Highlights
- Ride the length of Britain from toe to tip and declare yourself an ‘End to Ender’
- Experience the regional changes in tradition, culture and accents as you progress from county to county
- Enjoy spectacular scenery from Cheddar Gorge to the Cairngorms
- 3 countries in 14 days of riding
- 1,000 miles of Britain at its best
- Cornish pasties to haggis and everything in between
It was an amazing ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ trip. We were very well looked after by very supportive guides and it has inspired me to do lots more.
Itinerary
You will be met on arrival and transferred to the coastal town of Land’s End where we will spend our first evening. For anyone wishing to arrive by car, accommodation details will be provided in advance of the departure date (please note that we will not be transferring back to Land’s End at the end of the tour).
A midday/early afternoon arrival will be necessary in order to allow enough time for the group transfer to Land’s End and for those bringing their own bikes to rebuild them. We will also use this time to make sure that anyone renting a Skedaddle bike is fitted to one of appropriate size with any necessary adjustments made.
The rest of the day is yours to relax before the evening when we will eat out as a group in the hotel restaurant, an opportunity to get to know the rest of the party and to discuss the programme with your Skedaddle guides.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Ascent: 1,585 Metres Approx.
Riding easterly from Land’s End we head for Penzance.
Moving inland (although it’s impossible to be more than 10 miles from the sea on this first day!) we continue along some of Cornwall’s finest country roads via Redruth. Later we head northwards and skirt Newquay before making our way to Bodmin.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast
- Ascent: 2,060 Metres Approx.
Make sure you have a hearty breakfast today – the route is about the same length as yesterday’s, but it’s a hilly one that sees us riding in an incredibly beautiful part of South West England.
Onwards and upwards (and of course, occasionally downwards!!) we wind our way through the high-hedged Cornish country lanes, passing through numerous villages on the way. Crossing the Tamar at Launceston, we leave Cornwall behind us and enter the county of Devon, and on to our destination of the night at Tiverton.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Ascent: 855 Metres Approx.
Leaving Devon this morning and entering Somerset we head firstly through winding country lanes towards Taunton and then from here it’s off across the Somerset Levels. We skirt the historic town of Glastonbury and its Tor, which will be spotted a long way off in the distance. The last leg is to the large village of Cheddar situated on the edge of the Mendip Hills.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast
- Ascent: 1,470 Metres Approx.
Leaving Cheddar this morning we head north and into the famous Cheddar Gorge, the largest and most impressive gorge in the United Kingdom. Navigating carefully to avoid the major roads connecting the larger towns and cities of the area we then wind our way northwards into southern Wales, crossing the River Severn via the cycleway on the famous Severn Bridge.
Once beyond Chepstow we rejoin country lanes and minor roads and continue the journey through the delightful countryside of the Wye Valley.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Ascent: 845 Metres Approx.
Back in the saddle once more we continue through the small villages of the Herefordshire and into Worcestershire. We head on up through the market town of Leominster, the site of the Battle of Llanllieni, the first battle between the Normans and the Welsh way back in 1052.
Next stop is Shropshire's historic Ludlow with its wonderful black and white timbered buildings and ancient ruined castle. We need to keep the old legs spinning a little more as we head through more picturesque towns and villages such as Much Wenlock and its sister Little Wenlock as we head for our finish in Ironbridge on the outskirts of Telford.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast
- Ascent: 970 Metres Approx.
Today we climb out of Ironbridge over the Wrekin before riding along Shropshire’s country lanes. We enter Cheshire near Audlem on our way to Nantwich, a medieval market town known for its black and white timbered buildings. From here our route takes us on a combination of minor and B roads (with occasional and brief sections of A road) via Middlewich, Knutsford and Leigh before eventually reaching our destination of Wrightington, north of Wigan – welcome to the North of England, it’s ‘right proper’ up here and you’re going to love the next few days.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Ascent: 1,815 Metres Approx.
Today we ride through 4 counties, starting out from Bolton, over Rivington and leaving Greater Manchester behind us we enter Lancashire. Bypassing the bigger towns and steering clear of the busiest roads we carry on northwards. Things quieten down again as we pass through the villages of Slaidburn and High Bentham and head into North Yorkshire. After 7 days in the saddle and just over 500 miles we reach the sleepy Cumbrian town of Kirkby Lonsdale on the outskirts of the Lake District.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast
- Ascent: 1,360 Metres Approx.
With the Cumbrian mountains and the Lake District to the west and the Yorkshire Dales to the east, it’s difficult to think of a better place to start a day’s riding. The route today, which for the main part is in Cumbria, is as dramatic as it is rugged as we press on along deserted roads through villages and towns such as Orton, Langwathby and finally Talkin or Hallbankgate. Feast yourselves this evening on Cumberland sausages and the local sticky toffee pudding, we’ve passed the halfway mark and tomorrow we‘re going to Scotland!
