The best MTB trails in Newham Bog National Nature Reserve

No, Newham Bog National Nature Reserve is currently closed to the public due to its ecological sensitivity and for safety reasons. Mountain biking is not permitted within the reserve itself. The trails listed in this guide are located in the wider Northumberland area, near the reserve.

While the reserve itself is inaccessible, the broader Northumberland region offers extensive mountain biking opportunities. You can explore areas like Northumberland National Park, Kielder Forest (known for its Deadwater Trails), Hexhamshire Common, the Cheviot Hills, Simonside and Harwood Forests, and Thrunton Woods. This guide features routes such as Lindisfarne Causeway – Holy Island loop from Chathill and Seahouses Harbour – Craster Harbour loop from Budle, which are in the surrounding coastal areas.

The mountain bike trails featured in this guide, located in the wider Northumberland region, are predominantly of moderate difficulty. There are also some easier sections available for those looking for a less challenging ride. For example, all 7 routes listed in this guide are rated as moderate.

Yes, the wider Northumberland region is home to significant long-distance routes. A notable example is the 120-mile Sandstone Way, which stretches between Berwick upon Tweed and Hexham. This guide also includes longer routes like the Lindisfarne Causeway – Holy Island loop from Chathill, which covers approximately 73.5 km.

The mountain biking terrain in the broader Northumberland area is diverse, ranging from coastal paths with sea views to rolling hills and forest sections. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, including gravel tracks, bridleways, and some road sections connecting trails, offering varied experiences for mountain bikers.

While Newham Bog NNR itself is closed, the wider Northumberland area, particularly Northumberland National Park and Kielder Forest, offers various cycling opportunities suitable for families. These often include purpose-built trails and bridleways that cater to different skill levels. You can find routes with easier sections within the moderate trails listed in this guide.

The Northumberland coastline offers several scenic mountain bike routes. Popular options include the Seahouses Harbour – Craster Harbour loop from Budle, which features picturesque stretches along the coast, and the Craster Harbour – Seahouses Harbour loop from Bamburgh, leading through coastal villages and past historic sites.

The mountain bike routes in the wider Northumberland area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from a few reviews. Users often praise the scenic coastal views, the variety of terrain, and the opportunity to explore historic sites like Holy Island.

Yes, many of the routes in the wider Northumberland area are designed as loops. This guide features several circular routes, such as the Lindisfarne Causeway – Holy Island (Lindisfarne) loop from Chathill and the St Cuthbert's Cave – Greensheen Hill Trig Point loop from Budle, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

For broader information on cycling and mountain biking opportunities across the region, you can consult resources from the Northumberland National Park Authority at northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk or Northumberland County Council at northumberland.gov.uk.

While Newham Bog NNR itself has no public access, the surrounding Northumberland area is rich in landmarks. Routes like the Lindisfarne Causeway – Holy Island loop take you to the historic Holy Island. Other routes may pass by coastal castles, picturesque harbours like Seahouses and Craster, and natural features such as St Cuthbert's Cave, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical interest.