Newcastleton Red and Blue Route Loop

The full loop, combining both the Red and Blue routes, is approximately 21.5 km long and generally takes around 2 hours to complete for an experienced mountain biker. However, individual times may vary based on skill level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or tackle technical features.

The trailhead for the Newcastleton Red and Blue Route Loop is conveniently located in the heart of Newcastleton village. Parking is available within the village, making it easily accessible for riders.

The loop combines two distinct routes. The Blue Route is graded as Moderate and is perfect for beginners or families, offering a gentle introduction to mountain biking with rollable features. The Red Route, however, is graded as Difficult and is more suited for experienced riders due to its steep climbs, descents, and technical features.

The terrain is varied. The Blue Route features a mix of climbs and descents with moderate gradients, along with technical elements like tree roots, rock steps, jumps, and berms, plus wooden boardwalks and sweet singletrack sections. The Red Route offers fast, narrow singletrack with steep climbs, descents, and more challenging technical features such as larger jumps, berms, drop-offs, and rocks, with very variable surfaces. Both routes include sections of fire roads linking the singletrack.

Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Borders Forest Park, but they should be kept under close control, preferably on a leash, especially around livestock or wildlife. Please ensure you clean up after your dog.

The Newcastleton Red and Blue Route Loop can be enjoyed for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful forest colors. Summer is also great, but be prepared for potentially busier trails. Winter riding is possible but can be challenging due to colder temperatures, potential ice, and mud, so check weather conditions beforehand.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the mountain biking trails within the Borders Forest Park, including the Newcastleton Red and Blue Route Loop. The trails are part of the 7stanes network, which are generally free to use.

Beyond the thrilling singletrack, you'll find revamped flow trail sections like 'Hidden Valley Upper' and 'Swarf Hill' on the Red Route. Near the trailhead, there's a Skills Park with short trails for warm-up. For refreshments, the Copshaw Kitchen Café Bistro is a great option. If you're looking to cool off after your ride, there's a swimming spot on Liddel Water.

Yes, the route incorporates significant portions of 'The Red Route' (68%) and 'The Blue Route' (50%). It also briefly touches on sections of the 'Cross Border MTB Trail', 'National Byway (County Durham and Northumberland)', and various features within the Newcastleton Trails such as the 'Dual Slalom', 'Basic Skills Trail', 'Technical Trail', 'Flow Trail', and 'Pump Track'.

Yes, the trailhead is located in Newcastleton village, which offers amenities. You can find refreshments at the Copshaw Kitchen Café Bistro, and there are also pubs and other local services available in the village.