Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to bring for the ride?

  • Your mountain bike, EMTB, Gravel Bike or E Gravel Bike.

  • Suitable clothing for the activity and the weather. Padded cycling shorts and high viz clothing are useful but not essential and we advise you to avoid loose/baggy styles. In terms of footwear sturdy outdoor trainers are fine unless your bike has SPDs!

  • Bike helmet, gloves (recommended), protective glasses (recommended), light backpack, light waterproof jacket and other protective wear as preferred.

  • Drinks bottle with water or energy drinks, snacks, sun cream (depending on weather) & mobile phone. Cash/card or means of paying for snacks/coffee/lunch.  (Most rides have the option to stop for a coffee break!)

  • Martin will carry a basic first aid kit, tools and spares for the most common trail side repairs and a tracker for location sharing with home.

  • Personal medication (Inhaler, EpiPen, Insulin etc).

 

Will you inspect my bike?

  • Your bike must be in good working order.  It will be checked by Martin and if it is not ready to ride over the terrain you will encounter it will not be allowed to start.
  • Top tip - Get your bike checked and serviced locally before you come if you are not able to do it yourself.

Do I have to book accommodation?

  • Yes! Rides are only available to guests staying in our beautiful Shepherd's Hut.

How many people do you take?

  • Martin is happy to take a single rider or two people, but they will need to agree which ride to choose!

Do I have to book a ride?

  • No!
  • You can book one person on one ride or two on two or one on two or two on one and one on two or none, or any combination!
  • Martin can give you routes to follow on your own if you would rather explore without a guide.

What are arrival, parking and storage arrangements?

  • Arrival is any time on the first day of your stay.
  • Parking is nearby on our private drive through a security gate.
  • There is a separate shed to store bikes, which also has a washing machine.

What is the difficulty level of the rides?

  • Riding a mountain bike in this area will involve some challenging climbs so expect some moderate and/or strenuous activity. 
  • Martin will be guided by the weather, the trail conditions and your riding experience and fitness, and adjust the ride accordingly to ensure that you enjoy your time out as well as feeling positive about what you have achieved.

Where do the rides take place?

  • Beginner & Intermediate Rides start from our base just outside Frome on the border of Somerset and Wiltshire and travel North, South, East and West from here over varying terrain, meaning a different experience with every ride.
  • The advanced ride is a 45 minute car ride from here to Cheddar Gorge, but will take your riding to the next level!  We can take you there with your bikes in our van or you can transport yourselves allowing you to stay and explore Cheddar, Wookey Hole Caves and maybe visit the small city of Wells on the way back.

Is there somewhere to clean and maintain my bike?

  • Yes! As a working dairy farm we have the facility to wash bikes thoroughly after your ride.  You will have the exclusive use of a shed to store them in the dry.
  • Martin also has a bike workshop where routine maintenance can be undertaken if necessary.

What happens if it rains?

  • Bring suitable clothing as normally rain won't stop play!!
  • If Martin decides the weather is likely to make the ride too dangerous or not enjoyable a decision will be taken to either cancel or postpone.
  • You will be offered the chance to re-book another day or to have your money back.

How long are the rides?

  • A beginner ride will typically last 2-3 hours and cover 20-35km, but this will be adjusted according to the riders' experience and wishes.
  • An Intermediate ride will also last 2-3 hours, covering 25-40km, but with more challenging riding.
  • The Advanced ride will last 5-6hours, with a stop for lunch and will typically cover 30-50km, but over much more technical terrain.
  • Rides can easily be altered part way through and, if you have had enough, just say and Martin will plot the best way home.

What if I haven't got a bike?

  • We can help you find a bike hire company locally.
  • An adult bike costs around £20 per day to hire or an E-Bike £45

Get in Touch

Ready for your own off-road adventure? Contact us today to book your tour.