Jesmond Vale, blending natural beauty with Newcastle’s rich heritage.
Civic Centre Gardens
1.7 km
A peaceful urban oasis blending nature, art, and heritage in the heart of Newcastle’s Civic Centre.
Jesmond Dene Falls
1.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Jesmond Dene Falls, a tranquil woodland oasis in the heart of Newcastle.
St Mary's Chapel
1.8 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St Mary's Chapel, a medieval pilgrimage site with a sacred healing well nestled in tranquil Jesmond Dene.
Jesmond Dene
1.9 km
A serene Victorian woodland park in Newcastle, rich with history, wildlife, and scenic riverside trails.
Campus Cat
1.9 km
Historic Grade II listed church in Newcastle with rich non-conformist roots and stunning Victorian architecture.
Eldon Square
1.9 km
Newcastle’s bustling city-centre shopping and dining hub with over 140 stores and 30+ eateries, welcoming all with style and inclusivity.
Essential places to dine
Fat Hippo Jesmond
1.2 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
1.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Florence Jesmond, the heart of Jesmond’s vibrant dining scene.
Branches Restaurant
1.3 km
Elegant British dining in Jesmond with seasonal menus, handcrafted cocktails, and a unique blossom tree ambience.
Lovage Jesmond
1.3 km
Michelin-listed modern Mediterranean restaurant in Jesmond, blending seasonal British and European ingredients with warm, unpretentious dining.
Dosa Kitchen
1.3 km
Experience authentic South Indian cuisine with vibrant dosas and flavorful curries in Jesmond’s welcoming Dosa Kitchen.
Jam Jar
1.4 km
Savor Anglo-American comfort food in a sleek, industrial-chic setting with craft drinks and lively vibes in Jesmond’s heart.
Sohe Restaurant
1.4 km
Sophisticated pan-Asian dining in Jesmond, Newcastle – where bold flavours meet modern style and attentive service.
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
1.7 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Red Mezze
1.8 km
A lively Turkish mezze restaurant in Newcastle, perfect for sharing bold flavours, grilled dishes, and a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Earl of Pitt Street
1.9 km
Discover a cozy gastropub in Newcastle blending British charm with Asian-inspired flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
El Coto
1.9 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm rustic charm in the heart of Newcastle at El Coto.
Peace & Loaf restaurant
2.0 km
Innovative modern British cuisine with nostalgic flavors and exceptional service in Jesmond’s stylish, relaxed setting.
Fuego
2.0 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean tapas, Napoli-style pizzas, and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Newcastle at Fuego by Fenwick.
George's Fish Shack, Newcastle
2.1 km
Authentic British fish and chips in the heart of Newcastle’s lively Eldon Square shopping district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blush
1.1 km
Discover designer elegance at Blush, Jesmond's go-to boutique for ladies' fashion and accessories on trendy Clayton Road.
JBC Signatures Gift Shop
1.2 km
A compact Jesmond boutique for thoughtful jewellery, home accessories and gift-ready treats tucked into Clayton Road’s village feel.
Gourmet Gifts
1.2 km
Discover unique gourmet treats and expert gift wrapping supplies in the cozy charm of Jesmond’s Gourmet Gifts shop.
St Oswald's Hospice Charity Shop - Jesmond
1.3 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
1.3 km
Luxurious leather and sheepskin coats that fit like a second skin, in the heart of Jesmond's stylish enclave.
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.
Watchtraderuk Limited
1.3 km
Shop unique fashion accessories at Watchtraderuk Limited in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, where style meets local charm.
House of Kiki Boutique Gosforth
1.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, quirky accessories, and handcrafted treasures at House of Kiki Boutique in the heart of Gosforth.
KEYring
1.5 km
Discover fresh organic produce and eco-friendly goods at KEYring, Gosforth’s beloved hub for sustainable living and artisanal delights.
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.
The One World Shop
1.7 km
Discover ethically sourced gifts and natural foods in a historic church setting, supporting fair trade and sustainability in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Time Antiques
1.8 km
Discover authentic antiques and collectibles with expert care at Time Antiques, a historic gem in Newcastle’s vibrant Antique Centre.
Elula
1.8 km
Discover Newcastle’s mystical gift shop offering unique jewellery, crystals, and spiritual treasures in a cozy, artistic setting with a welcoming café below.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cosy Dove
1.0 km
A friendly, village-style pub in Newcastle offering freshly prepared food, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere seven days a week.
The Collingwood Arms under new management
1.2 km
A traditional Jesmond pub with long bar, local prints, lively evenings and a straightforward menu that suits regulars and visitors alike.
Soho Jesmond
1.3 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
1.3 km
Jesmond's go-to bar for cheap pints, pub grub, sports screens, and happy hours in a lively Osborne Road setting.
Phoenix Bar Jesmond
1.3 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.
97 & Social
1.3 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.
Holy Hobo
1.6 km
Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.
Mean-Eyed Cat
1.7 km
A vibrant micropub in Newcastle offering an evolving selection of craft beers, ciders, and lively community events in a quirky, intimate setting.
Bar Loco
1.8 km
A vibrant split-level bar in Newcastle with live music, quirky vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual drinks and social nights.
The Exchange
1.9 km
Discover The Exchange, Newcastle’s speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a cozy alcove, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
The Punch Bowl
1.9 km
Jesmond's wood-paneled gem: quirky wines, world tapas, epic roasts, and a lively vibe in a classic pub setting.
Bealim House
2.0 km
Newcastle’s unique gin distillery, bar, and eatery blending industrial heritage with vibrant social dining and exceptional gin experiences.
The Wobbly Duck
2.0 km
A cozy, quirky micropub in Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square, famed for its eclectic ales and welcoming atmosphere.
The Alchemist Newcastle
2.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s premier cocktail laboratory with dramatic drinks, creative dining, and a captivating gothic atmosphere in Eldon Square.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cosmic Ballroom
2.1 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
2.2 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.
World HQ
2.4 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.
Popworld - Newcastle
2.4 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Greys Club
2.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
2.5 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
2.5 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
2.5 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
2.5 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
2.5 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
The Social Club
2.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Tup Tup Palace
2.6 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
2.6 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Powerhouse
2.6 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Digital
2.7 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
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
