Our cycle holiday team are ready to help find you the best cycling experience to match your skill level and requirements. What for? Anyway, heres where things get complicated: the first part of the route takes you from Newcastle to Berwick (on a stretch which measures in at 100 miles). This is the version Ive done, so its obviously the version Im gonna recommend. Coast and Castles Cycle Route Start: Newcastle Distance: Coastal route 170 miles / Inland route 199 miles Terrain: Off road, traffic free Bike Types: Mountain bikes, Hybrid, Road Bike Grading : Moderate There are 2 variations of the Coast and Castles cycle route. It does not store any personal data. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. If youve never before done a multi-day cycling trip, my main tip is pack less than you need. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. The 355 mile Pennine Cycleway is split into three maps, and Northumberlands section weaves its way through the North Pennines. So dont be an idiot like me, and take the detourbecause even though its longer, its shorter. The second half of this route sees you head inland, crossing the Scottish border, then making its way into the undulating hills of the Tweed Valley. It is a heady mix of . Northumberland holds 33 miles of it, dipping into the iconic, central sections of the Wall at every opportunity. National Cycle Route 76. 4 days - 220 National Cycle Network (NCN) routes | North Tyneside Council Spectacular panoramas of green leafy hilltops, moody landscapes and mystical abbeys await you on stage 6 of Coast and Castles. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Although the journey can take quite some time from London and the South of England, the train journey passes through quaint countryside along the way. Coast and Castles Route Idyllic by name and by nature Weaving along our coastline, the Coast and Castles Route intertwines staggering sea views, fascinating glimpses of history, magnificent castles in various states of survival, countless coves and bays and coastal islands. Coast and Castle Cycle Route : Newcastle to Edinburgh: 9781901389197 One of the UK's easiest, but still epic, long-distance routes, it links the Tyne and Forth estuaries. The Coast and Castles Cycle Route can be a 3, 4 or 5 day ride depending upon whether you want a challenge or an adventure. Most people cycle south to north, no matter which of the two routes theyre taking. Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places. You cycle along coasts roads, next to the beaches of the Northumberland-coast, Dunstaburgh and Bamburgh. Coast & Castles Cycle Tour Newcastle to Berwick - Xplore Britain You can do the route in anything from 2 to 5 days (or even in 1 if youre an absolute lunatic). Thats always the case on the last day of a multi-day cycling trip, but even more so with this ride. The Coast and Castles South cycle route is a great introduction to long-distance cycling. It follows part of the North Sea Cycle Route which takes you along the east coast. Theres a massive power station in Lynemouth thats sort of weirdly beautiful, while some parts of Blyth are pretty ugly (sorry Blyth). Follow us at https://www.facebook.com/BikeRideMaps. With the final balance due 30 days before the tour date, - 3 / 4 nights B&B accommodation You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. The signs youre following are blue with red numbers on them, and youll spot them everywhere. - CycleActive water bottle Full content visible, double tap to read brief content. All rights reserved, Add a little luxury to your Castles and Coasts trip, Perfect accommodation for cyclists on the Castles and Coasts route. Regardless if you're after a physical challenge or a chance to . Copyright 1996 - 2023 CycleActive Limited - All rights reserved. Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island, is a tidal island off the northeast coast of England, near Berwick-upon-Tweed. Eco Cycle Adventures | Single | Routes I was born and raised in the lovely little region. The map covers the southern half of the Coast and Castles cycle route, following it through Northumberland from Newcastle to Edinburgh. This is another fantastic cycling adventure, it offers stunning views of the Scottish countryside. The route is best ridden south to north, as the wind is generally more favourable. Coast and Castles 2022 - Susan Doram Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies are used for tracking the user's behaviour on the website to understand the website's performance and reach. A pocketful of inspiration for just 7.95. Starting from the bustling metropolis Newcastle-upon-Tyne, you pass by golden sandy beaches, the crumbling ruins of ancient castles and picturesque coastal towns. Coast and Castles South - Sustrans Cycle Routes Map (Sustrans National Belford is about a half a mile (1km) off the