31 Jan 2015
2015 is an exciting time to come and experience Northumberland on two wheels.
This year sees the official launch of a brand new mountain bike route, The Sandstone Way. The 120 mile route runs between two historical market towns in Northumberland, Berwick-upon-Tweed in the far north of the county and Hexham in the south.
The Sandstone Way uses varied terrain along its whole length with much of the route off-road, so it is perfect terrain for mountain bikers. The route can be completed in roughly 2-4 days, though local lad and renowned endurance mountain bike rider Richard Rothwell has already completed it in 11 hours.
After testing the route, Richard Rothwell said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the day and I am sure that many people will enjoy this route - incredibly quiet roads and some lovely flowing off road sections with stunning Northumberland scenery.”
It has been designed with ten optional looped sections which enable riders to turn part of the Way into a short circular sightseeing route through Northumberland. This is a great addition for less accomplished cyclists, families with small children or anyone who wishes to complete portions of the Sandstone Way during one or more short stays.
As well as challenging cycling skills, a fascinating cultural, historical and geological tale can be found in the course of the journey, which takes in the sand dunes of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the vast open spaces of the Northumberland National Park and the ancient UNESCO Word Heritage Site, Hadrian's Wall.
In this way, the Sandstone Way is suitable for all ages, abilities and interests, and whether it is done at speed or at a leisurely pace it is sure to be an adventure!
To register interest in the press launch (date TBC near Easter) or arrange a trip, please contact Bethany Gallacher
Email: bethany.gallacher@northumberlandtourism.co.uk or direct tel: 01670 794526
Notes to Editors
The Sandstone Way was soft-launched in November 2014 to iron out any potential issues, with the full launch scheduled for Easter.
The route is the brainchild of passionate cyclist Ted Liddle, who designed the route building on a basic suggestion from Victoria Brown of Northumberland Joint Local Access Forum. It was seed funded by Northumberland National Park Authority, who has also dealt with the complex administration, and it has been developed in conjunction with the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Project, Northumberland County Council, Northumberland Tourism, CycleTRAX, Tyne Valley Mountain Bike Club and Recreational Tourism Services. Funding for infrastructure has been provided by The Rural Development Programme for England through the Northern Lands Project.
This project is supported by The Rural Development Programme for England, for which DEFRA is the Managing Authority, part financed by The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Investing in rural areas.
Northumberland Tourism is the official destination-marketing organisation for Northumberland, working with businesses and public agencies to achieve the vision for Northumberland and to promote the area and ensure visitors have the best possible experience.
Northumberland Tourism
Wansbeck Business Centre
Rotary Parkway
Ashington
Northumberland
NE63 8QZ
