Event: 7 June 2014
Cyclists who missed last year’s Haydon Hundred cyclo-sportive, and those who were there and don’t want to miss out this year can enter today!
Almost 250 participants enjoyed glorious weather and a great day’s cycling, so this year an extra 100 places have been made available to meet the likely demand.
Starting in the riverside village of Haydon Bridge the route ascends both slopes of the South Tyne Valley, crossing Hadrian’s Wall twice before heading for the spectacular panoramas of the North Pennines. It has been carefully chosen to combine a testing cycling experience with the area’s most scenic and historic assets, and guarantees an unrivalled day out. Unique features of this event include:
- Ride through a National Park and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
- Spectacular High Pennine scenery and panoramic views
- Crossing Hadrian's wall – and then riding up the Alston cobbles!
- Third highest surfaced road in England at 1998ft (609m)
- A perfect opportunity to prepare for the Virgin Money Cyclone event later in the month
Quotes from last year’s event:
Marianne: A wonderful event in the most beautiful part of the world, very well organised, can't wait to do it again next year. Thank you."
Chris: "Thanks for a fantastic event today. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait for next year. Everything; the route, helpful and smiling marshalls, weather and those flapjacks made the day one to remember."
Stephen: "Thanks to the organisers for a great day enjoyed every mile and hog-roasts should be compulsory at the end of all sportives!"
The Routes
100km route (HH100)
The HH100 is not for the faint hearted. With just under 2000m of climbing it will be a real challenge. Following the Stanegate Roman Road it heads north into Hadrian’s Wall country and the dramatic Northumberland moors, crossing the ancient wall twice before re-joining the HH60 at Haltwhistle. From there it climbs up to Plenmeller Common before dropping down to Alston and its famous cobbled High Street. Out of Alston the route heads for Nenthead and then on to Black Hill, the third highest surfaced road in England and then across the Allendale Moors before re-joining all the other routes at the Carts Bog Inn above Langley.
60km route (HH60)
This is a challenging route in its own right with almost 1000m of climbing in its 60km. It follows the ancient roman Stanegate before dropping down into the Tyne Valley and a feed station. From there it climbs high up the south side of the valley to Plenmeller common before a dramatic descent down into the Allen Valley and a return back over the tops to Haydon Bridge.
Organisation
The Haydon Hundred is organised entirely by volunteers from the Haydon Bridge Development Trust as part of its remit to support local businesses by encouraging tourism and raising the village’s profile. Any surplus income left after costs are covered is used to help with the running costs of the village’s volunteer-run Community Library and Information Point. A vote of thanks is due to the team of volunteers who help plan the event and pitch in on the day to help ensure a warm welcome and a well-organised event. Likewise our event sponsors, Northumberland National Park, Haydon Bridge Coop, Northumbrian Water and Activ Cycle of Corbridge, whose assistance help make the Haydon Hundred a successful and enjoyable day.
Haydon Bridge
Haydon Bridge is an excellent base for exploring Northumberland’s stunning landscape, heritage and history, with Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland National Park and the beautiful North Pennines on our doorstep. Birthplace of renowned Victorian artist John Martin, and retreat for the poet Philip Larkin, the village now offers a friendly base for you to visit the area’s attractions or just enjoy its tranquil riverside setting, local food, and walks in the beautiful Tyne Valley. The Bridge’ – Community Library, Visitor Information Point and Internet Café is on Church Street next to the railway station. As well as providing library services and a focal point for the local community, it offers visitors friendly advice and a range of leaflets and information on local tourist attractions and facilities, in particular a series of walking and cycling leaflets to help explore the surrounding area, including the popular John Martin Trail.
Further Information & Entries
For further details on the Haydon Hundred, the Haydon Bridge Development Trust, or any other enquiries, please contact:
