Barnard Castle and Bishop Auckland Loop

While the Komoot tour starts from Witton-le-Wear, you can find parking in the historic market towns of Barnard Castle or Bishop Auckland to begin your ride. These towns offer convenient access to the loop.

This touring bicycle loop is approximately 72 kilometers (44.7 miles) long and typically takes around 4 hours and 47 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

This route is rated as difficult due to its distance and an elevation gain of nearly 800 meters. It is best suited for cyclists with good fitness and some experience in touring cycling.

The route primarily consists of well-paved surfaces, including main roads, streets, and state roads. You'll mostly be on asphalt, but some segments may be unpaved and present more challenging conditions. Expect to ride on B-roads, which are generally wide enough but may have faster traffic.

You'll pass by several notable sites. Highlights include the historic market town of Barnard Castle, the impressive The Bowes Museum, and the Newton Cap Viaduct. The route also takes you through varied countryside with rolling pastures and traditional drystone walls.

Yes, there are opportunities for refreshments. You can find a stop at Hamsterley Forest Café. Additionally, the towns of Barnard Castle and Bishop Auckland offer various cafes and pubs. The Country Tea Shop & Restaurant and the Teesdale Cheesemakers Café are also mentioned in the area.

The route can be enjoyed during most of the year, but spring through autumn generally offers the most pleasant weather for cycling. Always check local weather forecasts before you go, especially for conditions on the open moorland sections.

While the route is primarily on roads, which are generally accessible, it's important to consider that touring cycling routes are not always ideal for dogs. If you plan to bring a dog, ensure they are comfortable with being carried in a trailer or are well-behaved and can keep pace safely on roads with traffic. Always keep dogs on a leash when near livestock or on public roads.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route within the North Pennines National Landscape. However, always respect local signage and private land.

Yes, the route intersects with several other official trails. Significant portions of the loop follow sections of the National Byway (County Durham and Northumberland), National Cycle Network Route 715, and the Walney to Wear Cycle Route. You'll also encounter parts of the Former NCN 70 around Barnard Castle and National Cycle Route 165.

For this touring bicycle loop, you should bring appropriate cycling gear, including a helmet, water bottles, snacks, and a repair kit. Given the varied terrain and potential for unpaved sections, a touring bicycle with suitable tires is recommended. Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions, as parts of the route are exposed.