This route is part of Sustran’s National Cycle Network Route 14. The full route from Darlington to South Shields is 88 miles long, and is largely traffic-free.

The route passes through Billingham and comes in to Hartlepool through Greatham Village just south of the town. It then heads on towards Seaton Carew, where you can enjoy the beauty of the North East coastline as you cycle along the promenade. You could event stop off for an ice cream or fish and chips to refresh!

The route follows on towards Hartlepool Town Centre, passing a number of local attractions including Hartlepool Art Gallery, Vue Cinema and Hartlepool United Football Club. It heads on towards the A1049 and through Hart Station. As you make the descent out of Hartlepool, be sure to stop for a glimpse of Crimdon’s beautiful coast and scenic nature reserve.  

Upon leaving Hartlepool, the route follows a continuous disused railway line as far as Haswell in County Durham. From Haswell, mostly on-road routes take you west into Durham.

For more information on the route click here.