Ride Options

A key decision when planning a route is about the type of ride you want. Are you purists who think that the only way to cycle is to be entirely self-sufficient carrying your tent with you. Or are you for the easy life getting someone else to carry your kit between stop-over points?

Camping en route

Don't forget the kitchen sink!

This is by far the toughest option. The extra weight of tents etc. will mean that panniers are de rigeur. Also your daily mileage is going to have to be scaled back particularly if you are cycling east-west when the prevailing wind will be against you. Panniers and headwinds are not a great combination given the extra wind resistance. However, the flexibility and economy that camping provides is a real bonus.

Please note that it is not unknown for thieves to make off with your bike and/or equipment overnight so lock your bikes up and remove any valuables from your panniers or take the panniers into your tent preferably.

Bed & breakfast

A very popular option, B&B is a moderately-priced means of doing the route. There is a plethora of accommodation along the route including hotels, B&B and cottages. If you are looking to keep the cost down then there are some YHA along the route or places that offer basic accommodation.

B&B opens up opportunities to stay in quality accommodation such as the Sorbietrees in Newcastleton (left)

This option favours the traveler who likes to travel light. A set of panniers or a good-sized rucksack is recommended but try and leave hairdryers, dressing gowns and dinner jackets back at home.

Bed & breakfast with luggage transfer

The luxury of not having to transport your gear from one place to the next cannot be over-emphasised. Your achievable daily mileage rate will increase significantly by not having to carry the extra weight. You will end up at the other end fresher and with less shoulder/back pain than those carrying rucksacks.

If you are lucky enough to have a friend/colleague who is able to accompany you with a support vehicle then you will not only have the benefit of low-cost luggage transfer but also (if they are really good friends) the possibility of mid-route rests with refreshments from the vehicle. A support vehicle stocked with water, drinks, energy bars, spares and tools is like an oasis!

Alternatively, there are several commercial luggage transfer companies available (see panel on right). Several will provide full turnkey holidays including transport and bike hire. It costs more but takes the hassle out of it.

Booking Ahead

It sounds obvious, but please book your accommodation as far in advance as possible. The accommodation fills up quickly particularly during bank holiday weekends and the Summer holidays.

C2C & Reivers Accommodation Guide - This is available from all good bookshops. The on-line guide provides a comprehensive guide to accommodation along the route.

Camping UK
UK Sites
Camp-sites.co.uk

YHA Centres
Details of YHA centres across the country are available on-line at www.yha.org.uk

The following companies can provide assistance with luggage transfer, bike transport or full holiday services. See also arranged holidays.

Bike Bus - Cycle hire, collection and delivery.

Mickledore Travel - Specialists in self-guided cycling holidays.

Sherpa Van Project - Provides a variety of services from baggage transfer to accommodation booking.

Holiday Lakeland - Luggage transfers, accommodation, and emergency breakdown support.