Travel to Northumberland

Most riders will arrive at the hotel from various parts of the UK, McTours will start from Glasgow and those hiring bikes may prefer to ride with us rather than have the bike delivered to the start point. Our route is about 150 miles and will take about 4.5 hours riding.

This route offers a classic taste of Britain’s ever-changing landscapes, from the rolling hills of southern Scotland to the historic market towns and lush valleys of northern England. It’s a journey that’s as much about the ride as the destinations.

Leaving Glasgow, you quickly swap city streets for the open countryside, heading southeast through the gentle hills and farmland of Lanarkshire. The roads here are broad and sweeping, perfect for settling into the ride.

Your first notable waypoint is Lanark, a historic market town perched above the River Clyde. Lanark is known for its links to William Wallace and the nearby UNESCO-listed New Lanark Mill, a preserved 18th-century cotton mill village. It is usually a good spot for a quick coffee or to stretch your legs but today we must press onwards.

Continuing south, the landscape becomes more dramatic as you enter the Scottish Borders, a region of rolling hills, heather clad hills, and winding rivers. You’ll pass through small towns and villages, each with its own character.

We take a short break in Selkirk. There will be some time to explore its streets but perhaps you can sample a famous Selkirk Bannock (a rich fruit bread). Selkirk is steeped in history, with connections to Sir Walter Scott and the Border Reivers.

The route continues south, crossing the border into England and into the county of Northumberland. Here, the scenery shifts to wooded valleys and stone-built villages as we reach the bustling market town of Hexham with a magnificent medieval abbey at its heart. Leaving Hexham, we travel a little further south to reach our hotel near the Derwent Reservoir.

Derwent circuit 1 ~ 150 miles ~ 5 hours riding

We begin with a short ride to one of England’s most famous open-air museums. Beamish recreates life in the Northeast during the 1820s, 1900s, and 1940s. It features vintage trams and buses, a working coal mine and an Edwardian town and farm. If there is interest, we shall stop here to tour the facility.

Departing Beamish we turn southwest entering the North Pennines National Landscape, this stretch offers twisting roads through moorland and river views along the Wear ring us to Stanhope’s charming village centre.

Further south we arrive at the historic market town of Barnard Castle where the dramatic castle ruins overlooking the River Tees. Time permitting the Bowes Museum makes an interesting stop though we will most likely stretch our legs in town and seek out a café.

As we leave Barnard Castle heading north-westerly we pass the High Force Waterfall. Although not directly on the route, it’s a short detour for those willing to take a hike to one of England’s most powerful waterfalls, set in a deep gorge.

We now torn West joining the Sea to Sea (the C2C Cycle Route). We join the route near Carrigill and Leadgate, riding through remote valleys and quiet upland roads with scenic river crossings including the South Tyne and Black Burn before turning north through Renwick and onwards to Castle Carrock. These two peaceful villages in Cumbria are ideal for a break although Castle Carrock is especially picturesque, with a lovely village green and pub.

On the return leg we visit Vindolanda, a Roman frontier fort near Hadrian’s Wall, which is a must-see for history lovers. You will see Roman ruins, a museum, the site on an ongoing archaeological dig and part of Hadrian’s Wall.

The final leg brings us through the Slaley Forest, a scenic ride through forested areas and quiet country lanes, to loop back toward Derwent Manor to end the day.

Derwent circuit 2 ~ 150 miles ~ 5 hours riding

This beautiful loop through Northumberland, combining historic estates, remote moorlands, and forested valleys. It’s ideal for riders who enjoy a mix of cultural stops and scenic, low-traffic roads.

Departing Derwent Manor we join the B6309, a quiet countryside road with gentle curves and open views across farmland. We pass through a few hamlets with stone built properties as we take a ride north making our first stop at Cragside, a Victorian mansion set in woodland and gardens now managed by the National Trust. The work of architect Rochard Norman Shaw for industrialist, engineer, inventor and arms manufacturer William Armstrong and his wife Margaret, Cragside is the original smart home with a hydro-electric plant used to power the home and creative use of hydraulics for other tasks. The gardens are also a joy to stroll through, although we are best to restrict our stop to the main house before continuing our ride.

The next leg of this route enters the Cheviot Hills region, with rolling uplands and sheep-dotted fields, narrow, winding roads with minimal traffic, and a sense of remoteness and tranquillity as we make our way to Blakehopeburnhaugh a tiny hamlet deep in the Northumberland National Park, surrounded by forest and moorland. This is the eastern end of the Kielder Forest Drive, a remote beauty spot offering great photo opportunities as we make our way west to Kielder Castle. At the highest point along the drive you will see The Nick, a quirky timber shelter designed to enhance the experience of visiting this remote spot. Continuing to Kielder Castle, a former hunting lodge that is now a visitor centre, we take a break at the café and exhibition area.

