Pennine Bridleway Bike Tour

Question 1

Where does the tour start and end?

Answer

The arrival and departure point for this trip is Kirkby Stephen where you will be able to leave your car for the duration of the trip. You are asked to arrive by 15:00 for a 15:30 transfer.

If traveling by train you're asked to arrive into Oxenholme Train Station by 15:45 for a 16:00 transfer to New Mills. You may also arrive into New Mills, Derbyshire by train if more convenient. The first night's accommodation is a short taxi journey away from the train station, or should you wish to be collected it may be possible after 18:30 on the initial day.

On the final morning (day 8) you will transfer back to Penrith station. If you choose to depart from here you can book a train from 10:30 onwards. Train station transfers are included in the holiday cost.

Question 2

How long is the tour? How many days cycling?

Answer

The tour is 8 days long with 6 days of cycling.

Question 3

What's the tour like?

Answer

Much of the cycling takes place on the rugged moorland that is characteristic of the area, with sweeping vistas of remote countryside. The terrain is very varied, but you will encounter natural singletrack, bridleways, vehicle-width tracks and some technical climbs and descents. The trails can be rocky and loose in places. A good level of fitness and bike handling skills is required to get the best out of the trip.

It is possible to use an electric mountain bike on this holiday, which would be particularly beneficial to those wanting an extra boost to get up some of the tougher climbs. Please note, e-bikes are generally heavier than standard mountain bikes, which is worth considering when handling the bike over some of the rougher and more technical terrain. If you plan on hiring an e-MTB, it should not be ridden beyond your own technical ability level on a standard mountain bike.

The Pennine Bridleway uses one of Cycling UK’s seven long distance routes. Cycling UK is a charity organization that campaigns for a cleaner, happier and healthier world. Their aim is to encourage people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to cycle safely, easily, and enjoyably throughout the UK. Public campaigns and route development are just a few of the ways that Cycling UK looks to support cyclists across the country.

Question 4

What equipment is provided?

Answer

A rack and two panniers, and one bottle cage are provided with the rental bikes, along with an emergency repair kit in a seat-post bag containing a puncture repair kit, a multi-tool, a spare innertube and a bike pump.

The tour operator can provide helmets, if you’d like one to be provided, please request this at the time of booking.

You are welcome to bring along your own saddles, or own pedals if renting a hybrid bike, but please let us know if advance if you plan to do so.

Question 5

What sort of bikes are used or what kind of bike should I bring if I BYO?

Answer

Either a hybrid bike, gravel bike or a mountain bike fitted with semi-slick tyres is recommended. Parts of this route are not suitable for a road bike so they are not recommended. It is possible to use an e-bike on this holiday, which would be particularly beneficial on this undulating route with its multiple short, steep climbs, if you’re after a bit of a boost. Please note, e-bikes are generally heavier than standard bikes, so it is worth considering when handling the bike over some of the rougher / uneven terrain.