official route, but its a perfect place for an overnight stop. As the beginning and end are both major stations on LNER, it's an ideal Read more. Short/Circular Trails. Coast and Castles | South of Scotland - Scotland Starts Here Sign up to our enewsletter. Of all the northern routes, this is my favourite ride and it takes in both some stunning coastal scenery and also lots of historic sites, including, Tynemouth Priory, Warkworth Castle, Alnwick Castle (detour) Dunstanburgh Castle, Bamburgh Castle, Lindisfarne Castle/Holy Island, The Berwick Walls, Norham Castle and finally Edinburgh Castle. If youve never ridden the bike youll be riding, it might not be good enough, and it might not be a good fit for you. Its an excellent OS map, supported by GPS and overlaid with all of the NCN routes youll be following. The Coast and Castles South route is a great introduction to long-distance cycling. Route Profile for 'Coast And Castles' on plotaroute.com Should I Cycle North to South or South to North? The total elevation is around 2,100 meters (or at least thats what my Strava told me anyway). Read our fundraising promise. Starting just west of Berwick in England, you head north to cross . Alternatively we can build a cycling holiday from scratch completely tailored to your needs. keyboard_arrow_down. The start of the route Newcastle is easy to reach by train from across the UK. Cycling the Coast and Castles (North) Route, Summer, 2022 I did the route in four days, and my itinerary looked like this: Youre off! Cunobelin said: Stunning routes, I first did the "Coast and Castles" when it was the "New Riders of the Open Road - North Sea Cycle Route" back in the 80's. Much of the route is the same, but the NSCR went inland to Durham and down Whitby, Scarborough and Hull. Fitness grade 2 - (4 day), Bespoke dates can be added on request for group bookings. Coast and Castles South - Day 1 - CycleSeven Dunnottar Castle Starting from the bustling metropolis Newcastle-upon-Tyne, you pass by golden sandy beaches, the crumbling ruins of ancient castles and picturesque coastal towns. North of the Scotland-England border at Berwick-upon-Tweed, the route moves into the Tweed Valley where quiet lanes take you through beautiful border country before a gentle climb onto the Moorfoot Hills into Midlothian. With 50miles being traffic free cycle trails, 13 of which are of an unsealed surface, hybrid/gravel bikes thrive on this route, offering the perfect balance of efficiency and comfort. You dont need to book accommodation, but unless youre carrying a tent, its probably a good idea. Cleikum Mill Lodge, in the heart of the Tweed Valley, sleeps 12; 8 in the Lower Mill & 4 in the Upper Mill. Make sure you know some basic bike repair and maintenance stuff. ), Kailzie BIG Lodge, offers state-of-the-art bunkhouse accommodation. Contact us for details The Coast and Castles South cycle route links the Forth and Tyne estuaries, joining Newcastle and Edinburgh via miles of unspoiled coastline and some of Britain's best built and natural heritage. 159.818 miles. The waymarked 'Coast and Castles' National Cycle route begins at Newcastle railway station, and for the first twelve miles shares the route with the C2C cycle route, as far as Tynemouth.From there we headed into the wind up the coast, passing through Whitley Bay and the somewhat unexciting sounding Seaton Sluice until we reached Blythe. For the English section, as far as Berwick-upon-Tweed, I thoroughly recommend the Cycle Touring in Northumberland map below, produced by Cycle Northumberland. Climbing into the Moorfoot Hills on the last day, results in a great descent into the Scottish Capital Edinburgh, with its Medieval Old Town, Georgian New town and thriving city life. With 2,296 feet (700 m) of climbing, this is the toughest day of your journey, but you are rewarded with inspiring views of Scottish scenery. The Dolphin Inn is situated in the centre of the historic seaside town of Dunbar. Northumberland's Coast and Castles cycle route is a must. With endless experiences, its impossible to see and do everything Northumberland has to offer. An excellent reference book for anyone who enjoys adventures and holidays. Find out about the highlight attractions to visit on your journey, and a five day suggested itinerary to take in the route. The most challenging section of this route will probably be the first part of the last 50 miles, after you head north out of Innerleithen. Bike Ride Maps on Facebook (and now on Twitter) for announcements of all new map and guide book releases. The 1,025-kilometre (660-mile) long North Sea Coast Cycle Route through England is a truly fascinating bike route, famed not only for . But even I was surprised by how great the ride isthe views far outweigh the effort required to get them and the landscape is much more diverse and attractive than I expected. Danube cycle