Northumberland Cycle Tour - Sandstone Way

Question 1

Where does the tour start and end?

Answer

The tour starts and ends in Newcastle, UK. If traveling by car the arrival point is Newcastle where you will be able to leave your car for the duration of the trip at no additional cost. At the end of the trip, you will be returned to your car.

If traveling by train please arrive and depart from Newcastle Station. Following completion of the ride in Hexham at approx. 16.00, you will be returned to Newcastle Train Station. Please do not book any return trains prior to 17.30.

Question 2

How long is the tour? How many days cycling?

Answer

The tour is 5 days long with 4 days of cycling.

Question 3

What's the tour like?

Answer

The Sandstone Way uses varied terrain along its whole length taking advantage of an interesting mix of double-width dirt tracks, sections of singletrack, unsurfaced lanes and bridleways of all types as well as byways and little-known unclassified country roads (UCRs).

The terrain can be rough and there are occasional steep and technical sections. Inevitably, there are a number of linking sections of quiet minor roads and surfaced country lanes.

Northumberland is a hilly county and significant climbs will be encountered every day of the trip. A good level of fitness is key to your enjoyment of the route.

- Distances of 25-50 miles / 40-80 kms per day

- Aimed at regular cyclists who have a degree of off road experience

- Some moderate and difficult technical sections

Is this suitable for you?

If you have some experience of off-road riding on a variety of terrain, and would like to do more, a grade 3 trip could be for you. This tour has sections of singletrack (narrow trails wide enough for one rider) and shorter steep sections (both up and down) which require more bike handling ability. A day’s ride can see you on the trails for around 8 hours (with breaks) and covering between 25-50 miles depending on the terrain. If you’re generally fit and manage to ride regularly this could be the tour for you.

Question 4

Is there any vehicle support on the tour?

Answer

There is no vehicle support on this tour, however, your luggage will be transferred between your accommodation. The tour operator provides a 24-hour emergency contact number for you to call if you encounter any problems during the trip. Please note that this may incur additional charges depending on the nature of the action required.

Question 5

What's the weather like?

Answer

When cycling in the UK it’s best to come prepared for sun and rain, warm and cold all in the same day – spring, summer and autumn. Although there can be wide variations the monthly average temperature in the UK ranges from 9 degrees centigrade in April through to 17 degrees centigrade in July and then 11 degrees in October.

At the beginning and end of the season (in March and late October) the weather can be a little less predictable and there could be some cooler days.

Question 6

Is there any luggage limit?

Answer

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.