FAQ / Field Notes

Joining instructions >>
The tour starts in Winchester at 9am on Saturday morning. If you’re hiring a bike or bags please aim to arrive for 8.30am to give plenty of time to set up the bike before we head off. We will aim to start riding at around 10am. 

Please do not book non-refundable travel before a tour has been guaranteed to go ahead [see our general FAQs]. We will be in touch to confirm when a tour is guaranteed.  

Food & drink >>

There are two main meals and riding snacks included on this tour. Our meals are all vegetarian, though vegan and meat options will be available if requested. Please let us know of any dietary requirements and allergies once booked. 

We have a good selection of alcoholic beverages available at the bunkhouse. We will have an honest bar set up and a keg of Pannier Route Beer…

Accommodation >>
On this tour, we spend one night in bunkhouse accommodation in the heart of the South Downs National Park. Accommodation consists of four large bunk rooms with shared facilities. 

You will need to bring a sleeping bag and sleeping bag liner for use at the bunkhouse. 

What to bring >>
Adventure bike (unless hiring)
Bike packing bags (unless hiring)
Sleeping bag (unless hiring)
Cycling kit, shoes, helmet
Off the bike clothes – warm layers for campfire cooking and off-bike relaxing
Waterproof jacket
Washbag

Bike spares, tool kit and tube 

Bike details >>
The hire bikes on this tour are Surly Straggler adventure bikes with drop bars and 700c wheels. 

If bringing your own bike please make sure it is suitable for the tour. You will need a bike with a minimum tyre width of 38mm to handle the gravel sections. Please note that this tour is not suitable for road bikes.

If hiring bags you will receive a full set of Ortlieb Waterproof bags for the duration of the tour.

General information >>

Vaccinations >>
There are no specific health risks or required vaccinations for the UK. 

Weather >>
The average temperature for this time of year is between 20degC – 11degC. Early mornings and evenings can be cold so please pack some warm layers. 

Money >>
The local currency is Pound sterling £££

Please bring some cash for small purchases whilst out on the bikes. 

Local time >>
BST

Route info >>
The route is roughly 70% off-road/unpaved road. If the weather is bad the chalky sections of the route can be slippery so please use tyres with some tread. 

The majority of roads and tracks we use on this tour are very quiet but there are some short un-avoidable sections that are busier. Please ride sensibly and look out for other members of the group at all times.

This tour is an ideal intro to gravel riding and bikepacking. Previous cycling experience is required but no previous off-road cycling experience is necessary. 

Health and fitness >>
Please read the full tour information regarding distances and elevation before booking. The route is undulating with some long climbs and descents and a level of fitness is required to complete the cycling involved. We ride as a group, with plenty of breaks, and no one gets left behind. We will likely be outside for the whole day (from 10am – 5pm). 

You will need to inform us of any ongoing injuries or health issues once booked, this information will be requested before departure. It is vital for us to know about anything before travelling into remote areas.