path. Coast and Castles | Roar Adventures A moderately hilly A to B cycle route, approximately 159.8 miles long. I know this might sound complicated, but I promise its all simple and easy. Coast and Castles Cycle Route - gps-routes.co.uk Growing up, I spent time exploring beaches, towns, castles, animal parks, aquariums, and, How to Prepare for the Coast and Castles Cycling Route, Recommended Guide Books and Maps for the Coast and Castles Cycling Route And How to Navigate Your Ride, Frequently Asked Questions About the Coast and Castles Route. Great seafood, Roman remains and a pine-fringed, cycle-friendly island are among the highlights of this leisurely paced two-week route See the Perpignan and Spanish border, and Lyon to Nice road trips Your donation today will help keep the Network safe and open for everyone to enjoy. Cycle through Northern England's finest coastal landscapes, and the beautiful borders of Scotland finishing in Edinburgh Theres a wind farm between Coldingham and Old Cambus. - Less than 30 days to departure - 100% as the cancellation fee. Coast and Castle Cycle Route : Newcastle to Edinburgh Coast and Castles About - coastandcastlescycle We know that many other cyclists that have experienced this route . Dont worry, I can sense your bewilderment. Cycling Routes in Northumberland | Visit Northumberland A free guide to the Coast and Castles road cycle route has been released. This is an iconic cycle route full of awesome scenery and historical interest! The official start on the Sustrans map is Newcastle Train Station. Castles, castles and more castles! Just a short walk to the beach and the High Street and with the possibility of trying out a whole range of outdoor activities close by, the hostel is perfect for weekend breaks and family holidays. If youre confused about what the NCN routes are, theyre just a network of officially-signposted long-distance cycle networks running through the UK (NCN stands for National Cycle Network). Travelling South to North takes advantage of the prevailing wind and . Dog friendly with sole use. The 200-mile route links the Forth and Tyne estuaries, starting in Newcastle, passing the Hadrian's Wall World Heritage . And, what better way to explore one of the UKs most beautiful corners than by bike? Its famous for hip restaurants, fiercely-independent pubs, a welcoming community atmosphere, some unique and unusual attractions (who puts a farm, I was born and raised in Northumberland, the most northern region in England. Cycling Faq. - Pre travel packs, 150 deposit - 3 Day Version The Coast and Castles South is part of the National Cycle Network, cared for by Sustrans. Coast and Castles route - Cycling UK Forum Create and customize your own version of this adventure using the full Tour below as a template. Box Hill Olympic Circuit. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. This aptly named cycle route extends for 192 miles between Newcastle and Edinburgh, of which 85 miles follow or lie close to the magnificent Northumberland coastline, so richly blessed with fine scenery and heritage links. GPX files for your GPS: Included. The distance is about 200 miles, and we planned to achieve this over 3 days, with accommodation booked in advance in . The roads on the outskirts are fine, but if youre planning to explore central Edinburgh after youve arrived, its easier to do it by foot. This is a lesser-known classic; the Coast and Castles. Cancellation by CycleActive - you will be offered an alternative / full refund. You dont need a mega-expensive top-quality bike, because the route is pretty easy, pretty short, and there are loads of towns and villages along the way. Coast & Castles North Map | Edinburgh to Aberdeen Cycle Route (Route 1 Breakfast available at hotel opposite (by pre arrangement. The Coast and Castles route runs between the bustling cities of Newcastle and Edinburgh, exploring Northumberland's spectacular coastline and the stunning Tweed Valley, finishing with the historic city . 10 Aug 2010. Also included hire of a 21 speed all-terrain cycle with train ticket back to Newcastle. Looking over Broughty Castle View this route on OS Maps Each stage ends in a town or village with various accommodation options to make your ride even more comfortable. