4.4
(10)
649
riders
37
rides
Road cycling routes around Forest And Frith are situated within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterized by an upland landscape of open heather moors, peatlands, and attractive dales. The region features challenging ascents and rewarding descents, with elevations ranging from approximately 300 meters near the River Tees valley to over 400 meters on the surrounding moors. Quiet country roads traverse this dramatic scenery, offering diverse terrain for road cyclists. The area's geological formations and biodiversity provide varied…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
5.0
(1)
73
riders
69.9km
03:30
1,140m
1,140m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.0
(1)
64
riders
49.2km
02:38
970m
970m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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5.0
(1)
44
riders
46.0km
02:11
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
28
riders
68.9km
04:10
1,590m
1,590m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
31
riders
32.5km
01:41
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Stunning views at the top on the Northumberland border
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The castle was built in 1798 with additions made in 1823. In 1941 the castle became a school for boys and then in 1980 it was converted into apartments.
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Rookhope is really interesting- but slowly dying. The arch is almost emblematic of that.
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To cross the River Allen at this point, you will pass over this three-arch bridge, which is listed as Grade 2. Its origin dates back to the late 18th century. There are a few parking spaces on one side of the bridge.
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This is a scenic open road over moorland and reaches an impressive elevation of 511m on Middleton Common. It’s an undulating road but offers fabulous views in all directions. It crosses the border between Teasdale and Weardale.
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There are 37 road cycling routes available around Forest And Frith. These routes traverse the diverse landscape of open heather moors, peatlands, and attractive dales within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Road cycling in Forest And Frith offers a range of difficulties. You'll find 4 easy routes, 17 moderate routes, and 16 difficult routes, catering to various experience levels. The region is known for its challenging ascents and rewarding descents.
The region is rich in natural beauty. Cyclists can encounter impressive features such as High Force Waterfall, where the River Tees plunges dramatically, and the spectacular cascade of Cauldron Snout Waterfall. The dramatic, U-shaped valley of High Cup Nick is also a notable natural feature in the area.
Yes, Forest And Frith is known for its challenging terrain. A difficult route like Rookhope Arch – Weardale Descent to Stanhope loop from St. John's Chapel covers 68.9 km with over 1,500 meters of elevation gain. The area's position in the Pennine uplands means many routes feature substantial ascents.
The road cycling routes in Forest And Frith are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 10 reviews. Over 600 road cyclists have explored the varied terrain, often praising the quiet country roads and dramatic scenery.
Yes, for a moderate experience, consider the Daddry Shield Quiet Road – Brotherlee loop from Ireshopeburn. This 46.0 km trail leads through quiet country roads and dales, offering a balanced ride with around 368 meters of elevation gain.
For routes with sustained climbs and descents across moorland terrain, the Coalcleugh Descent – Coalcleugh Route 7 Junction loop from Wearhead is an excellent choice. This difficult 49.2 km path features nearly 1,000 meters of elevation gain, showcasing the expansive moorland landscape.
Road cycling routes in Forest And Frith traverse an upland landscape characterized by open heather moors, peatlands, attractive dales, and hay meadows. You'll also find tumbling upland rivers like the Tees, and elevations ranging from around 300 meters in the river valley to over 400 meters on the surrounding moors.
Yes, the region includes notable mountain passes. For instance, the Weardale–Teesdale Pass (B6278) is a long moorland road that links Stanhope in Weardale to Eggleston in Teesdale, reaching a high point of 511m on Middleton Common and featuring hilly sections.
For a longer and more challenging ride through the upland landscape, the Alston Cobbles on Front Street – Alltwen Road Climb loop from Wearhead is a difficult 69.9 km trail. It features significant elevation gain, making it a demanding yet rewarding experience.
While not explicitly detailed in the provided routes, the broader Teesdale area, which includes Forest And Frith, features sections that pass through old lead mining villages. These areas offer glimpses into the region's industrial past amidst panoramic views.
The North Pennines, including Forest And Frith, can be exposed to wind, especially on moorland roads. While specific best times aren't detailed, generally, late spring to early autumn offers the most favorable weather conditions for road cycling, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures.


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