Tyne Riverside Cycle

This flat, traffic-free route follows the Tyne from Newcastle Quayside to the seaside town of Tynemouth, spanning 13 miles one way. The purpose-built path avoids roads entirely, making it safe for families with children and those new to cycling. You'll pass through riverside parks, industrial heritage sites, and reach the coast at Tynemouth's sandy beach and priory ruins. Best for families and leisure cyclists. This is a easy activity lasting 2.5 hours. Group size: 2-15. You meet at Quayside Cycle Hub. Key highlights: 13 miles of traffic-free cycling along the river, Reaches Tynemouth coast and beach, Passes Millennium Bridge and Tyne Bridge viewpoints.

Price: £25

Duration: 2.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-15

Minimum age: 5+

Best for: families and leisure cyclists

Best time: May to September for weather; avoid winter months when the path becomes wet. Weekday mornings have fewer cyclists.

Meeting point: Quayside Cycle Hub

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Meeting Check-in and bike fitting - Staff adjusts saddle height and brakes for your comfort, brief safety briefing on hand signals.

First 20 min Newcastle Quayside section - Cycle past the Sage building, Millennium Bridge, and Tyne Bridge while following the dedicated path.

20-60 min Gateshead to Heworth section - Pass through Saltwell Park with views of the Tyne, gentle inclines only.

60-120 min Jarrow and Monkmouth sections - Continue through industrial heritage areas with interpretive signs about ship-building history.

Final 30 min Approach Tynemouth - Route ends at Tynemouth Metro Station near the priory; optional 10-minute walk to the beach and lighthouse.

The whole experience takes 2.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Quayside Cycle Hub.

• 13 miles of traffic-free cycling along the river
• Reaches Tynemouth coast and beach
• Passes Millennium Bridge and Tyne Bridge viewpoints
• Flat terrain suitable for all fitness levels
• Industrial heritage and park sections with varied scenery

What is included: Hybrid bike and helmet, Basic safety briefing, Route map and guidance, Return public transport (Tynemouth Metro to Newcastle).

Not included: Food and drinks, Lights or locks (standard on bikes), Personal accident insurance. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Sunscreen and sunglasses, Waterproof jacket, Small rucksack or saddlebag, Water bottle or hydration pack, Phone and cash for return metro fare. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: May to September for weather; avoid winter months when the path becomes wet. Weekday mornings have fewer cyclists..

Tip: Bike and helmet included

Tip: Mostly flat with gentle gradients

Accessibility: Flat route with no hills. Not suitable for wheelchairs. Accessible for those with moderate fitness; children under 5 should use child seats (available on request)..

Operator: Cycle the Tyne

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art (2 min from meeting point walk)
• Quayside Market (1 min from meeting point walk)
• Discovery Museum (8 min from meeting point walk)

This activity is run by Cycle the Tyne.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. Non-refundable within 24 hours..

Accessibility: Flat route with no hills. Not suitable for wheelchairs. Accessible for those with moderate fitness; children under 5 should use child seats (available on request)..

Best time to go: May to September for weather; avoid winter months when the path becomes wet. Weekday mornings have fewer cyclists..

Can children under 5 join the Tyne Riverside Cycle tour?

Children under 5 cannot ride independently but can use child seats available on request for around £5 extra. The minimum age for cycling alone is 5 years. Child seats accommodate children up to 4 years and 22kg.

Is the route really traffic-free?

Yes, the entire 13-mile route uses the dedicated Tyne & Wear Metro-sponsored cycle path. Occasional shared spaces with pedestrians occur near parks, but no motor vehicles use this route. It's the safest cycling option in Newcastle for families.

What happens if I can't cycle 13 miles to Tynemouth?

You don't have to reach Tynemouth. Many cyclists turn back at Heworth or Saltwell Park (2-3 miles). The tour operator provides a route map so you can set your own pace and distance within the 2.5-hour window.