The Cross Pennine 685 isn’t just a bus route; it is a journey across the very spine of England. Connecting the historic border city of Carlisle in the west with the vibrant, cultural powerhouse of Newcastle in the east, this route offers a front-row seat to some of the UK’s most dramatic landscapes and Roman history.
Operated primarily by Stagecoach in Cumbria (often in partnership with Arriva), the 685 traces the path of emperors and legionnaires. Whether you are a history buff hunting for Hadrian’s Wall, a hiker looking for the perfect trail, or a city-hopper wanting to experience two of the North’s greatest cities in one day, this service is your chariot.
What makes this route special
The 685 is the modern equivalent of a Roman military road. While it travels largely along the A69, it frequently dips into charming market towns and villages that the faster train service misses completely.
The true magic of this route lies in its variety. You begin in the red sandstone grandeur of Carlisle, traverse the rugged, rolling hills of the Pennines, pass through the historic Tyne Valley, and finish on the bustling Quayside of Newcastle. It is a “coast-to-coast” experience without the blistered feet.
A route breakdown of key locations
The journey takes approximately three hours end-to-end, but with so much to see, you might find yourself hopping off more than once.
The Cumbrian start
Your journey begins in Carlisle. Before boarding, it is worth exploring the imposing Castle or the Cathedral, both of which are just a short walk from the bus station. As the bus leaves the city, you’ll pass Brunton Park—home to Carlisle United—before heading out into the countryside through Aglionby and Warwick-on-Eden.
Crossing the river, you reach Warwick Bridge, a quiet prelude to the first major stop: Brampton. This ancient market town is full of character and serves as a great gateway for walkers.
Into Roman country
As the bus climbs towards the Northumberland border, the landscape becomes wilder. You will pass Greenhead, a crucial stop for those wanting to visit the Roman Army Museum. Shortly after, you arrive in Haltwhistle, famously known as the “Centre of Britain”.
Continuing east, the route weaves through the Tyne Valley via Melridge and Bardon Mill. This section is incredibly scenic, with the river to one side and the hills rising on the other. Haydon Bridge offers another picturesque crossing of the South Tyne before you reach the market town of Hexham. Dominated by its stunning Abbey, Hexham is the perfect midway point for lunch.
The final stretch
Leaving Hexham, the bus serves Corbridge, a beautiful village known for its independent shops and the nearby Roman Town (English Heritage).
As you approach the city, you’ll pass through Horsley and Heddon-on-the-Wall. Look out for actual sections of Hadrian’s Wall here—it’s one of the few places where the bus runs directly alongside the ancient monument.
Finally, the route transitions into the urban buzz of Tyne & Wear, travelling through Throckley, West Denton, and Fenham, before arriving at the heart of Newcastle.
When does the route run
The 685 is a year-round lifeline for locals and a reliable option for visitors.
- Monday to Saturday: Services generally run hourly during the daytime.
- Sundays and Bank Holidays: The service still operates but at a reduced frequency (usually every two hours), so checking the timetable in advance is essential.
Service frequency and connections
While the route is long, it is well-connected. At Carlisle, you can connect to trains heading south to London or north to Scotland. At Hexham and Haltwhistle, the bus stops near the railway stations, allowing for “rail-bus” combination trips. At Newcastle, the bus station is a stone’s throw from the Metro system, opening up the coast to Tynemouth and Whitley Bay.
Value for money
Travelling the 685 is exceptionally good value compared to the train, especially for groups or those planning to break their journey.
We highly recommend purchasing a North East Explorer ticket. This ticket is a “magic key” for travel in the region—it is valid not just on Stagecoach, but also on Go North East and Arriva buses across the North East and into Cumbria as far as Carlisle. It allows you to hop on and off the 685 as many times as you like in a day, making a multi-stop itinerary very affordable.
Top tips for the journey
- Sit on the left (Eastbound): If you are travelling from Carlisle to Newcastle, sitting on the left often gives you the best views of the landscape rising towards the Roman Wall, though the river views on the right are also lovely.
- Bring provisions: It is a long route (approx. 3 hours). While there are plenty of places to stop for food in Brampton, Hexham, or Corbridge, having a drink and a snack for the ride is a good idea.
- Check the operator: The service is shared between Stagecoach and Arriva. Both accept the Explorer tickets, but the buses might look different (Stagecoach is usually white/orange/blue; Arriva is turquoise).
Planning a day out on this route
Here is a suggested itinerary for a “Roman & Retail” day out:
- 09:00: Depart Carlisle.
- 10:00: Hop off at Haltwhistle. Walk down to the river or take a local connection to the Roman Wall sites.
- 12:30: Board the next bus to Hexham. Visit the Abbey, grab a coffee, and explore the historic gaol.
- 15:00: Continue to Newcastle. Arrive in time for a walk along the Quayside to see the Tyne Bridge and Millennium Bridge.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in the city before catching a late bus or train back.
Year-round appeal
While summer offers the purple heather of the Pennines and green valleys, the 685 is beautiful in winter too. The route is often gritted and kept clear as a major artery, meaning you can enjoy snowy landscapes from the warmth of the bus. Just remember that daylight hours are shorter in winter, so plan your scenic viewing for the middle of the day.
