Cycle tourism in Northumberland

One of the very best ways to appreciate the fabulous landscapes of Northumberland has to be on two wheels – the kind you pedal yourself! Cycling along the country lanes, taking in the views of woodlands, heather-clad moors and fields of sheep and cattle, you’re reminded everywhere of the rich heritage of the ancient kingdom of Northumbria. And with a wealth of archaeological and historical sites to visit, not to mention picturesque villages and great pubs and cafés, there’s always an excuse to get off the bike and take a break from the saddle.

The International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT), from Leeds Metropolitan University, is working with the Glendale Gateway Trust, the Haltwhistle Partnership and other partners to develop cycling around the market towns of Wooler and Haltwhistle. The project is funded through the Market Town Welcome Programme as part of the Rural Development Programme England (RDPE) by Northumberland County Council on behalf of ONE NorthEast. The Market Town Welcome Programme in Northumberland is helping key towns to achieve their full potential as tourist destinations and prioritise investment in improvements to the towns’ attractions and facilities.

Over the next 18 months you’ll see exciting routes being developed for all abilities – from mountain-bike trails and challenging day rides to gentle ‘softie’ circuits. Of course, there’ll be support services too, such as cycle hire and repair shops. The two ‘hubs’ of Haltwhistle and Wooler will be the first focal points of Northumberland’s new cycle tourism venture – after that, we expect that other market towns in the region will join in to establish Northumberland as one of the UK’s leading cycling destinations.

Keen cyclist Anna Waddilove will be carrying out much of the work from a base in Hexham. A graduate of ICRT’s Responsible Tourism Management programme and a former employee of Sustrans, Anna is new to Northumberland and brings a fresh perspective to the area – perfect for understanding what visitors want! After her first few weeks in the area, Anna says “I’ve fallen in love with Northumberland already! Stunning scenery, quiet roads, fantastic light - and even the weather’s been not half bad …so far! It all feels so peaceful and remote yet you’re never more than an hour and a half from Newcastle. Perfect cycling country, with bucketfuls of added interest.” Meanwhile, the other members of the team – Simon Woodward and Janet Cochrane – have known Northumberland since childhood and formed a deep affection for its glorious scenery and romantic history which they’re looking forward to sharing with others.

Anna has already started mobilising local tourism and cycling interests to work together to make the area as cycle-friendly as possible. Early on, she’ll be trying out new routes and encouraging accommodation owners and other tourism businesses to participate in the ‘Cyclists Welcome’ scheme and to offer local produce on their menus – so don’t be surprised if you find her in your local tea-room sampling the area’s finest food and drink!

To learn more about the cycle hubs project – whether you’re a local resident, a keen or novice cyclist, a local business interested in what the project can offer for you, or any other interested party – come along to one of the public meetings for a presentation and informal chat.

Timing: 7pm for 7.30pm – 8.30pm (approx.)

Monday 23^rd November - Main Hall, Cheviot Centre, Padgepool Place, Wooler.

Tuesday 24^th November – Garden Suite, Centre of Britain Hotel, Main Street, Haltwhistle.