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The wildlife and garden at Gibside

A deer in frosty grass itching its face with its leg.
A roe deer in the frost at Gibside | © National Trust/Tony Blackett

From peaceful strolls through the Walled Garden to walks along the winding river and wildlife spotting in the ancient woodlands, there are many ways to experience nature at Gibside.

A Georgian landscape garden

Gibside is a Georgian landscape garden, an early expression of the natural movement. Although some features like the tree-lined Avenue feel formal, the design of Gibside was inspired by Stephen Switzer's work, which moved away from formality and took on a naturalistic approach.

Eighteenth century landscape gardens were influenced by the liberalism of Whig politics and the idealism of classical art. They were designed to imitate nature, to arouse emotions with ‘wow’ moments and create a sensory experience.

As you roam around Gibside, you'll witness this artificial imitation of nature, using colour, light and shape. Meandering paths of dark foliage open to reveal spectacular vista views, and architecture is highlighted by amphitheatres which surprise the wanderer on their journey.

Green plants in a gloomy greenhouse.
Seedlings growing in the greenhouses at Gibside | © National Trust Images/Rebecca Hughes

What is growing in spring?

Landscape garden tours

In the eighteenth century it was a fashionable pastime for the wealthy to tour around Britain on holiday, visiting stately homes and gardens. Gibside was a popular destination and George Bowes wanted to astound his guests with his landscape garden.

Visualise the Georgian grandeur of Gibside by walking in the footsteps of George Bowes. Learn about the early expression of the natural movement and why landscape garden design was fashionable on a landscape garden tour. Find out more.

Enjoy garden tours? After your visit to Gibside, discover Crook Hall Gardens on a garden tour every Friday at 11am.

Spotting spring wildlife

At Gibside you'll find tree dwelling wildlife from birds and squirrels to hundred-legged insects. Get closer to the waters edge to spot otters and amphibian pondlife or look for signs of roe deer and nocturnal beasts like badgers and bats. 

Two swallows sitting on a branch
Swallows on a branch | © National Trust Images/Dougie Holden

See swallows swoop

Swallows migrate to the UK for breeding season, arriving from April. Many make their mud and straw nests in the Stables at Gibside, and chicks are born throughout the summer. You might catch a glimpse of them cosy in their nests or calling for food.

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A blue tit perched in emerging apple blossom at Gibside
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Celebrating blossom at Gibside 

Find ways to connect with nature at Gibside during the Festival of Blossom.

Four people stand in woodland, each holding a pair of yellow secateurs.
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Article

Wildlife conservation at Gibside 

Learn about how we keep Gibside thriving and discover how we’re working to make a happy and healthy environment for wildlife, people and plants.

Two women walk a dog in spring
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Visiting Gibside with your dog 

Gibside is a three pawprint rated place. There are 15 miles of paths for you and your dog to explore, lots of facilities and they’re even welcome inside the coffee shop.

Man in black coat walking along a woodland path with green leaves.
Trail
Trail

Wonders of Nature trail at Gibside 

Explore woodlands, meadows, wetlands and along the riverside, with estate highlights. You'll see nature at work and, if you are lucky, spot some wildlife at play.

Activities
Walking
DistanceMiles: 5.5 (km: 8.8)
Family visitors exploring the garden in autumn at Wallington, Northumberland

Gardens in the North East 

As spring gardens burst into bloom, there are new perspectives and landscapes to explore in a North East garden near you.