Cycle the oldest cycle tour in europe on this classic lands end to john o groats lejog with cycle event tour operator european cycling tours

Before even the days of the ‘Tour de France’…
In 1882 the ‘Lands End to John O’Groats’ was first ridden on the bicycle by Alfred Nixon.
Since then, the ‘LEJOG’ has become the world famous iconic long-distance cycling challenge that is on every cyclist’s bucket list!

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The Classic Lands End to John 'O'Groats Bike Ride

The LEJOG has many versions [fact]!

However, we firmly believe here at ECT we have designed the ultimate Lands End to John ‘O’Groats bike ride for you to enjoy!

A route established from years of experience cycling throughout the United Kingdom, our twelve day, 1,000 mile cycling adventure will ensure you have the ride of a lifetime enjoying the best roads, the best accommodation and of course the very best support from us!

Now it’s your turn to cycle the world famous ‘LEJOG’

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Cycle the world famous “LEJOG”, from the breathtaking tip of the most south western point to the farthest north eastern point of mainland United Kingdom.
Your cycling adventure begins at spectacular ‘Lands End’. From here you will begin your journey of discovery in the spectacular celtic county of Cornwall scribing an undulating course towards the historic city of Bristol before changing bearing directly northward and on to the heartland of ancient England. Passing through lush vales and historic towns of the shires northbound to the border counties and the highlands of the ‘auld world’ – Scotland! Here you will cycle the best of the west coast lochs and highland valley’s, including the world famous Loch Ness! Finally, you cycle the final stages high into the upper reaches of ancient United Kingdom landscape and your final destination… John ‘O’Groats!

There is no need to hurry!

Our philosophy is, if you’re going to go through all this preparation and planning for your epic challenge then make the most of it and enjoy it!
The United Kingdom has so much to offer in one ride!
Our version of the LEJOG is designed for you to take in the best of the United Kingdom along the way… famous heritage sites, spectacular views & historic locations.
Our itinerary is inclusive to most cyclists who enjoy a good weekend ride and/or keep fit regularly cycling. Or to a group of people who are looking for the ultimate cycle challenge to fundraise for a worthy cause and are looking for a provider to help coordinate & support them to complete and achieve the dream of a lifetime!

Read on to see how we can help you and your team of riders complete the world famous LEJOG…

Total Distance [approx]: 1000mi [1,600km]
Total Ascent: 12,446m
Max Alt: 350m
Difficulty Grade: 4/5
14 NightsAvailable for private booking
Adventure Score: #10
Guide Price: POA
As a classic British end-to-end ride, this tour closely follows the principles outlined in our guided cycling holidays in the United Kingdom guide.

The Classic Lands End to John 'O'Groats

LEJOG Itinerary

Arrival Day > You are recommended to arrive to the event by rail. Please arrange your travel to Penzance rail station. From here you will be collected and transported to your overnight accommodation where you will ‘meet ‘n’ greet’ your ECT team before the event briefing. After which there will be dinner and early night!

Day 1 > The start of your epic ride!
Now you will ride the entire length of the United Kingdom!
Our typical itinerary is over 12 days (without break day) – approximately 84 miles per day.
Depending on your requirements, this can be tailored to include break days and/or to be over more or less cycling days.

There are not many UK roads we don’t know and have not ridden on [fact]!
We promise you a route that’s peaceful (as possible) that will take you on a truly memorable cycling adventure over 1000 miles of diverse landscape, history and scenery. From the rugged Atlantic coastline of Cornwall through the soft rolling countryside of the shires to the ice age lochs and valleys of Scotland, this ride has it all!

Finish Day > On arriving to John O’Groats – CELEBRATIONS! 🥂🍾
You will spend the night at John O’Groats with a celebration meal and maybe a glass of fizz or 3!
The following morning, you will be transferred to Inverness rail station for your onward return journey home. Please make your return plans from here.

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We will be glad to discuss your requirements and help design, plan and deliver the perfect LEJOG experience for your group…
Itinerary can be changed to suit your group!
You can add or reduce days or why not even include a rest day to take in a special location and treat yourself to a spa hotel!
Call one of our team today to begin your epic journey.
☎ +44(0)-1308-538-380

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Discover ancient roadways of the United Kingdom

Included

✅ Route & Navigational Planning
✅ All Operational & Logistical Planning
✅ 3/4**** Bed & Breakfast Accommodation
✅ Cycle Leader(s)
✅ Full Vehicle Support
✅ First Aiders
✅ Bike Mechanic(s)
✅ Luggage Transfer
✅ Incredible scenery riding the ‘B’ roads and country lanes of the United Kingdom

✅ Optional bike transfer available – ask us for a quote to collect your bikes and to return them afterwards.