Turning south we traverse Kielder Water, a reservoir and England’s largest man-made lake, before taking more quiet backroads, passing through the edge of the Pennines and back to your base at Derwent Manor.

Derwent to Skelwith ~ 140 Miles ~ 5 hours riding

We begin on country roads that wind through the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to present Sweeping moorland views, quiet, twisty roads perfect for motorcycling and the occasional glimpses of wildlife between the picturesque stone-built villages; the first of with is Blanchland where we stop briefly for photographs.

We shall pass the Killhope Lead Mining Museum. Currently closed for repairs but usually a fascinating stop where you can explore the industrial heritage of the region. It’s also one of the highest points in the area, with panoramic views and a rugged, remote feel. A short stop for photographs and then we shall continue.

Our next stop of the day will be at in Alston, one of England’s highest market towns, full of character with its cobbled streets, historic buildings and great cafés and pubs that are perfect for those in need of a coffee.

On the next stretch we leave the Pennines to enter Cumbria where the landscape changes to rolling farmland with forested sections before we reach the charming village of Caldbeck, known for its connections to the famous huntsman John Peel. From here we press onwards to Cockermouth a Georgian town and birthplace of poet William Wordsworth. It’s a lively town with local shops and eateries, riverside walks and is a good place to stop for lunch.

Departing Cockermouth we ride through the western side of Lake District with its narrow, winding roads, dramatic valleys and fells and overall offering a remote and peaceful ride. We shall no doubt stop for more photographs along Eskdale Road or at picturesque hamlets before we reach Santon Bridge, near Wasdale, often considered one of the most beautiful valleys in England. Another great photo opportunity.

Our next section takes us over High Cross Brow and Hardknott Pass. This is the most thrilling part of this days ride. Hardknott Pass is one of the steepest roads in England with gradients reaching 33%, add into that tight hairpins, and you will appreciate that this is a real test of riding skill. It does offer epic views, and is surrounded by rugged peaks and dotted with Roman ruins.

We end the day near Langdale in the heart of the Lake District surrounded by iconic fells like Crinkle Crags and Bowfell.

Lake District circuit ~140 miles ~ 4.5 hours riding

Departing from Skelwith Bridge Hotel this spectacular loop blends classic Lakeland scenery, historic estates, and thrilling mountain passes.

We head south-west to Lowick Green (Near Ulverston), a peaceful hamlet with views of the southern fells and close to Coniston Water. The journey traverses quiet country lanes, passing traditional pubs and leads to the Furness Peninsula where we stop at Holker Hall & Gardens. This grand stately home dates back to the 16th century, Built on the site of a former monastery it has beautifully maintained gardens and woodlands plus a café and gift shop making it a good spot for a refreshment break.

From Holker we head east to Lindale (near Grange-over-Sands), a charming village near the coast, offering a change of scenery to coastal views before we head back inland to Lake Windermere where we follow the Lake Road North through the towns of Windermere, Bowness and Ambleside where there shall be opportunities to stop at lakeside stops and to take photos.

Continuing north to Glenridding where you can board a boat that takes a trip around Ullswater we stop briefly for photographs at the lakeside village at the foot of Helvellyn then onwards to join more major roads that offer sweeping curves and open views across the northern Lake District including views of Blencathra and Skiddaw.

We rejoin the C2C heading west to Lorton then south on the U2200 following the River Cocker to Crummock Water and onwards to Buttermere. These quiet valleys with narrow lanes offer dramatic scenery. We cross stone bridges and wooded sections along this route that is the gateway to the western fells before turning north to Derwent Water and Keswick where we take our last break of the day.

We return to our hotel via Red Lion Square to Skelwith Bridge, a scenic ride back through the central Lakes, passing through quiet valleys and wooded areas.

Lake District to Yorkshire ~ 130 miles ~ 4.5 hours riding

From Little Langdale we head to Grassmere and owards to Brotherswater then passing Ullswater to reach Pooley Bridge where we deviate to the South East taking a refreshment break at Shap. As we enter the Yorkshire Dales we twist and turn to traverse some great biker roads with little tourist traffic as we make our way to Kirkby Stephen and onward to our lunch stop at Simonstone Hall. We have choices for the afternoon leg that could take us via Pateley Bridge to Rippon or we can take a more direct but no less scenic along the A6108 to Ripon where we take an afternoon refreshment break. The final leg takes us back to Helmsley where we began this tour.

