James Whateley

Friendships made on Lon Las Cymru in 2023.

2024 Charity Bike Rides for MS: Join the Journey

A Year of Adventure and Impact

Gear up for an incredible year of adventure as we announce our highly anticipated schedule of 2024 charity bike rides for MS! Our four extraordinary events will bring together cycling enthusiasts and passionate individuals. All united in our mission to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis. Get ready to pedal, push yourself, and make a lasting impact on the lives of those living with MS.

4 Charity Bike Rides for 2024

Join us as we embark on a summer of cycling, beginning with the iconic Land’s End to John O ‘Groats adventure. Journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the North Coast 500 route, experience the scenic beauty of England on the remarkable Sea to Sea or Coast to Coast (C2C) route, and conquer the captivating Lon Las Cymru route, spanning the length of Wales. Each event presents a unique opportunity to push your boundaries and connect with fellow riders. Create lasting memories while supporting a cause that truly matters.

Below, we’ll take you through the thrilling highlights of each charity bike ride. From the scenic surroundings to the heart-pumping challenges that lie ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a passionate supporter, these MS fundraising events in 2024 provide a perfect platform to make a tangible difference. Contribute to vital research projects, local MS groups, and the overarching goal of finding a cure.

Land’s End to John O’Groats Cycle Route – July 6-20th

A fantastic opportunity to cycle the length of Great Britain, covering 1,020 miles from the southernmost point of England to the northern tip of Scotland. Commonly known as LEJOG, this iconic route offers breathtaking landscapes and an unforgettable challenge.

Starting at Land’s End, the south western most point of the UK, you’ll pedal your way through picturesque villages, rolling hills, and captivating countryside. The LEJOG route takes you through England’s southwest region, passing by landmarks such as Cheddar Gorge, the untamed moors of Dartmoor National Park, and the picturesque Lake District further north. As you venture beyond half way, you’ll enter the rugged beauty of Scotland, with its majestic highlands and vast lochs.

Spanning 15 days, the Land’s End to John O’Groats cycle route is a challenging ride that requires dedication, stamina, and a love for the open road. Throughout the ride, you’ll be fully supported by our experienced team, ensuring your safety and comfort every step of the way.

How much does it cost to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats you ask? Unlike other events with upfront costs to register, we have only an initial donation of £25 to cover your welcome pack and then ask riders to raise £1.50 per mile, so a total of £1,530 for LEJOG. This can be raised through donors, self funded or a mix of the two, whatever suits you best. The Land’s End to John O’Groats cycle is a key component of our 2024 charity bike rides. Participants will have the chance to make a tangible difference in the fight against MS.

In awe of the Scottish Highlands on Land's End to John O'Groats, one of our 2024 Charity Bike Rides for MS — In awe of the Scottish Highlands on Land’s End to John O’Groats!

Exploring the North Coast 500 – July 27th to August 3rd

Take on the wild North Coast 500 cycle route! A captivating ride that showcases the stunning landscapes of Scotland’s northern coastline. One of the standout features of this route is taking on the legendary Bealach na Ba, a daring 2000ft climb over 5 miles. Brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping ascent that will push your limits. Be rewarded with panoramic views that will leave you breathless (quite literally).

As you pedal along the NC500, you’ll be spellbound by the ever-changing scenery that unfolds before your eyes. Navigate winding roads, pass through charming villages, and immerse yourself in the untouched splendour of the Scottish Highlands. Each turn presents a new vista to behold. From dramatic cliffs to serene beaches, and from lush greenery to majestic mountains. This is a cycling experience that will not only challenge you physically, but also ignite your sense of adventure and wonder.

Conquering the Sea to Sea & Lon Las Cymru

Prepare for an extraordinary charity cycle ride adventure as we conquer the Sea to Sea cycle route from 17-19th August. Also known as the Coast to Coast or C2C route, ride from Whitehaven to Tynemouth on the North Sea. Pedal through diverse scenery, including the tough hills of the Northern Lake District. Traverse the Pennines, the ‘backbone of England’, before reaching the vibrant city of Newcastle.

