The best gravel rides around Otterburn

There are over 10 gravel bike trails available around Otterburn, offering a variety of experiences. The komoot community has explored 13 different routes in the area.

You can expect a diverse mix of terrain, including gravel tracks, bridleways, and quiet backroads. The region features both smoother gravel sections and rougher, more challenging paths, often traversing extensive forests like Harwood Forest and open moorlands. Some areas, particularly around Biddston, even feature unique 'red gravel' roads.

While many routes around Otterburn are rated as difficult, there are a couple of moderate options available. These trails offer a good introduction to gravel biking in the region without the extreme elevation or length of the more challenging routes.

Experienced riders will find plenty of challenging options. For instance, the View from Outer Butt Hill – Bellingham Bridge loop from Bellingham is a difficult 56.7-mile (91.3 km) path with over 1,200 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding route is the Lakeside Way – Kielder Viaduct loop from Dally Castle, covering 44.6 miles (71.7 km) with significant climbs.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Otterburn are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Descent Toward Harwood – View of Northumberland Forest loop from Harwood and the Gravel Road Through Forest – Ford Crossing loop from Bellingham.

The region offers stunning natural beauty. You might encounter the impressive Hareshaw Linn Waterfall, the serene Harbottle Lake, or the unique rock formation of The Drake Stone. Many routes also traverse parts of Northumberland National Park and areas near Kielder Water & Forest Park, offering expansive views.

Yes, you can discover historical points of interest. The Lakeside Way – Kielder Viaduct loop from Dally Castle passes near the historic Kielder Viaduct. Other sites in the broader area include the Winter's Gibbet and the Ruins of Harbottle Castle.

The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Otterburn, with longer daylight hours and milder weather. However, the varied terrain and extensive forests can be enjoyed year-round, though some routes may be more challenging in wet or winter conditions.

Many routes start from villages like Bellingham or Harwood, where public parking is typically available. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.

Yes, villages like Bellingham, which serves as a hub for several routes, offer amenities. While Otterburn itself is a village, the broader Northumberland area has options. For local produce, you might consider visiting places like The Herd Traditional Butchers, which is listed on Visit Northumberland.

Otterburn offers direct access to the wilder parts of Northumberland National Park, with a mix of open moorland and forest tracks, often featuring more challenging, natural gravel surfaces. Kielder Water & Forest Park, while also excellent for gravel biking, tends to have more dedicated, often smoother, forest trails around the reservoir, such as the Lakeside Way. Both offer stunning scenery, but Otterburn provides a gateway to a slightly more rugged, expansive adventure.

The trails around Otterburn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the region's diverse terrain, the sense of wild adventure, and the stunning, expansive views across Northumberland National Park and the North Pennines National Landscape.