Off-road cycling

Visit Kielder for the largest network of off-road cycling in one location in the UK.

Winding through spectacular scenery, our many trails are perfect for everyone whether you're a leisurely pedaller or into single track blasts.  

The Lakeside Way, a 26-mile multi-user trail following the shoreline of Kielder Water, is our gateway to unique and beautiful cycling experiences. This scenic route provides access to some of the lake’s most picturesque spots and offers opportunities to encounter local wildlife. Shared by walkers, horse riders, wheelchair users, and even young cyclists on balance bikes or bikes with stabilisers, it’s a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Kielder.

Grab your bike or rent a bike and start your adventure . . . 

There have been some exciting cycle trail developments at Kielder this year.

Our new sections of black graded Deadwater Mile Down and renewed sections of Deadwater Downhill trail opened on May 6, with the ribbon cut by Manon Carpenter and Adam Brayton. Have a look at this article in Mountain Bike Rider for more details.

Before that the renewed sections (descents) of the long-established Lonesome Pine trail, giving a shorter looped trail = the Lone Star trail, red graded trail/ black graded adaptive cycle - see map for all the info. This trail is fully open.

The Lone Star trail takes in all the new trail sections and is adaptive bike friendly, following the trail signage towards Kielder Skyspace and around to the top of Oliver’s Oscar before the descents return you to exit adjacent to Kielder Garage.

A step up from the Lakeside Way and Borderline is the Osprey Trail on the lesser visited north side of Kielder Water.

A popular and favourite longer distance cycling trail is the Cross Border Trail from Kielder and into Scotland following a historical drover’s route.

Reiver Trails

A series of routes, the Northumberland Reiver Trails are being created in west Northumberland and will open more immersive, scenic and natural heritage experiences for people of all abilities and, like the Lakeside Way, will also be available to walkers and horse riders.

The Reiver Trails will add to an already exciting series of cycle routes which encompass Northumberland National Park and Hadrian’s Wall, the Redesdale and North Tyne valleys, and Scottish Border areas as well as the 250 square miles of Kielder.

Bike Hire Services

Kielder Bike Shop and Hire, located opposite Kielder Castle offers the perfect gateway to explore stunning trails, breathtaking views, and the great outdoors. We have many varieties of bikes to cater towards all disciplines, such as; Full Suspension Mountain Bikes, Hardtail Mountain Bikes, Electric Bikes, Kids Bikes, Gravel Bikes and more.

Bike Hire is also offered at Kielder Waterside.

Telephone 01434 251000 for details.

Essential Information – Recommended Reading

Kielder is largely open and free to roam for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. The distance around Kielder Water is 26 miles and Kielder Forest is made up of 150 million trees across 250 square miles - so pace yourself!

Kielder is also a place where people live and work. From time to time some trails and areas may be closed for reasons like tree felling and site restoration, so it’s a good idea to check at one of our visitor centres or visit the following for updates.

Cycling and mountain biking trails at Kielder Forest | Forestry England

Check the weather forecast before you set off as conditions can change rapidly, and during extreme weather trails may not be passable.

For your own safety and enjoyment, please observe signs and barriers and respect local communities by staying on trails and parking in designated visitor car parks.

Follow this and ensure a great - and safe - experience for all.