Walk along cliff-tops or tranquil dales, cycle peaceful forest trails or white-knuckle mountain bike tracks, this wide-open countryside and coastline are a great place to enjoy a number of thrilling activities. Hamsterley Forest in County Durham has 20 square kilometres full of mountain bike trails whilst Kielder Forest in Northumberland National Park is home to northern Europe's largest man-made lake and England's largest forest and has internationally renowned mountain bike routes.
Try England's highest trail, the Deadwater route which climbs the 579 metre summit of Deadwater Fell. Hadrian's Cycleway, a 280 kilometre coast-to-coast route, will appeal to those looking for a calmer pace and the walking trails along and around the wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are also worth the trip.
Saltburn Beach, in Tees Valley, is a popular place for surfing and kite surfing. The Tees Barrage artificial white water course is a renowned destination for water sport with canoeing and rafting training available. Enjoy a coastal walk in Tyne and Wear, join a sailing club in Hartlepool or hire a bike in Northumberland and begin exploring northeast England.
