Forming the principal route of the Walney to Wear (W2W) - a long-distance coast to coast cycle route which links Walney Island on the southwestern tip of Cumbria's Irish Sea coast with the mouth of the River Wear on the North Sea coast - National Route 70 takes you from Walney Island to Silksworth in the south of Sunderland. Here it meets National Route 1, taking you the short distance to the River Wear and the North Sea coast.
Walney Island to Lowgill
National Route 70 takes you from Barrow-In-Furness via Ulverston, Grange-over-Sands, the southern part of the Lake District, and a short stretch on National Route 6, to Lowgill on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales where it joins National Route 68. Only traffic-free section of note is in the Haverthwaite area.
Asby to Durham
Leaving National Route 68 at a place called Asby near Kirkby Stephen, National Route 70 continues on-road, except for a traffic-free section across Sleightholme Moor, and one through Hamsterley Forest to Hunwick where the route becomes traffic-free along the old Brandon - Bishop Auckland Railway Path to the western edge of Durham. Follow National Route 14 east through Durham to rejoin National Route 70 at Sherburn. There are gaps in the route in the section between Lartington to Woodland via Barnard Castle.
Sherburn (Durham) to Silksworth (Sunderland)
National Route 70 is mainly traffic-free via Hetton-Le-Hole into the south of Sunderland where it meets National Route 1 to Sunderland.
Please note
We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.
However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.
Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.
Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.