Reivers Cycle Route

The Reivers cycle route runs from Tynemouth on the north-east coast of England to Whitehaven/Workington on the west coast.

The Reivers is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to the better known C2C. More riders are discovering this as a quieter, more peaceful adventure. It cuts through unspoilt Northumbrian countryside and the Lake District and offers the thrills keen cyclists want.

How long is the Reivers bike route?

The Reivers is 173 miles long or 278 kilometres. It takes between one and three days to complete. This bike route is usually ridden east to west – taking advantage of the kinder gradients – with longer downhill sections and shorter uphills.

There are many route numbers which contribute to this spectacular cycle journey, including 7,10, 68, 71 and 72. Route 10 is often a favourite section amongst locals as it’s a less populated trail.

The route is named after the Border reivers. The reivers were lawless families who carried out raids both sides of the Scottish border for centuries. However, we can promise you a friendly welcome these days!

The Reivers route

Your ride begins on the coast at the seaside village of Tynemouth. You set off along predominantly flat, metropolitan roads with fine views across the River Wear. The pathways then take you into the countryside via the Waskerley Way to Stanhope Moor.

The rolling trail brings you to Kielder Water and Forest. Enjoy the serene woodlands and breathe in the fresh air. Kielder also has plenty of tea rooms, coffee shops, pubs and restaurants on offer. Maybe you should stop off at Wafflemeister and sample their choice of 16 ice cream flavours?!

Following the forest trail, you cross briefly into bonnie Scotland, before descending through the valley of the River Lyne. This leads you to the peaceful village of Westlington and the cathedral city of Carlisle.

Ride along the rippling River Caldew and onto the bustling market town of Cockermouth. Here you can visit Wordsworth House and Gardens, where the famous poet was born.

For the final leg of the Rivers route, you will glide around the northern edge of the Lake District. Drink in the views of the fells. Following Route 72 into the Georgian coastal town of Whitehaven, you can enjoy a well-earned drink in one of the many sea-front bars and restaurants.

Alternatively, follow Route 71 into the coastal town of Workington. Check out the beautiful ruins of Workington Hall, a Grade I listed building on the edge of the town. It’s close to a not-for-profit pottery called West House, where you can purchase a memento of your journey. We’d also recommend The Moon & Sixpence, which is a fantastic independent coffee shop. It offers a huge choice of organic, homemade cakes and breads. And they have a passion for eco-friendly business, just like us!

What We Can Offer

• Bike transfer from Newcastle Central Station to Tynemouth harbour to start your trip (other pick up locations available on request)
• All baggage transfers between accommodation
• Route Maps and GPX file
• List of bike shops and places to visit en route
• Phone support available from 7am to 10pm daily
• Emergency support – to help you in your moment of need
• Transfer from Whitehaven or Workington to Newcastle at the end of the ride
• Transfer for riders and bikes to your home or accommodation

Reivers route highlights

• The variety of quaint villages, historic market towns and bustling cities
• Kielder Water and Forest 
• Unspoiled Northumberland – you’ll experience some of the most dramatic and wild countryside in England

Why choose the Reivers cycle route?

• It’s an interesting and quiet alternative route
  
• The scenery is superb throughout
• This route suits a broader range of fitness levels thanks to more manageable hills than the C2C

Accommodation

The Reivers route can be completed in one, two or three days. If you would prefer to ride at a slower pace and stretch the journey out, please let us know. We will happily suggest accommodation along the route for non-corporate clients.  

Ecocabs Cycles offers a full package service – including accommodation booking – for corporate clients. We are experienced and reliable, with a proven track record on planning and supporting bike rides for organisations.

If you would like to know more about Ecocabs Cycles’ corporate packages, please see here.