Finally, we have the Lon Las Cymru route on the 24-27th August. The route was new to Bike the UK for MS in 2023. The route spans the length of Wales, from Holyhead to Cardiff. It showcases the remarkable countryside and cultural treasures from Snowdonia to the Brecon Beacons.

Both of these routes offer challenging yet rewarding experiences, connecting participants with the heart of the UK while supporting the MS cause.

Making an Impact on our 2024 Charity Cycle Rides

Participating in our 2024 charity bike rides for MS allows you to make a real impact. By raising funds and awareness, you’ll support local MS groups, contribute to vital research projects and bring us one step closer to finding a cure. Together, we can create a brighter future for those living with multiple sclerosis.

As we launch our 2024 campaign, we invite you to be a part of this remarkable journey. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or looking to make a difference, there’s a place for you in our MS rides. Sign up today!

The Bath Group of the MS Society with our Bike the UK for MS team trialling all the adapted bikes at Odd Down Cycle Circuit.

Celebrating Your Impact: £50,000 raised to promote MS awareness and help MS Support Groups

Discover how our riders raised £50,000 in 2023 for MS awareness and support, empowering MS Support Groups across the UK.

MS Stories: East Cumbria MS Society Group

Over the years, Bike the UK for MS has visited many different MS Society groups, having supported and been supported by them across many of our trips throughout the whole history of the charity. One such group is the East Cumbria MS Society Group. This is a group we have met a number of times across both our Lands End to John O’Groats trips and Sea to Sea trips. Through these meetings we build a meaningful bond with local groups, adding extra motivation and meaning to our riders efforts.

Sea to Sea 2023 Riders meeting the East Cumbria MS Society Group – photo credits: Ella Miles

Our most recent visit to the East Cumbria Group was at Penrith on the end of the first day of riding on our Sea to Sea trip, at the amazing Penrith Rugby Club who kindly let us stay overnight. The MS Society group were kind enough to share a bit about Bike the UK for MS within their most recent newsletter. Discover more about the local group, alongside some of our riders and ride leaders stories (and some amazing photos) within the Newsletter, which they have kindly let us share on here…

AutumnNewsletter2023-FinalDraftv5 Download

It is a highlight of our rides to meet and spend time with these local MS Societies, and to see the crucial work they do for those living with MS in their communities. For anyone looking to discover more about the East Cumbria MS Society group you can find them through the MS Society website; East Cumbria Group | MS Society. Additionally, if you are looking for info on your local MS Society group you can find them through the MS Societies local search tool.

Finally, discover more about our Sea to Sea trip for 2024 here, your 2024 adventure awaits!

Some of the Loughborough RAG Students having completed our July 2022 North Coast 500 Ride - Photo Credit: Unknown

University RAG Partnerships with Bike the UK for MS

Over the years, Bike the UK for MS has worked with many University RAG groups, having students from a number of different universities riding with us. Looking ahead to the 2024 Trips, we are excited to continue this fantastic partnership, working with RAG groups from Manchester, Nottingham, and Loughborough Universities.

What is RAG?

But what is University RAG? RAG is an organisation through which students can discover and tackle amazing challenges whilst raising money for good causes. For example, the university RAG will often run RAG fairs with a number of challenges and causes represented. Ultimately, these fairs provide a place where students can take the opportunity to visit a number of different charity stands to discover the causes they could support and the adventures they could tackle.

Manchester Get into Volunteering Fair

These RAG Fairs are a highlight of our off season, getting to travel out to different universities and meet some amazing people, looking to tackle the country by bike whilst raising money for Multiple Sclerosis Research and Awareness. This year we have been lucky enough to attend the Manchester Get into Volunteering fair, spending the day in the Student’s Union promoting our rides for 2024. It was great to see the interest across the board, from our 14 days of riding Land’s End to John O’Groats ride to our 3 day Sea to Sea trip.

The Bike the UK for MS stand at the Manchester RAG Fair – Photo Credit: Tommy Blake

Loughborough RAG

Looking ahead, we will be in Loughborough for the Loughborough University Unlock an Activity Night on the 9th October! This is a fantastic opportunity to share our new Loughborough RAG specific trip for 2024, that being the iconic London to Paris Route. After multiple years of students joining us on our NC500 trips, we can’t wait to tackle this new challenge with them!

