Hadrian's Cycleway - Frequently Asked Questions

Can the route be ridden in either direction ?
Yes - it is signed in both directions but is generally ridden from Ravenglass to South Shields.
This takes advantage of the route profile i.e. short steep hills followed by long downhills.

Do I need a map to follow the route ?
A map is advisable as although the route is signed in both directions there are some gaps where the route has not yet been finalised. The map also shows the various Roman sites etc.

Where can I get a map of Hadrian's Cycleway ?
Maps are available from the Tourist Information Centres along the route or from the Sustrans on-line shop. To order from the Sustrans on-line shop - click here.

What level of ability is the route suitable for ?
Because the route is reasonably flat (apart from hilly section between Brampton & Vindolanda) it is suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced cyclists, however it should not be undertaken without some form of training. Ensure you split the ride into distances you can complete comfortably to ensure you enjoy the experience rather than making it too arduous.

Is the route suitable for children ?
Yes, although it will of course depend on the level of fitness of the child. The ride should be planned in accordance to the slowest member of the party rather than the quickest and you need to ensure that adequate rest periods are built in. During the Opening ride there were several children riding as young as 9 years old and a family with a baby in a bike trailer.

What type of bike is suitable for the route ?
As most of this route is either on minor roads or surfaced off-road tracks most bikes will be suitable but I would not recommend a full racing bike.
Tandems, Recumbent, Tricycles may find some sections awkward but not impossible due to access control barriers.
Alternative on-road routes available, these are mainly in urban areas see

What equipment do I need and is there any specific advice you would give before attempting this route ? read the "Preparations" notes.

Do I need to train in order to complete the route and if so, what would you recommend ? read the " Preparations" notes.

For further information on any of the queries above see -

How long should I take to do Hadrian's Cycleway?
This depends on if you are just doing the ride or intend to visit the Roman sites as well.
The 174 mile route neatly splits into three, as per the map panels.
The centre section between Brampton (mile 103) to just after Vindolanda (mile 127) is the most hilly and also contains most of the Roman sites that are easily reached from HCW.

3 day Ravenglass to Silloth (53 miles). Silloth to Haltwhistle (64 miles).
Haltwhistle to South Shields (57 miles)

5 day – Ravenglass to Silloth (53 miles), Silloth to Carlisle (36 miles),
Carlisle to Haltwhistle (28 miles), Haltwhistle to Hexham (22 miles) or Corbridge (26 miles), Hexham or Corbridge to South Shields (31 miles)

7 day – Ravenglass to Workington (30 miles), Workington to Silloth (23 miles),
Silloth to Bowness (21 miles), Bowness to Warwick Bridge (21 miles),
Warwick Bridge to Haltwhistle (22 miles), Haltwhistle to Hexham (22 miles)
Hexham to South Shields 35 miles.

Are there places on route where I can get my bike repaired if necessary ?
Yes in most towns along the route
see -

Where can I hire a bike ?
There are several bike hire firms along the route and others across northern England.
Holiday providers also can supply bikes as part of a tour package.
see -

Where is the best place to see the Roman Wall and are there any Roman sites you would particularly recommend ?
The best place to see remains of the Hadrian's Wall actually on Hadrian's Cycleway is between Banks (mile 107) and Birdoswald (mile 110)
Roman Forts - with substantial remains - actually on Hadrian's Cycleway can be found at Birdoswald (mile 110), Vindolnada (mile 125), Corbridge (mile 142), Segedunum (mile 168) and Arbeia (mile 174) There are a variety of other Roman sites / museums on route, which are close to HCW, all of which are worthy of visiting, although it will of course depend on the amount of time you have available.
For more information on these Roman sites see -

Would you recommend a particular time of year to complete the route ?
The route can be completed all year round, however May-September may be preferable in order to take advantage of the best weather and longer daylight hours.
Some of the upland sections can be very bleak in winter but you should always be prepared for all types of weather regardless of time of year.
It should be noted that if completing the route in peak visitor seasons i.e. July & August, accommodation bookings should be made well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Are there any companies providing packaged trips ?
Yes - several firms offer this service with a choice of guide or self guided options.

for contact details etc.

Can I get my baggage transfered each day ?
Yes - see "Holidays" for contact details.

How do I get to the start at Ravenglass ?
By Train
To get to Ravenglass from Carlisle means using the regional railway. The trains on this route will carry only 2 bikes but spaces are non-reservable. There is no charge to take your bikes on this section.

By Bike Transfer Service
Several firms in the north of England provide this service -
- for contact details

By AD122 Bus
If doing a shortened ride from Bowness there is a scheduled bus service between Newcastle Central Station and Carlisle with a local bus service 93, 71 to Bowness on Solway.
Bikes carrige can be pre-booked.
Another possibility is to get the bus to Carlisle and transfer to the train onto Ravenglass.
Click here for AD122 bus time table.

By Car
Ravenglass can easily be reached by road, the easiest option being from Penrith (M6 Jct.40) and then follow the A66 westwards bypassing Keswick and Cockermouth and then take the
A595(T) road south to Ravenglass.

By North Sea Ferry
Hadrian's Cycleway NCN 72 passes close to the International Ferry Terminal at North Shields, Tyne & Wear and is sign posted from the terminal exit. Click here for sketch map.
Follow HADRIAN'S CYCLEWAY- NCN 72 signs up Coble Dene to join Hadrian's Cycleway at mile 171.0 at the Toucan Crossing near the Royal Quays Shopping Outlet. Then use the transport options as above.

How do I get back to the start by train ?
To get back to the start of the route at Ravenglass means getting back to Newcastle station.
This means either cycling back 12 miles or hiring a bike transfer company.
Then catch the train to Carlisle, and change for Ravenglass. On this service the policy is only 2 cycles per train on off-peak services (all other services ring and check beforehand) and all bikes must be reserved but the cost is nothing. From Carlisle take the regional line as detailed above to Ravenglass.

Rail Information Line for general enquiries: 08457 484950
Northern Rail - Carlisle to Whitehaven: 0845 6001159
Arriva Trains Northern - Newcastle/Carlisle: 0870 6023322

Can I use the Metro trains on Tyneside to get back to Newcastle ?
No - not unless they fold up like a Brompton.

Where can I park / leave my car ?
If you are staying overnight before starting the ride, then most landladies will let you park your car with them for a few days but please check first.
for more details on parking.

Where are the best places to stay on route ?
Accommodation is available throughout the route ranging from B&B to Hotels.
There are some areas where accommodation is scarce so you need to take this into account when planning your overnight stops.

Are there many campsites / bunkbarns on the route ?
There are a number of campsites and bunkbarns along the length of the route and these are marked on the official route map.

Are there many youth hostels on the route ?
Unfortunately, there are only a few hostels on route which are marked on the official route map – one at Greenhead and at Once Brewed. The future of these is in doubt.

Are there many places to stop on route for provisions, refreshments etc. ?
There is a wide range of services on route, please refer to official route map for details.
Please note however that there are sections where there are no or limited services, so you should ensure you carry emergency provisions at all times.