Katherine Moore’s Cycling Guide

Katherine Moore, a gravel and bikepacking expert based in Dartmoor, has outlined why Cornwall, an English county, is ideal for your next cycling holiday.

In her latest book, Gravel Rides South West England, she highlights an unforgettable ride around Land’s End, which is part of the West Penwith chunk of Cycling UK’s West Kernow Way multi-day bikepacking route.

This loop around the south-western tip of Cornwall offers a blend of sublime coastal gravel tracks, old mine ruins, gorgeous villages, and ancient history, all easily accessible from Penzance.

Cornwall is a popular holiday destination, known for its rugged cliffs, colorful harbour towns, clear blue waters, and Atlantic surf. However, the county has much more to offer when you venture inland, including clifftop bridleways with jaw-dropping views, expansive moorland trails, steep wooded river valleys, and an extensive network of gravel routes that link the remnants of Cornwall’s industrial past.

The ride around Land’s End is particularly challenging, with steep inclines that test even the most experienced cyclists. Despite the difficulty, the rewards are significant, offering some of the finest riding in the South West.

The route includes a mix of the National Cycle Network Route 3 and the West Kernow Way, passing through historic sites like Wheal Edward, Botallack Mine, and Levant Mine, which were globally important sources of copper and tin in the 19th century.

For those looking to extend their adventure, the full West Kernow Way bikepacking route is a must-try. Alternatively, you can pair this route with “The Lizard and The Loe” for a day ride.

After a challenging ride, you can relax at the Jubilee Pool in Penzance, a restored seawater lido with a geothermally heated pool and sauna, or enjoy a cultural experience at the Minack Theatre, an open-air venue with a unique garden.

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