Waskerley Way to Tynemouth

Waskerley Way to Tynemouth

This superb ride from Waskerley Way to Tynemouth forms part of the famous Coast to Coast route.  It’s an easy and attractive option for those short on time, or less experienced long-distance cyclists seeking a more compact, enjoyable ride.

How long is the Waskerley Way to Tynemouth route?
It is just under 38 miles long or 61km.

Route details

Waskerley Way is a beautifully scenic path to begin your adventure on. It was formed from the oldest railway line in the world. Opened in 1725, the line ran between the mining village of Rookhope and the boom town of Consett. This peaceful, traffic-free route is now maintained for cyclists, walkers and horse-riders to enjoy.

You will pass through the impressive Hownsgill Viaduct, built to transport limestone in the 19th Century. The single track line reaches heights of 46 meters above the trees. Along the Waskerley Way, you’ll enjoy views across the Smiddy Shaw, Waskerley and Hisehope reservoirs. 

Plants and wildlife flourish along the old railway. You might spot a Black Grouse, with red facial markings and white tail feathers, or England’s smallest bird of prey – the Merlin. Keep an eye out for small snakes, and even slow worms, as you travel through grasslands.

Take a break at Beamish

Beamish open air museum is roughly half way along the Waskerley| Way to Tynemouth route.  It’s one of the north east’s major tourist attractions and a great place for a long break.

This 350-acre site really is a fascinating place to explore – especially if you are a history lover. Beamish captures the lives of ‘ordinary’ people in the north east of England during the 1820s, 1900s & 1940s. Jump on a tram, go to school, visit the farm, explore a mine or treat yourself to a paper bag of sherbert lemons from the traditional sweet shop.

Beamish is highly recommended. If you would like to stay a night – or even two –  so that you can explore Beamish properly, we can suggest accommodation close by. We’d advise pre-booking Beamish – the museum is so popular that tickets sell out.

To the sea

The final leg of the journey from Beamish to Tynemouth follows route 72 along the Derwent Walk. This is a scenic and comfortable ride. Admire Newcastle’s quayside with stunning buildings such as the Sage Gateshead and the seven bridges spanning the river. These include the engineering wonder that is the Gateshead Millennium Bridge – commonly known as the Winking Eye Bridge. Move on through the urban streets of Cullercoats and onto your finish at the coast.  Your journey ends at the golden sands of Whitley Bay, a traditional seaside resort. 

What we can offer

• Bike transfer from Tynemouth or Newcastle Central Station to Waskerley Way 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 a time of need
• Transfer from Tynemouth to Newcastle at the end of the experience
• Transfer for riders and bikes to your home or accommodation

Route highlights

• Spectacular views of the moorlands
  
• Fascinating wildlife in its natural habitat
• Beamish open air museum
• Newcastle quayside
• Finish on the relaxing, golden beach of Whitley Bay

Why choose this route?

• The Waskerley Way to Tynemouth cycling route contrasts glorious countryside with urban landscapes
• The scenery is superb throughout and the ride more manageable than the popular C2C
•  This ride suits a broad range of fitness levels

Accommodation

The Waskerley to Tynemouth route can be completed in one day. If you would prefer to ride at a slower pace and stretch the journey out, we can suggest accommodation along the route for non-corporate clients.  

We offer a full package service – including accommodation booking – for organisations. We are experienced and reliable, with a proven track record on planning and supporting bike rides. If you would like to know more about Ecocabs Cycles’ corporate packages, please see here.