Free Things to Do in Ponteland

You don't need to spend a thing to have a good day in Ponteland. Between the park, the river, the countryside and the village's own heritage, there is plenty to do for free. Here are the pick of them.

Walk in Ponteland Park

Ponteland Park is the largest green space in the town, around 18 acres of woodland and open grass alongside the River Pont, free and open to all. It is a firm favourite with dog walkers and families, and links easily with the streets for a longer loop.

Follow the old railway line

One of the best free walks is the flat, well-surfaced path along the dismantled Darras Hall railway line, which runs from near the River Pont in the village out through Darras Hall. It is ideal for walking, running or cycling. See our full guide to the best walks around Ponteland for this and more.

Go birdwatching at Prestwick Carr

Just outside the village, Prestwick Carr is a wetland famous among birdwatchers, home to owls, waders and, in winter, the celebrated Great Grey Shrikes. Note it is viewed from the roadside rather than walked through, but it costs nothing to bring binoculars and see what is about.

Visit the parish church

St Mary the Virgin on Thornhill Road is Ponteland's historic parish church, essentially a 12th-century building at the ancient heart of the village. It is free to visit and a lovely, quiet piece of local heritage. Our heritage walk guide links it with the castle-tower and the river.

Use the library

The library inside the Ponteland Leisure Centre on the Callerton Lane campus is free to join and use, with books, computers and a warm place to sit, one of the perks of the 2020 campus rebuild.

Explore the countryside

The quiet country lanes west of the village towards Dissington and Medburn make for free, scenic walking through open farmland along the River Pont. Wrap up, wear decent shoes and enjoy the Northumberland countryside on the doorstep.

Know a free Ponteland activity we should add? Get in touch via our contact page.