The best gravel rides in Kershope Forest
4.8
(6)
94
riders
6
rides
Gravel biking in Kershope Forest offers routes through a landscape characterized by dense woodlands, rolling hills, and the border region between England and Scotland. The terrain primarily consists of forest tracks and quiet country roads, providing varied surfaces for gravel cyclists. Elevation gains are common, with routes featuring significant climbs and descents across the forested hills. The area's natural features include burns and rivers, contributing to the scenic and often challenging gravel biking experience.
Best gravel bike trails in Kershope Forest
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Bewcastle Church and Cross – View of Bewcastle Castle loop from Bewcastle School, a 35.2 miles (56.7 km) trail that takes 3 hours 53 minutes to complete. This route features historical landmarks and views of Bewcastle Castle.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Lakeside Way – Kielder Viaduct loop from Newcastleton, a difficult 44.9 miles (72.2 km) path. This route explores areas around Kielder Water, offering lakeside sections and views of the Kielder Viaduct.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Kershope Burn Border Crossing – Newcastleton Trails loop from Newcastleton, a 13.2 miles (21.3 km) trail leading through the border region and along Kershope Burn, often completed in about 1 hour 44 minutes.
- Gravel biking in Kershope Forest is defined by dense woodlands, border crossings, and significant elevation changes. The network offers options primarily for experienced riders, with some moderate routes available.
- The routes in Kershope Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 4 reviews. More than 80 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Kershope Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
5.0
(1)
7
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
39
riders
72.2km
05:43
1,120m
1,120m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
34
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
48.1km
03:19
660m
660m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
At this small sacred monument, there are several reasons why cyclists should not pass by carelessly, but should linger for a moment: Firstly, the church, together with the surrounding cemetery and the 'Bewcastle Cross' standing on the grounds, form a very harmonious unit. Secondly, when contemplating this cross, one looks far back into history, as its creation is dated to the 7th or 8th century. Thirdly, however – and mainly (!) – the artistic design of the obelisk, which rises to about the lower eaves of the church roof, tapering slightly upwards, is extremely noteworthy ('Amy' and 'Joe' have already described this in their contributions). My personal conclusion: Although the actual cross, which once crowned the obelisk, has long been missing, it is still a noteworthy small sacred monument!
0
0
Very fast decent , watch for the sharp left through woodland to Newcastleton
0
0
St Cuthbert Bewcastle Church stands on the foundations of a Roman fort and has roots dating back to the 13th century. Although the current building largely dates from the 18th and 19th centuries, parts of the east chancel are still medieval. The church exudes simplicity and tranquility, with a rectangular plan and a wooden gallery on the west side. Within the church, traces of the Border Reivers' turbulent history can be found, including gravestones bearing names like Armstrong and Routledge.
8
0
Bewcastle Fort (Latin: Fanum Cocidi) was a Roman fort in the English town of Bewcastle. The fort lay north of Hadrian's Wall and was connected by a road (Maiden Way) to the Banna (Birdoswald) fort on the wall. The fort's Latin name (The Shrine of Cocidius) indicates that it enclosed an existing local shrine. The Romans equated the deity Cocidius with Mars, and the fort was possibly built there to control tribal gatherings. In the second century, the Cohors I Dacorum mil. eq. (a mixed cohort with infantry and cavalry in dual garrisons, with auxiliaries from Dacia) was stationed there. A dual garrison cohort was also likely stationed there in the third century. By 400, before Hadrian's Wall was abandoned, Bewcastle Fort had already been abandoned. Around 1092, Bewcastle Castle was built in a corner of the former fortress, using Roman stone. The church of St. Cuthbert is also located within the old fortress walls.
7
0
Bicycle rental, but also coffee or an ice cream.
10
0
This is beautifully done
10
0
You don't see much here, but the trail is nice and the scenery is picturesque.
11
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking in Kershope Forest?
Gravel biking in Kershope Forest is primarily suited for experienced riders due to significant elevation changes and varied terrain. Most of the routes are classified as difficult, though there is one moderate option available for those looking for a slightly less challenging ride.
Are there any moderate gravel bike routes in Kershope Forest?
Yes, for those seeking a moderate challenge, the Kershope Burn Border Crossing – Newcastleton Trails loop from Newcastleton is a great option. This 21.3 km route takes about 1 hour 44 minutes to complete and leads through the border region and along Kershope Burn.
What are the typical lengths and durations of gravel bike trails in Kershope Forest?
The gravel bike trails in Kershope Forest vary in length, generally ranging from around 20 km to over 70 km. Durations can range from under 2 hours for shorter, moderate routes to over 5 hours for longer, more challenging rides, depending on your pace and the specific trail.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Kershope Forest?
Given the terrain and significant elevation changes, most gravel biking routes in Kershope Forest are geared towards experienced riders. There are no specific routes highlighted as family-friendly, so caution is advised for those with younger or less experienced riders.
When is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Kershope Forest?
The best time for gravel biking in Kershope Forest is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is more predictable, and the forest tracks are typically in better condition. Be prepared for varied weather, as conditions can change quickly in this border region.
What are the winter conditions like for gravel biking in Kershope Forest?
Winter conditions in Kershope Forest can be challenging for gravel biking. Tracks may be muddy, icy, or covered in snow, especially at higher elevations. Shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures also require extra preparation. It's advisable to check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out in winter.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or historical landmarks along the gravel routes?
Yes, several routes offer scenic views and pass by historical landmarks. For instance, the Bewcastle Church and Cross – View of Bewcastle Castle loop from Bewcastle School features historical landmarks and views of Bewcastle Castle. Other routes explore areas around Kielder Water, offering lakeside sections and views of the Kielder Viaduct.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking in Kershope Forest?
While specific parking areas are not detailed for every route, many trails start from villages like Newcastleton or Bewcastle School, where public parking options may be available. It's recommended to check the starting points of individual routes on komoot for more precise parking information.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in Kershope Forest?
Yes, all the featured gravel bike routes in Kershope Forest are designed as circular loops. This includes options like the Lakeside Way – Kielder Viaduct loop from Newcastleton and the Kielder Viaduct – Kielder Castle loop from Newcastleton, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Kershope Forest?
The gravel biking experience in Kershope Forest is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the dense woodlands, the unique experience of crossing the border region, and the challenging yet rewarding elevation changes that define the area's trails.
Are there any routes that explore Kielder Water or the Kielder Viaduct?
Absolutely. Routes such as the Kielder Water Lakeside Trail – Kielder Viaduct loop from Newcastleton offer extensive exploration of the Kielder Water area, providing scenic lakeside sections and views of the impressive Kielder Viaduct.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails?
The terrain in Kershope Forest primarily consists of forest tracks and quiet country roads. You can expect varied surfaces, including gravel, compacted earth, and some paved sections, all contributing to a dynamic gravel biking experience across rolling hills and dense woodlands.
Most popular routes in Kershope Forest
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
