They’ve done it! After 10 days, 1,500+ kilometres, a lightning storm, and one very dramatic bee sting, Ryan and Ellie completed their Land’s End to John o’Groats (LEJOG) challenge in support of Swanley Therapy Centre—and what a journey it was!
10 days; 1532.75km, 17,469m elevation, 70.5 hours, 1 puncture and a lifetime of memories.
Each day came with new challenges and laughs, from relentless hills and questionable weather to wonderful encounters with strangers, friends, cows… and even sheep roadblocks. Here’s the full story of their epic ride:
📅 Day-by-Day LEJOG Diary
- Day 1 – Land’s End to Launceston:
The adventure began with rolling Cornish hills, dramatic sea views, and a cruise past St Michael’s Mount. Spirits were high—until Ellie got stung by a bee. Welcome to LEJOG! Cue the first aid! 🐝 - Day 2 – Launceston to Othery:
Powered by a classic Tesco meal deal in Tiverton. A surprise morale boost came from friends Rachel and Lee who turned up in Hatherleigh—just the lift they needed to keep pushing through the West Country roads. - Day 3 – Othery to Hereford:
A rough day. Pouring rain and a brutal reroute thanks to a road closure. Cheddar Gorge was stunning but steep, and the unexpected detour brought them face-to-face with a hill they won’t forget anytime soon. Quick fuel stop in Bristol, then a big moment crossing the Severn Bridge into Wales. - Day 4 – Hereford to Chester:
Ben joined the ride and brought fresh energy! A smoother day overall… until the first puncture reared its head. - Day 5 – Chester to Kendal:
More unexpected detours, more laughs, and even more snacks. They powered through with help from a scenic cake stop and a well-earned Greggs in Carnforth. Classic northern fuel! - Day 6 – Kendal to Moffat:
Sunshine to start, but a wrong turn added miles. From the beauty of the Lake District to a tough final stretch into Scotland, it was a day of contrasts. A lovely FaceTime with Ryan’s parents, Swanley Therapy Centre member Simon, gave them a needed emotional boost. - Day 7 – Moffat to Perth:
The toughest day yet. They knew rain was coming—but not a full-blown storm. A lightning bolt struck just centimetres away. Seriously. They took cover, regrouped, and bravely hit the road again in the pouring rain, finally making camp by 9pm. Jacket potatoes saved the evening. - Day 8 – Perth to Grantown-on-Spey:
A calmer day weather-wise (thankfully). Lush views, fresh air, and some of the fluffiest Highland cows you’ll ever see. A peaceful, almost meditative ride after the chaos of the day before. - Day 9 – Grantown-on-Spey to Lairg:
Disaster struck: Ellie hit a cattle grid and the bike lost a light, a chain, and most of its gears. With only three working gears, they limped along until Highland Bikes in Inverness came to the rescue. True heroes! Spirits stayed high despite more rain and climbing. - Day 10 – Lairg to John o’Groats:
The final push. With views of the River Naver and sweeping Scottish coastline, they tackled the famous Bettyhill climbs and a few traffic-stopping sheep. The last leg into Thurso was a test of endurance, but they made it. Tired, emotional, and absolutely triumphant.
💙 Why They Rode LEJOG
Every pedal stroke was for Swanley Therapy Centre, helping fund subsidised oxygen therapy treatments for people with MS, Long COVID, diabetes, sports injuries, and more.
🙌 Still Time to Support Them!
Their fundraising page is still open – and every donation directly helps others access therapies that truly change lives. Whether you give £5 or £50, it makes a difference.
If you’ve already donated—thank you. If not, there’s still time to help them cross that virtual finish line with a huge show of community support. Share, donate, and celebrate their incredible achievement!