Day 1 - Penzance to Newquay via Land's End

Day 1 and 56 miles behind us! You can see our route by clicking here.

We travelled down to Cornwall on the overnight sleeper from London Paddington - a remarkably civilised and surprisingly reasonable way to travel. Arriving at Penzance at 8 o’clock we hitched up the panniers and set off on the 10 miles along the A30 to the real start point of our journey.

The weather was perfect - just a few puffy white clouds and a strong wind keeping things cool. Well, not quite perfect for the first stretch as the wind was coming from the South West so it was a headwind until we got to Land’s End and, as the cyclists amongst you will know, the wind is probably worse than the hills when you are on a bike. Of course, all that changed when we turned round to come back to Penzance. For the rest of the day we had a tailwind pushing us along which was much appreciated!

We didn’t spend long at Land’s End - just enough to take the obligatory photographs including Christine on the Start/Finish line.


Passing by Penzance station, we joked about having had a good ride and jumping back on the train but then decided that, as we had come this far, we might as well see a bit more of the place! A cycle path along the sea wall gave fabulous views across Penzance Bay to St Michael’s Mount, but it was soon back on the road and climbing towards Redruth.

The real highlight of the day for Stephen was, while waiting for Christine at a crossroads, the Google Streetview camera van went past. He is now expecting to be immortalised with proof that “he was there” in the depths of rural Cornwall!

We decided we did not like Redruth as it is hilly, full of traffic and, just beyond the town, the heavens opened! The clouds had been rolling in for some time and getting darker but we could see blue sky on either side. Maybe the weather gods were exacting some revenge for the tailwind! Out came the wet weather gear and we took shelter from the worst downpour but, as it didn’t last long, we were soon back on the road replete in bright yellow raincoats and cycling bootees. Yes, they look silly but they are totally wonderful for keeping your feet warm, and dry!

After that it was a long haul along an A road into Newquay with traffic rushing past as we toiled up the hills and sailed down the other side. The Headland Hotel was a welcome sight as we rolled down the drive. Inside it was just as impressive and, if you want to indulge yourself, it comes thoroughly recommended by these two weary cyclists!