X71, Newcastle to Consett via Burnopfield

Leaving Newcastle Eldon Square, this barnstorming, brilliant journey begins amid the urban bustle of the city centre against a backdrop of architectural magnificence. Winding streets, down the hill and over the Tyne with views of the iconic Tyne Bridge soon follow as this really is a bus journey with a sense of occasion at the very start, which is sustained throughout. Passing the Dunston Monument, a remnant of Newcastle’s industrial past, the view opens up to reveal a changing landscape, flatter, greener, with the ever so slightest hints of the countryside starting to emerge.

As the bus makes its way through Whickham and passes the Harry Clasper statue, honouring the famed 19th-century rower, the River Tyne glimmers in the distance, and neat rows of Victorian houses begin to line the road. Approaching Gateshead Interchange and with anticipation rising, the scenery becomes dense again with a wide array of shops. But this doesn’t last long, soon the bus climbs the winding Lobley Hill Bank, revealing panoramic views of the Tyne Valley stretching out behind you.

At Sunniside Front Street, the view feels more village-like: independent shops, cafes, and green spaces hint at the proximity to rural landscapes. Passing the Crookgate Pack Horse Inn, a traditional, cobble-stoned pub nestled among trees, the roadside grows increasingly leafy. The scenery softens into rolling fields and woodland edges as you reach Burnopfield, where stone cottages and hillside views dominate.

This is a trip with twists and turns as the road rises through quieter countryside, punctuated by farms and open moorland as you near Medomsley, where the quaint village church appears like a postcard image against the sky. The final stretch runs through Leadgate, with glimpses of old mining terraces, and finally into Consett, a town perched high on the moors, once famed for its steelworks. Here, on the edge of the delightful Durham Dales and North Pennines, the sky feels just a little bit closer, and the surrounding hills give a sense of space, wind, and quiet, marking a dramatic contrast to the terrific Tyne and the majestic Newcastle, with its whirring din, vibrant energy, long left behind.

Start your day in Newcastle, this most vibrant of cities, bursting with culture, history and fun-packed activity. Begin at the Quayside, where you can stroll along the river past the iconic Tyne Bridge and Millennium Bridge, taking in views of the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and the Sage Gateshead just across the water. Pop into the BALTIC to explore its ever-changing exhibitions of contemporary art, or head uphill to the Castle Keep and discover the city’s medieval roots. If shopping is your thing, a quick wander up Grey Street leads you to Grainger Market and Eldon Square. Grab a coffee from a local café before hopping on a bus or train to nearby Gateshead.

In Gateshead, pay a visit to the Sage if you didn’t stop in earlier, or take a short trip to Saltwell Park, an expansive Victorian park perfect for a scenic walk, with boating lakes, landscaped gardens and a fairy tale-like tower. Afterwards, make your way south through the countryside towards Medomsley. This peaceful village is the ideal place for a quiet break from the city buzz. Visit St Mary Magdalene Church, a pretty building surrounded by greenery, and enjoy a hearty pub lunch at one of the local inns, perfect for soaking up the relaxed rural atmosphere.

From Medomsley, continue your journey up towards Consett. Once a major steel town, Consett now offers a mix of small-town charm and stunning natural scenery. Spend the afternoon exploring the Derwent Walk or Consett Heritage Trail, both offering panoramic views of surrounding moorland and woodland. Browse the local shops or enjoy a slice of cake at a café before ending your day watching the sun set over the hills, reflecting on the contrast of city bustle and quiet countryside.

Check out further down this page, some of the great attractions on this route and also be sure to go onto this link to find out more about fares and inspiration...

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