The best cycling routes around Hartburn
4.4
(48)
1,051
riders
83
rides
Touring cycling around Hartburn offers diverse landscapes and quiet roads through the Northumberland countryside. The region features rolling hills and scenic river valleys, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Its strategic location serves as a gateway to several cycling routes, ranging from moderate to more challenging. These routes traverse a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, suitable for different skill levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Hartburn
- The most popular touring cycling route is Vicar's Pele Tower – Meldon Station House…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
13
riders
42.3km
02:30
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
11
riders
39.4km
02:47
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
8
riders
45.2km
02:50
450m
450m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
18.6km
01:06
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Another of Northumberland's classic cycling cafes. Good brews and cakes. Big parking area if you wanted to park and ride
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Wide tracks, easy peasy in the dry. Eastern end has a bunch of barky dogs but they were fenced in
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No bridge option, but its a cement bed so ok. Wouldnt be ok in high water obvs
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⛪ St Mary’s Church in Ponteland, officially St Mary the Virgin, is a historic parish church in Northumberland with roots dating back to before the Norman Conquest. The oldest parts, such as the sturdy west tower, date from the 12th century and were even used as a refuge in times of trouble—the tower walls are a whopping 1.2 metres thick. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the church was extended with a spacious chancel, a south aisle and stained glass windows, some of which still show medieval fragments. During the Victorian period, the building underwent extensive restoration, including new floors, pews and a raised chancel.
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Decent coffee and you can buy beans or grounds too
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History of the Church: The parish church dates back to the late 12th century and was remodeled in the 13th century, likely after the village was burned by King John in 1216. The 14th century saw the addition of transepts. Major restoration and the addition of a south aisle, west tower, clerestory, and porch were carried out by R.J. Johnson of Newcastle in 1874-5. Exterior: The church features a mix of medieval squared stone and 19th-century ashlar with red tile roofs. Key elements include a west tower with an octagonal southwest stair turret, a south aisle with stepped angle buttresses and lancet windows, and a projecting southwest porch. The north nave wall has 13th-century masonry and a blocked door. The chancel’s south wall includes a 12th-century priest’s door and lancet windows, while the transepts have trefoiled ogee lights. Interior: Inside, the 12th-century south arcade features round moulded arches on round piers with scalloped capitals. The north transept and south transept have foliage-carved capitals and a small piscina, respectively. The chancel arch and tower arch are 19th-century, and the chancel includes triple sedilia and eastern lancets with 12th-century outer shafts. Fittings include a 1622 Revely monument, a Romanesque wall monument, a medieval bell, and various 19th-century items like the font, pulpit, and reredos with figures of Saints Aidan and Cuthbert.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Hartburn?
There are over 85 touring cycling routes around Hartburn, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes more than 1,000 times.
What are the different difficulty levels for touring cycling routes in Hartburn?
Hartburn offers a diverse range of routes. You'll find approximately 23 easy routes, 42 moderate routes, and 20 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist, from beginners to experienced riders.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Hartburn?
The best time for touring cycling in Hartburn is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder and more predictable, making for more enjoyable rides through the scenic Northumberland countryside. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Hartburn?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Hartburn are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Vicar's Pele Tower – Meldon Station House loop from Bolam is a popular circular option, covering over 42 km.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Hartburn?
While Hartburn itself offers routes of varying difficulty, the broader Northumberland region includes options like sections of the Coast & Castles route, which features flatter terrain along the stunning coastline and is often ideal for family cycling. For a local easy option, consider the WATBike Bike Workshop and Shop – The Barn Café loop from Whalton, which is just over 18 km and leads through quiet rural landscapes.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while touring cycling near Hartburn?
The area around Hartburn is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore St Mary Magdalene Church, or discover the historic Mitford Castle Ruins. Bolam Lake Country Park is also nearby, offering additional trails and natural attractions. The village itself is home to the Hartburn Grotto, an 18th-century natural cave.
Are there cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes in Hartburn?
Yes, you can find places to refuel. The WATBike Bike Workshop and Shop – The Barn Café loop from Whalton specifically mentions a café. Additionally, the Capheaton Tea Room is a highlight in the area, and the nearby village of Elsdon is known for its unique cyclists' cafe, as mentioned in regional research.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Hartburn?
The touring cycling routes around Hartburn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, quiet roads, and rolling hills that define the region, offering a peaceful and scenic experience.
Are there any longer or more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Codger Fort – Netherwitton Stone Bridge loop from Bolam offer a significant distance of nearly 57 km with considerable elevation changes. The broader Northumberland region also features challenging options like the Sandstone Way or the remote, wild scenery of the Otterburn Ranges, which include well-maintained military roads. You can find more information about the Otterburn Ranges and Coquetdale cycling on the Northumberland National Park website.
Where can I park when cycling around Hartburn?
While specific parking areas for each route may vary, Hartburn and nearby villages typically offer public parking options. Bolam Lake Country Park, a significant natural attraction close to Hartburn, also provides parking facilities for visitors looking to access its trails and the surrounding cycling networks.
Is public transport available to access touring cycling routes in Hartburn?
Hartburn is a rural village, and public transport options may be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules if you plan to rely on public transport to reach your starting point. Many cyclists prefer to drive to a convenient parking spot in or near Hartburn and begin their tours from there.
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