Highlight (Segment) • MTB Park
Ingram Hills
Mountain biking
5.0
(21)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
October 24, 2018
Mountain biking
As it's so open, this trail can get a little - er - moist, but it holds up relatively well.
September 4, 2018
Mountain biking
June 30, 2021
Mountain biking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Ingram Hills
4.5
(4)
44
riders
81.7km
06:16
1,200m
1,200m
Embark on the Ingram & Rothbury loop, a difficult mountain biking adventure spanning 50.8 miles (81.7 km) with a substantial 3923 feet (1196 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging route, typically taking around 6 hours and 15 minutes, winds through Northumberland's Coquet Valley, offering diverse terrain from unpaved paths and singletracks to gravel sections and quiet country lanes. You'll navigate expansive woodlands, wild moorland, and river valleys, with steep gravel climbs near Rothbury and sections of loose rock. The Simonside Hills are a prominent feature, providing panoramic views and unique sandstone formations, often displaying a purple carpet of heather in late summer.
This demanding loop requires very good fitness and advanced riding skills; be prepared for continuous ascents and descents that can be more tiring than anticipated, with some sections possibly requiring you to push your bike. While the core Sandstone Way is generally well-waymarked, some variations on this route might demand additional navigational skills. The trail can also become boggy after wet weather, so check conditions before you go. Charming villages like Rothbury offer amenities for riders, making them good points for resupply or a break.
The Ingram & Rothbury loop is a popular choice among local mountain bikers and forms a significant part of the wider Sandstone Way, a 120-mile (193 km) route designed to connect numerous sandstone features across Northumberland. As you ride, keep an eye out for wildlife such as wild goats and red grouse. The area is also rich in history, with notable points of interest including the Lordenshaw Hillfort and ancient "cup and ring" stones near Simonside, adding a cultural layer to your ride through this picturesque landscape.
62.7km
05:59
1,410m
1,410m
Embark on a challenging mountain biking adventure through the remote Cheviot Hills with the Alwinton & Windy Gyle loop from Ingram. This difficult route spans 38.9 miles (62.7 km), pushing you through long moorland climbs and exhilarating descents. You will gain a significant 4640 feet (1414 metres) in elevation, requiring nearly 6 hours of riding. The highlight is reaching the summit of Windy Gyle, where you can experience expansive vistas across the England-Scotland border.
Before you set out, be aware that this is a remote area, so amenities are scarce, especially at the Ingram starting point. Plan to carry all your supplies, including plenty of water and food for the nearly 6-hour duration. The weather in the Cheviots can change quickly; prepare for all conditions, even on a summer day. Some sections of the trail can be soft or rough under tire, so be ready to dismount and push your bike if needed.
This route offers a true sense of solitude within Northumberland National Park, making it a notable experience for advanced mountain bikers. The Alwinton & Windy Gyle loop is renowned for its immersive journey into an exposed landscape, far from crowds. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with the rugged beauty of the border region, offering a distinct challenge compared to other trails in the area.
4.4
(7)
26
riders
25.1km
02:27
650m
650m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Details
Informations
Distance 3.20 km
Uphill 60 m
Downhill 160 m
Weather
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Today
Thursday 21 May
21°C
9°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
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