Through the Cyclists Tunnel

The Pedestrian and Cyclists Tunnel first opened in 1951, linking Jarrow on South Tyneside to Howdon on North Tyneside. However, in 2013 the tunnels were shut for what was due to be a two-year restoration project.
Now six years later, they are finally open for us to cycle under the River Tyne.

Starting at Keels Square in Sunderland, we follow the cycle path over The Wearmouth Bridge and head towards Dame Dorothy Street, where we follow quiet residential roads to the start of Sunderland Road heading towards East Boldon. Passing the Greyhound Stadium, we follow the cycle path and residential roads to cross over the level crossing at Boldon Metro Station. We then join the bridal path and travel to West Harton. Here we Join a busy road for a very short journey downhill. At the bottom its back on to a cycle path and head a short distance to the Tyne Dock and NCN 14. Following the NCN 14 cycle path we arrive at the Tyne Tunnel Cyclist Tunnels, to get to the tunnel we must use a lift.
At the Howden side of the Tunnel we turn right and follow the cycle route that takes us on quiet roads to NCN 72. Following NCN 72 we travel on cycle paths and quiet roads until we reach NCN1 and continue to the Fish Quay, Stopping at Old Low Light Heritage Centre for a well-earned break.
Once refreshed we retrace our route back to the Shields Ferry and cross over to South Shields. Turning left we head through a residential areaand then follow slightly busy roads heading towards South Shields Sea front. At the end of Sea Road, we re-join NCN 1 and follow the cycle path all the way to Sunderland. At the Whitburn part of NCN1 we go off the path and on to a cycle track along the coast re-joining the cycle path at Whitburn Sands. Crossing back over the Wearmouth Bridge we finish back at Keels Square.

Things to bring:-
Ferry Crossing Fee :- £1.70 or appropriate travel pass
Cafe stop money
Bring suitable waterproof clothing as well as layers to ensure that you can cope with cold or warm weather.
Helmets are recommended, but not mandatory
Spare inner tubes
Something to drink and a snack for energy

We look forward to seeing you there Sara – 07958344888