 In March 2020 the UK entered its first Covid lockdown. Simon Parker’s career as a travel journalist stalled, a close friend died, and a suppressed anxiety disorder returned. His response was to cycle around Britain, starting in Shetland, down to the Isles of Scilly and then back. Riding Out tells the story of Britain during a time of crisis, providing a unique take on the cycle-touring genre. It's also a personal tale of Simon's navigation through grief and anxiety.
Parker meets many people during this journey and this makes the book a lot more interesting than the standard long bike ride story. His journalistic skill at asking the right questions and listening to people means there are many fascinating conversations to read. In particular, he discovers how people lived through the pandemic, how their businesses survived. Mental health is an important theme of the book. Parker doesn’t shy away from the dark moments: the insomnia, the anxiety, the fear of losing control. Towards the end of the book he reflects that everyone has a thing to keep their mind healthy: "For me it was cycling. Without it I wasn't human. And with every passing mile, and every fleeting smile, I'd been soothed. Not healed or cured, but placated. And that was all that mattered to me." This is not an account of route topography, day-by-day mileage highlights or hardcore bike-touring logistics. It is more about the experience and the detail of what it was like to travel during the pandemic. This is particularly fascinating as that time is now an important part of Britain's history. Parker gives frank opinions about the places he visits and he will say if he thinks they are rubbish. And if they are special his descriptions make you want to visit. I was particularly drawn by his section on the Isles of Scilly. As a result I would love to visit one day. This book is a unique take on the traditional Lands End to John O'Groat's bike ride. It takes place in the pandemic and focuses on the author's inner journey. It is emotional, inspiring and adventurous. If you purchase the book from Amazon I will earn a small amount of commission.
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 The Scottish winter can be magical — crisp air, misty lochs, quiet roads. But it can also be brutal when you’re on your bike. The icy wind that cuts through your gloves, the rain that seeps into your shoes, and that slow, creeping chill that turns your fingers numb long before you reach your destination. If you’ve ever cut a ride short because you simply couldn’t feel your hands or toes anymore, you’re not alone. Cycling in cold weather takes more than determination — it takes strategy, smart layering, and a little help from modern technology. If you’ve ever wondered how heated gloves or socks actually work, HeatPerformance®’s guide to heated clothing explains the science behind battery-powered warmth — and how it helps outdoor enthusiasts stay comfortable even in sub-zero conditions. Here’s how to stay warm, comfortable, and safe on your winter rides in Scotland. 1. Understand why your hands and feet get coldHands and feet are the first parts of the body to lose warmth. When the temperature drops, your body prioritises blood flow to vital organs like your heart and brain. That means less circulation to your extremities. Add to that the constant wind chill from cycling, damp socks from rain or sweat, and metal bike components that conduct cold — and you have the perfect recipe for freezing fingers. A simple rule to remember: if your core is cold, your hands and feet will be too. So before you even reach for thicker gloves, make sure your torso stays warm and dry. 2. Master your layersLayering is key for winter cycling. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer — merino wool or technical synthetics work best. Add an insulating mid-layer and top it with a windproof, water-resistant jacket. Avoid cotton at all costs; once it’s wet, it stays wet. For your legs, consider thermal bib tights or leggings, and don’t underestimate the difference a warm hat and neck buff can make. You lose a surprising amount of heat through your head and neck, which affects your whole body temperature. 3. Choose gloves that actually work Standard winter gloves can only do so much, especially in the damp Scottish cold. Once your gloves are soaked, insulation becomes useless. Look for wind- and waterproof cycling gloves that still allow dexterity for braking and shifting. Some riders prefer thin liners underneath thicker outer gloves, so they can remove layers as needed. And for those who cycle regularly in near-freezing temperatures, heated gloves can be a total game-changer. Tiny built-in elements provide gentle, even warmth without bulk. Many winter cyclists also swear by quality heated gloves for consistent warmth without losing grip or control. They’re rechargeable, easy to use, and make the difference between ending your ride early or enjoying it to the finish. 4. Don’t forget your feetYour feet are just as important as your hands. Wet or cold feet can sap your energy faster than you think. Start with a thin, moisture-wicking sock, then add a thicker merino pair if space allows. Tight shoes reduce circulation, so loosen the straps slightly in cold weather. Waterproof overshoes are essential in Scottish rain, but even they have limits. For riders who spend long hours outside — commuting, training, or touring — heated socks can keep the blood flowing and the mood high. They’re rechargeable, surprisingly lightweight, and make all the difference on those long climbs when the wind cuts across the glens. For cycling-specific tips, read Never cold feet on the bike again: the heated sock for cycling shoes — it explains exactly how warmth technology can help on long, wet rides. 