No uphill task to find really testing cycling routes in North East
It’s high time to climb after reading new book
CYCLISTS in the North East are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking routes.
And in his latest book, Cycling Climbs of North-East England, Simon Warren has pitted his writing and riding skills against some of the toughest climbs in the region.
While it contains 50 selected routes across Northumberland, County Durham and Teesside, we reveal the 11 toughest climbs he took on that bring a bit of the Tour de France spirit to the region. Where is it? Head north from the A689 in Ireshopeburn, cross the River Wear and then start to climb once past entrance of the farm.
Simon says: “The series of savage bends between the various farmhouses will burn your fuel at an alarming rate and leave your tank all but empty as you round the last gruelling corner.” Where is it? Follow the A689 west through Weardale at St John’s Chapel, turn south on Harthope Road, ride out of the village and climb.
Simon says: “Chapel Fell – the The Stang Top 11 cycle climbs in the North East rated highest paved pass in England – comes complete with the tough gradient and frequently wild weather that befits its status.” Where is it? Travelling east from St John’s Chapel, leave the A689 and continue on Pleasant Row. The take the right turn following the signs to Newbiggin.
Simon says: “It comes in two sections. The first is easier, the second tough, culminating in “a short stretch of leg-breaking 15% gradient that rises between the snow poles to reveal stupendous views on the other side.” Where is it? Travel west from Rookhope, then take the first left across the river and head south over Lintzgarth Common.
Simon says: “Rugged and remote, round twists and bends the sense of isolation is wonderful, culminating in a nasty, prolonged 15% ramp that drags you to the summit.” Where is it? The base of the climb is where Scutterhill Bank meets the A689 in Westgate in the centre of Weardale.
Simon says: “From the first glimpse you’ll know it’s going to be a killer.” Where is it? Leave the A689 from Stanhope and head north on the B6278, Crawleyside Bank.
Simon says once past the Crawleyside sign “grind your way up the punishing 20% slopes through the town”. Where is it? Head out of Stanhope on the B6278, up Unthank Bank, then past Catterick Moss before dropping down to start the climb once over Bollihope Burn.
Simon says: “This is one of those roads that you wish could go on forever, such is its beauty.”