The best road cycling routes in Northumberland

Northumberland offers a vast network for road cyclists, with over 1,400 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including over 450 easy, 840 moderate, and 170 difficult options.

Northumberland's road cycling terrain is incredibly diverse. You'll find everything from challenging climbs through the rolling uplands of the Northumberland National Park, including areas like the Cheviot Hills, to scenic, flatter rides along the stunning coastline. Forest roads, quiet country lanes, and routes alongside historic sites like Hadrian's Wall also feature prominently.

Yes, Northumberland provides plenty of challenging routes. For instance, the Blanchland & Allendale loop from Hexham is a difficult 65 km trail with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Kielder Reservoir & Forest loop from Haltwhistle, covering 137 km with 1,400 meters of ascent, offering a true test of endurance.

Absolutely. Northumberland has over 450 easy road cycling routes. A great option for beginners is the Beadnell Bay & Dunstanburgh Castle loop from Bamburgh. This 42.8 km route is relatively flat, with less than 200 meters of elevation gain, offering beautiful coastal views without significant climbs.

Northumberland is rich in history. You can cycle past iconic castles along the coast, such as those near the Dunstanburgh & Bamburgh Castle coastal loop from Alnwick. Further inland, routes often pass near sections of Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You might also encounter historical sites like the Ros Castle Hill Fort or the Ruins of Staward Peel.

Yes, Northumberland offers breathtaking scenic viewpoints. Coastal routes provide expansive sea views, while rides through the Northumberland National Park can lead to panoramic vistas from spots like Simonside Summit or The Cheviot Summit. Other notable viewpoints include Cairn Hill and Hedgehope Hill Summit.

Many of Northumberland's road cycling routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Embleton and Rennington loop from Alnmouth, the Ponteland & Wallington Hall loop from Cramlington station, and the extensive Kielder and Gilsland loop from Hexham.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Northumberland, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 380 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the dramatic coastline to the quiet uplands, and the blend of challenging climbs with scenic, less-trafficked roads. The historical sites and natural beauty along the routes are also often highlighted.

Yes, Kielder Water and Forest Park offers fantastic road cycling opportunities. Routes like the challenging Kielder & Wauchape Forest via Scotland/England border take you through this expansive area, known for its vast lake, dense forests, and opportunities to spot wildlife. The park also features the 26-mile Lakeside Way, suitable for road and hybrid bikes.

Some road cycling routes in Northumberland are accessible via public transport, particularly those starting near train stations. For example, the Ponteland & Wallington Hall loop starts from Cramlington station, and the Morpeth, Amble & Warkworth castle loop begins near Pegswood Station. It's advisable to check local train and bus services for bike carriage policies and specific route access.

The best time for road cycling in Northumberland is typically from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, with longer daylight hours. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, while spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Always check local weather forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly, especially in upland areas.

Yes, Northumberland is part of several notable long-distance cycle routes. The 'Coast and Castles' route (National Cycle Network Route 1) spans 85 miles of Northumberland's coastline, connecting Tynemouth to Berwick-upon-Tweed. The Hadrian's Cycleway (NCN 72) also features 33 miles within Northumberland, allowing cyclists to explore the Roman Wall. The Pennine Cycleway (NCN 68) also ends in Berwick-upon-Tweed, offering a challenging traverse of the North Pennines.