England : Northumberland Kielder forest road and Cross Border trail

[Cush]

Before my 71st I have a fancy to ride from Edinburgh to Carlisle in one day, I want to use the Carter Bar road in to England. I see there is a forest drive over to Kielder and a connecting "Cross Border" ride to Newcastleton. This route would save me a ride down to Hexham on a motor bike plagued road. Can any one advice me whether or not these two trails are suitable for a touring bike with marathon + tires. I will be travelling light. I have walked in Kielder forest but have only rode round the reservoir trail,

 

[Pale Rider]

The Kielder Forest Drive links the A68 to Kielder village.

It is signed as suitable for cars, so ought to be fine on a tourer with Marathon pluses.

Having said that, it has always been shut - to cars - each time I've been there, so worth checking in advance with the forest rangers.

http://www.visitkielder.com/contact

 

[Cush]

Thanks Reiver, I want to go over the Carter Bar to visit the site of the Redeswire Fray. Original plan was to carry on, on the A68 to the B6320 & B6318 into Haltwhistle. But I was also considering doubling back on the A6088 to the B6357 and down through the Netherby estates. Then I remembered the forest road from my walking days in Kielder but I only crossed over it, I never really used it. I also remember walking over the tops from Newcastleton in to Kielder and returning via Simon burn (fit knackering days!!)

 

[Cush]

Thanks User9609 I appreciate that link and will consider it before making up my mind on a final route.