THE compiler of this new guidebook is Northumberland’s own award-winning expert who has devised some 2,000 miles of cycle routes in the north of England since 1994, including the 120-mile long Sandstone Way in Northumberland.
Published in conjunction with Tyne Valley Mountain Bike Club, this book offers 33 easy to moderate cycle routes, compiled to help local and visiting cycling enthusiasts explore popular and hidden corners. Ranging from 7½ to 30 miles using traffic-free routes, quiet country lanes and suitable tracks, the routes cater for both on-road and off-road cyclists.
There are 12 road routes, 10 mountain bike routes, and 11 waggonway and bridleway routes, with sections marked ‘family-friendly’ for those cycling with children, or bike novices. Each chapter includes Ordnance Survey maps, a route summary, heights encountered and optional shortcuts. Tips on safety, parking and ‘loos and brews’ are also given.
Chris Hartnell of Northern Heritage Services said: “We have previously lacked a top-quality book of cycle rides to help explore Northumberland. Ted has come up trumps in mapping and describing these fantastic routes. Many cyclists who are eager to explore this area just need the extra confidence of knowing the most interesting and safest routes.”
33 CYCLE RIDES IN NORTHUMBERLAND AND TYNESIDE, compiled by Ted Liddle. Published by Northern Heritage, Blagdon (www.northern-heritage.co.uk). £12.99. Softback.
