The best gravel rides in North East England

North East England offers a vast network of gravel bike trails, with over 390 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 46 easy, 197 moderate, and 147 difficult options.

The region boasts diverse terrain, from the extensive forest roads and single-track trails of Kielder Forest Park to the rolling hills and picturesque valleys of Northumberland National Park. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, including gravel paths, forest tracks, and historic routes like sections of the Pennine Bridleway and Hadrian's Wall Path. Expect varied elevations, from gentle reservoir loops in the Derwent Valley to challenging climbs in the Cheviot Hills.

Yes, there are several easy and moderate routes perfect for beginners or family outings. For a relatively gentle experience, consider the Kielder Viaduct – Kielder Castle loop from Kielder, which is a moderate 9.9-mile (16.0 km) trail through Kielder Forest. The Derwent Valley also offers more relaxed cycling experiences around its reservoirs.

For a more challenging ride, North East England has 147 difficult routes. The Northumberland National Park, particularly the Cheviot Hills, offers demanding climbs and panoramic views. Routes around Kielder Water, such as the Lakeside Way – Kielder Viaduct loop from Dally Castle, can also be quite demanding, featuring significant elevation gains over longer distances.

Many of the gravel routes in North East England are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A popular example is the Kielder Water loop from Kielder Castle, which takes you around the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe. Other loops can be found throughout Kielder Forest and the wider national parks.

You'll encounter a wealth of natural beauty and historical landmarks. Kielder Water and Forest Park offers stunning lakeside views and extensive woodlands. The Northumberland National Park features the dramatic Cheviot Hills and Simonside Summit. You can also explore sections of Hadrian's Wall Path, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique natural monument, the North York Moors National Park is home to Roseberry Topping. Many routes also pass by charming villages and historical sites.

Yes, North East England is home to several impressive waterfalls. While specific gravel routes may not pass directly by all of them, you can find waterfalls like High Force Waterfall in Durham, Hareshaw Linn Waterfall, and Cauldron Snout Waterfall, which are often accessible via short detours or nearby trails. These make for excellent points of interest during your ride.

The gravel biking community highly rates the trails in North East England, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 480 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the quiet woodlands of Kielder Forest to the expansive views of the national parks, and the variety of terrain that keeps rides interesting and challenging.

Public transport access varies across the region. Major towns and cities like Newcastle and Durham are well-connected by train and bus. Some routes, like the Tyne Valley Twister from the Metrocentre, start near transport hubs. However, many of the more remote trails, especially within the national parks and Kielder Forest, may require a car to reach the starting points.

Many popular trailheads, especially within Kielder Forest Park and Northumberland National Park, offer dedicated parking facilities. For example, Kielder Castle, a common starting point for Kielder Water loops, has ample parking. It's always advisable to check specific route details on komoot for parking information at your chosen starting point.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in North East England, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though trails may be busier. Winter riding is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter, and shorter daylight conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Many trails in North East England are dog-friendly, particularly those on public rights of way or within forest parks like Kielder Forest and Hamsterley Forest. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock or in nature conservation areas. Always check local signage and regulations for specific routes to ensure they are suitable for dogs.

County Durham offers some less-traveled paths, providing a sense of discovery. The View of Lanchester Valley – Deerness path loop from Consett is a moderate 26.9-mile (43.4 km) route that takes you through scenic landscapes, offering a quieter experience away from the busiest spots. Hamsterley Forest also has extensive trails that can feel like hidden gems.