Four of the best Tyne Valley cycle routes to try this summer

They recommended routes including Cycle Route 72 and the South Tyne Trail.

Here's what they said.

Hexham to Blanchland

Kevin Lewins said: "Hexham to Blanchland then over the top of the moors to Rookhope."

According to the website Komoot, there is a Blanchland and Allendale loop from Hexham which is considered an 'expert road ride'.  

READ MORE: Six 'amazing' places to visit for staycations in the Tyne Valley

It takes approximately three and a half hours spanning 40.5 miles.

"Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the tour is accessible with public transport," the website said.

South Tyne Trail

Matt Charlton recommended the South Tyne Trail, which follows a disused railway line along the River South Tyne in the North Pennines National Landscape (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).

Readers recommended trails such as the South Tyne Trail (Image: Pixabay)

The route is described as hard by the website AllTrails.

AllTrails said: "Enjoy this 41.5-km point-to-point trail near Haltwhistle, Northumberland. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 10 hours 36 minutes to complete. This trail is great for camping, hiking, and mountain biking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime."

Cycle Route 72

Andrew David Robson suggested the National Cycle Route 72.

Also known as 'Hadrian's Cycleway', it is a 170-mile route on the National Cycle Network, connecting Ravenglass to South Shields.

See countryside and quaint towns on the routes (Image: Pixabay)

Sustrans, a sustainable travel charity, described the route as having everything from coastal views and countryside to Roman forts and museums, villages and market towns.

The route, from Ravenglass in Cumbria to South Shields in Tyne & Wear, is 174 miles (280 km).

Most people can complete the route in three days, but for those wanting to stop at the numerous attractions, it may take between four to five days.

Kielder Lakeside Way

Alex MacLennan recommended travelling up to Kielder Lakeside Way, as it is traffic-free for miles around the shoreline.

The path encircles Kielder Water's 27-mile shoreline and is almost 26 miles in total. It is suitable for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, mobility scooters and wheelchair users. 

AllTrails described the 42.5-km circular route as hard and takes an average of 10 and a half hours to complete.

"This is a popular trail for birding, camping, and fishing, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome and may be off-lead in some areas," it said.