If any Loughborough students are interested please do come down and visit us. We’d love to share more information on the challenge with you, discuss bikes or even just say hello!
If any university RAG groups or clubs are interested in partnering with us to have riders joining our trips, please do get in touch at info@biketheukforms.org, we’d love to hear from you.

Some of the amazing group from Robinson College, Cambridge who tackled our 2023 Sea to Sea trip – Photo Credit: Tommy Blake

Some tough climbs on the Lôn Las Cymru route.

Cycling Lôn Las Cymru: A Spectacular 4-Day Adventure through Wales

Bike the UK for MS ventured into the heart of Wales with the inaugural Lôn Las Cymru ride in May. This challenging yet rewarding route covers approximately 250 miles (400 km) from the picturesque town of Holyhead to the vibrant cities of Cardiff. The ride not only offered scenic landscapes, but also served a higher purpose, raising funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis (MS). Let’s dive into the unforgettable experience of the cycling Lôn Las Cymru in 2023 and explore the renowned route to inspire your next adventure.

The 2023 Lôn Las Cymru Ride

The 2023 team was composed of 11 exceptional Bike the UK for MS alumni, individuals who had previously embarked on trips such as Land’s End to John O’Groats, the North Coast 500 and the Sea to Sea with the organisation. Supported by 5 route leaders, the team consisted of diverse participants, from students and young professionals to parents, all united by a common goal – raising £1.50 per mile ridden to reach a collective target of £6000. Some team members had MS themselves or a direct connection to the disease, making the journey even more meaningful.

Lovely country lanes whilst cycling Lôn Las Cymru

Throughout the 4-day ride, the team encountered challenges and triumphs. The route presented steep climbs in and around Eryi National Park (Snowdonia), but the splendid weather graced them with awe-inspiring views. The group navigated equally steep descents made challenging with rough roads in places. As they progressed through mid Wales and reached Brecon Beacons, the meandering country lanes offered tranquil surroundings and a taste of Wales’ natural beauty. The final day culminated with a breathtaking ride (both physically and metaphorically) from Talybont Reservoir to Pontsticill Reservoir, followed by a jubilant finish at Cardiff Bay, just outside the Wales Millennium Centre.

The Lôn Las Cymru Route

Length and Direction

Spanning 250 miles (400 km), the Lôn Las Cymru route runs between Holyhead and either Cardiff or Chepstow. For an optimal journey home with better train options, our preferred direction is from north to south, starting in Holyhead and finishing in Cardiff. This approach also places the challenging climbs early on, with the toughest ascent between Porthmadog and Llanidloes on Day 2. However, when finishing in Cardiff be prepared for slow-going bike paths on busy weekends for the final stretch along the River Taff.

Recommended Duration

While Lôn Las Cymru can be completed in a single day for those seeking an intense challenge, a 4 to 5-day adventure allows riders to savour the stunning surroundings and take on the climbs at a steady pace.

Accommodation and Food Options

Cyclists have various accommodation choices, including hotels, B&Bs, hostels, and campsites. Numerous towns along the route provide ample opportunities to replenish food and water supplies. While the route offers regular access to amenities, carrying plenty of snacks and planning for unexpected shop closures is important. Alternatively, van supported trips are a good option for a stress free ride.

We were fortunate to have some incredible generous hosts along the route including Canolfan Gymunedol Morlo (Gwelfor Community Centre), Porthmadog Football Club, Llanidloes Rugby Club and Kensington Baptist Church. Being hosted allows us to keep our costs to minimum and put more funds towards MS projects.

Following the Sustrans Route 8 signs on Lôn Las Cymru — Following the Sustrans Route 8 signs

Amazing views on route for the riders and support crew on Lôn Las Cymru — Following the Sustrans Route 8 signs

Following the Lôn Las Cymru

The official Lôn Las Cymru route map is designed by Sustrans, primarily following Route 8, but occasionally connecting with Routes 4 and 5. The route is well signposted, although riders should stay alert for obscured signs. A reliable bike computer or following along on Strava can enhance the navigation experience.

