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Cycling Through Life with MS: Paul James’ Journey with Bike the UK for MS

From the RAF to the Road: Meet Paul James (PJ)

For many, life takes unexpected turns, and for Paul James —better known as PJ—this couldn’t be more true. A lifelong sports enthusiast and former Royal Air Force serviceman, PJ has always embraced an active lifestyle. But in 2022, a sudden decline in health set him on a path he never anticipated. By January 2023, he was diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (MS) , a condition that would challenge his resilience in ways he never expected. Now 55, PJ lives in West Sussex with his wife Sarah and their two miniature dachshunds. While MS may have changed some aspects of his life, it has certainly not stopped him—especially when it comes to cycling.

A Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Like many people diagnosed with MS, PJ had little understanding of the condition before his own journey began. “Beyond the initial shock and uncertainty, the emotional journey was made all the easier by the support network, information, and empathy provided through MS charities and communities,” he says. Connecting with others who understood what he was going through helped him process the news and find the strength to move forward. His biggest takeaway? “It’s good to talk. It’s so true!”

Living with MS: Adjusting to a New Normal

MS is unpredictable, and for PJ, the biggest daily challenge is fatigue. “There can be some steady periods of relatively normal life, but I have to take medication daily to help minimise the extent to which the illness might spread through my brain and spine,” he explains. Adjusting his daily schedule and work routine to accommodate his energy levels has been essential in maintaining a balanced life. While he may have had to make some adjustments, he refuses to let MS dictate what he can and cannot do.

Cycling with MS: A Source of Strength and Freedom

For PJ, cycling is more than just a pastime—it’s a critical part of his MS management. “My neurological specialist thoroughly recommended it to help with joint and muscle strength, along with the cognitive benefits and emotional uplift of doing something I absolutely love.” Fortunately, he hasn’t needed any modifications to his bike. He rides a standard road bike, commuting daily and taking longer recreational rides on weekends through the rolling hills of South Downs and the Surrey Hills.

Finding Purpose: Joining Bike the UK for MS

In 2024, PJ took on the Lon Las Cymru challenge with Bike the UK for MS, and he’s set to do it again in 2025. His motivation for riding is twofold: first, to prove to himself that MS does not define him; second, to raise funds for MS research and support groups. “I recognise my journey is part of a bigger picture of people living with MS, and we rely on a fabulous network of medical teams and support staff who regularly go above and beyond to help MS patients like me.”

The Power of Community: Meeting Fellow Riders & MS Groups

One of the most impactful aspects of riding with Bike the UK for MS has been meeting others along the way. “The opportunity to meet up with MS groups last year was fabulous! A broad mix of lovely people, young and not so young, with smiles and stories to reflect their positivity in handling this wretched illness.” These encounters reinforced his belief in the importance of community and the shared strength that comes from supporting one another.

Lessons from the Ride: Overcoming Challenges One Pedal at a Time

Every long-distance ride comes with its share of challenges, but for PJ, those challenges are what make the journey worthwhile. “The camaraderie of the fellow bikers, the experiences of the MS groups, and the personal endeavour to grind out each pedal stroke over some testy Welsh climbs filled me with incredible joy and appreciation for life. I live with MS, but I am not defined by it.”

Why You Should Ride Too: PJ’s Advice for Future Participants

PJ’s message for anyone considering an MS cycling challenge is simple: go for it. “What’s not to love? Spending time on your bike, in the beauty of wild landscapes, and getting to know new friends literally along for the ride! It’s an absolute blast and, although there are some testy bits, you ride at your own pace. It’s being part of something bigger than any one individual. I’m an old guy with MS, so if I can do it, anyone can. Give it a go!”

 

PJ’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and his spirit of adventure. Through Bike the UK for MS, he has not only found a way to continue doing what he loves, but has also contributed to a cause that supports countless others living with MS. His story serves as an inspiration to anyone facing challenges—on or off the bike.

 

Are you ready to take on your own adventure? Join Bike the UK for MS and be part of something truly life-changing. Want to support PJ on Lon Las Cymru? Donate to his challenge here.

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10 Years of Bike the UK for MS: A Journey of Impact, Community, and Resilience

The experience of our Executive Director, James Whateley.

As I reflect on the last 10 years of Bike the UK for MS, I’m filled with immense pride and gratitude. What started as a small idea—a dream born on the roads of America—has grown into something I never could have imagined.

