A guidebook to the 280km (173 mile) Reivers cycle route (NCN 10) across northern England. This long-distance coast-to-coast cycle between Whitehaven and Tynemouth is suitable for both first-time and experienced cyclists and can be ridden in 4 days. The route offers both on and off-road cycling and is suitable for cyclists using touring or hybrid bikes. Presented in 4 stages between 55-82km (34-51 miles) An alternate 241km (150 mile) Borderers Ride from Gretna to Berwick-upon-Tweed is also described Route passes through the northern Lake District, Northumberland National Park and North Tynedale, as well as through Kershope Forest and around Kielder Water Overnight stops include Carlisle, Bailey Mill and Bellingham Route is described west-east but a summary description is also provided for those wanting to cycle in the opposite direction 1:100,000 mapping and profiles are included for each route
As the wildest of the northern coast-to-coast cycle routes, the Reivers Route explores the rich Border Reiving history of northern England and the Scottish Borders. Travelling 173 mile (280km) from Whitehaven to Tynemouth, this four-day cycle tour takes in the Cumbrian coast, northern Lake District, Northumberland National Park and North Tynedale, offering memorable off-road cycling through Kershope Forest and around Kielder Water. The route offers both on and off-road cycling, and is suitable for cyclists using touring or hybrid bikes. Places to stay overnight include Carlisle, Bailey Mill and Bellingham.
The guidebook also offers the Borderers Ride, an alternative coast-to-coast ride along the England-Scotland border from Gretna to Berwick-upon-Tweed. This route joins up the fantastic middle section of the Reivers Route with a route heading north via Wooler and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne to finish at Berwick-upon-Tweed. Whether on the Reivers Route or the Borderers Ride, these cycle tours offer exceptional cycling on gated roads and quiet cycle paths as they explore rolling hillsides, remote forests and plenty of historic sites.
This guidebook provides everything you need to enjoy a successful cycle tour on the Reivers Route or Borderers Ride. Each stage includes detailed 1:100,000 mapping, profiles and comprehensive route description containing insights into points of interest along the way. The introduction offers plenty of information about the area's history, as well as practical advice about suitable bikes, equipment, and transport to and from the route. The appendices feature useful contacts for bike shops and available accommodation.
