Quite simply the most famous route in Britain. Covering 874 miles from the most South-Westerly point on mainland Britain all the way up to the Northern tip. Over about 15 days riding you will see why this is a classic event on an epic scale.
Riding over every type of terrain from the remote mountainous areas of Scotland and the heather-clad moors of Northern England, to the quaint country lanes of the South, this will be a journey to remember for the rest of your life.
Typically covering approximately 60-70 miles per day you will need to be a reasonably active person and have the determination required for 15 days riding.
The route
The cycling route from Land’s End to John O’ Groats is a popular challenge for cyclists in the United Kingdom. The route is approximately 874 miles (1,407 km) long and takes riders through a variety of terrains and landscapes. Here is a detailed account of the route:
Starting at Land’s End, which is the most westerly point of mainland England, cyclists will travel through the counties of Cornwall and Devon, passing through picturesque towns and villages such as St Ives, Penzance, and Tavistock. The route takes riders through some challenging hills, such as the climb up to the town of Okehampton, which is the gateway to Dartmoor National Park.
From Devon, the route enters Somerset, and riders will pass through the beautiful countryside of Exmoor National Park. The route then enters the county of Gloucestershire, where riders will pass through the Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty, before reaching the city of Gloucester.
The route then crosses the border into Wales, where riders will pass through the Brecon Beacons National Park, which is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the UK. From there, the route passes through the towns of Llandovery and Builth Wells, before reaching the town of Machynlleth in Powys.
After leaving Wales, the route enters the county of Shropshire and passes through the historic town of Shrewsbury, before entering Cheshire and passing through the city of Chester. From there, the route enters the county of Lancashire, where riders will pass through the Forest of Bowland, an area of outstanding natural beauty.
The route then enters the county of Cumbria, where riders will pass through the Lake District National Park, which is renowned for its stunning scenery and challenging hills. The route passes through towns such as Keswick, Penrith, and Carlisle, before entering Scotland.
In Scotland, the route passes through the Scottish Borders, an area of rolling hills and valleys. The route then enters the county of Midlothian, passing through the city of Edinburgh before entering the Kingdom of Fife. From there, the route passes through the city of Dundee before entering Angus and the town of Brechin.
Finally, the route enters the Highlands and passes through the town of Inverness before reaching the final destination of John O’ Groats, which is the most northerly point on the British mainland.
Overall, the Land’s End to John O’ Groats route is a challenging but rewarding journey that takes riders through some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes in the UK. The route is often completed over a period of two or more weeks, with riders staying overnight in towns and villages along the way.
“The shortest route by road has been reduced to around 814 miles (1,310 km), mainly due to the advent of new roads & modern bridges being built. This route, using minor roads in numerous places, roughly follows: Land’s End, Okehampton, Tiverton, Bridgwater, M5 Avon Bridge, M48 Severn Bridge, Monmouth, Hereford, Shrewsbury, Tarporley, St Helens, Preston, Carlisle, Beattock, Carstairs, Whitburn, Falkirk, Stirling, Crieff, Kenmore, Dalchalloch, A9, Inverness, A9 (Kessock Bridge, Cromarty Bridge, Dornoch Firth Bridge), Latheron, Wick, John o’ Groats.” ~ Lejog Cycling
Fitness
Completing the Land’s End to John O’ Groats cycling challenge requires a high level of fitness and endurance. The route covers a distance of approximately 874 miles (1,407 km) and includes a variety of terrains and gradients, including steep hills and mountainous areas. Riders will need to be able to cycle for several hours a day and maintain a steady pace over long distances.
To prepare for the challenge, riders should undertake a rigorous training program that includes both cardiovascular exercise and strength training. This will help to build endurance, stamina, and muscle strength, which are all important for completing the challenge. In addition, riders should gradually increase the distance and intensity of their training rides to build up their fitness level and prepare their body for the demands of the route.
It is important to note that the Land’s End to John O’ Groats route is not suitable for beginners or those with limited cycling experience. Riders should have a good level of fitness and be able to comfortably cycle long distances before attempting the challenge. It is also recommended that riders seek advice from a medical professional before embarking on the challenge to ensure that they are in good health and able to undertake the physical demands of the route.
Planning your trip
There are several ways in which someone can look to complete the Land’s End to John O’ Groats cycling challenge, and it ultimately depends on their personal preference and goals. Here are some common options:
- Solo – Some cyclists may choose to undertake the challenge solo, without any support or assistance. This can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it also requires a high level of self-sufficiency and planning, including arranging accommodation, food, and bike maintenance.
- Friends – Another option is to undertake the challenge with a group of friends or cycling club. This can be a great way to share the experience and support each other throughout the journey. Group cycling can also provide an added element of safety, particularly on the busier roads.
- Organized tour – There are several companies that offer organized tours for the Land’s End to John O’ Groats route. These tours typically provide support vehicles, accommodation, meals, and luggage transport, making the experience more comfortable and convenient for cyclists. This option can be more expensive, but it also provides a greater level of comfort and support.
- Charity sponsorship – Many people choose to undertake the challenge as a way of raising money for charity. This can be a great motivator and can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment beyond completing the route itself. Cyclists can raise funds through sponsorship from friends and family, or by organizing fundraising events.
Regardless of the method chosen, completing the Land’s End to John O’ Groats cycling challenge is a significant achievement that requires dedication, preparation, and perseverance.
Bikes
“We’d done a fair amount of research about what bikes to purchase. Unsurprisingly most of the shops we went into, well certainly the more upmarket specialist ones, tried to push the more expensive cycles our way. This approach disheartened us a little, as we couldn’t afford £800 -£1500 bikes and we began to question whether or not we’d be able go ahead with our project. At the end of the day, the aim was to raise money for charity. When we mentioned this, hoping to get a good few quid knocked off, we were met with indifference. It appears all LEJOG cyclists try it on, and the shops are a little weary of it, which is understandable.
We eventually found a shop which was run by old school cyclists who understood our predicament and gave us the confidence that it could be done on a budget.
We both plumped for £300 bikes… a Claud Butler Criterium and Dawes Giro 200” ~ Lejog Cycling
Resources
There are several good websites that provide valuable information and resources for cyclists who are planning to complete the Land’s End to John O’ Groats cycling challenge. Here are some that are invaluable:
- Cycling UK (https://www.cyclinguk.org/LEJOG) – This website provides a comprehensive guide to planning and completing the Land’s End to John O’ Groats route, including advice on training, equipment, accommodation, and route planning. It also includes a forum where cyclists can connect and share tips and advice.
- Sustrans (https://www.sustrans.org.uk/our-blog/get-active/2021/land-s-end-to-john-o-groats/) – Sustrans is a charity that promotes cycling and walking in the UK, and their website includes a detailed guide to cycling the Land’s End to John O’ Groats route. The guide includes information on the route, accommodation, and planning, as well as tips on how to cycle safely and sustainably.
- End to End Cycle (https://www.endtoend-cycle.com/) – This website provides a wealth of information and resources for cyclists planning to complete the Land’s End to John O’ Groats challenge, including route maps, accommodation listings, and planning tools. It also includes a blog where cyclists can share their experiences and advice.
These websites are all non-commercial and provide valuable information and resources for cyclists planning to undertake the Land’s End to John O’ Groats cycling challenge.
For more outdoor activities and ideas for adventures, visit our blog. Featured image by Kevin Phillips.