They Did It! 2000 Miles, 42 Cathedrals, and One Epic Bike Ride

Ever feel like you need a proper adventure? Not just a weekend away, but something you’ll tell stories about for years. You might think that means packing a massive suitcase and heading to an airport. But what if the biggest adventure is right here on our doorstep?

Well, over 100 cyclists have just proved it, finishing a massive 2000-mile journey around the country. And the whole thing, the incredible Cathedrals Cycle Relay 2025, just came to a spectacular finish right where it started.

So what's this all about?

Picture this. It’s a bright morning on Saturday 24th May 2025. A group of 25 cyclists are gathered, ready to go. They’re not just going for a Sunday potter about; they’re kicking off a massive, 42-day relay race that will visit every single cathedral in England. The starting point? The beautiful Bradford Cathedral. This was no small thing; it was a huge event to celebrate Bradford being the UK City of Culture for 2025.

The idea is simple, but brilliant. A group of cyclists rides one leg of the journey, from one cathedral to the next. There, they pass a special baton to a new group of riders, who then cycle the next leg. Like a giant game of pass the parcel, but with bikes, and instead of a prize at the end, you get amazing views, a massive sense of achievement, and a stamp in a special passport. Over six weeks, more than 100 different cyclists took part, covering a distance that’s basically the same as riding to the North Pole and back. Mad, right?

More than just a bike ride

This wasn’t just about getting from A to B. It was a proper pilgrimage, full of stories and unique moments. One of the coolest parts has to be Kenneth Wilson, also known as the Pilgrim Cello. Yep, you read that right. He travelled the entire 2000-mile route with his cello, stopping to play at each of the 42 cathedrals along the way. Can you imagine rolling into a city after a long ride and being greeted by cello music? What a welcome!

And then there’s the baton. This wasn’t just any old stick. It was specially made by Hannah Cutler, the daughter of the man who created the whole route. This baton has now travelled the entire route three times, passed carefully from rider to rider. It’s a symbol of everyone’s shared effort. It’s those little personal touches that turn a long bike ride into something really special, don't you think?

The man with the plan

Every great adventure needs a mastermind, and for this one, it’s a chap called Dr Shaun Cutler. He actually came up with the cycle routes as part of his PhD project. From a university paper to a national event that hundreds of people have taken part in – how amazing is that? It just shows what can happen when you have a great idea and the passion to see it through.

Shaun was one of the ten cyclists who rode the final leg, bringing the baton home to Bradford. He was pretty chuffed, as you can imagine. He said:

“I’m absolutely delighted to be back at Bradford Cathedral after 42 days and 42 cathedrals. It’s been an amazing journey, with amazing people, and amazing destinations, with amazing stories along the way. It’s brilliant to also return the baton to Bradford Cathedral.

“I’d like to thank all the hundreds of cyclists who’ve supported the route – and I look forward to seeing you on the next journey!”

The launch event back in May was a big deal, with speeches from the people behind Bradford 2025 and the cathedral itself. It shows how much community spirit there is behind this ride.

The grand finale

The final leg of the journey took place on Saturday 5th July 2025. A team of ten cyclists made their way from the stunning York Minster all the way to Bradford. After 41 days of other people doing the pedalling, it was their turn to bring the adventure home. Arriving at Bradford Cathedral, they returned the well-travelled baton, which is now going to be on display there for everyone to see until the end of 2025. It’s a piece of history!

Fancy giving it a go?

Feeling inspired? Good! The best thing about this is that anyone can get involved. You don’t have to wait for the next official relay. All the routes are available online, for free. You can tackle one leg, a few legs, or even the whole thing if you're feeling brave!

Here’s how you can join in the fun:

• Find a Route: Head over to the Cycling UK website. They have all the maps and details for each of the 42 legs. Just pick one that takes your fancy.
• Get Your Passport: Pop into any cathedral shop and buy a Pilgrim Passport. It’s a little book you can get stamped or stickered at each cathedral you visit. It's a fantastic souvenir of your travels.
• Read Up: You can find out more about the whole project on the Association of English Cathedrals website. And if you want to know more about the cellist’s journey, Kenneth Wilson has a blog called the Pilgrim Cello.

It’s a brilliant way to see the country, get some exercise, and visit some of the most historic and beautiful buildings in England. You can go at your own pace, with your mates, or on your own. What are you waiting for?