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Powys County Times
17 hours ago
- Powys County Times
Knighton woman in her 60s cycles Lands End to John O'Groats
Two sisters - including one from Powys - have cycled the length of Britain on e-bikes. Janet, from Knighton on the Welsh border, and Nessie, who lives near Wirksworth in Derbyshire, completed a 1,700-mile journey from Land's End to John o'Groats over a period of 60 days. Speaking about the journey, Janet said: "For us it was more about travelling at our own pace gently through the country rather than the challenge itself. "Because you're out in the elements every day regardless of the weather you concentrate more on what is immediately around you. "Listening to birdsong, enjoying the smell of honeysuckle and pine trees or stopping for a skinny dip in a river. "It can be quite magical." The sisters, both in their 60s and originally from Kent, averaged 30 to 40 miles per day and travelled using a mix of paper OS maps and Google Maps. They followed greenways, cycle paths, country roads and sections of the National Cycle Network. Janet said: "We enjoyed it so much that we wanted to continue our adventure when we reached John o'Groats." The pair prepared for the journey by taking shorter rides around Wales, which helped them adjust their daily mileage expectations for the longer trip. They also identified cycle repair shops along the route and booked a mid-trip service. Janet said: "We constantly met people who were gobsmacked that two old women who didn't look particularly sporty were going this far, to be honest we rather enjoyed people's surprised reactions." They met many women along the way who found their approach inspirational. Janet said: "On our trip we met a lot of women of a similar sort of age to us, they would often have a partner who was really into cycling. "When they heard what we were doing – crucially taking our time and stopping a lot to visit stuff or just admire the view they would often say 'Ooo that's really inspirational.'" Janet said cycling can feel intimidating for many older people, especially given the lack of separated cycleways and the prevalence of busy roads. They relied mostly on Sustrans routes and planned their accommodation in advance, avoiding camping in favour of places where they could charge their e-bikes. Janet said: "We both have e-bikes with removable batteries, so we just took them in to where we were staying to charge overnight. "We stayed in lots of different places, from camping pods to hostels, hotels and Airbnbs." Despite careful planning, the sisters faced unexpected challenges. In northwest Scotland, near Cape Wrath, they encountered strong winds. Janet was blown off her bike, and Nessie's bike computer was smashed. Janet said: "There were a lot of tears. "We were so near to the end after coming so far. "There were no buses, taxis or bike mechanics for miles – it was the most remote place for this to happen." Their younger sister Anthea, who had joined them for the final leg, gave Nessie her bike computer so they could finish the journey together. "I would definitely pay extra for such a service – just for the peace of mind.
Scotsman
a day ago
- Scotsman
New cycling guidebook to inspire days out in Edinburgh
A new cycling guidebook has been released this summer full of safe routes for families to enjoy away from heavy traffic. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Sustrans, the UK's leading walking, wheeling and cycling charity have partnered with national mapping service Ordnance Survey to launch Cycling Edinburgh: Family Adventures for Urban Explorers. The guidebook is designed to help families plan fun and safe cycling trips along Edinburgh's best family-friendly, and mostly traffic-free, routes. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The book contains ten tried-and-tested routes that are accessible and enjoyable for families of all ages. Inside you'll find: A new cycling guidebook has been published to help families cycle safely around Edinburgh avoiding heavy traffic. Clear, colourful maps with directions Downloadable GPX files and links to OS maps Public transport and bike hire information for individual rides Points of interest including picnic spots, swimming pools, play areas and other family activities. Game ideas and quiz questions for children Path condition and barrier information for every route Whether you're planning a UK-based summer holiday or looking for a local day out, this beautifully illustrated guidebook will inspire your family to leave the car at home and explore the capital city on two wheels. Issy Pritchard, Ecommerce Manager at Sustrans said, 'The outdoors is a fantastic place to enjoy with loved ones, but we know that planning safe, child-friendly cycling trips can be tricky. We've created this guidebook to help parents create unforgettable days out, and we can't wait to hear all about the adventures they inspire.' Nick Giles OBE, Managing Director of Ordnance Survey Leisure said, 'This fantastic new guidebook is devoted to families who want to explore Edinburgh safely on two wheels. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'The 10 routes mapped out clearly in the book will lead you to key landmarks, green spaces and water ways, but they also incorporate National Cycle Network routes that reveal lesser-known spots to discover.' The guidebook is available now via the Sustrans Shop and OS Shop. To learn more or to buy a copy, visit or
Daily Record
14-07-2025
- Daily Record
People in Dumfries and Galloway encouraged to get on their bikes during summer holidays
