The Challenge
The first ‘End to End’ was recorded in 1879 by Robert Carlyle. Since that time, thousands have completed it in ever increasing numbers.
People have attempted this challenge on bicycles, including a penny-farthing bicycle, carried crosses, walked nude, carried doors and bricks, pushed wheelbarrows and travelled by car, wheelchair and aeroplane.
In the early days, cyclists had basic bikes. Penny-farthings were popular and solid tyres were common!
The 1st record for cycling end to end was 6 days 16 hours in 1885 set by James Lennox of Dumfries, but by 1965 that was down to under 2 days. The current record is 1 day 20 hours, 4 mins and 19 seconds by cycling! This is of course on a racing bike with full support, riding lightweight, non-stop.
One of the more famous people to complete it is Dr. Barbara Moore in the 1960’s. She was probably the person who re-awakened people to the challenge when she walked the route.
Lands End to John O’Groats is a minimum of 874 miles as the crow flies but our route will be around the 910-mile mark.
Either way it represents a challenge that cannot be taken lightly. To complete this challenge requires dedication and commitment.
Training the body and mind to cope with the daily distance is an important aspect in your preparation for this ultimate British challenge.
Lands End is the most south-westerly tip of the English mainland. John O’Groats is situated at the northern tip of mainland Scotland with fine views over the Pentland Firth towards the Orkney Islands.
The name John O’Groats dates back to 1496 when three Dutch brothers, the de Groots, worked on the land and sea in that area. Eventually the area became known as John O’Groats.
Starting at Lands’ End, we cycle each day for 10 days, covering the 910 mile route. Staying in hotels most nights we have evening meals and breakfasts there. but includes just 3 nights camping, On reaching John O’Groats, we are taken by coach back to Inverness for our last night’s stay and celebration meal. We disperse from the hotel the next morning to return home.
A cycle helmet is compulsory on this event. We do not carry any cycle helmets so you must ensure you bring one with you.
Duration of event
Duration : 10 Days cycling meeting at Lands End. 11 nights, ending in Inverness.
Grade : Tough
Dates available
6th – 16th September 2020
Other group dates can be arranged by request.
Prices
Trip cost: £140 registration + trip cost £1460.
Fundraising: you are free to organise fundraising for any charity if you wish to.
If you wish to pay for the trip in instalments you can do so.
What is included
All snacks, food and drinks throughout the trip.
Hotel or bunkroom most nights with evening meal and breakfast.
Camping 3 nights.
Full support with mini-bus daily, qualified guides and Cycle mechanic.
Celebration meal on the last night.
What is not included
Cycle
Cycle clothing
Spares for cycle