Kielder and Gilsland loop from Hexham – Northumberland National Park

This is a difficult road cycling route, designed for experienced cyclists with very good fitness levels. It covers approximately 152 kilometers (94 miles) with a significant elevation gain of about 1,736 meters (5,700 feet). You should be prepared for a long day in the saddle, potentially over 7 hours, and some sections might even require pushing your bike.

The majority of the Kielder and Gilsland loop features mostly well-paved surfaces, making it generally easy to ride. You'll find about 94.4 km of asphalt and 57.7 km of paved roads. However, be aware that there can be some unpaved and more difficult segments, though these are minimal.

The route offers diverse and picturesque Northumberland landscapes. You'll get a great view of Hadrian's Wall from Stanegate Road, with parts of the route potentially following an ancient Roman road. Other highlights include the England–Scotland Border, Vindolanda Roman Fort, and Bewcastle Church and Cross. You'll also experience the vastness of Kielder Water and Forest Park, home to the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe.

The loop starts and ends in Hexham. Hexham is well-connected and accessible by public transport, which can be a convenient option for cyclists. For those driving, parking facilities are available in Hexham, though it's advisable to check local parking options and fees beforehand.

Given the challenging nature and exposure of the route, the best time to cycle is typically during the warmer, drier months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This period generally offers more stable weather conditions, longer daylight hours, and better road surfaces. Always check the local weather forecast before you set out.

Yes, there are opportunities for refreshments. One notable stop is The Olive Tree Café. As the route passes through various villages and towns, you'll find other cafes, pubs, and shops where you can refuel, especially in Hexham at the start/end, and potentially in Gilsland or near Kielder Water.

Yes, this challenging loop intersects with several other established routes. You'll find sections that overlap with the National Byway (County Durham and Northumberland), Reivers' Route, and Hadrian's Cycleway. It also briefly touches parts of the Pennine Cycleway and the Lakeside Way within Kielder Water and Forest Park.

No, this route is not suitable for beginners or young families. It is classified as a 'Hard road ride' and requires significant endurance, very good fitness levels, and experience with long-distance cycling and considerable elevation gain. Families or beginners should look for shorter, flatter, and less demanding routes within Northumberland National Park.

While the route is primarily on public roads, which are generally accessible, it's a long and demanding road cycling route. Bringing a dog along for this specific type of ride is not typically recommended due to the distance, speed, and road conditions. If you're looking for dog-friendly activities in Northumberland National Park, consider walking trails where dogs can be safely on a lead.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on public roads and designated trails within Northumberland National Park. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions or facilities within the park, such as visitor centers or certain managed areas within Kielder Water and Forest Park, there might be associated parking fees or entry charges. Always check the official Northumberland National Park website for the latest information on regulations and any potential fees.

For this demanding route, you should bring a well-maintained race bike, appropriate cycling attire for varying weather, a helmet, plenty of water and snacks, a repair kit (spare inner tubes, pump, multi-tool), a first-aid kit, navigation tools (like a GPS device or the komoot app with the route downloaded), and a fully charged phone. Given the length, consider lights even if you plan to finish before dark, and layers of clothing as weather can change quickly.