This route offers a fitting return to Helmsley, blending the serene beauty of the Lake District with the rugged charm of the Yorkshire Dales. It’s a day of sweeping roads, quiet villages, and historic landmarks, with options to tailor the afternoon leg to suit the group’s mood and pace.

Leaving your hotel near Little Langdale, the route heads northeast through the heart of the Lake District. You’ll pass Grasmere and Thirlmere, with views of Helvellyn towering above, before skirting Ullswater before arriving at Pooley Bridge, a charming village at the northern tip of Ullswater, you’ll find cafés and shops nestled beside the newly rebuilt bridge. It’s a great spot to pause and enjoy the lakeside atmosphere.

From Pooley Bridge, the route deviates southeast to Shap, a quiet village on the edge of the Lake District. Known for its rugged moorland surroundings and ancient abbey ruins, Shap offers a peaceful stop for coffee or a light snack before entering the Yorkshire Dales.

The ride now enters the Yorkshire Dales National Park, where the roads become more twisty and remote as preferred by most motorcyclists. You’ll pass through Orton and Ravenstonedale, then arrive in Kirkby Stephen, a market town with cobbled streets and a scenic location beside the River Eden.

Continuing through the Dales, the route climbs and dips through valleys and over moorland before reaching Simonstone Hall, a grand country house near Hawes. This is your lunch stop, offering elegant dining with views of Wensleydale and Stags Fell. The hall is steeped in history and offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.

After lunch, you have two excellent route choices:
Option 1: Via Pateley Bridge to Ripon
This longer, more scenic option takes you southeast through Coverdale and Nidderdale, passing through Pateley Bridge, a charming town with riverside walks and traditional tearooms. The roads here are narrow and winding, offering stunning views of the Dales’ limestone cliffs and green valleys.
From Pateley Bridge, continue to Ripon, one of England’s smallest cities, known for its impressive cathedral, historic market square, and connections to Lewis Carroll. It’s a great place for an afternoon refreshment break.
Option 2: Direct Route via A6108 to Ripon
Alternatively, take the more direct but still scenic A6108, which winds through Leyburn, Middleham (with its castle ruins), and Masham. This route offers faster progress while still delivering beautiful countryside and historic towns.
You’ll arrive in Ripon for your afternoon stop, with time to explore or relax before the final leg.

From Ripon, the route heads east through the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You’ll pass through villages like Nawton and Harome, with their thatched cottages and quiet lanes, before arriving back in Helmsley, where your tour began.

Helmsley, York, Bridlington, Robinhoods Bay, Pickering ~ 155 miles ~ 5 hours riding

Departing Helmsley, you ride southeast through the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This region is famed for its rolling farmland, wooded valleys, and grand country estates. The roads here are gently winding and scenic, offering a relaxed start to the day.

Arriving in York, you’ll have time to explore one of England’s most historic cities. Key highlights include:

York Minster: One of Europe’s largest Gothic cathedrals, with stunning stained glass and soaring towers.

The Shambles: A medieval street lined with timber-framed buildings, now home to quirky shops and cafés.

City Walls: Walk a section of the ancient walls for panoramic views of the city and its landmarks.

Hidden Gems: Don’t miss the snickelways (narrow alleys) and the riverside paths along the Ouse.

Parking for motorcycles is available near the city centre, making it easy to explore on foot.

Leaving York, you head east across the Vale of York and through the Yorkshire Wolds, a landscape of gentle hills and open farmland. The roads become more flowing, perfect for motorcycling.

Arriving in Bridlington, a classic English seaside town, you’ll find a bustling harbour, sandy beaches, and plenty of fish and chip shops. The promenade is ideal for a stroll, and there are several cafés and pubs for a relaxed lunch.

After lunch, the route hugs the dramatic Yorkshire coast, passing through small villages and offering sweeping sea views. You’ll ride north to Robin Hood’s Bay, a picturesque fishing village perched on steep cliffs. The village is famous for its narrow, winding streets, smuggler history, and stunning views over the North Sea.

Take a break here to explore the cobbled lanes, enjoy a coffee or ice cream, and perhaps walk down to the beach.

Leaving the coast, you climb into the North York Moors National Park. The roads here are twisty and exhilarating, with heather-clad hills and sweeping vistas. You’ll pass through Pickering, a market town known for its heritage railway and medieval castle.

