A bikepacking weekend adventure

This past weekend, six of us embarked on an unforgettable bikepacking adventure, navigating the rugged beauty of the North West of England on our mountain bikes. Our route took us off-road from Slaidburn to Heysham via the challenging Salter Fell, with an overnight camping stop, before looping back through the scenic River Lune, Glasson Dock, Beacon Fell, Longridge Fell, and the Trough of Bowland. The weather couldn’t have been better—blue skies and warm temperatures made for perfect riding conditions.

Day 1: Slaidburn to Heysham

We set off from Slaidburn early Saturday morning, our spirits high and bikes loaded with camping/bivvy gear. The initial part of our journey took us through the picturesque Salter Fell. This ancient packhorse route, with its rocky trails and steep ascents, tested our endurance and bike-handling skills. The breathtaking views of the surrounding fells and valleys were ample reward for our efforts.

After a grueling yet exhilarating ride we stopped for refreshments at Carnforth and decided to refuel at the cafe where Brief Encounter was filmed which I must admit was rather disappointing. We reached Heysham in the late afternoon which is nestled on the coast, Heysham offered us a campsite. We pitched our tents and bivvy bags and spent the evening heading into Morecombe for fish and chips on the promenade.

Day 2: Heysham to Slaidburn

Sunday morning was a little bit grey but warm and would later greet us with the same glorious weather as the previous day. We packed up our campsite and started our return journey, this time taking a different route. Our first stretch followed the River Lune, providing a smooth and scenic ride through the lush countryside.

Our next stop was Glasson Dock, a charming village with a rich maritime history. After a brief rest and some refreshments, we continued our journey towards Beacon Fell. The climb up Beacon Fell was challenging, but the panoramic views from the top made every pedal stroke worth it.

From Beacon Fell, we descended into Longridge, where we refueled before tackling Longridge Fell. This section was particularly demanding, but the descent that followed was pure bliss, allowing us to speed down winding trails with the wind in our faces.

Our final stretch took us through the Trough of Bowland, a stunningly beautiful area characterized by deep valleys and high moorland. The peaceful, rolling landscapes provided a perfect end to our adventure. We arrived back in Slaidburn via Dunsop Bridge tired but exhilarated, with a wealth of memories and stories to share.

Reflections

This bikepacking trip was more than just a weekend adventure; it was a journey that pushed our endurance at times on the climbs, strengthened our friendships, and deepened our appreciation for the natural beauty of our region. The camaraderie, the challenges, and the sheer joy of riding through such diverse landscapes made this an experience we’ll cherish forever.

For anyone considering a similar adventure, we highly recommend this route. Ensure you’re well-prepared and stocked up with water and food as there aren’t many re-fuel points. The terrain for some of it is physically demanding. But most importantly, be ready to soak in the stunning vistas and the sense of freedom that comes with exploring on two wheels.

Keep on riding!

Bike Facts

Bike: Van Nicolas Zion 29er Rigid

Forks: Salsa Cutthroat

Gears: x12 Speed Shimano XT

Tyres: Vitorria and Schwalbe

Bike Bags: Apidura.

Bars: Carbon Jones