685 Newcastle to Hexham and Carlisle

Journey Overview

Leaving the bustle of Newcastle behind, the bus rolls westward, tracing the winding route of the River Tyne. There’s few cities with as varied architecture or vibrant surroundings as Newcastle, or as pulsating when it comes to nightlife, history, retail thrills and spills and culture, but pretty soon, red-brick terraces and leafy suburbs come into view, before the scenery opens into rolling green pastures. It feels like a fairly rapid ascent into countryside from the din of Newcastle and it’s vibrancy and that’s one of the striking features of this fab bus route – this is a journey of eclectic contrasts!

Past Heddon on the Wall, there’s a real heightening sense of anticipation, particularly as glimpses of Hadrian’s Wall begin to emerge—ancient stone snaking across the hills, flanked by sheep and dry-stone walls. The villages of Horsley (which forms part of a World Heritage Site) and Corbridge appear like postcards, with honey-coloured stone cottages, cobbled streets, and distant hills that glow gold in the morning sun. This really is Northumberland in all its glory – always atmospheric whatever the weather!

As the bus glides through historic Hexham, its abbey spire pierces the sky, and the market town buzzes with quiet charm. The route hugs the river on the approach, revealing the wide, open expanse of the Tyne Valley—lush and sometimes, just a little rugged, farmland peppered with cattle, dense woodland patches, and hilltops crowned by windswept trees.

Haydon Bridge, with its quaint homes lining the riverside, feels like a step back in time. Rugged, remote, serene – this is the kind of place folk dream of when the hub-bub of city life gets too much! The bus is now hugging some of Northumberland’s most spectacular landscapes and it’s little wonder that at Haydon Bridge, artist John Martin used to sit sketching on the romantic riverbanks and the poet Philip Larkin took inspiration for his poetry.

Beyond Bardon Mill, which is home to a Roman Fort, the landscape becomes wilder. Craggy outcrops rise above the moorland, and scenic sojourners on-board this fun-packed bus, can catch sight of ruins and Roman forts perched ever so dramatically on ridges. Haltwhistle—“the Centre of Britain”—is surrounded by rolling fells and timeless scenery. There’s real, relentless momentum on this journey now and with every twist and turn of the bus, the scenery unfolds like something out of a film! Past Brampton, the hills soften, though, into gently undulating farmland, fields quilted in greens and yellows, dotted with lone barns and winding lanes.

Approaching the charming village of Warwick Bridge, beside the River Eden and Carlisle, the land flattens into river plains. Ancient woodland gives way to the Eden Valley’s fertile beauty, and finally, Carlisle looms—its cathedral and castle providing the most compelling of landmarks and so too its array of marketing and mix of classic chains and independent shops, as well as vast array of eateries  – it’s a fitting end to a journey rich with history and breathtaking, ever-shifting scenery.

This bus route is truly amazing – tracing Roman roads, medieval towns, and industrial legacies, all set against the backdrop of Northumberland’s rugged beauty and Cumbrian charm. Simply magnificent.

A Fab Day Out!

A journey by bus from Newcastle to Carlisle via Hexham and Haltwhistle offers a scenic and history-packed adventure through some of Northern England’s most captivating landscapes. Starting in Newcastle, stroll down Grey Street, visit the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, or marvel at the iconic Tyne Bridge. As the bus heads west, the urban sprawl gives way to the green, undulating hills of the Tyne Valley.

Next stop is Hexham, a picturesque market town steeped in history. Hexham Abbey, with its stunning Saxon crypt and medieval architecture, sits at the heart of the town. Nearby, the Old Gaol—England’s oldest purpose-built prison—tells tales of border reivers and 14th-century justice. The town itself is full of cosy tearooms, antique shops, and cobbled streets ideal for a quiet wander.

Hexham boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to a variety of tastes. For those seeking French cuisine, Bouchon Bistrot offers classic dishes in a charming setting, earning accolades such as the Best European Restaurant at the North East Restaurant Awards. Italian enthusiasts can visit Vercelli Restaurant, a family-run establishment known for its modern twists on traditional dishes and a vibrant cocktail bar.

The Rat Inn, located just outside Hexham in Anick, is a renowned gastropub celebrated for its seasonal British menu and rustic ambiance . For a taste of Thailand, Thai House Restaurant may not impress with its decor, but it compensates with authentic and flavourful dishes. Families and casual diners might enjoy Danielle’s Bistro, a long-standing favourite offering a blend of Mediterranean and British cuisine in a cosy atmosphere. The Heart of Northumberland, a recently renovated Grade II-listed pub, serves hearty British fare with an emphasis on locally sourced produce, making it a great spot for traditional pub grub.

Back on the bus and the journey continues into the heart of Hadrian’s Wall Country, stopping at Haltwhistle—famed as the “centre of Britain.” This charming town is a gateway to Roman heritage sites like Housesteads and Vindolanda, where ancient ruins and live excavations offer a glimpse into life on the Roman frontier. The surrounding countryside is perfect for walking, with dramatic crags and sweeping views along the Hadrian’s Wall Path.

Finally, the bus rolls into Carlisle, a border city with a fascinating past. Carlisle Castle has stood for over nine centuries, once housing Mary, Queen of Scots. The nearby Tullie House Museum brings to life the region’s Roman and medieval history. The cathedral, with its striking blue ceiling, offers a peaceful place to reflect on your journey.