The best cycling routes around Allendale

Allendale offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 100 options available. These routes cater to various fitness levels, ranging from easy rides to more challenging adventures through the North Pennines.

The terrain around Allendale is diverse and often challenging, characterized by the rugged, expansive landscapes of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, picturesque East and West Allen Valleys, and moorland scenery. Some routes may include unpaved sections, remnants of mining heritage, and ancient woodlands.

While many routes in Allendale are challenging, there are a few easier options available. The region offers some gentler rides, including a 15 km route following upper valley roads, though it does feature a very steep hill at Acton Burn. For families, look for routes with less demanding profiles, though specific family-friendly routes are not detailed in the provided data.

Allendale's touring cycling routes offer access to stunning natural features and historical landmarks. You might encounter ancient woodlands like those at Allen Banks, or cycle through moorland areas with old flues and chimneys from the mining heritage. Nearby attractions include natural monuments such as Sycamore Gap (Robin Hood Tree), Ashgill Force, and viewpoints like Crag Lough.

Yes, Allendale is a great starting point for circular touring cycling routes. For example, you can find an electric bike route (20 miles circular) from Allendale to the ancient woodlands at Allen Banks. Additionally, a 34 km circuit of the East and West Allen Valleys starts from Allendale, with its southern section forming part of the C2C Cycle Route.

The touring cycling routes in Allendale are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 45 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the challenging nature of the rides, and the stunning landscapes of the North Pennines AONB. Over 1000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area.

Allendale offers connections to several broader cycling networks. The region features sections of the C2C Cycle Route (Coast to Coast) and the National Cycle Network Route 7. The challenging National Byway: Allenheads and Stanhope Loop is a significant touring route through the North Pennines AONB. While not directly in Allendale, the renowned Hadrian's Cycleway is also an option in the wider Northumberland area.

Allendale's diverse landscapes are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the moorlands and valleys, with wildflowers in bloom in the upland hay meadows. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Winter cycling can be challenging due to elevation and potential weather conditions, but routes are available for those prepared.

Yes, Allendale's rich mining heritage is evident along some cycling routes. For instance, the Allenheads Information Board – Gin Hill Mine Shaft loop from Ninebanks leads through moorland and past historical mining sites, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

Absolutely. Allendale is known for its challenging terrain and significant elevation changes, making it ideal for cyclists seeking demanding rides. Routes like the View of Haydon Bridge – Warden Bridge loop from Allendale and the Cross Keys – Rookhope Arch loop from Coalcleugh feature substantial climbs and descents through the rugged North Pennines.

Many routes in Allendale provide expansive views of the surrounding North Pennines AONB. The View of Haydon Bridge – Warden Bridge loop from Allendale specifically highlights views from Allendale, offering scenic vistas across the varied terrain towards Haydon Bridge and Warden Bridge.

While specific parking locations for each route are not detailed, Allendale Town serves as a central hub. Many routes originate from or pass through the town, suggesting parking facilities would be available there. For detailed parking information for specific trailheads, it's advisable to check local signage or community resources upon arrival.

Yes, the moorland scenery is a defining characteristic of touring cycling in Allendale. Routes often traverse areas like Dryburn Moor and Swinhope Moor. The Moorland Crossroads Signpost – White Hall Chapel loop from Allendale is an excellent example of a route that immerses you in the expansive moorland landscapes.