Feb Big Breeze Ride -Stephenson's Birthplace

We're heading up the Quayside cycle paths to Robert Stephenson's humble birthplace at Wylam - one of Tyneside's first waggonways. It linked Wylam colliery with the staithes downstream. In the eighteenth century the wagons were drawn by horses, but these were replaced in 1815 by two steam locomotives, Wylam Dilly and Puffing Billy. This is now part of Hadrian's Way National Trail. Mostly off road, this route is flat and offers up great views along the river and out across towards Northumberland. If you've done a 10 or 15 mile ride with us why not try a little further? We know you can do it! We'll go at the pace of the slowest and nobody will get left behind. Stephenson's birthplace is a tiny cottage where the family slept all in one room. Now looked after by the National Trust. The museum will be shut, but we're promised a good old fashioned cup of tea. http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/george-stephensons-birthplace/ If anyone is interested in the history we'll have the Institute of Engineers guide leaflet for you to take away - showing a walking trail in Newcastle City Centre and explaining Stephenson's many works and their significance. Please bring some cash for the cafe (change if possible), an inner tube for your bike, and a drink if you'll want one whilst riding. Please wear suitable clothes for the weather and bring a jacket just in case! Check out our route plan... it's super flat :) http://ridewithgps.com/routes/6848977