The best gravel rides around Hazlerigg

There are over 45 gravel bike trails around Hazlerigg, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find 12 easy routes, 23 moderate, and 10 more challenging options.

The gravel bike trails around Hazlerigg primarily utilize former railway lines, known as wagonways, which provide suitable surfaces for gravel riding. You'll traverse diverse habitats within and around the Havannah Nature Reserve, including woodlands, meadows, scrub, and marshland, offering a mix of natural landscapes and open countryside.

Yes, Hazlerigg offers several easy gravel biking routes perfect for beginners. One popular choice is the Waggonway Tracks – Killingworth Wagonway loop from Wansbeck Road, which is 15.5 miles (25.0 km) long and follows historic wagonways through the local landscape.

For experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, there are several routes, including the Seaton Burn Waggonway – Cramlington Spoon Sculpture loop from Fawdon. This trail is 26.8 miles (43.1 km) and leads through the extensive Seaton Burn Waggonway network, offering a more demanding ride.

The gravel biking routes in Hazlerigg are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 39 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the network of former wagonways, and the access to green spaces like Havannah Nature Reserve.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Killingworth Wagonway – Waggonway Tracks loop from Burradon and the Waggonway Tracks – Killingworth Wagonway loop from Wansbeck Road.

While exploring the gravel trails, you can encounter several interesting points. The Havannah Nature Reserve itself is a significant natural feature with diverse habitats. Nearby, you might spot the Northumberlandia (Lady of the North), a striking land sculpture, or enjoy views from Weetslade Country Park Summit Viewpoint. You can also pass by Havannah Nature Reserve and Killingworth Lake.

Many of the routes, particularly those on the former wagonways, offer relatively flat and well-maintained surfaces, making them suitable for families. The easy-rated trails provide a good starting point for family outings, allowing everyone to enjoy the green spaces and natural surroundings.

Hazlerigg is located north of Newcastle upon Tyne, and local bus services connect the village to surrounding areas. Some routes, like the Waggonway Tracks – Burradon Tower loop from Regent Centre, start from areas with good public transport links, such as Regent Centre, making them accessible without a car.

While specific parking areas for each trail are not detailed, Hazlerigg and nearby villages often have local parking options. For routes starting from specific locations like Wansbeck Road or Burradon, you may find on-street parking or small public car parks available in those areas.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Hazlerigg, with milder weather and the countryside in full bloom. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially in areas like Havannah Nature Reserve where mining subsidence has created wet areas.

Hazlerigg retains a village character, and you can find local amenities within the village itself. For options directly along or very close to the trails, you might find establishments in nearby communities that the wagonways connect to, offering places to refuel during your ride.

While the main wagonways are popular, exploring routes like the Flooded Country Lane – Ponteland Old Railway Line loop from Airport can offer a slightly different experience. This route takes you through varied landscapes, including a section of an old railway line, providing a sense of discovery away from the most frequented paths.