The best traffic-free bike rides around Hexham

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Hexham featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of distances and elevations, ensuring a peaceful ride away from busy roads.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Hexham primarily feature rolling hills and varied terrain, characteristic of the Tyne Valley and surrounding areas. Most routes are classified as moderate, with one challenging option for experienced riders. For example, the Cobbled Street in Hexham – Whitley Chapel Church loop is a moderate 18 km ride, while the Bolam Lake – Winter's Gibbet loop is a difficult 116 km route with significant elevation gain.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and finish in Hexham. This makes planning your ride convenient, as you'll return to your starting point without needing to arrange transport back.

Hexham's rich history and natural beauty are interwoven with its cycling opportunities. Many routes offer views of ancient Roman sites like Vindolanda Roman Fort. You can also pass by or near highlights such as the Chollerford Bridge Over the River North Tyne, St Oswald's Church, Heavenfield, and the historic Hexham Abbey. The routes also traverse scenic areas of the Tyne Valley and offer glimpses of the Northumberland National Park and North Pennines National Landscape.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Hexham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 36 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the quiet country lanes, the stunning views of the Tyne Valley and Roman Wall country, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.

Hexham is well-connected by public transport, making it a convenient base for cyclists. Hexham train station is on the Tyne Valley Line, offering services from Newcastle and Carlisle. Many routes start directly from Hexham, allowing for easy access to the no-traffic roads. Always check local bus services for connections to specific starting points further afield, though most routes are designed to be accessible from the town center.

While most routes are classified as moderate, the Cobbled Street in Hexham – Whitley Chapel Church loop is the shortest at 18 km with a moderate elevation gain, making it a good option for those looking for a less strenuous ride. For absolute beginners, consider exploring the flat, traffic-free paths within Tyne Green Country Park near the town center before venturing onto longer routes.

Hexham offers several public car parks within the town center, such as Wentworth Car Park or Loosing Hill Car Park, which are convenient starting points for many of the featured routes. From these locations, you can easily cycle out to the quieter country lanes. Always check local signage for parking fees and restrictions.

Yes, some routes offer views of local water bodies. For instance, the challenging Bolam Lake – Winter's Gibbet loop passes by Bolam Lake. Other nearby lakes and reservoirs in the wider Hexham area include Langley Dam and Whittledean Reservoir, which might be accessible via short detours from some routes.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling around Hexham, with longer daylight hours and milder weather. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potentially icy conditions, and shorter daylight hours, especially on exposed moorland sections.

Many of the routes pass through or near charming villages and hamlets in the Hexham area, where you can often find local pubs or cafes for refreshments. For example, routes heading towards the Tyne Valley or through villages like Corbridge (just 3 miles from Hexham) offer opportunities to stop. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance, especially in smaller, more remote locations.