FREEDOM 50 COAST TO COAST CYCLE CHALLENGE
26th - 29th June 2024
The C2C cycle route is one of the UK's most popular cycling challenges. Its an epic journey across two of the country's main mountain ranges, passing woodland, pine forests, lakes, streams and moorland, linking the Irish and North Seas in the process.
The route comprises 130 miles across the breadth of the UK, journeying from Cumbria to Tyneside. You'll pass through the northern Lake District, tackling Whinlatter Pass in the process, before heading into the Pennines where Hartside Pass awaits! You'll then descend to the railway paths of County Durham on your final run into Tynemouth.
This challenge is suitable for all levels of riders, with adequate training. Its a memorable and iconic adventure that should be on any cyclist's bucket list!
26th June - Arrival to Workington
Today you'll make your way to the starting point of the C2C in Workington. Hotel check in is available from 3pm and we'll be on hand to get you settled in and ready for the days ahead.
The nearest train station is Workington, which is 0.5 miles away from our hotel.
27th June - Workington to Penrith (45 miles, 3500ft climbing)
After an early breakfast, we'll make our way to the start point of Workington Lighthouse. Here you'll have the chance to dip your back wheel in the Irish Sea, the tradition at the start of the challenge!
From here you'll soon leave the industrial Cumbrian coast behind and make your way into some of the prettiest countryside in the UK. Following the Cumbrian Cycle Network you'll make your way via dedicated cycle path to Cockermouth, before moving onto quiet country lanes over an undulating route to Whinlatter Pass, the first significant climb of the trip.
A superb descent takes you through Braithwaite and Portinscale on the banks of the River Derwent to Keswick, a bustling hub in the Lake District. From here you'll track the River Greta, and continue into simply stunning landscape, with the end of the day predominantly following quiet, traffic free country lanes into Penrith.
28th June - Penrith to Edmundbyers (52 miles, 6500ft climbing)
Today is your most challenging day in the saddle, encompassing the hilliest and highest points of the trip. You'll leave Penrith and pass through the villages of Edenhall and Langwathby. After this the route ramps up as you tackle Hartside Pass (580m) where you can admire spectacular views before decending into Alston, the highest market town in England. From here it’s a short, but tough climb up and over into the old lead mining village of Nenthead. before climbing again up to the highest point on the route, Black Hill (609 metres).
After crossing Killhope top, you reach Allenheads, the highest village in England, and its just a few more miles before you reach Rookhope Arch, where you leave the National Cycle Network for the day and head towards the Medieval village of Blanchland.
The final climb from Stanhope to your accommodation in Edmundbyers gives you some wonderful views over Derwent Reservoir.
29th June - Edmundbyers to Tynemouth (31 miles, 1900ft climbing)
This morning you'll have one last climb to tick off. Once you've got this under your belt you'll be heading towards your final destination - Tynemouth!
The remainder of the day follows a pleasant green route leading over numerous bridges and old railway viaducts and affording great views of the countryside.
In the final few miles, you'll pass through Newcastle Quayside, and ride along the northern bank of the Tyne, completing your journey over to Tynemouth.
A dip of your front wheel into the North Sea signifies the completion of your challenge - What an achievement!
You'll be well supported during your challenge - you'll be provided with information on the route and what to expect each day, and a support vehicle will transfer your luggage between destinations. All you'll have to think about is riding your bike and having a good time!
We've outlined details of the package below.
Package - £450 per person, to include the following
- 3 nights accommodation (based on shared rooms)
- Breakfast, Lunch and refreshment stop on each riding day
- Welcome briefing and daily route briefings
- Briefing pack and gpx files for navigation
- Support vehicle / Luggage transfer
Excluded: Travel to / from the event, Dinner, Drinks with Lunch, Extras in hotels, Travel insurance, Bike transfer from Birmingham (£50 supplement - limited availability)
Secure your spot now by clicking the 'book now' link. We look forward to supporting you on this exciting challenge!
Print 