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Ascent: 1,540 Metres Approx.
Weaving our way through more remote country lanes we make our way to the Scottish/English border. A few miles north of the border we arrive in Langholm where we pick up the B709. Navigation today is easier than usual since we stay on the B709 for most of the day, all the way to Traquair. Riding past the Tweed Valley mountain biking centres of Innerliethen and Glentress, we head into the busy border town of Cardrona, our destination for tonight.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast
- Ascent: 1,110 Metres Approx.
Moving on from Peebles we skirt the Moorfoot hills and head for Edinburgh. It’s impossible to avoid Edinburgh’s traffic completely but our route will mainly steer clear of the city’s busiest roads. Once out of town we cycle over the Firth of Forth across the Forth Road Bridge and enter the Kingdom of Fife. It’s not long before we rejoin some quieter roads and pass Kinross as we head for our overnight stay in Perth.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Ascent: 1,355 Metres Approx.
Today starts off easy heading north from Perth surrounded by rolling fields famed for their raspberries and overlooked by hills and mountains. The main challenge of the day is the ascent up past the Devil’s Elbow to the Glenshee Ski Centre, so keep your climbing legs at the ready. Take your time over the descent to Braemar to enjoy some of the most wild and majestic scenery of the whole trip. It’s a regal finish today as we ride along the banks of the Dee to Balmoral Castle. Onwards to Ballater at last we reach the real Scottish Highlands.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast
- Ascent: 1,520 Metres Approx.
Don’t forget to raise your eyes from the tarmac as we move on from Ballater this morning, this is spectacular countryside so make sure you take it all in. Beyond Grantown-on-Spey and into exposed moorland wilderness we press on through the villages Dava and Dulsie and pass by Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle fought on British soil. A few miles up the road and we arrive in Inverness where we end our day.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Ascent: 960 Metres Approx.
Back in the saddle, the challenge for this morning is to cross the Black Isle, the jagged peninsula separating Inverness and Dingwall. Once over the Cromarty Firth it’s one road all the way to Bonar Bridge where we meet Dornorch Firth and then it’s northwards past The Fall of Shin and onto Lairg for our penultimate stop.
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast
- Ascent: 1,125 Metres Approx.
As our epic adventure draws to a conclusion, a riverside route takes us to the northernmost shoreline of mainland Britain. A sharp change of direction at Bettyhill saves us from riding into the sea. We follow the coast road to Thurso, the Scottish mainland’s most northerly town; an early Viking settlement named after Norse ‘god of thunder’ Thor. And now we’re on the home straight, only 20 more miles and you’ve made it. Crack open the bubbly – congratulations are in order!!
At John O‘Groats we stop for a picture and celebrations! All that remains now is to settle into our accommodation where we’ll spend the evening celebrating our achievement and resting our legs. Congratulations… you’ve Skedaddled from Land’s End to John O‘Groats!
Show Profile- Meals: Breakfast
We depart at approx 09:00 for the 3 hour transfer to Inverness. If travelling by train, please do not arrange your train home any earlier than 13:30. If travelling by plane your flight should not depart before 15:00.
Please Note – Some destinations and distances may be subject to change. Lunches are provided for 50% of the riding days, with these specific days subject to alteration due to weather conditions etc.
Understanding Profiles
Use these profiles to see:
- Distance in Km (horizontal axis)
- Ascent / Descent in metres (vertical axis)
Click 'see gradient' to see:
- Distance in Km (horizontal axis)
- % Gradient (vertical axis)
Please check the scales on both graphs, and both axes as they both may differ from day to day.
White vertical lines indicate unpaved sections or slightly rougher terrain. Using both graphs, alongside the grading and terrain information provided, will give you a full picture of how flat, bumpy or steep the climbing on your particular tour is going to be. Please keep in mind this is an indicative guide and GPS units and software produce different statistical information.
Gallery
The Cycling
Terrain
We have picked quiet country roads wherever possible. The whole route is on good tarmac, and suited to lightweight road bikes. There are of course lots of climbs, and descents, with some sections through urban areas, but the majority of the route takes us through open countryside.
Some of this will be lowland, agricultural areas, and some will be over high and exposed hill country – especially in the North of England and Scotland.
Road Cycling Grade
Distances between 50-75 miles / 80-120km per day
For more regular riders who like to push themselves a little from time to time
Not extreme but certainly challenging on occasions with some good climbing opportunities
Our grading guidelines have been carefully created based on our many years of cycling experience, as well as customer feedback from our trips. Of course, if you're still struggling to figure out where you fit on the scale, do feel free to give us a quick call and we'll be more than happy to help!