Best Time to Cycle Lôn Las Cymru

To avoid the unpredictable Welsh weather, summer months (June to August) are recommended for cycling Lôn Las Cymru. Despite increased traffic during the holiday season, the majority of the route is on quiet back lanes and bike paths, minimising risks.

Planning Resources

Sustrans offers a route map for purchase. We have bespoke Lôn Las Cymru maps with day-by-day, 1-page maps with turn-by-turn directions available upon request too. Find the route and download the Lôn Las Cymru GPX files from our Strava:

Day 1 – Holyhead to Porthmadog 68.5 miles and 3,658ft of climbing
Day 2 – Porthmadog to LLanidloes 71 miles and 7,371ft of climbing
Day 3 – Llanidloes to Brecon 63.5 miles and 4,700ft of climbing
Day 4 – Brecon to Cardiff 52 miles and 2,461ft of climbing
Full Lôn Las Cymru Route Map

A Challenging Yet Rewarding Experience

Climbing Challenges

Lôn Las Cymru features challenging climbs, particularly on Day 2 between Porthmadog and Llanidloes. Descents may present road surfaces with potholes, gravel, and moss, requiring cautious riding. Consider using wider and sturdier tires for added protection against flats.

All Abilities Welcome

While the route demands solid fitness and preparation, Lôn Las Cymru is designed to be achievable for riders of all abilities. A base level of fitness is essential, but it’s still an excellent option even for first-time multi-day bike adventurers. Those who prefer additional support can explore guided and supported ride options too.

Yet more smiles at the end of cycling Lôn Las Cymru

Highlights to Treasure

Cycling Lôn Las Cymru rewards riders with unparalleled vistas and memorable stops along the way. From the natural beauty of Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons to the warmth of Welsh communities, the route offers an unforgettable experience.

Supporting Local Communities

We encourages participants to respect and engage with the towns along the route. Fostering connections and appreciation for the local communities is vital to maintain great cycling routes like Lôn Las Cymru.

We had the privilege of meeting the Gwynedd/Ynys Mon Group of the MS Society at the Fron Goch Garden Centre in Caernarfon. The group, run by the volunteers, Susannah Robinson, and her team, covers a wide area of North Wales.

Conclusions on cycling Lôn Las Cymru

Lôn Las Cymru with Bike the UK for MS is an incredible 4-day cycling adventure through the heart of Wales, offering not only spectacular landscapes, but also an opportunity to support those living with MS. The 2023 ride was a resounding success, creating lasting memories for the team and providing essential funds for those living with MS.

Join the Lôn Las Cymru adventure in 2024! Experience camaraderie, breathtaking views, and the fulfilment of supporting an great cause. Register today to become part of the Bike the UK for MS family. Embark on a journey that will leave a lasting impact!

[Author’s note: Please note that the information provided is based on the 2023 ride and may be subject to updates in subsequent years.]

Felix Young riding in 2014 with Bike the UK for MS

Meet Felix Young, the New Bike the UK for MS Programme Manager

We are thrilled to introduce you to Felix Young, the new Programme Manager for Bike the UK for MS. Felix is an avid cyclist with an extensive background in coaching and event organisation. He has been a part of the Bike the UK for MS community since its inception in 2014 and has experienced it from all angles – as a rider, a Route Leader, and a Board Trustee.

Felix shares his personal Bike the UK for MS story, including the memories, friendships, and experiences that have had a lasting impact on his life. He also explains the charity’s purpose and how it has evolved over the years, highlighting the shared sense of excitement, adventure, and camaraderie that exists throughout the MS community.

The Many Hats of Felix Young: Coaching, Event Organisation, and Cycleball

Hello everyone, allow me to re-introduce myself! I am incredibly excited to have taken up the role as the Bike the UK for MS UK Programme Manager and am looking forward to a new chapter in my Bike the UK for MS story. Working alongside James, Ella and the rest of the Bike the UK for MS team I can’t wait to build on the tremendous projects running in order to make this year’s trips the best yet and to do even more to support those with MS through the work of the charity.

