The Great North Trail connects the Pennine Bridleway with the north of mainland Scotland. Developed by Cycling UK, it brings together upland trails, forest tracks and quieter roads in a journey from the Peak District to a choice of two northern finishes.
From the Peak District towards Scotland
The southern part begins at Middleton Top and follows the Pennine Bridleway towards Hebden Bridge. Cycling UK describes a changing landscape of farmland, moorland and wooded valleys, with reservoirs, canals and former railway lines along the way. Some tracks follow historic packhorse or drovers’ routes.
North of Hebden Bridge, the itinerary continues through the Yorkshire Dales to Appleby-in-Westmorland, then crosses the North Pennines towards Kielder Forest. From Kielder it enters the Scottish Borders and heads for Edinburgh.
Across central Scotland and into the Highlands
The trail links Edinburgh and Glasgow before turning towards Fort Augustus. In Glasgow it joins An Turas Mor, a route developed by Obscura Mondo Cycle Club. Riverside paths lead out of the city, followed by a mixture of back-country, forest and estate tracks, drove roads and quieter roads.
The journey through the Grampian Mountains includes remote mountain passes and loch-side riding. Cycling UK describes this as physically demanding terrain and warns that wind and snow can delay riders in the passes. Fort Augustus, at the southern end of Loch Ness, is a useful landmark before the route continues north to Oykel Bridge.
Two ways to finish
At Oykel Bridge the project offers a choice between Cape Wrath and John o’ Groats. The Cape Wrath option passes through remote glens and past lochs towards the rugged north-west coast. It contains more off-road riding than the alternative, which uses more remote single-track roads.
Facilities and shelter can be scarce on the Cape Wrath section. Cycling UK cautions that rough seas can cancel the small ferry to the peninsula and that the Ministry of Defence may close the land to the public. Check access arrangements when planning that finish.
Choosing and preparing a ride
Cycling UK presents the trail as an adventure mountain biking route, mainly on unsurfaced trails. Its character varies considerably: exposed, rugged uplands sit alongside shorter canal-path and disused-railway sections. The full itinerary is aimed at experienced cyclists, but its eight published sections also make it possible to choose a shorter ride.
Check the current route information before setting out. Cycling UK notes that some river crossings can become difficult and potentially risky after wet weather, and suggests considering road detours in those circumstances. Its route guide, written by Max Darkins, includes planning advice and suggested itineraries. Some connecting sections use roads because suitable off-road access is not available throughout.