Cycling

The AONB has many cycle paths and quiet roads, making it an ideal place to explore by bike.  The national Coast and Castles Cycle Route also passes through the AONB.

Coast and Castle Cycle Route

Part of Route 1 of the National Cycle Network, the Coast & Castles Cycle Route links country roads and off-road trails along 80 miles of the Northumberland coast between Tynemouth Ferry terminal and Berwick-upon-Tweed.

It takes in many villages and interesting locations en route, including the castles at Warkworth, Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh, Druridge Bay Country Park and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Although highly scenic, the route is relatively level which makes it very attractive for many cyclists.

Starting at Tynemouth, the route passes through south east Northumberland where the area's fascinating industrial heritage is remembered at the Woodhorn Colliery Museum in Ashington.

Before long, the first of many expansive dunelined bays is reached and the scene is set for the remainder of this wonderful journey.

You will cycle through several picturesque Northumbrian fishing villages as well as passing many dramatic coastal castles.

From Berwick-upon-Tweed, the route comes inland along the Scottish border before heading north again to Edinburgh.

For further information or a copy of the Sustrans route guide (price £5.95), contact any Tourist Information Centre

Coast & Castles Cycle Route Summary Information:

National Cycle Network: (NCN) Route 1

Tynemouth to Edinburgh / 200 Miles

Tynemouth to the Scottish Borders / 104 miles

An interesting website on this subject is available at www.coast-and-castles.co.uk

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