My Bike the UK for MS story began all the way back on the first ever John O’ Groats to Land’s End trip in 2014 where I was a rider. The two weeks spent on the trip have had an everlasting impact with memories, friendships and experiences that will last a lifetime. The sense of excitement, adventure and camaraderie on that first trip have become part of the DNA of the charity and continues to exist through all of the rides and riders who have been part of the last nine years.

Felix Young has been running events for the likes of British Cycling over recent years.

Felix Young riding on John O'Groats to Land's End in 2014

Finding Purpose and Meaning Through Bike the UK for MS

The purpose of the charity was clear for all to see, even at the very beginning, with the event held alongside the Bath branch of the MS Society. There are lots of personal benefits to take away from being part of a trip like those on Bike the UK for MS, but sharing the ride and riding for those we meet at the MS Society brings a whole new level of meaning and drive. They truly felt part of our adventure and it was with pride and thrill that we turned the pedals as our part to play in their lives.

Of course, after such a great first time, I had to come back for more and so, despite being unable to join for a full trip, I was back the following year to ride a segment of the End to End ride: the final three days from Bath down to Land’s End. It was a great way to get another taste of that Bike the UK for MS goodness.

Felix Young in Land's End having completed John O'Groats to Land's End in 2014

Felix with his son. He's been getting him into riding from a young age!

Bike the UK for MS from a different perspective: Behind the scenes and on the board

I have also experienced Bike the UK for MS from the other side of the organisation. Having been a rider in those first two years, I was back for the third trip in 2016, this time behind the wheel of the support van as a Route Leader. Bike the UK for MS is a real community with the shared experience across the different trips from year to year; it felt amazing to be able to not only benefit from the hard work of the support teams as a rider, but also to help others benefit and experience what it was that I loved about the trips. You get to see and feel it all again through those who you are supporting.

I have also been a member of the board of trustees as James continued to nurture and develop the scope of the charity: a valuable insight into the mechanics of the organisation that goes on to facilitate the delivery on the road. It is a real honour to be part of a charity that is so keen to innovate, explore and push the boundaries of what is possible to be achieved.

Professional Experience in Cycling and Expertise in Cycleball

The rest of my working life has been in cycling across both coaching and event organisation. I was a staff member at British Cycling working as an events officer and oversaw the delivery of a wide range of events from Paracycling National Championships and BMX races through to sportives and cyclocross leagues. I am also the head coach of Avid Sport, a cycling team for young men and women based in the Bath and Bristol area. Over the years I have supported and organised cycling trips both in the UK and abroad and my life as a cyclist started with a charity bike ride at school from London to Paris.

Finally, a left-field fact about me: I am the UK’s leading expert (self-proclaimed but then it is a small field!) in Cycleball and took the first ever British team to the World Championships in 2022.

Join us in welcoming Felix to the Bike the UK for MS team with a message below.

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Zwift Training for MS - Tuesday Evenings at 7pm - Bike the UK for MS

Zwift Training for MS Rides

Starting January 31st, our weekly virtual Zwift training rides are back for everyone! Whether on Zwift, keen for a social chat on Zoom or need some added motivation for a home workout, we’ve got you covered.

Join Bike the UK for MS founder, James, on Tuesday evenings at 7pm on Zoom to chat all things training, Bike the UK for MS and Zwift training for MS. Joining instructions below.

Whether you’re riding a 2023 Bike the UK for MS adventure, interested in a summer ride for MS or one of our star alumni, get involved! It’s an opportunity to meet fellow team members, ask any questions you may have and kickstart your winter training.

Zwift Training ride - Bike the UK for MS

How to join the Zwift Training for MS

ZWIFT Riders:

1. Follow ‘Bike the UK for MS’ on the Zwift Companion app or here
2. Look out for a meetup request to follow
3. Join Zwift ready to ride at 7pm on Tuesday

Zoom:

Join the zoom call following this link.

Everyone is welcome to join the Zoom call even if you aren’t on Zwift or not riding!

