
Trip Highlights
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Follow the northern boundary of the Roman Empire from coast to coast, experiencing the spectacular scenary that Cumbria and Northumberland have to offer.
Visit ancient Roman settlements such as Biroswald Fort and Vindolanda, and don't forget to explore the vibrant cities of Carlisle and Newcastle whilst you're at it.
Enjoy this adventure on one of our e-Bikes and we can drop it off and collect it for you. We'll also send you route guides and downloadable GPX files to map your route for you. -
Duration
4 day itinerary | 3 days riding
Grade
Challenging
Start | Finish
Carlisle, UK | Tynemouth, UK
Distance
161km Approx



Suggested Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrival
Arrive in Carlisle and check into your accommodation. Use the rest of your day to explore the local area.
If you choose to have your bike dropped off we will meet you in Carlisle on this day.
Day 2 | Bowness-on-Solway to Gilsland (59km approx)
Start the day with a good breakfast before heading west towards Bowness-on-Solway. You can choose to book your accommodation here if you prefer, however we feel staying in Carlisle adds much more value to your adventure.
Bowness-on-Solway marks the beginning of the Hadrian's Wall National Trail so be sure head off the main road and check out the official starting point before heading inland back towards Carlisle.
The views along this stretch are excellent with Scotland easily visible just over the Solway Firth. The flat route takes you around the city of Carlisle but we highly recommend a visit if you decided not to spend the night here.
Upon leaving Carlisle you cross the river (cameras at the ready) before taking a steady ride towards Lanercost and it's impressive priory. From here you encounter your first significant uphill section but the rewards are more than worth the effort as you take your first sight of Hadrian's Wall. From here it's a short ride to your accommodation at Gilsland.
Day 3 | Gilsland to Corbridge (50km approx)
After a hearty refuelling breakfast it's time to hit the trail. A gradual climb out of Greenhead is met with a pleasant descent into the South Tyne Valley and into the town of Haltwhistle (did someone say coffee...?).
Once recharged you head back up the South Tyne Valley to the summit at Smith's Shield before the awesome descent to Vindolanda. This Roman military frontier was also home to civilians and is well worth a visit.
Once you've soaked up the history head on a slight detour towards Housesteads which provides an excellent view over the local area. A climb to Crindledykes represents the hightest point of the route meaning it's all downhill from here (well kind of...). A long descent brings you into the market town of Hexham before heading onwards to Corbridge and your overnight accommodation.
Day 4 | Corbridge to Tynemouth (52km approx)
With all the significant climbs behind you, take your time cycling through the pretty villages, as you continue along the banks of the mighty River Tyne. Newcastle approaches quickly with its famous bridges and imposing riverside architecture. The perfect place to take in a deserved pitstop for cake and coffee.
As you continue past the city the path slowly rises above the shipbuilding ports. Did you know a port has existed on the Rover Tyne for more than 2000 years? On passing Wallsend keep your eye out for the Segedunum Roman Fort which marks the official end of Hadrian's Wall.
As you continue to follow the river you'll eventually find the North Shields Fish Quay - a great place to grab the quintessential seaside fish and chips. Continue on to Tynemouth which marks the end of this cycling adventure. From here its a short 30 minute journey on the metro back into Newcastle. We can collect your bike rentals from either Tynemouth or Newcastle.
If you are booking train travel on this day we recommend booking for 6pm at the earliest.
Suggested Accommodation
Check out our recommended accommodation options. All vetted by ourselves and our customers.

carlisle, cumbria
The Halston Hotel
Home to award winning apartments with hotel comforts, gym, 2 bars and restaurants, The Halston hotel in Carlisle is the place to sleep, eat, drink & meet in the city centre.

Newcastle-upon-Tyne
County Aparthotel
Located right in the heart of Newcastle, County Aparthotel offers the perfect starting point for your adventure. With outstanding reviews, a great location and a safe place to leave your bike we can't recommend this place enough.
Some more useful info
Biking Info
Bike Type
In general we recommend a mountain or gravel/hybrid bike due to some off-road sections on our route but we can always provide alternatives for those wanting to hire road bikes.
Bike Hire
We have an excellent range of bikes available to hire for this adventure. Check out the range here.
Packing
Clothing
We recommend padded cycling shorts and a comfortable top for all of our rides. Remember light waterproofs may be needed at any time of year, and a warm fleece or jacket is recommended for cooler days/evenings. Other items you may find useful are cycle gloves and a gel seat cover. Bike helmets are required at all times on our biking adventures.
Out partners at Layer offer a great range of sports and casual apparel. Check them out here.
Footwear
If you do not use cleated cycle shoes we recommend you try to bring stiff-soled shoes as they provide better support for cycling. Comfortable footwear is useful when not on the bike.
Equipment
A daypack or panniers are recommended. We also advise you to bring a reusable water bottle or alternative water delivery pack (Camelback etc.), cycle glasses, puncture repair kits and spare inner tubes. Sun cream may also be required.
Nutrition and Hydration
It is important to stay well hydrated. Tap water is fine to drink but there won't be many places to refill on the rides. We also encourage you to travel with sufficient food and snacks. A lot of the rides are in remote areas meaning shops will be few and far between.
Travel and Transfers
Starting Hadrian's Cycleway
Our tour starts from Carlisle which is easily accessible by car and public transport. You can book additional vehicle transfer out to Bowness-on-Solway if you'd like. Just ask us how!
Parking
If arriving by car please let us know as we can recommend safe parking spots.
Departing Newcastle
Newcastle is very well connected for cars, public transport and international flights.
Trains run frequently back to Carlisle should you need to collect your car. The journey takes around 90mins and costs less then £5.
Hadrian's Cycleway
Hadrian's Cycleway

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