4.8
(4)
5
riders
3
rides
Gravel biking around Thirston offers diverse terrain, from coastal paths along Druridge Bay to the rolling uplands of the Simonside Hills. The region features a mix of open landscapes, river valleys, and forested sections, providing varied surfaces for gravel cyclists. Elevations range from gentle coastal routes to more challenging climbs in the hillier areas.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
1
riders
69.7km
04:42
1,000m
1,000m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
3
riders
53.0km
03:22
700m
700m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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1
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Good trails to ride on, great views on a sunny day. Can either include as part of a Rothbury/Simonside ride, or head over to Harwood Forest
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Classic Northumberland road climb, even if it does have a descent in it. Ramp near the start in Elsdon is the hardest bit. Get lucky with a tailwind and fly down eastwards past Harwood Forest
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Pretty bleak place to meet your end. If on the road, can also be pretty bleak with a rainy headwind ! Tailwind when eastward bound though is great
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Today popular with locals and visitors: Here you will find a huge shady picnic area right by the river, next to the bridge
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Lovely views to Simonside, mind the sheep, quite open if there's a headwind, or very speedy if a tail!
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Thirston offers a selection of 5 gravel bike trails, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from easy coastal loops to more challenging climbs in the hillier areas.
Yes, beginners can enjoy the gravel biking in Thirston. The Druridge Bay Country Park – Druridge Bay loop from Druridge Pools Nature Reserve is an easy 12.1-mile (19.5 km) trail that explores the coastal landscape and is perfect for those new to gravel biking.
For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, Thirston offers several difficult routes. The Winter's Gibbet – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop from Hebron is a demanding 43.3-mile (69.7 km) trail with significant elevation gain through the Simonside Hills. Another challenging option is the Viewpoint on Simonside Hills – Simonside Car Park loop from Longhorsley, which is 32.9 miles (53.0 km) long and also features substantial climbing.
Gravel bike trails in Thirston vary in length. You can find shorter routes like the 12.1-mile (19.5 km) Druridge Bay Country Park – Druridge Bay loop, up to longer, more challenging rides such as the 43.3-mile (69.7 km) Winter's Gibbet – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop.
Yes, all the gravel bike routes listed for Thirston are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This includes coastal loops and routes through the Simonside Hills.
Thirston's gravel bike trails offer a diverse range of landscapes. You'll experience coastal paths along Druridge Bay, rolling uplands in the Simonside Hills, and scenic river valleys. The region features a mix of open landscapes and forested sections, providing varied surfaces for cycling.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 5 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, from the beautiful coastal scenery to the challenging climbs in the Simonside Hills, and the overall quality of the routes.
Yes, Thirston is rich in history and natural beauty. You might encounter landmarks such as Warkworth Castle, the Warkworth Medieval Bridge, or the ancient Lordenshaw Cup and Ring Marked Rock. Natural highlights include the Hauxley Nature Reserve and the Coquet Estuary Saltmarsh.
Yes, the View of the Coast – River Waterfall Near Rothbury loop from Amble is a 14.0-mile (22.6 km) trail that leads through coastal and riverine landscapes, specifically featuring a river waterfall near Rothbury.
Thirston offers diverse terrain that can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. While specific conditions vary, spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Coastal routes might be more exposed to wind, while inland trails through forests and hills offer different experiences depending on the season.
Absolutely. Many routes in Thirston incorporate coastal elements. For example, the View of the Coast – River Waterfall Near Rothbury loop from Amble provides excellent coastal views as part of its journey.
Yes, Thirston's unique geography allows for routes that blend both coastal and hilly terrain. You can start with coastal paths and then venture into the rolling uplands of the Simonside Hills, offering a dynamic and varied gravel biking experience.


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