Outdoor activities - W2W (Walney to Wear & Whitby)

Type of route: ‘Coast to Coast’ mainly on quiet roads and country lanes
Length: Walney to Wear is 150 miles (241km). Walney to Whitby is 176 miles (283km)
Gradient: Challenging cycling across open hilly  country
Time needed: 3-5 days
Access: Train stations at Barrow-in-Furness, Sunderland and Whitby
National Cycle Network Route numbers: 20 and 52

Wonderful Lake District, North Pennines and North York Moors landscapes are linked together by this continuous route between Cumbria’s Walney Island on the Irish Sea coast and Wearmouth (in Sunderland) and Whitby, both on the North Sea coast. Historic Durham is a highlight on the Walney to Wear route. Welcoming places to stay and seek refreshment, especially in villages and market towns. Luggage transfer service and holiday package available.

There is easy to follow signing in both directions. Waterproof maps are available from www.cyclingw2w.info and www.nationalcyclenetwork.org.uk

More cycling around the region

How about a bit of Roman history on your bike ride? Hadrian's Cycleway can offer it! Even part of the Pennine Cycleway meanders through the picturesque Eden Valley (www.visiteden.co.uk/). If you're after the less strenuous routes, try the Eden Valley Circular Cycle Route, providing the option of cycling as much or as little as you like of the 112m route.