The best traffic-free bike rides around Newcastle Upon Tyne

Komoot offers nearly 40 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in the Newcastle Upon Tyne area. These routes range from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. A great option is the Waggonway Tracks – Killingworth Wagonway loop from Wansbeck Road, which is 25 km long and offers a gentle ride away from traffic.

The no-traffic gravel trails around Newcastle Upon Tyne traverse a diverse range of landscapes. You'll often find yourself on old railway lines and wagonways, winding through woodlands, alongside rivers like the Tyne, and occasionally offering views of the coast. Areas like Jesmond Dene provide tranquil woodland escapes, while routes extending towards Chopwell Woods offer more extensive forest experiences.

Many of the gravel bike routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Bowes Railway Path – Pockerley Farm Pond loop from Hebburn is a moderate 46 km circular route that takes you through varied scenery.

Many routes offer glimpses of the region's rich history and natural beauty. You might cycle past iconic structures like the Gateshead Millennium Bridge or the Tyne Bridge. Further afield, historical sites like Hadrian's Wall are accessible, and natural features such as the waterfall in Jesmond Dene provide scenic stops.

The no-traffic gravel trails in Newcastle Upon Tyne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the old railway lines and wagonways, the variety of landscapes from urban green spaces to dense woodlands, and the excellent opportunities for off-road adventures away from cars.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Tyne Valley Twister from the Metrocentre offer a demanding 62 km ride with significant elevation changes. Another difficult option is the Tanfield Railway – Derwent Walk Express Sculpture loop from Ryton, covering nearly 49 km with over 600 meters of ascent.

Many of the trails are accessible from urban centers like Newcastle Upon Tyne, which has good public transport links including the Metro system. Some routes, particularly those starting from areas like Wansbeck Road or near the Metrocentre, are designed to be easily reached, allowing you to combine cycling with public transport.

For stunning views, consider routes that incorporate sections of the Derwent Walk, which can offer extensive vistas, particularly towards the Lanchester Valley. Coastal routes also provide picturesque scenery along the North East England coastline, with views of beaches and charming fishing villages.

Newcastle Upon Tyne is becoming increasingly bike-friendly. You can find services like The Cycle Hub Newcastle, which offers bike rentals, repairs, and a cafe, making it a convenient stop before or after your ride. Many towns and villages along the routes also have pubs and cafes that welcome cyclists.

Gravel biking in Newcastle Upon Tyne is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter rides can be invigorating, though some trails might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.