Continuing south, the route takes you through Marton and then north again, passing Wombleton, a quiet village with a historic airfield, before returning to Helmsley for our final nights stay.

Our now familiar surroundings on Helmsley’s welcoming square offer the perfect setting to reflect on this journey and celebrate the completion of this tour.

Riders will return home by various routes the following day. If anyone wants route suggestions then just ask and we shall help you to plan an interesting journey.

Helmsley, Saltburn, Whitby circuit ~ 120 miles ~ 4 hours riding

This relaxed circuit is designed to ease riders into the rhythm of Yorkshire’s winding backroads, with a mix of moorland vistas, coastal charm, and heritage stops. Expect slower progress early on, especially through the narrow, twisty single-track roads that define the region’s rural character.

Departing from Helmsley, we begin our journey northwest across the North York Moors National Park. This stretch is rich in natural beauty with rolling heather-covered hills, dry stone walls, and sheep-dotted fields. The roads here are narrow and winding, passing through tiny villages like Carlton and Scawton, offering a true taste of rural Yorkshire and lead us to Osmotherley, a pretty village nestled on the edge of the Moors. It’s a popular walking hub with cobbled streets and traditional pubs. Though brief, this leg sets the tone for the day: scenic, slow-paced, and immersive.

We veer north to Hutton Rudby, a charming village with a green at its heart and a handful of cafés and pubs ideal for a mid-morning refreshment. The route here begins to open up slightly, offering sweeping views of the Cleveland Hills.

Continuing east, we pass through the tiny hamlet of Sexhow, known locally for the Cornshed Music Festival, held in a converted granary. Though blink-and-you’ll-miss-it, it adds a quirky cultural note to the journey as we make our way to the northern edge of the National Park. We head into Guisborough, a market town with the ruins of Guisborough Priory which is a striking medieval landmark worth a glance.

From here, we ride east to Saltburn-by-the-Sea, a Victorian seaside resort. The highlight here is the Saltburn Cliff Tramway, one of the oldest water-powered funiculars in the world. We’ll descend to the beach for a short break, where riders can enjoy sea air and perhaps an ice cream or coffee by the pier but as we shall be stopping soon don’t spoil your lunch!

We hug the coastal road southward, stopping briefly in Staithes, a postcard-perfect fishing village with steep cliffs and winding alleys. It’s a favourite among artists and photographers.

Then it’s onward to Whitby, famed for its Abbey ruins, Captain Cook connections, and Dracula lore. We’ll break for lunch here where options range from traditional fish and chips to cosy cafés overlooking the harbour.

Heading inland, we reach Goathland, known to many as Aidensfield from the TV series Heartbeat. It’s also a stop on the North York Moors Railway, where steam trains still run through the moorland landscape. A must-see for railway enthusiasts.

Helmsley, Bolton Abbey, Malham, Ingleton, Ambleside ~ 145 miles ~ 4.5 hours riding

Today’s ride is a journey through the heart of northern England, blending the rolling landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales with the dramatic approach to the Lake District. Expect a day full of historic sites, natural wonders, and classic English market towns.

Departing your previous base, you head west to Thirsk, a bustling market town famed as the home of James Herriot (the beloved vet and author). Its cobbled market square and traditional shops offer a classic Yorkshire welcome. Continuing, you reach Masham, another charming market town, renowned for its two historic breweries; Theakston and Black Sheep. The town square is a great spot for a quick coffee or to sample a local ale (if not riding!).

From Masham, the route meanders through the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with its patchwork fields, limestone walls, and sweeping valleys. You’ll pass through villages like Middleham (with its castle ruins) and Grassington, each offering a glimpse of rural life. Next we arrive at Bolton Abbey, you’ll find the evocative ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian priory set beside the River Wharfe. There’s time for a short sightseeing stroll and a tea break at one of the riverside cafés. The stepping stones across the river are a favourite photo spot.

As you continue northwest, you’ll skirt the route of the famous Settle-Carlisle Railway. If anyone wishes to ride the steam train, advanced planning is needed, as this is not a scheduled part of the tour. The railway is famed for its Victorian engineering and scenic views, especially over the Ribblehead Viaduct.

Next, you arrive in Malham, a picturesque Dales village. Here, you’ll break for lunch—local pubs and tearooms abound. Afterward, take a hike to Malham Cove, a dramatic, curved limestone amphitheatre formed by glacial meltwater at the end of the last Ice Age. The climb is steady but manageable, and the views from the top are breathtaking. If time and energy allow, a visit to Gordale Scar, a spectacular limestone ravine with waterfalls, is highly recommended.