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. In this article, Ill mainly be outlining the coastal route, as thats the stretch Im familiar with. Download now Coast and Castles A lovely ride along the most beautiful coast in the world (well, we think so!) But heres where things get complicated: wild camping is legal in Scotland (in the vast majority of places, check out my guide on the Scottish Right to Roam), but illegal in England. This route can be ridden from North to South as easily as from South to North. Lay out all the stuff youre thinking about carrying, then only carry half of it (at most). Sign up for a burst of inspiration every month or so. Bike Touring Collection by .css-15tc4lh{margin-right:0.3em;vertical-align:middle;}.css-1i8yo9i{border-radius:100%;display:inline-block;height:16px;overflow:hidden;width:16px;background-image:url(https://d2exd72xrrp1s7.cloudfront.net/www/10/10tj405ysa1g3svnep4ug49hh2iiedh68-u564176384506-full/17b010b825b/p?width=32&height=32&crop=true&q=70);-webkit-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:rgb(240,240,240);margin-right:0.3em;vertical-align:middle;}Amy, Bike Touring Collection by .css-1wi8bdd{border-radius:100%;display:inline-block;height:16px;overflow:hidden;width:16px;background-image:url(https://d2exd72xrrp1s7.cloudfront.net/www/2y/2ybguf62finf10zpa1jz1g3ia6ae4x7f153727-full/0?width=32&height=32&crop=true&q=70);-webkit-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:rgb(240,240,240);margin-right:0.3em;vertical-align:middle;}komoot, Road Cycling Collection by .css-1gdm513{border-radius:100%;display:inline-block;height:16px;overflow:hidden;width:16px;background-image:url(https://d2exd72xrrp1s7.cloudfront.net/www/9r/9raptwasy59315mnqnwhawe0v2p6fndwa-usaarland-full/1775e113cf9?width=32&height=32&crop=true&q=70);-webkit-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:rgb(240,240,240);margin-right:0.3em;vertical-align:middle;}Saarland. - CycleActive water bottles - 2 items, All dates have availability (unless stated), 3 or 4 days, place-to-place - Rider & bike transfer on the scheduled dates The Coast and Castles runs along route 1 from Newcastle up the Northumberland Coast to Edinburgh. . If time and the tide allow there is the opportunity to venture onto Holly Island, crossing the causeway to explore its 12th century Prior, local shops and coffee roastery. It contains the details of 323 hostels, bunkhouses and camping barns in England, Scotland & Wales. Depending on which route you take (more on that confusing qualifier later), the Coast and Castles measures in at around 170 miles (275km) or 200 miles (320km). Coast & Castles Bike Ride - Claranet Depending on which route you take (more on that confusing qualifier later), the Coast and Castles measures in at around 170 miles (275km) or 200 miles (320km). Coast and Castles Off to the Beach A View of the Borders Cycle between the villages of Ford and Etal where you can see Scotland from the highest point! Fitness grade 3 - (3 day) Please try again. But thats probably because Im from the area, so I already know lots of the roads, towns and geography well. But with a bit of planning, its definitely possible to exclusively camp en-route. Day1 36.4m 400m up Edinburgh to Dunbar From Travelodge Learmonth, Edinburgh, EH4 1PW Coast and Castles: Newcastle to Edinburgh Introduction: The National Cycle Network Route 1 runs down the east coast of the UK and forms part of the North Sea EuroVelo cycle route. This is the easiest and shortest day, but its also (in some ways) the most varied, as you go from busy Newcastle and its bustling nearby towns to the remote rurality of southern Northumberlands quiet coastal settlements. The Coast to Coast (or C2C) is a long-distance cycle route of around 220 km (137 miles), which takes riders from England's Cumbrian coast to either Tynemouth or Sunderland (depending on which route they choose). The continuation of the more popular Coast & Castles South route, we carry on where we left off in Edinburgh and head northwards over the Firth of Forth into the classic golfing regions of Fife and Deeside before finishing in the granite city of Aberdeen. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Welcome to specialist cycle route planner where you can find cycle friendly accommodation, places to eat and drink, transport and baggage transfers, and guidance on how to plan your coast to coast cycling holiday. We are sorry. Cycle Route Planner Individuals, friends couples, and groups welcome. so in this guide, Ive put my proud, I was born in Newcastle, so I spent all of my smiley-faced childhood roving around the place. With its atmospheric medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, enchanting Edinburgh is a special place to start or end your trip. Or how to make friends in the scary sprawl of a brand-new city. Walking and cycling routes change over time. 10. Magnificent castles in various states of survival stand proudly and defiantly along its alignment. We have guides on the prettiest small towns and villages in Northumberland, the best walks in Northumberland, and the best castles in Northumberland. All properties on this page are cycle friendly, so you know youre in good hands while youre exploring on two wheels. With a total distance of 199 miles /318km (Inland Route) or 173 miles/277km (Coastal Route), starting in Tynemouth, the Coast and Castles Cycle Route follows the eastern coastline up to the Scottish border town of Berwick upon Tweed before cutting