Birtley to Sunderland Quayside and Back

We will meet in the car park at Dobbie's and cycle south to join the C2C route as it crosses the A167 opposite the Wheatsheaf pub and then cycle downhill east towards Sunderland on cycle paths and quiet roads following the C2C route through to Sunderland Quayside. We intend to arrive at the Snow Goose Cafe on the Marine around 12.30. We will then spend around an hour having coffee, cake and a chat at the Marina (unfortunately the Glass Centre is being refurbished!) before following a different off-road route back, south of the river  through Washington and rejoining the C2C just east of Birtley, note that we cycled downhill on the way there!!!! It's around 20 miles of mainly off-road and very quiet side-road cycle with everything from quaint, historic, breathtaking, riverbanks, industrial, seaside, town centre and a little bit of unfortunately neglected...something for everyone. Please do dress for the weather, expect it to be cold - double gloves, waterproof and warm clothes in layers and thick socks are a must. Just from our recce though, also bring sunglasses, we may get lucky with the weather.... Helmets are advisable and also help keep your head warm!! We look forward to cycling along with you. Jacki07795 390871