Cycling in Northumbria : 21 hand-picked rides

Shortlisted for the Outdoor Writers and Photographers Guild Awards

Discover 21 hand-picked cycling routes across County Durham, Tyne & Wear and Northumberland in this comprehensive guide to one of England's most dramatic regions. Each ride comes with detailed directions, fascinating contextual features on local history, wildlife and culture, plus links to OS Explorer maps and National Cycle Network routes. QR codes connect to downloadable GPX maps via the komoot app for easy smartphone navigation, while a dedicated bike-hire section and accommodation suggestions make this an indispensable companion for your two-wheeled adventures.

Northeast England is a cycling revelation—long sandy beaches, windswept upland moors, and ancient forests meet a landscape steeped in history. Here you'll find Celtic, Viking and Roman sites, majestic castles like Bamburgh guarding the coastline, and Holy Island's Lindisfarne Castle, once a sanctuary for Christianity's earliest missionaries. Alnwick Castle, famous for its starring role in two Harry Potter films, adds a touch of movie magic to your explorations.

With 21 routes collectively covering 355 miles, there's something for every cyclist. Rides range from 9–26 miles, perfect for half-day outings, with most suited to beginners and leisure cyclists. Several longer, more adventurous routes—including mountain-bike trails—cater to those seeking greater challenge. Many are loop circuits for hassle-free exploration, and several follow established cycle routes including the Cathedrals Cycle Route, Coast & Castles, Hadrian's Cycleway and Pennine Cycleway, which can be linked for extended journeys. Whether you're exploring Northumberland National Park, tackling roller-coaster tracks in Kielder Forest, cycling from Antony Gormley's Angel of the North to Newcastle's rejuvenated riverfront, or enjoying wildlife by bike, Northumbria offers inspiration for cyclists of all ages and abilities.