The 170 mile Reivers Cycle Route encompasses a long history of scandalous robberies, crazed kidnapping and merciless murder every push of the way. The off-road route incorporates impressive, rugged, wild landscapes and the on-road passes through picturesque, remote areas of Northumberland.
The Reivers Off-road Adventure Route requires a greater level of self-sufficiency than traditional road-based cycle routes. This ‘‘coast to coast’ journey is as off-road as possible, encompassing an incredible variety of landscapes in a truly imaginative way by utilising miles of wonderful off-road tracks, old drovers roads, and hidden bridleways linked by quiet country lanes. It is waymarked with dark red coloured cycle signs.
The Reivers On-road Challenge Cycle Route offers an opportunity for road cyclists to safely cycle a 100% on-road route that is a mix of gravel and hard top, passing through wonderfully remote locations. It is waymarked with standard blue coloured cycle route signs.
Both routes continuously reward the rider with striking views of constantly changing terrain. They are undoubtedly challenging journeys of discovery comprising many miles that are ‘off the beaten track’ just waiting to be explored. There are many places to pop into along the way, such as stunning villages and quiet hamlets to cycle through or stay the night in. And, most importantly, there are plenty of excellent refreshments stops!
En route it is possible to: experience iconic landmarks beginning / ending just outside Northumberland at Tynemouth with its many historic connections, sandy cove, twin piers, castle and priory; ride through hidden parts of Northumberland with its rich heritage; traverse Scandinavian-like Kielder Water and Forest Park; nip into Scotland to stay overnight or for refreshments, cycle through the unspoilt Forgotten Lands between the Borders and Carlisle, cross the line of Hadrian’s Wall; ride past Carlisle Castle; take in little known corners of Northumberland National Park and enjoy the northern edge of the Lake District National Park arriving at, or departing from, Maryport’s magnificent historical harbour on West Cumbria’s World Heritage Site coastline.