Be amazed by spectacular landscapes on this Coast and Castles route of the National Cycle Network
Escape on a self-guided cycle tour of some of Europe's finest scenery
Exquisite scenery along the way as you approach imposing Bamburgh Castle
A classic British cycling holiday with views that can only be seen on this side of the world
Enjoy the scenery each day on tour
Exhale and enjoy a rural ride through the UK

Coast and Castles - 7 Days

Duration
7 days
Site savings
$32
From
$1,552 USD

This classic British cycling holiday over 7 days (6 days of riding) takes you from Newcastle-upon-Tyne to Edinburgh following the National Cycle Network Route 1: Coast and Castles using the North Sea Cycle Route. This is an iconic cycle route full of awesome scenery and historical interest!

  • Category
    Cultural & Historical
  • Type
    Self-Guided
  • Duration
    7 days
  • Culture Level
    Familiar
  • Skill Level
    3 - Intermediate
  • Activity Level
    3 - Active
  • Elevation
    3 - Intermediate
  • Terrain
    Coastal
  • Distance
    200.7 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    33.6 miles
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  • Where does the tour start and end?

    The tour starts at Newcastle. If you're driving, full directions to your accommodation and the meeting point will be provided. You can leave your car at the accommodation for the duration of your trip at no extra cost.

    If you're travelling by train, Newcastle is the most convenient station. Your accommodation is a 15-minute walk or a 10-minute taxi ride from the station.

    At the end of your ride in Edinburgh, a representative will meet you at around 4:30 pm to return your luggage and collect your hire bike, if applicable. If you're travelling onward by train, Edinburgh Waverley Station is just a short walk away. Alternatively, a transfer back to Newcastle train station or to your car in Newcastle is included in your holiday.

    Please don't book a return train departing before 6:00 pm from Edinburgh or before 8:00 pm from Newcastle.

    Airport transfers are available for an additional fee.

  • How long is the tour? How many days cycling?

    The tour is 7 days long with 6 days of cycling.

  • What's the tour like?

    The route has some sections of urban riding, on quiet roads or purpose built cycle paths, but most of the route follows quiet country lanes, cycle tracks, and some bridleways.

    There are a few off-road sections, with tracks across grassy fields or farm roads. Being a National Cycle Network route, there are no “technical” off-road sections. With a mix of tarmac and some gravel or stoney/grass surfaces the ride can be completed on almost any type of bike. Some riders will find that with a little extra care the off-road sections can be ridden on a road bike with touring tyres fitted, however there are tarmac alternatives to the standard route if preferred.


    Is this suitable for you?
    The ride is graded as 2-3 Gentle/Moderate. Holidays that are graded as a 2-3, will have aspects of both our grade 2 and 3 holidays. These tours are still suitable for those perhaps who have recently got into cycling, and offer an array of accessible, cycle friendly routes, cycle paths and quiet roads, however there will be some days / sections where you may have to tackle some ups and downs, the occasional steeper climb and perhaps some varying terrain (forest tracks, gravel paths etc). Suitable for those with a decent level of physical fitness, looking for some leisurely rides with occasional (achievable!) challenges along the way.

    Grade 2
    Distances generally between 15-30 miles / 24-48 kms per day. For those looking for an easy-going route. Mainly on the flat. Some undulations and the odd cheeky challenge


    Grade 3
    For the leisure cyclist with a good level of physical fitness. May include some steeper, cheeky climbs and possibly sections of varying terrain (eg. forest tracks, gravel paths etc). Distances generally between 20-45 miles / 32-72 kms per day.


  • Is bike hire included?

    Bikes are not included however  hybrid and electric bikes are available for hire.

    The hybrid bikes are generally Giant Roam or Liv Rove with a large 30 speed gear range, semi-slick tyres and a relaxed riding position. The electric bikes are generally Giant Entour E+ Disc pedal assist bikes with batteries suitable for the daily distances on this holiday. Both models of bikes come with either a standard cross bar or step through frame.

    Helmets and panniers are provided with all hire bikes along with an emergency repair kit including a spare innertube, bike pump and bike lock.

  • Pricing Information

    The price on the ‘Dates and Price’ page serves as a guide since the rate can vary depending on your chosen dates. Please let us know your preferred dates and we can let you know the total price and availability.

  • Is there any luggage limit?

    There is a strict policy of only ONE piece of luggage per person. Additional bags including small daypacks, can be arranged for an extra charge, please contact us prior to the trip to arrange. Bags should weigh no more than 15kg per bag for ease of handling. Please do not tie anything to the outside of the bags, including hats, pillows, shoes, carrier bags etc.


    Your luggage must be ready for collection by 8.30 each morning. It will be delivered to your next accommodation usually before 17.00.