The best road cycling routes around Burnhope Reservoir

Road cycling around Burnhope Reservoir takes you through the stunning North Pennines National Landscape. You'll encounter a mix of open moorland, rolling hills, and expansive views. The routes feature quiet minor roads with varied gradients, offering everything from moderate uphill sections to more challenging climbs, all on mostly paved surfaces.

Yes, the area caters to various fitness levels. While many routes involve significant elevation gain, there are options ranging from moderate rides to difficult excursions. For example, the Rookhope Old Mine Headframe – Road Into Rookhope loop from Wearhead is a moderate 20.2-mile route, while the Alston Cobbles on Front Street – Alltwen Road Climb loop from Wearhead is a difficult 43.4-mile ride with over 3,700 feet of elevation gain.

The entire region is part of the North Pennines National Landscape, offering breathtaking natural beauty. You'll experience expansive views over open moorland and rolling hills. The reservoir itself is surrounded by a mix of open moorland and woodland. Keep an eye out for the 'wild untamed beauty' of the Burnhope Hope valley and the diverse wildlife, including various bird species and deer. The area is also recognized as a Dark Sky Discovery Site, offering excellent stargazing opportunities on clear nights.

Absolutely. The Burnhope Reservoir area, being within the North Pennines, offers several challenging routes. The Coalcleugh Descent – Coalcleugh Route 7 Junction loop from Wearhead is a difficult 30.6-mile path with nearly 3,200 feet of climbing, offering extensive views over Upper Weardale. Another demanding option is the Nenthead Village – View of Teesdale loop from Wearhead, a 31.3-mile route with over 3,000 feet of ascent.

The routes around Burnhope Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 6 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful and quiet atmosphere, the stunning natural beauty of the North Pennines, and the opportunity to ride on quiet minor roads away from heavy traffic, all while enjoying varied terrain and expansive views.

While many routes in the North Pennines involve significant gradients, the region's quiet minor roads can be suitable for families seeking a less traffic-intensive experience. Look for shorter, less elevated sections or consider routes categorized as moderate, such as the Rookhope Old Mine Headframe – Road Into Rookhope loop from Wearhead, which is 20.2 miles long with moderate climbing.

The North Pennines can offer beautiful cycling conditions across multiple seasons. Spring and summer provide longer daylight hours and generally milder weather, ideal for enjoying the open moorland. Autumn brings stunning colors to the landscape. However, due to the upland nature of the region, weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for changing conditions regardless of the season.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Burnhope Reservoir are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Coalcleugh Route 7 Junction – Coalcleugh Descent loop from Wearhead, a moderate 16-mile circuit, and the longer, more challenging loops like the Alston Cobbles on Front Street – Alltwen Road Climb loop from Wearhead.

The area offers several interesting attractions. You can visit the historic town of Stanhope, known for Stanhope Bridge and Stanhope Castle. The Killhope Lead Mining Museum provides insights into the region's industrial heritage. For natural wonders, impressive waterfalls like High Force and Low Force are a short drive away. The nearby villages of Wearhead and Cowshill also offer a glimpse into local life.

While the immediate vicinity of Burnhope Reservoir is quite remote, the surrounding villages in Upper Weardale, such as Wearhead, Cowshill, and Stanhope, offer amenities like cafes and pubs where you can refuel. Planning your route to pass through these villages is recommended for refreshment stops.

Parking is typically available in the villages surrounding Burnhope Reservoir, such as Wearhead, which serves as a common starting point for many routes. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations and availability before your ride.