The Cycle Hub was an impromptu yet welcome addition to the end of our Coast to Coast cycle ride. Having sped past it on our way out to Tynemouth for Marshall’s fish and chips, a serendipitous puncture saw us actively check it out on our way back.

Not just a clever play on bike-related words, the Hub is a social enterprise that hosts a cafe, workshop and bike hire facility. While my partner-in-crime had a free tutorial from one of the friendly staff on how to change a tyre, I took the time to marvel at the merchandise.

Along with bikes and general cycling paraphernalia, the Hub also houses a wonderful collection of prints from local graphic designer Muro Buro (Paul Robson) who is responsible for the Hub’s super logo.

Even better, the noticeboard had details of a number of guided rides in and around the ‘Toon and all manner of bike maintenance courses from Beginners Basics (including women only) to the rather splendidly named ‘Strip and Build’.

Situtated right by the Tyne, it’s a brilliant spot that every cyclist, with or without a puncture, should seek out.

Images by Lara Hayward