John o'Groats to Land's End – D1

Day One of Four • Scotland • Distance: 295 miles • Riding time: 5.5-6 hours • The traditional John o'Groats to Land's End ride is a frantic dash down major roads in one long, dull, bum-aching day in the saddle. And where's the fun in that? I've been looking for better alternatives for years - this is my current four-day fun tour based on the iconic route. It still needs a succession of full days in the saddle, but packs in some of the finest roads in Scotland and England.