It was a lovely sunny day when Andy arrived for the start of our St Cuthbert’s Way Coast-to-Coast cycle tour. Today we would be cycling from Carlisle to Gretna, where the coast-to-coast starts, then on to Newcastleton.

Sarah was already on her St Cuthbert’s Way walk. Indeed the walkers were now on their third day.

There was, however, a little bit of cycling to do before we arrived in Carlisle. Firstly, to get to Stockport rail station.

Then secondly, to cross Warrington and switch between the town’s two stations.

Eventually, though, we arrived in Carlisle. First things first, we had something to eat. We were on holiday after all!

After we had finished lunch we set off through Carlisle. We picked up NCN Route 7 and passed Carlisle Castle on the way.

After leaving Carlisle we continued to follow NCN Route 7 as we made our way towards Rockcliffe.

A few miles further on from Rockcliffe we crossed the River Esk.

Soon after we were crossing the border into Scotland.

Quickly followed by reaching Gretna from where our coast-to-coast would truly begin.

You can view our route from Carlisle to Gretna below:

At Gretna, we cycled down to the coast and took a few photos.

Then headed off towards Gretna Green.

At Gretna Green, we stopped for a cuppa. We were on holiday after all!

Up to this point, we had largely been following the same route Sarah and I cycled on our Scottish Borders tour. However, thirst quenched, we veered off in a slightly different direction and now set off towards Longtown. In doing so, we crossed the border back into England.

Then from Longtown, we turned into Netherby Road and headed towards the hills of the borders.

It was very peaceful out here.

Essentially, we were cycling along a side of the River Liddel valley.

We were still following the path of the River Liddel (even though we never actually saw the river!) when we eventually reached Newcastleton.

We were staying at the Liddesdale Hotel and made our way straight to the beer garden. We were on holiday after all!

We cycled approximately 36 miles today, and it had been a great start to the cycle tour. Decent weather, quiet lanes, and fantastic scenery. What more could you wish for?

In the evening we shared a meal with a good friend of ours – another Andy. He happens to be the headmaster of the local school. Sadly I forgot to take a photo to share.

You can view our St Cuthbert’s Way Coast-to-Coast Day 1 route from Gretna to Newcastleton below: