Chopwell Wood

Visitor information

Welcome to Chopwell Wood

Chopwell Wood really is a wood for everyone. This 360-hectare mixed woodland is a real gem, set right on the fringe of Gateshead.

Feel Good in the Forest

Chopwell Wood is one of the sites taking part in Forestry England's Feel Good in the Forest project, which is aimed at improving physical and mental health. Discover more about feeling good at Chopwell.

Explore Chopwell Wood's paths and trails

Miles of paths allow fantastic access, walking and cycling into the heart of this fascinating woodland.

At a glance

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Picnic area
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Jointly funded by Forestry England and the Friends of Chopwell Wood, this is a circular walk through the pine woodland adjacent to the main car park. The trail has a specially laid surface with no inclines, making it ideal for access by wheelchair users and as a starting point for those taking the first steps into woodland recreation. A number of picnic tables scattered along the trail also make it the perfect spot for lunch or a read of the Sunday papers! Of particular interest on this walk are the Spirit and Orchid sculptures.

Chopwell Wood offers a variety of activities as part of the Feel Good in the Forest project. They are free to take part in and include optional time at the end for refreshments and socialising. People can self-refer or be referred by a support organisation or worker.

Monday activities

1.00-3.00pm: Progressive Pedalling (Coming September)

Keen to get cycling but not sure where to start? These sessions are designed to encourage and support adults to try cycling – for those new to cycling and those who haven't ridden for a while. Come along to build confidence on two wheels and improve your fitness too.

Tuesday activities

10.30-11.30am: Woodland Warblers

Singing makes you feel better! When we sing we release endorphins, serotonin and dopamine - the ‘happy’ chemicals that boost your mood and make you feel good about yourself. Come and join a new relaxed and fun singing group. All singers welcome, especially beginners!

1.15-2.00pm: Gentle Exercise

Join this session to improve your cardiovascular fitness, strength, balance and stability. Classes can be adapted to suit individual needs and activities are done at everyone’s pace.

Wednesday activities 

10.00am-12.00pm (fortnightly): Evergreens activity group

This woodland group takes part in a range of hands-on outdoor activities. No week is the same: one week might be gardening and the next might be creating things out of wood. All sessions can be adapted to suit individual needs.

1.00-2.00pm: Health walk 

Enjoy a gentle guided walk around the various paths and trails in Chopwell Wood. Two options of distances are available for each walk. 

2.30-3.30pm: Archery

This fun and informal archery class has a range of games and challenges to keep it enjoyable and is suitable for all abilities.

Thursday activities

9.30-11.00am: Health Steps (Coming September)

If you have been advised to increase your activity or to make changes to your lifestyle and you don’t know where to start, this could be the programme for you. The goal is to help you to become more active, to learn about your health, to learn how you can adopt a healthier lifestyle and access the support in your local community.

You’ll be taking part in walks, strengthening exercises and mindful moments in the forest, followed by refreshments and a short educational session about a different health and wellbeing topic each week, with a chance to relax and socialise with the other people.

11.15am-12pm: Step into the Forest (Coming September)

A gentle introduction to walking in the wood. Join us for our 10-week progressive programme building up the distance over the weeks. Aimed at those just starting out or returning to exercise.

1.00-2.30pm: Reading Ramblers (Coming September)

Take a book for a walk! Join the Reading for Wellbeing team and Forestry England for a guided walk around Chopwell Wood. Listen to an audiobook while you wander or get lost in a book while forest bathing before regrouping to enjoy a cuppa and a chat.

 

Booking information

To book your place, or for more information, please contact Lucy Brenkley, Active Forests Coordinator by emailing lucy.brenkley@forestryengland.uk or calling 07771 885084.

Take part in the worlds largest treasure hunt!

Geocaching is an increasingly popular activity that utilises GPS technology to locate and find hidden objects.

If you simply enjoy the fun and challenge of looking and finding caches you are welcome to access our land on foot without seeking specific permission from us. Please abide by Forestry England's byelaws and GAGB Geocachers Code of Conduct. In addition please abide by all temporary signing where forest operations such as timber harvesting or other activities such as motor sports are taking place.

Horse riders are welcome in Chopwell and can explore the varied woodland paths throughout the woods.

We encourage riders to join Chopwell Wood Horse Riding Association, they represents local riders and hold various events throughout the year. 

Facebook page for Chopwell Wood Horse Riding Association.

Nearby forests

Close up of spruce tree trunk

Overlooking Derwent Reservoir, Slaley Forest is home to a selection of forest roads which give you access to the forest.

Open all year, come rain or shine, the forest is a great location for a leisurely woodland walk or bike ride.  

 

Sculpture at Hamsterley Forest

Escape the hustle and bustle of the everyday at County Durham’s largest forest. 

From wildlife watching to stargazing, and adventure play for all the family to exhilarating mountain biking, there is something to keep everyone busy.

If you fancy a peaceful wander through the trees, Hamsterley’s extensive network of trails and paths provides the perfect opportunity for you to explore the heart of the forest.

Conifer shadow forest

Located to the east of Kielder Forest, Fourlaws is a popular site in the heart of the Ridsdale community.

The forest offers visitors great walking opportunities and some unique views over Chesterhope Common.

Picnic table at sunrise

More than just a picture perfect spot for your next picnic, Warksburn is overlooked by the famous Totem Poles of Stonehaugh village, adding some fascinating depth to the view from your picnic. 

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