The best traffic-free bike rides in North East England

North East England offers a vast network of nearly 1300 touring cycling routes specifically designed to be traffic-free or on very quiet roads. These routes cater to all abilities, with over 350 easy, nearly 600 moderate, and over 300 difficult options to explore.

Yes, North East England has several excellent options for families. The Kielder Lakeside Way is a fantastic choice, offering a moderate 33.5 km loop around Kielder Water with stunning views and a safe environment. The region's extensive forest trails, like those in Kielder and Hamsterley Forest, also provide many gentle, traffic-free paths suitable for all ages.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in North East England traverse incredibly diverse landscapes. You can cycle along the dramatic Northumberland Coast with its sandy beaches and historic castles, through the wild moorlands and fells of Northumberland National Park, or explore the vast forests of Kielder. The region also features scenic river valleys and the historic Hadrian's Wall path, offering a rich variety of natural and historical scenery.

Absolutely. Many of the routes are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Willington and Esh Winning loop from Witton-le-Wear offers a moderate 37.7 km ride through picturesque countryside. Another great option is the Hadrian's Wall loop from Chollerford, a more challenging 54.5 km route that combines history with stunning views.

North East England is rich in history. Many routes pass by or near significant historical sites. Along the coast, you can find magnificent castles like Warkworth Castle and Dunstanburgh Castle. The Hadrian's Wall area offers insights into Roman Britain. For a coastal and historical experience, consider the Warkworth Castle and East Chevington nature reserve loop.

While not directly on a specific touring cycling route in our selection, the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which is accessible from some cycling areas, is home to spectacular waterfalls like High Force and Low Force. These natural wonders are worth a detour and can be combined with cycling in the surrounding valleys.

The touring cycling routes in North East England are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 4500 ratings. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, and the abundance of historical and natural attractions along the way.

Many areas in North East England are accessible by public transport, including trains and buses, which can help you reach the starting points of various cycling routes. It's advisable to check specific public transport operators for their policies on carrying bicycles, especially during peak times. Some routes, particularly those in more rural areas like Northumberland National Park, might require a short ride from the nearest public transport stop.

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, North East England offers longer and more difficult traffic-free routes. The Lakeside Way, a 70.6 km difficult loop, provides an extensive ride with significant elevation changes and stunning reservoir views. The Northumberland National Park and North Pennines AONB also feature routes with more demanding ascents and descents.

The best time to cycle in North East England is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and daylight hours are longer. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer provides the warmest temperatures, but can also be busier. Always be prepared for changeable weather, as conditions can vary, especially in coastal and upland areas.

The Northumberland Coast, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers excellent coastal cycling opportunities. While some sections might involve quiet roads, many paths are traffic-free or on dedicated cycleways, providing stunning sea views and passing historic castles. The terrain is generally flat to gently undulating, making it accessible for various cycling abilities.