Top North East cycle routes for families this summer

Barratt and David Wilson Homes North East is helping families find the best cycle routes across the region to enjoy with children ahead of the summer holidays.

Improvements to mental wellbeing and physical health are just some of things people can gain from cycling. With the housebuilder’s recent research revealing that nearby countryside remains the top consideration when buying a home1, five star housebuilder Barratt and David Wilson Homes North East has identified the best bike routes to experience with the whole family, offering the best of the North East’s rich and diverse countryside. Newcastle Route: Hadrian’s Cycleway Distance: 11 miles / 17.5 km Time: 1hr Difficulty: Easy A convenient cycleway runs through Newcastle, connecting the north west coast, Ravenglass to the north east coast, South Shields. On paper, it’s a 172.8 mile (278.1km) long route but gives families the option to join the route at any point convenient to them. Covering as much ground as you please, this route offers a spectacular way to see the North East countryside. Newcastle to South Shields is 11 miles (17.5 km) and follows the River Tyne on a mix of off road paths and quiet roads and offers breathtaking views.   South Tyneside Route: Two Rivers Cycleway Distance: 8 miles/ 12km Time: 50 minutes Difficulty: Easy Forming part of the National Cycle Network, this circular route begins at Bents Park, before passing Trow Point and the Leas, offering stunning views of Marsden Bay and rock. It then continues to Lizard Point with views of Souter Lighthouse, before passing through Whitburn Village and the Cleadon Hills. Sunderland Route: Sunderland Marina Loop Distance: 11.8 miles/ 19 km Time: 1 hour 10 minutes Difficulty: Easy Starting at the University, this picturesque route takes cyclists over the Northern Spire Bridge, a bike touring highlight, past the Sunderland Marina, Roker Pier & Seafront, and Promenade Seaburn before looping back to the University. With a stop-off at Fausto Coffee en route encouraged, this route is suitable for any fitness level, covering most paved surfaces, with its start and end point easily accessible by public transport. Northumberland Route: Morpeth to Newbiggin-by-the-Sea

Distance: 7.6miles / 12.2 km Time: 40 minutes Difficulty: Easy This gently undulating route connects the charming market town of Morpeth to the coastal town of Newbiggin-by-the-Sea. At 7.6 miles long, it’s perfect for families and novices. The route begins in Morpeth and offers scenic views of Northumberland. Passing through the village of Ashington, before ending in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea. Why not head to the beach for a rewarding family picnic? South Durham Route: Brandon-Bishop Auckland Railway Path Distance: 18 miles / 29 km Time: 1.50h Difficulty: Intermediate This is a traffic free linear route that follows a disused railway but includes some road crossings, returning along the same path. Although it can begin at either end where there are car parks; at Newton Cap Viaduct in Bishop Auckland or at the Broompark Picnic Area - this description begins in Bishop Auckland. From there, the route offers a magnificent view of Auckland Castle, passes close to Binchester Roman Fort up to Broompark Picnic Area, serving as an ideal spot for the family to stop off and refuel. Hartlepool Route: Wynyard Woodland Park Distance: 6.6 miles / 10.6 km Time: 45 minutes - 1hr Difficulty: Easy This picturesque out and back trail is set on the former railway line and is perfect for families to enjoy the woods on wheels. The route follows straight paths through wildflowers and plants. Home to Wynyard Planetarium and Observatory, the park has something for everyone, including a playground nestled amongst the trees and The Station House Tea Rooms, serving up delicious sandwiches and scones for those hungry tummies that have worked up an appetite! Middlesbrough Route: Tees Barrage loop Distance: 6.2 miles / 9.9 km Time: 45 minutes Difficulty: Easy  

This stunningly scenic riverside ride loops the Tees River and starts and finishes at the Tees Barrage. The cycle path follows the river, along the Newport Bridge, past the Maze Park Nature Reserve and under several bridges including the Infinity Bridge and Princess Diana Bridge. There is free parking and toilets at the Barrage. Carl Sobolewski, Managing Director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes North East added: “We’re really proud that our new developments across the North East are close to natural beauty spots, not only do we know this is a priority for our customers, but we also know this is hugely beneficial to families who want to get outside more and enjoy outdoor activities like walking and cycling. So much so, that our own Technical team will be undertaking a charity bike ride spanning 100 miles in just one day in support of our charity of the year, Team Evie.” Jack Swain, General Manager at Recyke y’bike, a bike charity selling affordable refurbished bikes in Newcastle and the recent recipient of Barratt and David Wilson’s £1,500 Community Fund, said: “Cycling is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors with children. As well as the added health benefits, it gives families a fun activity that develops skills such as navigation, coordination, balance and stamina. The donation from Barratt and Davis Wilson Homes will truly help in keeping our services running at what is always a busy time of year for us. Cycling is a brilliant bonding experience and we’d encourage everyone to get on their bike not just this week, but whenever you can!”