2022 Year in Review

With the depths of winter creeping ever nearer, it feels like a good time to cast our minds back to the past summer season and reflect on what has been another extraordinary year for Bike the UK for MS.

Daniel Burns

Sum up your memories about the trip.

I had a great two weeks away meeting new people who were there for the same reason. It was a great challenge everyone took it onboard and we all got there in the end. I loved it that much I am now signed up for Sea to Sea in August 2020, just need to work on my singing skills now!!

What’s your favourite memory from your trip?

My pedal coming off my bike as I was standing in cow poo. Also, the karaoke at the rest stops – we should have recorded that and sold it!

______________________

What is your age?

What made you want to ride your bike across the country?

To see places, meet new people and help raise funds towards MS charities.

Where do you live?

Dumbarton, Scotland

What routes/years did you ride with Bike the UK for MS?

JOGLE 2019

Do you have a connection to Multiple Sclerosis?

Yes, my mum has MS

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Pre-trip

How much training did you do for your trip?

Maybe 50 miles a week on the bike on average but I also run which helped.

What was your cycling experience before signing up?

I just cycled for enjoyment and commuting to work.

Where did you find the most success fundraising?

Word of mouth as I don’t use social media.

Embarking on any big trip can be intimidating. What was your biggest pre-trip worry?

My biggest pre-trip worry was being the only Scottish person if anyone was going to understand me!

How did you travel to and from the trip?

I got the train to Penzance and then a taxi to Land’s End, then I got a lift by car back from John O’Groats.

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Gear

What’s one thing you brought that you couldn’t have lived without?

Money for a beer at the end of the day.

What’s one thing you brought that you wish you hadn’t?

A gas stove as it took up so much space and I only used it once.

Is there anything you spent a bit more money on that you were glad you did?

My shorts as they made the journey more comfortable.

How much casual clothes (t-shirts, shorts, etc) did you bring?

Jeans, tracksuit bottoms, hoody, jacket and 2 T-shirts.

How many pairs of cycling shorts/bibs did you bring?

What type of camping gear did you bring?

Tent, roll matt, stove, pots and pans.

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Food

What was your favourite van snack?

Ote caramel flapjack

How often would you go out to eat?

Most nights apart from 1 or 2.

What did you put in your day cubby (in the rest stop van)?

Peanut butter, bananas, Pringles, cereal bars/flapjacks

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On-the-bike

Did you prefer to ride alone or in a group?

Group.

What would you keep in your bike jersey pockets?

Banana and sun cream.

Did you use a rack/saddle bag/handlebar bag?

What type of tyres did you ride?

Standard road tyres.

Did you use a bike computer? What was your normal pace?

No, just Strava and Garmin watch; 13/14 mph.

How long did it take to learn to read the maps?

I’m still learning.

Riding on a flat terrain with a headwind, or climbing a mountain pass for miles. Which do you prefer?

Definitely a mountain pass for miles!

Would you rather be riding through cold rain or extreme heat?

Extreme heat.

What was the most physically challenging segment for you?

The start of the day from Carlisle to Carluke.

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Routine

Were you an early riser, or rolling out of camp late?

Early riser.

When you got to camp, the first thing you did was….

Found the nearest pub.

How often would you do laundry?

Every couple of days but only got a proper laundrette once.

It’s the evening and you’re out of your bike clothes, fed, and your tent is pitched. What are you doing to pass the time until you fell asleep?

Just go for a wonder about to see what’s happening, sort my stuff for the next day and go for a pint.

On the rest day, did you prefer to go out and see what the town has to offer, or did you hang out, rest up, and relax?

Go out and see the town.

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Reflecting

Do you keep in touch with many of your teammates?

Yes now and again.

What was your favourite MS group meet up?

Would have to be biased and say the Dumbarton group.

Do you feel like you are more aware of the impact that MS has on the lives of those affected by it?

100%

What was your biggest takeaway from the trip?

Live life to the max, you never know what’s round the corner, also when you think you’re having a tough day just think about the people we raised the money for – they’re having it 10 times as hard.