Best Motorbike Routes in North East of England

Exploring the North East of England by motorbike offers an opportunity to experience some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK. From the rugged coastline of Northumberland to the moorlands of the North Pennines, these routes provide a blend of scenic beauty, challenging rides, and historical sites.

Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer looking for your next adventure, the North East has something to offer all types of riders.

This guide will take you through the best motorbike routes in the region, however ensure you're well-prepared with the right sat nav, a well maintained motorbike helmet, and wear the correct motorbike clothing for a safe and enjoyable journey.

The Northumberland Coast

The Northumberland Coast offers a breathtaking ride from Alnwick to Berwick-upon-Tweed, featuring some of the most stunning coastal views in England. This route is perfect for those who love the sea breeze and expansive horizons, with a backdrop of historic castles and charming villages.

Key Highlights

Bamburgh Castle: A majestic fortress overlooking the coast.
Holy Island (Lindisfarne): A mystical island accessible at low tide.
Coastal Villages: Picturesque stops like Seahouses and Craster.

Road Details

The ride begins in Alnwick, heading north along the A1 before branching off onto coastal roads that offer a mix of straight stretches and gentle curves. The roads are well-maintained, making it suitable for all levels of riders. The route is relatively easy to navigate, but a reliable sat nav is recommended to explore side roads and detours.

Best Time to Ride

The best time to ride this route is during the warmer months, from May to September. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the most spectacular views with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Tips For Riders

Gear Up: Ensure you’re equipped with a quality helmet and weather-appropriate motorbike clothing.
Plan for Stops: Take advantage of the scenic spots along the coast, such as Bamburgh Castle and Holy Island.
Check Tides: If you plan to visit Holy Island, check tide times to avoid getting stranded.

Hartside Pass

Hartside Pass is a classic motorbike route starting from Alston and offering breathtaking views as you ascend to one of England's highest road passes. This ride is ideal for those who enjoy challenging climbs and stunning vistas.

Key Highlights

Summit Views: Panoramic views of the Lake District, Pennines, and even Scotland on clear days.
Hartside Café: A popular stop for bikers at the summit.

Road Details

The route follows the A686 from Alston, climbing up to Hartside Pass. The road features a series of sweeping bends and steep gradients, making it a thrilling ride for experienced bikers. The descent offers equally exciting challenges with tight corners and dramatic drops.

Best Time to Ride

Riding Hartside Pass is best in late spring or early autumn when the roads are clear, and the weather is mild. Avoid winter months as the route can become treacherous due to ice and snow.

Tips For Riders

Use a Sat Nav: Navigating the bends and gradients is easier with the assistance of a reliable sat nav.
Wear Protective Gear: A sturdy helmet and protective motorbike clothing are essential for safety on this challenging route.
Fuel Up: Ensure your bike is well-fueled before starting, as there are limited refuelling options along the route.

North Pennines A686

The A686 from Penrith to Haydon Bridge is a beautiful moorland route that takes you through the heart of the North Pennines, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This route is perfect for those who enjoy the serenity of open landscapes and gentle, winding roads.

Key Highlights

Moorland Views: Expansive views across the Pennines.
Langwathby: A charming village stop along the route.
Alston: Known as England’s highest market town.

Road Details

The route begins in Penrith, following the A686 through Langwathby and up into the moors. The road is smooth with a mix of gentle curves and long straights, making it an enjoyable ride for all skill levels. The landscape is open and windswept, so be prepared for gusty conditions.

Best Time to Ride

This route is best enjoyed from late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild, and the roads are clear. The moorlands are particularly beautiful in late summer when the heather is in bloom.

Tips For Riders

Check Weather Conditions: Moorlands can be exposed, so be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Stay Visible: Wear brightly colored motorbike clothing to stay visible in the often foggy conditions.
Take It Slow: Enjoy the scenery and be cautious on the open stretches where strong winds can affect your balance.

Durham Dales

The Durham Dales offer a tranquil ride through Weardale and Teesdale, with picturesque dales, valleys, and charming villages. This route is ideal for those looking to explore the quieter, more scenic side of the North East.

Key Highlights

High Force: One of England’s most impressive waterfalls.
Barnard Castle: A historic market town with a rich heritage.
Raby Castle: A grand medieval castle surrounded by deer parkland.

Road Details

Starting from the town of Wolsingham, this route winds through the dales on quiet, well-maintained roads. The A689 and B6277 are the primary roads, offering a mix of rolling hills, gentle curves, and the occasional steep climb.

Best Time to Ride

The Durham Dales are at their best in the late spring and summer when the weather is warm, and the valleys are lush and green. Avoid winter rides due to potential ice on the roads.

Tips For Riders

Plan Stops: High Force and Raby Castle are must-see stops along this route.
Wear Appropriate Gear: Ensure you have a quality helmet and motorbike clothing to handle the varied conditions in the dales.
Bring a Sat Nav: Some of the roads are quite remote, so a sat nav is essential for staying on course.

A68 (Corbridge to Carter Bar)

The A68 from Corbridge to Carter Bar is a picturesque route that takes you through the rolling hills of the Cheviots, offering expansive views and a variety of riding challenges.

Key Highlights

Hadrian’s Wall: Historic sites along the route.
Carter Bar: A scenic viewpoint at the English-Scottish border.
Corbridge: A charming town with Roman history.

Road Details

This route begins in the historic town of Corbridge, heading north along the A68. The road offers a mix of long straights and rolling curves, with occasional steep sections as you approach Carter Bar. The roads are well-maintained, but some sections can be narrow.

Best Time to Ride

The A68 is best ridden in the late spring through early autumn when the weather is most reliable. The route offers stunning views during the summer, particularly at sunrise or sunset.

Tips For Riders

Check Your Gear: Ensure your helmet and motorbike clothing are suitable for both warm and cooler conditions, as temperatures can vary along the route.
Use a Sat Nav: Some sections of the route can be challenging to navigate, so a sat nav is helpful.
Plan for Breaks: Carter Bar is an ideal stop to stretch your legs and take in the views.

These routes provide an excellent combination of scenic beauty, historical interest, and thrilling rides, making them some of the best motorbike routes in the North East of England. Be sure to equip yourself with the right sat nav, helmets, and motorbike clothing to enjoy a safe and memorable journey.