Free sessions for beginners and families are being offered across the region thanks to Sustrans' IBike Dumfries and Galloway project. People are being encouraged to get on their bikes during the summer holidays. Free sessions for beginners and families are being offered across the region thanks to Sustrans' IBike Dumfries and Galloway project. The charity aims to help people make more journeys by foot, bike or public transport so people can choose healthier, cleaner and cheaper journeys. The free sessions are open to anyone who would like to learn or boost their cycling abilities and confidence, with the Sustrans team helping people gain confidence on the road so they can make local journeys by bike. Project manager, Annick Laroque, said: 'Every year we try to hold a cycling event in the holidays to give families a chance to attend together as well as to offer activities outside of school term times. 'It's especially useful for those that haven't managed to learn to ride a bike to ensure they don't miss out on all the fun and freedom it can bring, as well as opportunities for active journeys'.' IBike Dumfries and Galloway, which is being funded by SWestrans, has already held sessions in both the Dock Park in Dumfries and in Kirkcudbright, with people of all ages learning how to ride a bike and family groups being given the skills and confidence to cycle safely. One mum, Jayde, who took part, said: 'This has been amazing, what a great opportunity for my son. I'll be telling all my friends.' Topics covered include junction work, road placement and general cycling confidence. Future sessions will be held in Annan on Tuesday, July 22 and Dock Park in Dumfries on Friday, August 15. Sessions are free and open to all ages but booking is essential. For further information or to book a free spot, call 07769931802 or email
Wales Online
08-07-2025
- Wales Online
Upgrade for crumbling coastal path with stunning views of North Wales icons
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A popular coastal path with some of the most dramatic views in Wales is to be upgraded after falling into disrepair. Each year, tens of thousands of people walk or cycle the route along the banks of the Conwy Estuary. In recent years the path has begun to degrade and cycling charity Sustrans worries this is starting to affect its usage. After heavy rain, it becomes almost impassable as huge puddles form on its uneven surface. Resurfacing work is now planned for the path at Deganwy. This section forms part of the Conwy Estuary Trail, a 3km walking and cycling route that links Deganwy and Llandudno's West Shore. It is part of the Wales Coastal Path. Each year an estimated 429,871 walking and cycling trips are made on the trail, which gives views towards Conwy Castle and the town's quay and marina, backed by the mountains of Eryri. An economic analysis in 2019 estimated that, were the 3km trail to fully upgraded, it could attract almost 600,000 users each year – almost as many as those who visit Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Sustrans will soon be organising improvements on the Deganwy section to enhance the path's 'quality and usability'. The resurfacing work is being funded by the Welsh Government. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone As the Conwy Estuary is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Sustrans has liaised with Natural Resources Wales to ensure marine habitats are not disturbed during the work. An on-site ecologist will be employed for pre-nesting survey checks. (Image: Anthony Jones/Sustrans) Anthony Jones, network development manager at Sustrans, said: 'It's very clear to us just how important this route is to the people who live in this part of Conwy, as well as its role in tourism here. 'This is a very popular route by an important ecological site here in North Wales, so we need to ensure we're doing everything we can to ensure the route's quality and accessibility for everyone.' The works are due to be completed by the end of 2025. The aim is then to 'celebrate' the resurfaced route with led walks and rides the following spring. As the Conwy Estuary Trail incorporates Route 5 on the National Cycle Network, Sustrans said it is one of the most popular cycling routes in North Wales. Route 5 runs from Holyhead to Reading, spanning a massive 367 miles. 'This is an especially popular and well-used section of National Cycle Network,' added the charity. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox Find family activities near you
North Wales Live
08-07-2025
- North Wales Live
Upgrade for crumbling coastal path with stunning views of North Wales icons
A popular coastal path with some of the most dramatic views in Wales is to be upgraded after falling into disrepair. Each year, tens of thousands of people walk or cycle the route along the banks of the Conwy Estuary. In recent years the path has begun to degrade and cycling charity Sustrans worries this is starting to affect its usage. After heavy rain, it becomes almost impassable as huge puddles form on its uneven surface. Resurfacing work is now planned for the path at Deganwy. This section forms part of the Conwy Estuary Trail, a 3km walking and cycling route that links Deganwy and Llandudno's West Shore. It is part of the Wales Coastal Path. Each year an estimated 429,871 walking and cycling trips are made on the trail, which gives views towards Conwy Castle and the town's quay and marina, backed by the mountains of Eryri. An economic analysis in 2019 estimated that, were the 3km trail to fully upgraded, it could attract almost 600,000 users each year – almost as many as those who visit Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Sustrans will soon be organising improvements on the Deganwy section to enhance the path's 'quality and usability'. The resurfacing work is being funded by the Welsh Government. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone As the Conwy Estuary is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Sustrans has liaised with Natural Resources Wales to ensure marine habitats are not disturbed during the work. An on-site ecologist will be employed for pre-nesting survey checks. Anthony Jones, network development manager at Sustrans, said: 'It's very clear to us just how important this route is to the people who live in this part of Conwy, as well as its role in tourism here. 'This is a very popular route by an important ecological site here in North Wales, so we need to ensure we're doing everything we can to ensure the route's quality and accessibility for everyone.' The works are due to be completed by the end of 2025. The aim is then to 'celebrate' the resurfaced route with led walks and rides the following spring. As the Conwy Estuary Trail incorporates Route 5 on the National Cycle Network, Sustrans said it is one of the most popular cycling routes in North Wales. Route 5 runs from Holyhead to Reading, spanning a massive 367 miles. 'This is an especially popular and well-used section of National Cycle Network,' added the charity. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
