The best MTB trails around North Tyneside

There are over 50 mountain bike trails around North Tyneside, offering a diverse range of experiences for riders. These include a mix of coastal paths, historical waggonways, and routes along river valleys.

North Tyneside offers a range of difficulties to suit various skill levels. You'll find 25 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for beginners to more experienced riders.

Yes, North Tyneside has 25 easy mountain bike routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. An example is the Challenging Forest Track – Forest Dirt Trail loop from Monkseaton, which is 24 km long with minimal elevation gain.

The terrain in North Tyneside is varied, featuring coastal paths with sea views, historical waggonways that offer flatter, often traffic-free riding, and routes along river valleys. You'll encounter a mix of paved sections, gravel paths, and some natural dirt trails, reflecting the region's blend of urban and natural landscapes.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in North Tyneside are circular. For example, the Felling Bypass Path – Tanfield Railway loop from North Shields is a moderate 49.2 km circular route, and the Gateshead Millennium Bridge – Tynemouth Castle and Priory loop from West Monkseaton offers a longer 69.1 km circular ride.

Many trails offer scenic views of the North Sea coastline, including landmarks like St Mary's Lighthouse. Inland, you might pass through areas like Holywell Dene or near the River Tyne. Highlights such as Holywell Dene and Seaton Burn, Table Rocks Tidal Pool, and Weetslade Country Park Summit Viewpoint are accessible near some routes, offering natural beauty and panoramic views.

Yes, some routes will take you near local water bodies. For instance, you might pass by Swallow Pond or Killingworth Lake, which are popular spots for local wildlife and offer pleasant views.

The trails in North Tyneside are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 35 reviews. Riders often praise the blend of coastal scenery, historical waggonways, and river routes, highlighting the diverse landscape and accessibility for various skill levels.

Many of the easy and moderate routes on historical waggonways or coastal paths are suitable for families, as they often have gentler gradients and are away from heavy traffic. The region's network of cycle paths, including sections of Hadrian's Cycleway, provides safe and enjoyable options for family rides.

Parking availability varies by trail start point. Many routes begin near residential areas or public parks which may have designated parking. For trails that start in towns like North Shields, West Monkseaton, or Cullercoats, public car parks are generally available. It's advisable to check specific starting points for detailed parking information.

North Tyneside has good public transport links, particularly with the Tyne and Wear Metro system, which connects many coastal towns and inland areas. Several routes are accessible from Metro stations, making it possible to reach trailheads without a car. Local bus services also cover a wide area, providing further access options.

While North Tyneside primarily features easy to moderate routes, there is at least one designated difficult route for experienced riders. For more advanced technical trails, riders often venture slightly further afield to dedicated mountain biking centers like Whickham Thorns Outdoor Activity Centre or Chopwell Wood, which offer purpose-built trails with varying levels of difficulty.