GUIDED OR SELF-GUIDED OPTIONS AVAILABLE

*We recommend for large groups that dinner plans are also made in advance – we will discuss this option at the time of your enquiry regarding your group size.

Not Included

Travel to/from the event, lunches, evening meals, airport transfers.

For overseas customers, please speak to us about an optional airport transfer service.

For large groups, we recommend discussing and planning a meal option for lunches and evening dinners.

Logistics

You are required to arrange your own travel to Penzance [start meet] and from Inverness rail station [after finish].
Transfers to Lands End from Penzance and from John ‘O’Groats to Inverness are included.
Your personal bags will be carried by the support vehicle throughout the event.
It is possible to arrange with us the transport of your bikes to/from the event – please discuss at time of booking.

Climate & Kit

This is the UK! We should expect all weather pattern types including everything from heat waves to Atlantic storms! You should prepare for all conditions and temperatures. Remember to bring layers – not heavy coverings.
This is principally a road bike tour.
However, on this amazing ride, we will also be using cyclepaths, old rail routes and green lanes to help us discreetly pass through cities and avoid major road intersections.
Therefore your road bike should be equipped with wide tyres no less than 28mm. Gravel bikes are more than welcome on this trip!
Your bike should be well maintained and in good running order with suitable ‘road gears’ and brakes.
A full kit list will be issued in your ‘Joining Instructions’ document after your application.
We will be glad to discuss any aspect of kit and your bike with you, please call us anytime with any questions.

Completing LEJOG requires endurance, reliability, and comfort. Selecting the right bike is essential for success. Our guide to choosing the best bike for cycling holidays in Europe explains how to prepare properly.

Bike rental available
eBikes also welcome!

Fitness & training for your LEJOG

This is a level 4 cycle event.
When you arrive, you should be capable of riding comfortably upto 140km in a day and/or used to riding distances upto 100km over hilly terrain. You should have ideally also completed a previous multi-day cycle tour, however not essential.
Training however is essential!
You should seek to train to build up your comfort and stamina on the bicycle to cope with back-to-back days cycling and long hours in the saddle – you don’t want to find out how ‘saddle sore’ feels while on this ride!
If you have any doubt as to your fitness regarding participation in this event please give us a call and we will be more than happy to chat with you.

Click here for Training Plan

LEJOG Route Overview

Route for the world famous lejog ride in the united kingdom organised by cycle tour operator european cycling tours
Ride Europe's original long distance cycle tour

Contact us to discuss your Lands End to John ‘O’Groats

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LEJOG

Available to private groups, charity and corporate organisations

Free quotes and design options available
Guided or Self-Guided
Speak to us to tailor your trip – one of the team will be glad to help…

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UK Cycle Tour Operator

Trusted Since 2015

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Better organisation than Team Sky, Jason and Giles where awesome. Every thing ran so smoothly all we had to do was ride!
Richard 2018

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The Classic Lands End to John 'O'Groats

[LEJOG]

FAQs for cycling Lands End to John 'o' Groats

Is this tour right for me?

This tour is a good choice for riders who want expert support while exploring new regions by bike. Daily guidance and backup make the experience accessible and enjoyable. This guide outlines the differences between guided and self-guided cycling holidays.

What is the history behind the Lands End to John O’Groats bike challenge?

The bike challenge from Lands End to John O’Groats was first ridden in 1882 by Alfred Nixon and has since become the world-famous iconic long-distance cycling challenge that is on every cyclist’s bucket list.

What does the Lands End to John O’Groats tour involve?

The tour is a twelve-day, approximately 1,000-mile cycling adventure through the best roads, accommodation, and scenery of the UK, following a route from Lands End in Cornwall to John O’Groats in Scotland with full support and designed for enjoyment.

What are the key details of the LEJOG route?

The route starts at Lands End, traveling through Cornwall, Bristol, the shires, and highland Scotland, passing iconic landmarks like Loch Ness, with celebrations upon arrival at John O’Groats, totaling around 1000 miles with varied terrain and scenic views.

What is included in the organized LEJOG cycling tour?

The tour includes route and navigational planning, operational logistics, four-star accommodation, cycle leaders, vehicle support, first aid, bike mechanics, luggage transfer, and scenic road routes, with optional bike transfer services.

What should I consider in terms of fitness, weather, and equipment for this challenge?

Participants should be able to ride up to 140 km daily, train for back-to-back long days, be prepared for UK’s unpredictable weather, and have well-maintained road bikes with wide tyres, suitable gears, and the appropriate clothing for all conditions.