We’ve pedaled thousands of miles, forged lifelong friendships, and made a tangible difference for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) across the UK. This decade has been filled with challenges, triumphs, and moments that have forever shaped us as a community.

Where It All Began

 

The story of Bike the UK for MS began back in 2012 when, as a 19-year-old beginner cyclist, I set out to ride across America on the TransAmerica Trail. On day one, I unknowingly crossed paths with a team wearing matching jerseys—Bike the US for MS, founded by Don Fraser, who started the organisation for his mum, Nina, who was living with MS.

For weeks, I rode alongside Don and his team, experiencing their camaraderie, generosity, and passion for raising awareness of MS. I was invited to their MS community meet-ups, camped with the team, and witnessed firsthand the difference they were making. It wasn’t long before I knew I wanted to bring that same mission home to the UK.

Featuring James (left) and Don in the early years of Bike the UK for MS
Featuring James (left) and Don in the early years of Bike the UK for MS

In 2014, we set off on our first ride: John O’Groats to Land’s End. What started as an idea for a small group of friends grew to a team of 12 riders—8 alumni from Bike the US for MS and 4 friends from the University of Bath, including Felix Young, now our Programme Manager. It was a tough route we’d designed ourselves, taking on brutal climbs and quiet back roads, but the friendships formed and challenges overcome made it unforgettable.

The inaugural 2014 team

10 Years of Impact

 

Since that first ride, we’ve achieved more than I ever dreamed possible:

  • 175,000 miles collectively cycled.
  • Over 350 riders have become part of our alumni family.
  • More than £650,000 raised to support people living with MS.
  • Support provided to 25 local MS groups across the UK.
  • Contributions to groundbreaking research like the Octopus Trial, aiming to transform treatment for progressive MS.

“The Octopus Trial aims to deliver life-changing treatments for progressive MS up to three times faster, giving hope to thousands of people living with MS today.”

The 2017 Land’s End to John O’Groats team meeting up with the Dumbarton group of the MS Society

Supporting Local MS Groups

 

From the beginning, we wanted our rides to have a direct impact on the MS community. The funds you’ve raised have supported everything from:

  • Adapted cycling sessions that help reduce MS symptoms and reconnect people to the joy of cycling.
  • Seated exercise classes (in-person and virtual) to keep people active and connected.
  • Home modifications—like wet rooms and mobility grants—to help maintain independence.
  • Social meetups to combat isolation, particularly in rural areas like Scotland and Wales, where access to support can be more challenging.
Adapted cycling sessions at Odd Down

The East Cumbria MS Group is one example of how your efforts are making a difference. With funds raised, they’ve provided adaptive cycling opportunities, funded group activities like nature reserve trips, and supported weekend adventures at Calvert Trust Keswick. These moments offer freedom, connection, and hope to people living with MS.

Stories That Inspire Us

The heart of Bike the UK for MS lies in the stories of our riders and the MS community we support.

Dan Derbyshire

Dan rode the Sea to Sea route in 2022 in honor of his father, who taught him to ride a bike before being diagnosed with relapsing MS. Dan shared:

“I chose Bike the UK for MS because of the close relationships they have with the MS groups they meet along the routes and the research they help to fund. I know firsthand how much this can help every individual and their families.”

Dan returned as a Route Leader in 2023, inspired by the support and camaraderie he experienced.

Dan with his father in Whitehaven at the start of the Sea to Sea
Lina & Terri with Lill-e

Teresa and Linda

When Terri was diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS, it threatened the active lifestyle she and Linda loved. But with the help of their tandem e-bike, Lill-e, they took on the Sea to Sea ride, raising £2,800.

Terri went on to now coordinate her local MS group, providing others with support and opportunities to stay active.

Mark Sinclair

Mark, a former Guinness World Record holder, cycled Land’s End to John O’Groats on a trike and proposed to his girlfriend at the finish line. Shortly after, as MS progressed, he transitioned to using a wheelchair. Through funds raised, we were able to help Mark purchase a racing wheelchair, and he now competes in marathons across the UK. His mantra remains:

“When I can’t continue, I adapt.”

