Land's End to John o'Groats (LEJOG)
Land’s End to John o’Groats is an iconic long-distance cycle ride. It spans the length of mainland UK from the gorgeous beaches of Cornwall to the stunning countryside of northern Scotland. The route follows greenways, cycle paths and country roads, and runs on the National Cycle Network for over three-quarters of its length.
The route:
1189 miles
1913 kilometres
Practical tips
- All-terrain bikes, touring bikes and hybrid bikes will manage fine when following this Land’s End to John o’Groats route.
- Prepare for your ride and check your bike is in good condition using our 11-step M check.
- There’s no definitive list of what to take with you, but remember you’ll need to pack gear for your bike, suitable clothing and toiletries including insect repellent.
The LEJOG route can be split into 5 sections
The South West
355.5 miles / 571.2 kilometres
Using National Cycle Network Routes 3, 32, 304, 4, 41, 45
The route in the South West also uses the West Country Way, the Cornish Way and the Avon Cycleway.
From: Land’s End, Cornwall
To: Gloucester, Gloucestershire
Starting at the most westerly point in England, you’ll pass through sheltered Cornish harbours, rolling Devon hills and the Somerset Levels, as well as the cities of Bristol and Gloucester.
The West Midlands
129.5 miles / 208.4 kilometres
Using Routes 41, 45, 46, 55, 552, 551, 5
From: Gloucester, Gloucestershire
To: Nantwich, Cheshire
The gradients get gentler here, and there’s much to see along the quiet country lanes, riverside trails and canals that feature on the route, including the spectacular Ironbridge Gorge.
The North West
235.4 miles / 378.7 kilometres
Using Routes 551, 5, 62, 6, 69, 70, 68, 71, 7
The route in the North West also uses the Pennine Cycleway, the Cheshire Cycleway and the Lancashire Cycleway.
From: Nantwich, Cheshire
To: Gretna, Dumfries & Galloway
After bustling Manchester, demanding climbs await you in the Forest of Bowland, and there’s rugged terrain as you reach South Cumbria.
Southern Scotland
213.6 miles / 343.9 kilometres
Using Routes 7, 74, 75
The route in Southern Scotland also uses the Lochs and Glens Way
From: Gretna, Dumfries & Galloway
To: Pitlochry, Perthshire
The route here is filled with classic Scottish scenery, with sparkling lochs, waterfalls, forests and castles all greeting you along the way. Meanwhile, the understated sophistication of Glasgow is an urban highlight.
The Scottish Highlands
254.9 miles / 410.2 kilometres
Using Routes 7, 1
The route in the Scottish Highlands also uses the Lochs and Glens Way and Inverness to John o'Groats
From: Pitlochry, Perthshire
To: John o’Groats, Caithness
Ancient forests and remote moorlands rich in wildlife. This final section is the most remote of the route. Snap your picture next to the John o’Groats sign and revel in your accomplishment of completing the UK’s most iconic ride.
Fun facts about the Land's End to John o'Groats cycle route
- Land’s End to John o’Groats is also called LEJOG, JOGLE or End to End.
- Using National Cycle Network routes, the distance from Land's End to John o'Groats is 1189 miles (1913km).
- The traditional route follows from south to north.
- Your cycle journey doesn't have to stop at John o'Groats. In the summer, take the ferry to South Ronaldsay and enjoy cycle routes on Orkney and the Shetland Islands.
Accommodation
Take a look at the list below for a few useful links for accommodation options along the LEJOG ride.
