INTRODUCTION

Gateshead has much to offer the cyclist.

It has everything that you'll need whether you are
shopping, paying a bill or just out for a ride.

Cyclists have easy access to the Borough's natural and industrial heritage. You can enjoy some of the area's most scenic countryside along the Tyne, through the Derwent valley and across the west of the Borough. You can also experience the area's industrial heritage at Blaydon Burn,
re-visit the age of steam at the Tanfield Railway and see a working water wheel at Path Head Water Mill.

 

If you have more cultural pursuits in mind, Gateshead Quays offers world famous
contemporary arts and music venues at BALTIC and the Sage Gateshead. Cyclists
can enjoy Gibside Park and Chapel, the Shipley Art Gallery, the Riverside Sculpture
park and numerous art installations across the Borough. Perhaps the best of all, you
can have direct access to the region's most famous artwork - the Angel of the North.

Cycle parking is provided across Gateshead town Centre and at many of the local centres across the Borough, allowing cyclists access to the full range of shops and services on offer.

In addition, there is now cycle parking
and cycle routes around the MetroCentre.

For those wanting to travel further afield, Gateshead Interchange offers secure cycle parking and access to a network of bus and
Metro services that cover much of the region. These services
also provide frequent connections to the National Rail Network.

And we haven't even mentioned the Gateshead Millennium Bridge !

WHY CYCLE

For your health . . .
Regular cyclists enjoy a fitness level equal to that of a person 10 years younger.
(sharp.Nat. forum for Coronary Heart disease Prevention)

Physically active people have half the risk of coronary heart disease and up to a third of the risk of a stroke compared with inactive people. (Dept. of Health, 1966)

Cycling improves your strength, stamina and aerobic fitness, with little risk of over-exertion. It can also help you shed excess weight by burning fat, and it's great fun too!

For the environment . . .
Cycling is not just good for you, it's good for the local and global environment too. Unlike cars, cycling produces virtually no atmospheric pollution or noise.

Three quarters of all journeys made in the UK are less than 5 miles. Many of these journeys could easily be made by bicycle.

Traffic congestion costs British industry billions each year and pollutes the atmosphere. Cycling helps combat congestion and is often quicker than other modes of transport. parking is easier too, and its free!

Cycling is an accessible and convenient method of transport. Why not combine regular exercise with getting to work, going shopping or getting to school? Cycle instead of going by car, and you will be helping to improve the environment of the town as well as saving money.

CYCLESAFE

BE SAFE Follow the Highway Code Wear a cycle helmet Keep your cycle well maintained Don't ride on pavements Don't cycle too close behind motor vehicles Don't carry anything that could affect your balance or get tangled in your chain or wheels Don't cycle under the influence of drink or drugs BE SAFE AND BE HEARD Wear bright clothing Fit an audible warning to your bike to alert people you are coming. BE RESPONSIBLE Take care on all roads Give way to pedestrians and horses Close all gates Report any problems to Gateshead Council BE SECURE Always lock your bicycle Take any relevant maps or guides with you

Click for list of useful contacts at Gateshead Council for cycling matters.

Information about the Cycle Network in Gateshead