Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Coxhoe

In Search of Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Sun 25th Oct 10am 15 miles
Start Shincliffe - lay-by/old road below Betty Bees (DH1 2PF)

Our ride will take us in search of an extraordinary County Durham woman, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, poet and political thinker. Elizabeth was born at Coxhoe Hall (now demolished) and although she spent much of her life in Italy she not only penned numerous well loved poems she also campaigned for the abolition of slavery and child labour reforms.
We will follow some off road cyclepaths and quiet roads. Initially we”ll head to Bowburn and up the road to Quarrington Hill (big hill alert) and back down to Kelloe via the reclamation site, after which we’ll stop at the site of Coxhoe Hall. From here we’ll make a loop via Hett back to Bowburn and to the start.
It’s all fairly decent paths and will suit all bikes apart from lightweight road bikes with skinny tyres. This is a suitable ride if you’re just starting to get out back on a bike or a longer break as well as for more confident riders wanting a relaxed ride with a bit of chat and Elizabeth Barrett Browning history included.
In order for the ride to leave promptly, please be punctual so we can carry out bike checks, etc. prior to us setting off. Please make sure your bike is in working condition and bring a spare tube to fit your tyres. We should be out for about three hours but as always it is difficult to be precise about timing. As always we can’t predict the weather so please dress suitably. You are better to be overdressed as you can always take layers off.

In order for the ride to leave promptly, please be punctual so we can carry out bike checks, etc. prior to us setting off. Make sure your bike is in working condition and bring a spare tube to fit your tyres.

This is the last of the 2026 Notable women of the North East rides in collaboration with Cycle with Jan. https://cyclewithjan.co.uk/.

For any queries please use the option to ‘Message Ride Creator’. If you book and can’t make it please cancel your place so we know for sure who to expect on the day. For any last minute cancellations on the day please also add a note in the ride Conversation before cancelling so increasing the chance of your message being seen.