The Best Cycling Trails to Tackle Across the North East and Yorkshire
Get the whole family involved and try some of our favourite trails
Hamsterley Forest
As one of the North East’s premier mountain bike destinations, Hamsterley Forest has more than 5,000 hectares to explore. Whether you’re looking for a more challenging route, or a relaxing ride with the family, there is something for all abilities here. Spend the day here, stopping off to refuel at the Hamsterley Café, where the onsite tearoom boasts a selection of homemade cakes and snacks.
Kielder Water Loop
This intermediate level trail is suitable for all skill levels. Beginning at Elf Kirk parking, follow the route past the various landmarks such as Kielder Dam, Kielder Viaduct and Bull Crag Peninsula, making sure to stop along the way to appreciate the sights.
River Tyne Loop
Appreciate Newcastle’s iconic features on two wheels with this trail. Starting at Central Station, follow the route along the Tyne and keep an eye out for a peek of the Angel of the North before following the trail west to Wylam Bridge. Stop at the Tyne Riverside Café before looping back round to view the city from Gateshead.
Souter to St Mary’s
From lighthouse to lighthouse, follow this route along the stunning coastline. This trail is perfect for families and beginners with a mixture of traffic-free paths and quiet roads. Cycle from Souter, the world’s first electric lighthouse, to St Mary’s Island where you can visit the café and museum. Trade your wheels for water as this route includes a brief interlude across the River Tyne on the Shields Ferry.
Baltic to Bill Quay Farm
Began at Gateshead’s iconic Baltic and follow the trail to the preserved green space of Bill Quay Farm. This route features a few short hills, but is mostly flat, meaning it is accessible for all skill levels.
Cinder Track
Begin this thrilling circular route along the former railway line known as the Cinder Track. Head to Hayburn Wyke to explore the secret woods and beach before reaching Ravenscar’s headland and its breathtaking views. Follow the route through forests and woodlands to return east to Scarborough for a variety of coastal and woodland scenes along the Moor to Sea trail.
Nidderdale Greenway
This short ride is the perfect way to appreciate some beautiful Yorkshire scenery. Through meadows and woodlands, this route connects Bilton, North Harrogate and Knaresborough with Ripley along a converted railway line. Admire the Grade II-listed, seven-arch Nidd Gorge Viaduct as you pass over it towards the woodland carpeted with wildflowers.
York to Selby
A perfect route for novices, start in the heart of the historic city of York heading down the riverside path. Cycle alongside Rowntree Park before passing through Knavesmire Wood and around York Racecourse. Follow the railway path to Riccall, stopping to view the ‘Cycle the Solar System’ artwork, which consists of a 10.4km model of the Solar System.
Malham Tarn
Explore Malham Moor with this family-friendly cycle trail along easy gravel and grassy tracks accessible for all cyclists. Take in the spectacular views of the Yorkshire Dales’ own glacial lake, Malham Tarn, enjoy the wildlife, and keep an eye out for birds of prey over the nature reserve. Follow the route past the grand Victorian house that welcomed Charles Darwin as a guest, and the 18th century mill chimney. Recharge at one of the many cafés in the village.
The Swale Trial
This route runs along the length of Swaledale from Reeth to Keld, aimed at families with older children and those with some cycling experience. As you explore the spectacular valley make sure to have a break along the way – Gunnerside is an excellent half-way marker with its various pubs and cafés. The Viking Challenge is an exciting way to complete the trail, as children will love the riddles and various themed activities.
