Great cycling holidays: the C2C Cycle Route

It’s tough to think of any downsides to a cycling holiday. Not only is it a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, but you’ll also get plenty of exercise along the way and never have to worry about finding a parking space. The C2C route begins on the west coast of Cumbria and cuts across the entire country before ending at the most north-eastern corner of Northumberland. With 140 miles of spectacular countryside, historic sites and welcoming villages to pedal through, sustainable travel has never been so inviting.

To ensure you make the most of each destination, we’ve collated a list of all the highlights for each stop, according to global travellers.*

On the west coast of Cumbria, Whitehaven is the perfect place to begin your two-wheel tour across the country. Although it’s known for its coastal charm, you can also spend countless hours wandering through the narrow streets to admire pretty Georgian architecture. The heartbeat of the town is its historic harbour, where cyclists traditionally dunk their back wheel into the Irish Sea to mark the beginning of their C2C odyssey. Dating back to 1633, it was once the epicentre of the local coal and iron industries, as well as the importing of goods such as tobacco. If you’re interested in learning more about the town’s maritime and industrial history, pay a visit to The Beacon Museum along the waterfront. Enjoy harbour views and safe storage for your bikes with a stay at Lismore Guest House.

In the heart of the Lake District, medieval market town Keswick is easily one of the most picturesque parts of the C2C route. Its surrounding mountains envelope an assortment of lush greenery and paths for hiking and biking. Taking a 50-minute cruise around Derwentwater Lake is one of the best ways to explore the scenery. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, captain your own motorboat and explore the numerous islands, inlets and beaches around the lake at your own pace. Rest up at Eden Green Guest House to delight in some typical Cumbrian hospitality.

Once the capital of the Kingdom of Cumbria, Penrith is filled with eye-catching buildings made from local red sandstone, including the ruins of a 14th-century castle once occupied by Richard III. Also known for its friendly locals, the town is a great place to explore a few traditional pubs, cosy cafés or independent shops and market stalls selling treats like homemade fudge, pies and scones. As you bike out of town on the way to your next stop, you can take in beautiful views over the Eden Valley from Penrith Beacon. Built in 1719, it sits on a historic site where beacons of a similar style were lit in times of war to warn locals about potential raids. Experience an extra dose of local charm at Edengate Guest House.

Surrounded by heather-clad landscape from every direction, the sleepy market town of Alston marks the midpoint of the C2C route and sits within the North Pennines Area of Natural Beauty. Its quiet, unspoilt cobbled streets lined with charming stone cottages have made it a big draw for filmmakers and writers. Charles Dickens even came here in the 1830s to research material for his novel ‘Nicholas Nickleby’. Come nightfall, you can sit under some of the darkest skies in the UK and gaze at a mass of twinkling stars. For an authentic Alston stay, book a room in the Cumberland Inn, a traditional pub with river views and welcoming staff.

Just 20 minutes from the city of Durham, the town of Consett has an idyllic countryside setting, perched above the Derwent Valley and west of the wildlife-rich Derwent Reservoir. Part of Consett’s circular Heritage Trail coincides with the C2C route, meaning you can clock up some precious miles while exploring the surrounding natural beauty. Pack a hamper of local treats and snack on them on one of the picnic tables along the trail. You can set up base at the beautifully renovated Deneview B&B, renowned for their delicious cooked breakfasts.

Sunderland marks the end of the C2C route, and what better place to celebrate than by the seaside? Swap your pedalling for paddling at one of the city’s two beaches – Roker and Seaburn – both part of an award-winning coastline filled with golden sand and seafront attractions. Stretch your legs along Roker Pier to take in the fresh sea air and marvel at the Grade II-listed lighthouse which has stood there for over 100 years. To end the trip on a high, treat yourself to a stay at The Grand Hotel Sunderland, which features ocean views, 24-hour room service and an indoor swimming pool.

*Destinations featured were chosen as stops along the C2C cycling route. Then the most popular feature of each town was calculated using internal endorsement data.