How is it the end of Day 7 already?
It many ways, this journey has passed by really quick. In other ways, it’s felt long. When I think back to being at John o’ Groats, saying hello to Paddington and smelling the salt air, it feels like a lifetime ago.
869km done; 619km left to do.
7459m climbed; 7396m left to climb.
The elevation is not as proportionate to the days as the distance is – due to Day 11 through Cornwall, that has insane elevation. I’m not looking forward to that!
Though that’s not to say I haven’t climbed some heavy hills. I can’t forget cycling over Drumochter Pass – the highest point on the whole journey – breathtaking in its scenery! Although the climb was long, it was steady and manageable and worth it too, for the long downhill into Pitlochry.
Shap’s Fell Pass yesterday – the highest point on the tour in England, may not have been quite as high but my god, did it take some climbing. I felt like I was pushing the pedals none stop for hours. My legs are understandably getting more tired too which is adding to the strain! But I was equally rewarded with stunning views, with the Lakes on my right and Yorkshire Dales on my left.
Yesterday was the toughest day yet, not just because of climbing Shap’s Fell. I had a spot of bother with my bike, and needed to take it to a repair shop in Carlisle. (Shout out to Palace Cycles, who were so kind and generous in helping me, despite being very busy). This meant I didn’t really get started til after 11am, and didn’t make it to camp til 930pm. I dread to think what the campsite owners thought of me, turning up in my pink attire, dishevelled and beaten as the sun was setting! But they very kindly let me pitch up.
Kindness has been running all through this journey. Every campsite has been so welcoming, despite me not booking ahead. One look at my pink tutu and cap and they can tell I’m doing it for charity and nothing is too much bother. My girlfriend’s Dad has kindly let me stay over tonight in Knutsford, where I left a drop of supplies. And I’ve met so many people who’ve taken an interest – and gone on to sponsor me too. To all of you – thank you 🙏
Going into this trip, I was apprehensive about my gear, despite road testing it earlier in the season. But I’m really happy with all of it. Every item and bike bag has held up. Nothing has gotten in the way of my cycling and I’ve packed pretty rationally, in my opinion.
My tent, sleeping and cooking gear has got good use too. I’ve camped 5 out of the 7 nights, and I love it. It says a lot that the worst night’s sleep I’ve had so far was in the Backpacker’s hostel room I booked in Pitlochry. Nothing against the place – it was great – the room was just so stuffy! Although it takes longer in the morning to get up and go, I’ve really enjoyed the freedom and flexibility that camping has added to this experience.
But how about the cycling? I’m not going to lie, some of it has been very hard, especially late in the days when you’re beaten and still have 30km to go. But I’m loving it. Without any music or podcasts, I’ve been listening to the world pass by and allowing my thoughts to wander.
And it’s worth it for the views. Everywhere you look, there’s another view. Except for the few chaotic towns, and today (day 7) being just cars, cars, cars all day, it’s been magical. Great Britain really is a stunning place, if you can get off the beaten track even just a little.
Roll on day 8!
Pink Tutu Adventures 