The best traffic-free bike rides in North Pennines AONB

The North Pennines AONB offers a wide selection of quiet road cycling routes. You can find over 25 routes specifically curated for minimal traffic, ranging from easy to challenging, allowing you to explore the region's stunning landscapes peacefully.

The North Pennines AONB, now a National Landscape and UNESCO Global Geopark, is renowned for its 'quiet country roads' and 'unequalled scenery.' The region actively supports cyclists, with many businesses offering bike-friendly facilities. Its diverse landscape of moorlands, dales, and dramatic geological features provides a unique backdrop for peaceful rides away from busy roads.

Yes, the North Pennines AONB has several routes suitable for beginners and families. There are 6 easy routes designed for a more relaxed pace, allowing everyone to enjoy the quiet roads and beautiful scenery without significant challenges. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances for a comfortable experience.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter dramatic waterfalls like High Force Waterfall, often cited as England's biggest, or the impressive geological formation of High Cup Nick. The routes also traverse extensive heather moorlands and flower-rich hay meadows, offering breathtaking views of the wild upland landscape.

Yes, the North Pennines AONB is steeped in history. While cycling, you might pass by sites reflecting the region's mining heritage or historic landmarks. For example, the Nine Standards are ancient cairns with a mysterious past, and the Waskerley Way offers a glimpse into former railway lines, now converted into cycling paths.

The best time to cycle in the North Pennines AONB is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, the days are longer, and the moorlands are vibrant with blooming heather. This period also offers the best conditions for enjoying the region's dark skies, which are exceptional for stargazing.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in the North Pennines AONB are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the "Great Dun Fell Radar Station – Great Dun Fell Climb loop from Dufton," which offers a challenging circular ride with stunning views.

Parking is generally available in the villages and towns that serve as starting points for many routes. Look for designated car parks in places like Dufton, Murton, Allendale, or Blanchland. It's always advisable to check local parking regulations and availability before your ride, especially during peak season.

The North Pennines AONB is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.59 stars. Reviewers often praise the 'quiet country roads' and 'unequalled scenery' that allow for an immersive cycling experience. The challenging climbs and rewarding descents across open country are also frequently highlighted, along with the sense of wilderness found in the moorlands.

Absolutely. The region features several beautiful bodies of water. For example, the "Appleby-in-Westmorland – View of Sunbiggin Tarn loop from Murton" route offers scenic views of Sunbiggin Tarn. You might also encounter other smaller tarns and reservoirs that dot the landscape, providing picturesque stops during your ride.

While many routes traverse remote areas, you can often find pubs, cafes, or small shops in the villages and hamlets scattered throughout the North Pennines AONB. The region is known for its welcoming atmosphere, with some businesses specifically catering to cyclists. For instance, the Tan Hill Inn, Britain's highest pub, is a notable landmark that cyclists often visit.