Any people around Newcastle?

[zuby84]

Hey guys,

I've just got a new job through starting in August based around Newcastle. For 8 months I am going to be in Morpeth and for 4 months I am going to be in Hexham. Whilst this is not ideal as I wanted to be in Newcastle city itself; does anyone know what kind of commute times we are talking about from Newcastle to Hexham and Morpeth if I decide to stay in Newcastle itself? Googlemaps tells me 30mins each way roughly, but what about the traffic?

[Jamz]

It all depends where abouts in Newcastle you want to stay...

If you keep off the A1 at rush hour, as it tends to build up at:

1. Bowes inclice
2. Metro Center
3. Kingston Park

After Kingston Park area, its usually plain sailing up to Hexham

Should maybe post in the North East section

[Curdster]

Zuby. Lots of great roads especially if you head north and west. Ones I liked for a hoon are the A696 towards Otterburn. Head towards Newcastle Airport and on through Ponteland. Takes you right up and over the border.
Also try the A69 toward Hexham and at the 1st roundabout for Corbridge head south again on the A68. There is some good bits around Derwent Resevoir.
Head Northwards into Northumberland, Englands biggest county with little traffic!!! I think there are some good roads towards Rothbury and Coldtream, and also some bits on the Coastal Route if you head east at Alnwick. It is sign posted. Whereever you go the scenery is worth a look even if the tarmac is not up to expectations.
Not sure what you are driving, but if you fancy a TVR check out Hexham Horseless Carriages in Hexham.
Enjoy the North East, and remember, clothing in all weathers is an optional extra.

[beermaddavep]

Really depends whereabouts in Newcastle you intend to live- rush hour commutes around eg the city centre/Jesmond/Byker area for instance can be pretty bad whereas a little further out eg Kingston Park , Westerhope would be a breeze to Morpeth or Hexham. Avoid the Western bypass/ Gateshead- in fact any area south of the Tyne east of Blaydon unless you love 30 minute traffic queues.
Otherwise, expect 20-30 mins to Morpeth and around 30-40 to Hexham.

Ps some brilliant driving roads to the south west too- Around Stanhope, Rookhope, Teesdale etc:-)

Edited by beermaddavep on Thursday 23 April 21:09

[sider]

I did the military road the other week - from Ponteland to a place called Greenfield i think it was. Excellent road - lots of dips and peaks though to catch out low flying cars!

[magpies]

That'll be Greenhead

and its a great road - parallel to the A69 - no traffic and great scenery