Beginning in Hexham this is point-to-point ride ending in Penrith or Langwathaby. You have the choice of using the rail network to link back round from either finishing place via Carlisle or you could simply make the turn in Penrith and retrace the route back to Hexham.

From Hexham town centre head past Langley and down towards the River Allen. Use the narrow bridge to cross the river and then climb through the woodlands towards Whitfield Hall. Continue your gradual climb up around Whitfield Moor and then descend through the trees to the little town of Alston. From here your descent into Penrith begins. Taking in the spectacular views of the Lake District in the distance, choose to catch a train from Lanwathaby or continue along the A686 to Penrith town centre from where you can either refuel and head back, stay the night, or catch a train to Carlisle.

Start point: Hexham railway station
Grid reference: NY 94001 64274
Postcode: NE46 1ET
Total distance: 68km
Total elevation: 1146m
Max elevation: 574m

To see a rough map of this route, click here.