A 7-day cycling break in North East England
For those wanting to embark on a New Adventure as the weather warms up, the North East is the perfect place to hop on a bike and see the region in all its glory, from countryside to coastline.
Coastal routes
The North East coast is the perfect destination for a cycling route to remember, with picturesque scenery and heritage landmarks to stop off at on route.
One of the most popular coastal routes is Alnmouth to Druridge Bay, this route takes you along the magnificent Northumberland Coast and past castles, tourist attractions and quaint fishing villages. Check out the full route here.
Whilst discovering the North East coast line, try a tour of Bamburgh and Lindisfarne, where you can take a tour with Iles Tours and make your way to Lindisfarne, one of the first locations in the United Kingdom to be attacked by the Vikings! On this tour you will also discover Bamburgh, one of the most popular visitor attractions and known for unmatched scenic views of the sea.
For a break from cycling, try a spot of surfing with Tynemouth Surf Co. where you will learn water safety, how to stand up when you are ready, and how to turn/manoeuvre the board!
To rest and recuperate after a day of cycling, stay at the Bay View Cullercoats, waking up to the sound of the waves. Check out a list of coastal accommodation here.
Countryside routes
Arguably the most famous cycling route in the North East countryside is along Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site constructed in AD 122. It is the largest Roman archaeological feature in Britain and runs a total of 73 miles (117.5 kilometres). This must-see attraction offers an ideal cycling route for beginners and pros alike, the hilly, middle section of Hadrian’s Cycleway visits some of the most astounding sections of Hadrian’s Wall, passing numerous ‘doorways’ into Roman history. Click here to see the full route.
After a day of cycling, dine and rest up at pubs and accommodation along the cycle route, such as Twice Brewed Inn where you can enjoy locally prepared cuisine and experience an immersive dome to star gaze in the evening. Check out more accommodation options.
To make the most out of your trip, pick up one of the Northumberland Castles & Coast Road Trip Planners to make sure you cover everywhere you need to visit in the region. They include routes and maps, destinations, attractions, activities, overnight stays (campsites, hotels and B&Bs), hidden gems, viewpoints, wild swim spots and lots more. A perfect accompaniment to your break!
City routes
If you are wanting to experience city life on wheels, there are cycle routes across Newcastle for you to try. A popular route is over Newcastle’s Quayside, connecting with Gateshead across one of the seven famous bridges. Along this route you will see the iconic Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, a former flour mill turned art gallery, event space and dining venue. Travel past The Glasshouse International Centre for Music formerly known as the Sage, one of Newcastle’s most recognisable architectural structures and visible as you approach the city. Check out more about this city route.
For a well-deserved rest, stop off at The Cycle Hub café, the Quayside’s original bike café and workshop, serving up the tastiest coffee, cakes and cycling expertise since 2012.
Whilst on this route, partake in a Triple A Food Tour and discover taste of the North East, stopping off in popular urban suburb of Newcastle, Ouseburn.
Stay at the Maldron Hotel in the city centre or INNSiDE by Melia. For a full list of city accommodation click here.
Click here for some more of the best routes in the region.