Explore the Coast & Castles
An historic voyage of discovery
Follow the spectacular North Sea coast on a mixture of on and off-road trails, through quaint fishing villages and along deserted beaches, and revel in awe as spectacular castles emerge on the horizon at numerous points along the route.
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Distance: 163 km (101 miles)
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Total climbing: 1,089m
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Starting point: Newcastle upon Tyne
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Finish point: Berwick upon Tweed
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Difficulty Rating: ** (click here for more details)
The route does include sections of off-road surfaces so a touring, trekking or hybrid bike is recommended.
Map Key
Highlights
Warkworth Castle
Be a king or queen for the day in this mighty fortress crowning the hilltop above the River Coquet. See how the Dukes of Northumberland lived by exploring this magnificent cross-shaped keep and enjoy spectacular river and coastal views from the castle walls.
Alnwick Castle
A short distance from the route stands one of England’s most iconic castles known as ‘The Windsor of the North’. It’s the second largest inhabited castle in the country and perhaps best known as the setting of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.
Dunstanburgh Castle
This castle was built on a magnificent scale and its ruins tower over the Northumberland coastline on a remote headland. Explore the great gatehouse and imposing Lilburn Tower, and enjoy stunning views from its crumbling walls.
Bamburgh Castle
A castle like no other, regarded by many as England’s finest coastal fortification, it towers up to 150 feet and dates back thousands of years, and to this day houses a collection of priceless treasures, artwork and ceramics.
The Holy Island of Lindisfarne
Famed for its breathtaking natural beauty, enchanting history and rich, spiritual heritage, the island has drawn pilgrims for centuries. Visit its ancient priory and castle, and learn about the Lindisfarne Gospels which were penned here 1,300 years ago.
Berwick’s Elizabethan town walls
These are the only example of bastioned town walls in Britain, and one of the best-preserved examples in Europe. Built to keep marauding Scots out, they stand strong to this day and offer a great chance to discover more about Berwick’s turbulent history.
Suggested Itinerary
This aptly named ride hugs the glorious Northumberland coastline - an area blessed with stunning scenery and heritage - on quiet country roads, purpose-built cycleways and deserted off-road tracks.
Starting in Tynemouth and heading all the way up to Berwick-upon-Tweed on the Scottish border, this largely flat and picturesque route offers constantly changing views of the sea and provides fascinating glimpses into the region’s rich history and culture.
Magnificent castles stand proudly and defiantly along its alignment, rocky headlands protect countless coves and bays, and onshore nature reserves provide havens for a vast array of wildlife.
Tides and weather permitting, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne may also be a port of call on this unforgettable voyage of discovery, where you can visit the priory and revel in the setting which inspired the Lindisfarne Gospels.
Book This Holiday
If you're interested in booking this ride as a package holiday option, the following trusted tour operators each offer different variations of it which can be tailored to suit your own specific requirements:
