Land’s End to John O’Groats Cycle Ride

Leaving the southernmost tip of England, the route winds along Cornish roads and the coastline, passing the famous St Michael’s Mount. The terrain is mainly undulating with a few long climbs and some short, steep ones too!

Cycling distance – approx. 79 miles

Cross Dartmoor, one of the most challenging parts of the ride but be rewarded with spectacular views. After Dartmoor, just a few short, steep hills to conquer before the downhill, all the way to Exeter, then north toTiverton.

Cycling distance – approx. 60 miles

Heading north again on rural roads into Somerset and past Cheddar Gorge, across the Severn Bridge and into Wales. Next is one of the most scenic parts of the journey along the Wye Valley to Tintern for an overnight stay, passing the Abbey ruins en route.

Cycling distance – approx. 92 miles

After following the River Wye to Monmouth, leave Wales and head towards Hereford, then cross into Shropshire, cycling on undulating country lanes, through picturesque villages along the Hope Valley, for a night’s stay in Shrewsbury.

Cycling distance – approx. 85 miles

After re-crossing the River Severn, head north through Cheshire where the route is mainly flat, providing a good opportunity to eat up some miles. Plough on past Warrington and Wigan and into Lancashire, finally arriving at the destination of Preston.

Cycling distance – approx. 96 miles

The last full day of cycling in England before crossing the border into Scotland, and a long one at that! Cycle through the edge of the Lake District, including a long but gradual climb into Shap at 1,006 feet. However, there is a long downhill to Penrith as a reward for your efforts. The day ends with an overnight stop at Carlisle.

Cycling distance – approx. 95 miles

Pass the famous blacksmith’s forge at Gretna Green – anyone wanting to stop off for a quick marriage ceremony should let us know in advance! There are several long, steady climbs and descents as you pass Dumfries and onto Kilmarnock for the night.

Cycling distance – approx. 108 miles

Depart Kilmarnock and climb up to a viewpoint overlooking Paisley and the River Clyde from afar. Descending to Paisley, head for the Erskine Bridge, which offers astonishing views of the surrounding area. After lunch, head north to Loch Lomond where you will cycle alongside the loch all the way to Tarbet. From here, follow the Old Military Road to Inveraray – the destination for the evening.

Cycling distance – approx. 80 miles

There is a long climb out of Inveraray until you reach Loch Awe and the ruined Castle Kilchurn. Cross an iron bridge at Connel with the Isle of Mull across the water. Next pass lochs and forests with views of Ben Nevis. Reach Fort William for the next overnight stay.

Cycling distance – approx. 73 miles

Today you are well and truly in the Highlands, following the Caledonian Canal towards Fort Augustus and the famous Loch Ness. After climbing up through Alness, the route undulates until you will sweep down to Tain for an overnight stop and also the home of Glenmorangie whisky!

Cycling distance – approx. 102 miles

The penultimate day of cycling and the taste of the finish is in the air. There are a few flat stretches today, punctuated of course with a few climbs up onto the moors.There is very little traffic on the route and the chance to see red deer, ospreys or even golden eagles soaring above. Next descend down to the coast and head east in this almost deserted landscape until you reach Betty Hill, where you will stay overnight.

Cycling distance – approx. 69 miles

The final day of the challenge will seem much shorter, as signs appear for John O’Groats. A small detour to Dunnet Head – the most northernly point on the British mainland – before cycling the final few miles. The final part of the journey will be along a mainly flat road to the finish line where you can celebrate! After signing the official End to End book, transfer back to Inverness for a celebration dinner.

Cycling distance – approx. 61 miles

After breakfast, it’s time for goodbyes and to start your journey home with an incredible sense of pride after achieving the challenge of a lifetime!

Please note, this is a complex itinerary and is subject to change.