For more information about our grading system click here.
Is this suitable for you?
You’re an enthusiast. Road cycling is probably your main hobby and you ride regularly at weekends, staying on the bike for much of the day. You’re in pretty good shape, and you might also participate in cylo-sportive events. You also love a challenge and are looking for a tour with some good climbing, preferably with an opportunity to tick off some famous Tour de France cols, or the like. You’re a competent descender, and you’re not afraid of speed, but you ride safely and within your limits at all times. You understand road etiquette and you’re comfortable riding in a bunch. You might even take a stint at the front of the pack if the need arises.
For more information about the grading of this holiday in particular, please check out the terrain section which will give you some specifics of what to expect on this tour.
I can honestly say that this trip was one of the best cycling experiences that I have ever had. Our guides could not have been more helpful. The fact that this was my sixth trip with Skedaddle speaks volumes!
Dates & Prices
Secure Your Holiday With A Deposit
Book now with a $500 deposit and nothing more to pay until 60 days before departure. Choose a date to start your booking and see all prices, including bike hire and single room supplements.
Whats Included
A) Accommodation (shared twin / double rooms)
B) Meals as per the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
C) Full support service including a Skedaddle support driver and Skedaddle riding guide
D) Unless stated, at least one leader qualified in First Aid
E) Support vehicle and luggage transfers
F) GPX files provided (GPS units available on request)
G) Access to the Skedaddle App for holiday information
H) Train station transfer on scheduled arrival day from Penzance train station
I) Airport/train station transfer on scheduled departure day to Inverness airport (INV) or Inverness train station
J) Financial Protection through ABTOT
What's not Included
A) Bike hire (available if required)
B) Flights and charges for travelling with your bike (if applicable)
C) Meals not stated in the itinerary
D) Single room (available if required)
E) Travel insurance
F) Personal clothing and equipment
G) Personal expenditure (souvenirs, bar bills, hotel facilities etc)
H) Entrance fees to museums and other attractions en route
I) Airport transfers on days other than the scheduled arrival / departure days
Private Departures
Are you keen to only travel with your family or friends? Struggling to find the right date? Well, we can organise a private departure for this tour and tailor aspects to suit your group's specific needs. Contact our friendly team and we'll help you turn your dream into reality.
The Essentials
News, Reviews & Stories
Preparing For Your Iconic Journey
What you need to know before you go on a long distance Iconic Journey
Our 26 favourite days in the saddle
What is the best day you can experience? Well, our expert team has some ideas...
Reviews
David, Kent, UKThe experience of a lifetime...The experience of a lifetime. Outstanding holiday once it started. From the moment we arrived at the start location the service was outstanding. The two guides (Peter Eagan and Dave Shuttle) were exceptional. Wonderful people and great guides that made our holiday so memorable. Faultless!
Richard, Mid Glamorgan, UKMost definitely the best route by far...All days were really enjoyable. This was my 4th trip doing LEJOG (first with Skedaddle) and was most definitely the best route by far. Previous trips with other providers have used paper instructions and/or markers on the route. Using the Garmin you could concentrate on the surroundings without fear of taking a wrong turn.
Peter, our guide, made the tour extra-special. What he doesn’t know about LEJOG routes isn’t worth knowing. His knowledge was incredible and pointing out sites and history during his pre-ride briefing was amazing.
I think congratulations are in order for managing to run this trip the way you did. Well done!
Sarah, Wiltshire, UKI was so impressed with the organisation...I was so impressed with the organisation of the trip in what must have been extremely challenging circumstances of the pandemic for both the guides and those in the office team. I felt that everything possible was done to make both the group, the accommodation providers and restaurants/pubs/cafes we visited feel safe.
Philip, North Yorkshire, UKSuperb trip!It is difficult to pick my favourite day out because of the variety – but I really enjoyed Wells to Hereford (the variety), Standish to Casterton (the beauty of the Trough of Bowland), Talkin to Peebles (beauty of the Borders) and most of the days in the North of Scotland due to the outstanding scenery.
Excellent guiding and company from David as ever! The COVID protocols were strong and exceeded those of most of the hotels and restaurants we visited – I think you did all that was possible. I felt safe.
This was a superb trip – a real “bucket list” item for any cyclist. I loved the variety of scenery and the chance to see my own country “close up” from a bike. It was something I will always remember and treasure.
Clive, Somerset, UKThe choice of route and the service were excellent..David organised things very efficiently and was very helpful with mechanical problems with the bikes. I felt confident that he could deal with any circumstance that might arise on the road or overnight. He was always planning ahead and anticipating problems before they happened. Alex was empathetic and very understanding of problems that people might have on the road. I knew that I could ask him for help if I needed it.