Leaving Malham, the route passes Malham Tarn, a serene upland lake surrounded by wildflower meadows and peat bogs and a haven for bird life.

As you approach Chapel-le-Dale, the landscape opens up to reveal the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct. This 24-arch Victorian masterpiece is a highlight of the Settle-Carlisle line and a must-see for railway enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Nearby, you’ll find White Scar Cave, the longest show cave in Britain, with underground waterfalls and impressive stalactites. Shortly after, the route takes you past the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, a series of spectacular cascades set in wooded gorges and ideal for a short walk or simply to enjoy the scenery. We pause for afternoon tea in Ingleton or at a local tearoom along the way.

The final leg takes you through Kirkby Lonsdale, a lively market town with a beautiful riverside setting and the famous “Ruskin’s View” over the Lune Valley. Continuing north, you skirt Sedbergh, known as England’s official “Book Town” and gateway to the Howgill Fells. You then head west, taking scenic back lanes north of Kendal, the “Auld Grey Town”, before reaching the Lake District proper.

Upon reaching Windermere, you follow the eastern shore, enjoying glimpses of England’s largest natural lake. The road winds through woodland and past lakeside villages before arriving in Ambleside, a vibrant town at the head of the lake.

The final miles take you through classic Lakeland lanes, with stone walls, sheep pastures, and mountain views, before reaching your hotel that will be your base for the next three nights.

Day of departure

Homeward bound or onward travel. After breakfast you will checkout of the hotel and be transported to the airport or station for onward travel. Those who have come on their own bikes will ride off.

Triumph Tiger 900GT Pro

The Tiger 900 GT Pro is a thrilling new version of this popular model built with a whole new aggressive attitude and style. Supplied with top box and 2 panniers. Mileage charge is £0.30/mile. A fixed rate will be offered to tour customers to include mileage.

Restrictions: 25-75 for solo riders and a minimum of 2 years riding experience on a similar powed bike. If carrying a pillion 35-70 and 3 years riding on a similar powered bike

Weekly Hire From: Pound £1,450

Benelli TRK702

Benelli TRK702 a great all round tourer complete with top box, two panniers, heated seat and heated grips. Mileage charge is £0.30/mile. A fixed rate will be offered to tour customers to include mileage.

Restrictions: 25-75 for solo riders and a minimum of 2 years riding experience on a similar powed bike. If carrying a pillion 35-70 and 3 years riding on a similar powered bike

Weekly Hire From: Pound £850

CFMOTO 650MT

The CFMOTO 650MT is a great rival to the Kawasaki Versys 650 and Suzuki VStrom 650 offering a comparable parallel twin 650cc engine, top box and two panniers. Mileage charge is £0.30/mile. A fixed rate will be offered to tour customers to include mileage.

Restrictions: 25-75 for solo riders and a minimum of 2 years riding experience on a similar powed bike. If carrying a pillion 35-70 and 3 years riding on a similar powered bike

Weekly Hire From: Pound £700

Triumph Tiger 800XRT

The Tiger 800XRT is the top of the road orientated range in the Tiger 800 series with heated seats, grips and electronic suspension. Supplied with top box and 2 panniers. Mileage charge is £0.30/mile. A fixed rate will be offered to tour customers to include mileage.

Restrictions: 25-75 for solo riders and a minimum of 2 years riding experience on a similar powed bike. If carrying a pillion 35-70 and 3 years riding on a similar powered bike

Weekly Hire From: Pound £850

Triumph Tiger Sport 660

A comfortable sports touring bike with a sporty 80bhp triple cylinder engine . Equipped with two side panniers and top case. Seat Height is 835 mm. Mileage charge is £0.30 per mile. If carrying a pillion an age restriction of 35-70 with a minimum of 3 years riding on similar machine applies.

Restrictions: 25-75 for solo riders and a minimum of 2 years riding experience on a similar powed bike. If carrying a pillion 35-70 and 3 years riding on a similar powered bike

Weekly Hire From: Pound £1,000

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro

The world's most capable, agile and manoeuvrable large capacity adventure motorcycle. Supplied with top box and 2 panniers. We have 2 saddles; a low and regular comfort (both heated). These provide a versatile saddle height from 830mm up to 870mm to suite a variety of leg lengths. Mileage charge is £0.30/mile. A fixed rate will be offered to tour customers to include mileage.

Restrictions: 25-75 for solo riders and a minimum of 2 years riding experience on a similar powed bike. If carrying a pillion 35-70 and 3 years riding on a similar powered bike

Weekly Hire From: Pound £1,600