![Cover image](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/photos/united-kingdom/northumberland-and-tyne-and-wear/3162525720/washington-2.webp)
Historic Castles and Countryside Ride
A road cycling route starting from Washington
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Northumberland on this road cycling adventure.
![Map miniature of "Historic Castles and Countryside Ride" cycling inspiration in Northumberland and Tyne and Wear, United Kingdom. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/routemaps/600/united-kingdom/northumberland-and-tyne-and-wear/washington/road/286602.webp)
This road cycling route covers a distance of 110 km with an ascent of 1056 m, providing a challenging yet rewarding journey through the picturesque landscapes of Northumberland. You'll encounter historic castles, charming villages, and breathtaking vistas along the way. The highlights include Washington, the starting point of the route and the ancestral home of the first American president, Rabbit Hills, known for their intriguing rock formations, Chopwell, a village surrounded by lush woodlands, Prudhoe Castle, a medieval fortress with a fascinating history, Matfen, a beautiful village with a stunning stately home, Belsay Castle, featuring impressive architecture and enchanting gardens, Berwick Hill, offering panoramic views, and Sheriff Hill, a challenging climb with rewarding scenery.
Highlights on the route
Cycling routes from Washington:
Cycling routes nearby:
![Image of Chester-le-Street](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/tees-valley-and-durham/chester-le-street-4.webp)
![Image of Lamesley](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northumberland-and-tyne-and-wear/lamesley-3.webp)
![Image of Felling](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northumberland-and-tyne-and-wear/felling-5.webp)
![Image of East Boldon](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northumberland-and-tyne-and-wear/east-boldon-5.webp)
![Image of Hebburn](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northumberland-and-tyne-and-wear/hebburn-4.webp)
![Image of Sunderland](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northumberland-and-tyne-and-wear/sunderland-5.webp)
![Image of Gateshead](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northumberland-and-tyne-and-wear/gateshead-5.webp)
![Image of Jarrow](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northumberland-and-tyne-and-wear/jarrow-5.webp)