Go Smarter, Go Active Travel Itineraries

About

Our walking and cycling guides of the North East

Whether you fancy cycling along the breath-taking Northumberland or Tyne and Wear coastline or strolling along the history steeped streets of Durham- there’s something for everyone, no matter your age or ability.

We’ve created a suite of brand-new days out itineraries that you can explore by walking or cycling. You’ll find itineraries that showcase amazing parts of Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland, as well as a number of cross boundary guides for the adventurous among you! A selection of the guides are suitable for wheeled pedestrians and those with pushchairs- look out for the suitability key on each map to see which routes are most appropriate for you.

The purpose of the guides is to provide inspiration for fun filled days out that can be explored on foot or by bike. If you’re after a more detailed view of the areas the guides cover, we suggest cross referencing them with our detailed walking and cycling maps.

It’s always best to #GoSmarterGoActive when thinking of how to start your journey. That means using active travel (walking or cycling) to get to the start of a route where possible. However, if you’re travelling from further afield, why not plan your journey ahead of time using the Nexus Journey Planner? Some off-peak Metro services and some X-line Go North East buses also carry standard (non-folding) bikes, for those planning on cycling a route. Check ahead of time for both Metro and bus services as specific zones and times apply to bikes in some cases. The Shields Ferry and the Tyne Pedestrian Tunnels are also bike-friendly. Now all that’s left to do is EXPLORE!

Get out and about in beautiful Durham!

The Riverbank Roamer - The Riverbank Roamer is a 3.5 mile walking only route in the heart of Durham City, that follows the meandering path of the River Wear, passing a host of picturesque locations on the way. This route isn’t accessible for wheelchair and pushchair users. https://gosmartergoactive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/The-Riverbank-Roamer.pdf

Walk the Line - Walk the Line follows the Bishop-Auckland to Brandon line in a 6.5 mile walking and cycling route which links with the Lanchester Valley route at Broompark. Part of the route is accessible for wheelchair and pushchair users. https://gosmartergoactive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Walk-The-Line.pdf

Discover Derwent - The old Derwent Valley Railway used to carry passengers and goods between Newcastle and Consett until closing in 1962. This route, encompassing Gateshead and Durham, passes many points of interest, including Derwenthaugh cokeworks, Axwell Hall, Hollinside Manor and Gibside Hall. https://gosmartergoactive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Discover-Derwent.pdf

North Sea Breezer - Covering Sunderland and County Durham, the North Sea Breezer stretches from the immaculate Seaham Harbour to the rolling waves of Wearside’s best kept secret. This lesser-trodden route along the cliff tops will fill your senses with the sea air while a bracing breeze blows you along.https://gosmartergoactive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/North-Sea-Breezer.pdf