The best traffic-free bike rides around Barnard Castle

There are over 20 no traffic touring cycling routes around Barnard Castle, offering a variety of experiences from easy riverside paths to more challenging rides through the North Pennines AONB. The guide features 22 routes in total.

Yes, there are a couple of easy routes perfect for families or beginners. For instance, the View of Eggleston Abbey – Eggleston Abbey loop from Barnard Castle is a shorter, easier option that allows you to enjoy the scenery without significant climbs. The area's diverse landscape includes river valleys that often provide more moderate and sheltered paths.

The no traffic touring routes around Barnard Castle offer a rich variety of landscapes. You'll cycle through picturesque Teesdale, part of the North Pennines AONB, encountering open moorlands, farmlands, and wooded valleys. Routes often follow the River Tees, providing scenic riverside views, while others venture into higher terrain with extensive vistas.

Many routes in the Barnard Castle area pass through or near charming villages and market towns where you can find cafes and pubs. While specific establishments vary by route, the region is known for its hospitality. For example, the challenging The Tan Hill Inn & Reeth loop from Barnard Castle connects to the historic Tan Hill Inn, a famous high-moorland pub.

The routes often incorporate historical sites. You can explore the Bowes Castle Ruins, a 12th-century keep, or pass by the impressive Barnard Castle Market Cross. The Bowes Castle Ruins – Barnard Castle Market Cross loop from Barnard Castle is a great example of a route connecting these historical points. The area also features the ruins of Egglestone Abbey and the impressive The Bowes Museum.

Yes, many of the no traffic touring routes around Barnard Castle are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Barnard Castle Market Cross – The Bowes Museum loop from Barnard Castle offers a moderate circular ride, and the Winston Bridge – Cliffe Hill Stone Bridge loop from Barnard Castle is another excellent circular option.

The best time to cycle the no traffic routes around Barnard Castle is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is typically milder, and the days are longer, making for more pleasant touring. However, the North Pennines AONB can experience changeable weather, so it's always wise to check the forecast before heading out.

Barnard Castle, as a market town, offers several parking options. You can typically find public car parks within the town centre, which provide convenient access to routes starting directly from Barnard Castle. Specific parking availability may vary depending on your chosen starting point for routes further afield, so it's advisable to check local parking information for those locations.

The no traffic touring routes around Barnard Castle are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.48 out of 5 stars. Touring cyclists often praise the peacefulness of the routes, the stunning natural beauty of Teesdale and the North Pennines, and the variety of terrain that caters to different skill levels.

Barnard Castle is the starting point for National Cycle Network Route 165, which is part of the Walney to Whitby (W2W) cycle route. While much of this route is on-road, it does include some traffic-free sections, particularly as it traverses through the Tees Valley and towards the North York Moors National Park. These sections offer a great opportunity for peaceful cycling away from vehicles.

Barnard Castle, being a popular outdoor activity hub, has facilities for cyclists. You can typically find local bike shops that offer both bicycle hire and repair services. It's recommended to check with local businesses in advance for availability, especially during peak seasons.