It must have been very difficult to make arrangements in the light of Covid. I thought that your staff did an excellent job of keeping us informed of the state of play. Whenever I had occasion to ring them they were extremely helpful, friendly and efficient.
I thought that under the circumstances it was a minor miracle that the trip went ahead and concluded so successfully. That this was possible is a tribute to the organisational abilities of both your office staff and our guides. Many thanks to all concerned!
Karen, Buckinghamshire, UKWhat an iconic trip .....What an iconic trip to have been able to complete! The routes were great! I was amazed at the extent to which major roads were avoided and as a result the beautiful scenery and villages we enjoyed cycling through. I loved Day 4 – Wells to Hereford : so many iconic locations: Cheddar Gorge, Clifton Suspension Bridge, Severn Bridge, Tintern Abbey and Wye Valley!! I loved Day 14 – Lairg to John O‘Groats : Beautiful scenery all the way – we were very lucky with the weather, absolutely stunning views all day and of course ending up in John O‘Groats. The guides were very helpful as regards my lack of road cycling experience verses the rest of the group and thus ensured I got to John O‘Groats and enjoyed the trip to the full.
I was impressed with the COVID information provided at the beginning of the trip and the constant real time updates along the way to ensure we did not inadvertently break rules in local areas. I was impressed by the respect and concern of the team leaders to ensure we were at all times behaving appropriately, constant reminders were much appreciated.
Mark, Essex, UKIt was the ride of my life!I have three favourite days…. 1) Riding through Cheddar George in the cool early morning sun was a really enjoyable experience. 2) My 50th Birthday… The Skeddadle team really made it special for me with a birthday celebration at every stop, morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea, plus a special birthday dinner joined by wife where I was presented with a birthday inner tube, to replace one of the many I had punctured! 3) Arriving at John O‘Groats “as a team“, having completed our 1000 mile journey together, a brilliant experience and one I am sure I will never forget! Our tour leader has an incredible knowledge of the route, he knows all of the cafes and toilets! He organised, motivated and encouraged us in equal measure and kept us entertained with his poetry from Robbie Burns. His Geordie humour was excellent and his handling of all those on the tour brilliant…. The support guide respected the tour leader as the senior guide and also added his own strength and knowledge of leading/guiding. Really good and fast to help with bike issues and super helpful in working with me to try and resolve repeated puncture issues (seven in total!). A great motivator, he used his coaching skills on a VERY wet day arriving in Inverness to help those of us feeling a bit knackered…... Already told all my friends on Facebook and Strava how good the Skedaddle experience was for me. . It was the ride of my life (so far!)....... Thank you!
Peter, Llansantffraid, UKEverything about the Skedaddle operation was spot-on!Difficult to summarise the holiday in a few words but I’ll try. Everything about the Skedaddle operation was spot-on, great attention to detail both before and during the trip. I was impressed by all things on the trip, quality of food for tea and lunch stops, route briefings, maps and GPS. And above all the trip guides, Peter a font of knowledge who lead without being assertive, and Julie who was great company and more than just support, and both always positive, cheerful, helpful and very hard working beyond what the riders saw. I could go on but hopefully the above gives my opinion of both the trip and Skedaddle.
Russ, Berkshire, UKExcellent as usual...Excellent as usual including booking, logistics, route planning and guides. I liked the mix of B&B and hotels. Breakfasts were super and better than France! I enjoy Skedaddle picnics but understand that in bad weather, Cafe stops are the only sensible option. I liked the way the guides introduced regional food (Cornish pasties, Chorley cakes etc to the picnic – fun and variety). My favourite day was Shropshire into Ironbridge. Sun was shining and we arrived in time to sit outside pub for post drink ride. Had the weather been better, maybe the final day, Laird to JOG might have topped that. The tour leaders encyclopedic knowledge of the route was fantastic, building on years of refinement. Fantastic routes through Bristol & Edinburgh and out of Inverness. His patience with errant riders was amazing – he deserves a medal. Lovely guy. The support guide was great, lovely sense of humour, great partner for the tour leader. Hard working always helpful. Go the extra mile type. Gelled with the group really well. Also deserves a medal!
Sin, SingaporeWell done Skedaddle!Every day was my favourite day! We had an excellent tour leader. He solves problems and he is patient , caring and would sometimes follow behind us. He knows the route well and he always anticipated problems and cared for the team in terms of food and providing technical assistance. We also had a brilliant office staff member. She replied to our queries almost immediately. She followed up our requests and she payed attention to the details. Well done Skedaddle! I will be joining your next holiday in Europe.