Fairy Dell, in Coulby Newham, is the perfect place to enjoy a slice of the countryside without leaving Middlesbrough. You can find it on Google Maps here.
Opening times
- Monday to Sunday: Always open
Features and wildlife
The 42-acre site is a mixture of park, woodland, and wetlands, with a central lake. There are plenty of places to wander and explore (but watch out for uneven surfaces).
The area is a haven for wildlife with its steeply wooded banks, becks, lakes, woodland, and grassy glades. There’s a bird hide close to the lake, but there are also plenty of opportunities for bird-spotting while you’re just walking around.
Once you step into the woodland, it’s easy to forget you’re just a 15 minute drive from the town centre.
Heritage and history
Fairy Dell was originally the grounds belonging to Gunnergate Hall, which was built in 1857, but there’s evidence that parts of the site are older than that.
We’re working with the Friends of Fairy Dell, Tees Valley Wildlife Trust, and the Tees Forest to restore this local beauty spot for wildlife and people.
Art and culture
The range of carved statues around the lake are an ideal trail to follow. The statues include snake, dragon, witch, acorns, newts and more – a perfect for younger visitors to enjoy.
See the map below of all the sculptures.
Walking and cycling
There’s a popular 1.25 mile route for bikers and walkers that takes you through Stewart Park, towards Newham Grange Farm, and Fairy Dell.
Download the cycle route map here.
Friends of Fairy Dell
The Friends of Fairy Dell are a group of local people who are active in caring for and promoting Fairy Dell.
Membership is free. Regular meetings are held at Langdon Square Community Centre on the second Wednesday of every month. There are also opportunities to take part in practical activities (every Tuesday morning), campaigns, events and fun social events.
To get involved, call 01642 300355 or email fofd.middlesbrough@gmail.com.
You can find out more on the Friends of Fairy Dell Website.
How to get here
- By car: There is a few parking spaces by the Gunnergate entrance of Fairy Dell, you can see them on Google Maps here.
- By foot: There are almost a dozen entrances around the outside of Fairy Dell. The southeast entrance connects to the Timberland Trail which takes you through the rich wooded area that surrounds Marton West Beck.
- By bus: There are several bus stops nearby including Gunnergate West End, Tesco Extra, and Tollesby lane.
