Cheviot Orbital
Route by Ted Liddle
Adventure Gravel in England’s Far North
The Cheviot Orbital is a demanding, 104 km gravel loop created by Ted Liddle — cycle tourism specialist, route designer, guidebook author, and lifelong rider.
Expect rugged terrain, big exposure, and long stretches of remoteness. Adapted from his original Cheviot Orbital MTB route, this version is tuned for gravel bikes, made especially for Gravel Rides Northumberland by Jordan Matthews and perfect split over two days.
This is not a route for the unprepared. There’s plenty of hike-a-bike, surfaces are often rough and unpredictable, and navigation requires confidence. The rewards, however, are immense. From steep, switchback climbs above the Breamish Valley to exhilarating descents off Wooler Common, through remote stretches of the Scottish Borders and a final push through Coquetdale.
Set in the wild heart of the Cheviot Hills and anchored in Northumberland, the Cheviot Orbital is a fantastic introduction to this little visited region, a journey that will stay with you long after the ride is over, and likely pull you back for more.
The Route
Route Highlights
Northumberland National Park
Explore the quiet expanses of Northumberland National Park — a landscape of dark skies, rolling hills, remote valleys, and the exposed border ridge. A rare sense of solitude in one of England’s least-visited national parks
Mixed terrain
A rich mix of terrain, from open moorland to woodland trails and riverside paths Ideal for gravel and mountain bikes.
Scottish Borders
Explore the hidden beauty of the Cheviot Hills, stretching into the Scottish Borders with far-reaching views across a wild and often overlooked landscape.
Adventure Gravel
True adventure gravel: remote, demanding, and incredibly rewarding and a chance to discover a striking, under-the-radar region few riders experience.
FAQs:
How long is the route?
In total the route distance is 104.3 km / 64.8 miles, which could be split comfortably into two with an overnight stop.
How difficult is it?
With 2,200m. of climbing across remote locations and mixed terrain, this is a challenging ride, best suited for experienced gravel cyclists.
Where does the route start and finish?
The route is circular with the same start and end location in the village of Alwinton in Northumberland/
What type of terrain should I expect?
The route includes a varied mix of surfaces including gravel tracks, singletrack trails, farmland paths, grassy doubletrack and quiet minor roads.
Is the route accessible by public transport?
The nearest train stations are Morpeth and Alnmouth both approx. 40 km away. You’ll need to cycle or arrange onward travel from these stations.
Is this route suitable for beginners?
Not really. Due to its length and elevation, remote setting and mixed and sometimes rough terrain this is a route best suited for confident riders with good fitness and navigation skills.
Are there parking facilities?
Yes, National Park car park in Alwinton (with public toilets) and there is free parking on the village green. Please park respectfully and consider local residents
The Cheviot Orbital gravel route is featured in gravel Rides Northumberland, by Jordan Matthews, a North East-based cyclist with extensive experience in route design and cycling development. Click here for more information about the book.