Cycling Hadrian's Cycleway

The Hadrian's Cycleway was only created recently, but has quickly established itself as one of the best long distance cycle routes in the UK. Starting at the Roman Fort of Arbeia in South Shields in the east, the route runs the whole length of the Wall before ending over 174 miles away in Ravenglass on the Cumbrian coast. Hadrian's Cycleway takes riders past Roman sites, breathtaking countryside, magnificent coastline, quaint villages and inspiring modern art. In short, it has everything! Get away from it all and enjoy the freedom of cycling through some of England's most dramatic and wild countryside.

What you need to know before you go:

Hadrian's Cycleway is signposted as National Route 72 (NCN 72), and can be cycled in either direction, although it is most commonly cycled from west to east.

It runs mainly on country lanes and quiet roads, interspersed with sections of traffic-free path, promenade and riverside path.

The coastal sections at either end of the route are relatively flat, but there are a few steep, short hills in the central section.

Should you plan to visit all of the Roman sites along the way, please allow 4-6 days for the journey.

Make sure that you are physically prepared by doing some training rides prior to attempting to ride Hadrian's Cycleway. You don't have to be Superman to complete it, but some hill climb training is advisable.

Carry enough fluids, especially if it is a hot day.

It is essential that you carry spares. For a full list of the recommended spares, please click here. 

Cycle shops close to the route:

The Bike Shop - approx 1/4 mile south of NCN 72
16-17 St Mary's Chare
Hexham
NE46 1NQ

Telephone 01434 601302

Activcycles - approx 3/4 mile south of NCN 72
Corbridge Business Centre
Tinkers Yard
Corbridge
NE45 5SB

Telephone 01434 636080

Denton Cycles - approx 1/4 mile north of NCN 72
Unit 2, 259 Scotswood Road
Newcastle
NE4 7AW

Telephone 0191 272 338

For a full list of all bike shops and bike hire shops on the route, visit the official Hadrian's Cycleway website.

Other pages of interest:

List of essential equipment for the cycleway

Accommodation in Hadrian's Wall Country

Scenic sections of Hadrian's Wall

External links:

Hadrian's Cycleway

Tour operators & baggage transfers:

Northumberland Bike Breaks
Guided rides to suit beginners and experienced mountain bikers, plus accommodation.

Saddle Skedaddle
From gentle family cycling breaks to mountain bike weekends.

Hadrian's Wall Ltd.
Baggage transfer, and accommodation booking service

Hadrian's Haul
Baggage transfer