Mark Sinclair having completed the Bournemouth marathon

The Highs, the Lows, and the Community We’ve Built

Every ride brings its challenges—brutal winds on the North Coast, relentless rain on Land’s End to John O’Groats, midges in Scotland, and fog so thick you can’t see more than a few feet ahead. But it’s in these moments that we find the strength to push through, remembering that every day is a challenge of far greater magnitude for someone living with MS.

One particularly memorable moment came on the North Coast 500 in Scotland. As our team climbed the infamous Bealach na Bà, the weather turned against us—fierce winds and freezing rain tested everyone’s resolve. Our Route Leaders, always thinking on their feet, sprang into action. After cheering riders to the summit, they quickly set up a pop-up café in a lay-by, complete with hot drinks and makeshift “seating” fashioned from bin liners. Seeing the relief and laughter on riders’ faces in that small moment of warmth was unforgettable.

Top of the famous Bealach na Ba in tough conditions

These challenges often bring us closer together as a team, creating bonds that carry far beyond the finish line. It’s these friendships that I’m most proud of. Over the years, we’ve seen lifelong friendships, relationships, and even marriages blossom on the road. David and Issy from our 2018 John O’Groats to Land’s End team tied the knot this year, and Felix and Emily, alumni from our original 2014 ride, have shared their own incredible journey together.

Riders return year after year, not just for the challenge but to reconnect with a community that feels like family. As our alumni riders shared:

“The friendships I’ve made on these rides are unlike anything else. You go through the highs and lows together, and that brings a bond that lasts forever.”

“I never thought I could cycle 1,000 miles, but the support I received from the Route Leaders and fellow riders made me believe in myself. It’s a life-changing experience.”

Sun setting on a Scottish adventure

The Unsung Heroes: Our Route Leaders

Joanna keeping morale high at a rest stop in the Highlands

 

Behind every rider’s journey is a team of Route Leaders—volunteers who keep the wheels turning, literally and figuratively. They’re the ones setting up camps, fixing mechanical issues, cheering on the sidelines, and helping riders tackle challenges that feel insurmountable.

As multiple-time Route Leader Joanna Goodhead explains:

“Your job is to help people reach goals they never thought they could reach. And when they do, that’s your reward—and it’s almost better than doing it yourself.”

Reflections and Looking Ahead

Running Bike the UK for MS full-time since 2017 has been a turning point in my life. The challenges we’ve faced—COVID-19, the cost of living crisis, and changes to the charity sector—haven’t been easy, but the support of our alumni, volunteers, and riders has kept us moving forward.

 

Looking ahead, I want to see us:

  • Grow our rider community: Help us spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues.
  • Strengthen our alumni network: The friendships built here are the foundation of everything we do.
  • Become the UK’s leading MS cycling fundraiser: Offering unique, unforgettable adventures while supporting people living with MS and funding life-changing research.
Exploring Wales on Lon Las Cymru

Join Us in 2025: Be Part of the Next Chapter

The past 10 years have been an incredible ride, but we’re just getting started. Here’s how you can get involved:

Together, we can continue to make a difference for those living with MS. Let’s take on the next 10 years, one mile, one connection, and one adventure at a time.

A fresh faced crew from 2014

Thank You

 

To every rider, volunteer, donor, and supporter who has been part of this journey: thank you. Your dedication has brought us this far, and I can’t wait to see what we achieve together in the years to come.

Let’s ride for MS. Let’s ride for hope. Let’s ride together.

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.

Some of the scenery you can expect on our 2024 cycle challenge.

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.

All smiles in John O'Groats after completing Land's End to John O'Groats, one of our 2024 Charity Bike Rides for MS
All smiles in John O’Groats after completing 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, 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.

The vast scenery of the North Coast 500 route, one of our 2024 Charity Bike Rides for MS
The vast scenery of the North Coast 500 route.

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.

Climbing the Brecon Beacons on Lon Las Cymru, one of our 2024 Charity Bike Rides for MS
Climbing the Brecon Beacons.
The quiet towns of Wales on Lon Las Cymru, one of our 2024 Charity Bike Rides for MS
The quiet towns of Wales on Lon Las Cymru.

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!

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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…

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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. 

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

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
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 2024 team cycling to the finish line 

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
Amazing views on route for the riders and support crew

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.

All smiles after cycling Lôn Las Cymru
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.

Felix taking a dip in a Scottish loch.
Felix Riding during JOGLE in 2014

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.

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!