inland along the Tweed Valley to Innerliethen then up over the moors in to the imposing city of Edinburgh. While recognised as a top stay for cyclists, with world-renowned mountain bike areas of Glentress and Innerleithen close by, Kailzie Big Lodge is also a firm favourite with outdoor groups, clubs, schools, universities and extended family and friends get-togethers, Copyright Independent Hostels 2023. The ride follows National Cycle Route 1 through Tyne and Wear, Northumbria and then into Scotland. There is a self-catering kitchen (continental breakfast included). A small section of the road-racing Olympic cycling route from the 2012 Olympics, it's one of the most famous road routes in the UK. If you tackle this version of the ride, you head west out of Berwick, on a jaunt that takes you on an inland half-loop through fields, farms, border towns, river vistas, hill-backed villages and Edinburghs southern suburbs. Ending at our coastal town of Berwick-upon-Tweed, it traverses some of Englands most dramatic unspoilt landscapes. Today, you move from the coast to some of the longest inland stretches, taking you through fields, farmland and working farms. Sustrans Coasts and Castles South Cycle Route We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. One of the easiest officially-designated long-distance cycling routes in the UK, its accessible, beautiful and brilliant, and it takes riders through diverse stretches of shores, sands, history, heritage, hills, farms, fields, and loads more. We will send your map or book by Royal Mail 1st Class Post (or sometimes a carrier for larger items) within the UK, and prices for UK deliveries are: Bike Ride Maps 6 Stuart Way, Bridport,Dorset,DT6 4AU, North Northumberland and the Scottish Borders Cycle Map, Lanarkshire & The Scottish Borders Sustrans Cycle Map, Ultimate UK Cycle Route Planner from Excellent Books, The Ultimate Scottish C2C Guide, from Excellent Books. Cycling in Northumberland - the coast and castles tour - Cicerone Press You can easily rent a suitable bike in Newcastle and leave your city bike at home. By using this website, you automatically accept that we use cookies. Get the train. Our intention had been to take the coastal route on Day 3 rather than the NCR 1 inland route but in the event the weather forecast for Day 3 was so bad that we decided to chicken out and get a lift home. CycleActive will confirm the tour once the second person for the shared room has booked. The whole ride usually takes somewhere between 2 and 4 days. Just dont tell the police I said that. - Pre travel packs, - Car Parking pre-paid, at pick-up / drop off location. Although on 160 people live on the island permanently this peaceful spot receives over 650,000 visitors each year. Coast & Castles Cycle Route. The alternative route keeps you on the coastline after Berwick upon Tweed up to Dunbar before reaching Edinburgh, reducing the distance to 173 miles/277km. The Coast & Castles route - something for everyone! Youve already seen some good stuff, but today will blow your lucky little mind away. Transfers from Edinburgh back to Newcastle on last day of cycling, - 3 / 4 nights B&B accommodation The coast and castles cycle route is know by many for its amazing coastal sea views; its historical settings and especially as route that deserves respect. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Today, you bid farewell to the English coast as you cycle into Scotlands stunning landscapes. The route then drops down through Dalkeith and into Edinburgh, Scotlands capital city, mostly via cycleways. If you like carrying a tent, its definitely possible to camp along the whole route. It joins the Rivers Tyne and Forth via the Northumberland coast, Berwick-upon-Tweed and Melrose. Last summer one of our Bike Mill team members, Richard, headed up to Scotland for a cycling adventure. than you think. The clue is in the name of the Coast and Castles Cycle Route, which scales Northumberlands magnificent, castle-scattered coastline. Coast And Castles - 257km Cycle Route near Whitley Bay (ID: 189566) Youre allowed to take your bikes on UK trains, but you need to book your space in advance (as most trains only have 2-4 bike spaces). Your final day of cycling the Coast and Castles route takes you through beautiful Scottish landscapes before arriving in the countrys capital Edinburgh. It is hugely popular with world travellers. The route also forms part of the North Sea Cycle Route, the world's longest signed international cycle route, passing through seven countries around the North Sea. Opening hours: Monday - Friday 9.30am-5.30pm, Independent Hostels, If you're looking for a weekend challenge and you don't mind taking a chance on the weather, this tour along beautiful coastlines, through stunning moorland, taking in a few medieval castles, from Newcastle to Edinburgh could be the one for you.