5. Keep your core warm for longerThink of your body as a heating system: when your core cools down, your extremities lose their warmth first. That’s why investing in good base layers — or even heated vests — can make such a difference. Even a small boost of warmth around your torso allows your body to maintain circulation in your hands and feet for much longer. For long rides, plan your stops strategically. Take five minutes indoors for a hot drink or snack, and if possible, swap damp gloves or socks for a dry pair halfway through. Those small resets can make or break a winter ride. 6. Focus on circulation and recoveryCold isn’t just about temperature; it’s about blood flow. Before you head out, do a quick warm-up indoors — rotate your wrists, stretch your calves, shake out your fingers and toes. It wakes up your circulation before the cold has a chance to slow it down. After your ride, don’t just jump into a hot shower. Let your body warm up gradually to avoid that painful tingling as blood rushes back into your fingers. A gentle massage or rolling your feet over a tennis ball helps too. 7. Maintenance mattersWet Scottish weather is tough on any cycling gear, especially heated equipment. Always dry your gloves and socks completely before recharging or storing them. Keep the batteries at room temperature and avoid over-bending cables or connectors. A little post-ride care goes a long way in ensuring your heated gear lasts through many winters. 8. Cold-weather cycling is about mindset Yes, it’s colder, darker and sometimes downright miserable — but winter cycling in Scotland also has its rewards. Quiet roads, sharper views, that feeling of earning every mile. The key is preparation. Once you eliminate the distraction of freezing fingers and toes, winter riding becomes not just bearable but enjoyable. A bit of planning, good layering, and perhaps a touch of heated technology can make all the difference. In summary
With the right setup, you can cycle through the Scottish winter feeling confident, comfortable, and maybe even a little smug while everyone else stays indoors. About the author: This article was written in collaboration with HeatPerformance®, specialists in heated gloves, socks and clothing for outdoor enthusiasts across Europe and the UK.  Gulmarg is a sought-after winter destination. It has gained global recognition as a popular attraction for an adventurous getaway. It is one of those towns of Kashmir where the first snowfall of the season is experienced. As the winter progresses, the entire town of Gulmarg receives heavy snowfall. There are many winter sports available here but the one that is unmissable would be snowboarding. In the snowy trails of Gulmarg, the sport of snowboarding offers a thrilling adventure. Apart from this, you can indulge in winter activities such as skiing, sledging, ice-skating, etc.
With a range of snow slopes and winter resorts like Kongdoori, Apharwat Peak and Mary's Shoulder, you can definitely come for snowboarding in Gulmarg. You have a lifetime opportunity to catch a live snowfall here and play in the snow with your family and friends. With a highly developed infrastructure, Gulmarg is buzzing with schools and rental shops, hence an easily accessible destination for such sports. Make sure to plan the trip beforehand with a well-planned personalised itinerary. Here's a Gulmarg adventure guide to snowboarding where various sports along with best times are summarised. Take a look! THE ADVENTURE THAT IS SNOWBOARDING: Snowboarding is a less challenging yet fun sport to try in Gulmarg. You can easily get basic lessons at nearby schools and rent gear. The sport has gained immense popularity as dedicated slopes are present for snowboarding in Kongdoori and Gulmarg Golf Course. Gulmarg invites adventure buffs of every skill level and there are facilities and infrastructure available for everyone. This snow sport is said to be one of the best things to do in Gulmarg in winter. Standing on a board and transferring through the snowy slopes of Gulmarg is quite thrilling. Different travel agencies in Srinagar offer various packages that include snowboarding at an affordable rate. Just like skiing, you can easily get snowboarding gear on rentals in Gulmarg. Make sure you are carrying avalanche safety gears as well. OTHER WINTER SPORTS TO TRY IN GULMARG Skiing: To begin with, skiing is one of the top adventures to do in Gulmarg. As one of the best things to do in Gulmarg, visit the town for the thrilling sport of skiing. As the temperature goes below freezing level, the slopes start to be filled with skiers and winter sports enthusiasts. Here, the ski slopes are nestled by towering mountains and thick forests all around. Experience the surge of excitement as you quickly slide down the valley’s snow-covered floor. One of the greatest places to indulge in this sport is Apharwat Peak. Here are government-run ski rental shops where you can rent ski equipment. You can learn this sport from knowledgeable trainers as well. Skiing in Gulmarg is best at Apharwat Peak. You can reach the base of a trek through a Gondola ride or can take a leisurely walk. Some other skiing resorts in Kashmir include Khilanmarg, Baba Reshi Shrine, Gulmarg Golf Course, etc. March to December is the best time for a skiing trip to Gulmarg. Sledging: Another adventure that has gained prominence in Gulmarg among thrill-seekers is sledging. For sledging, you don't necessarily need to go to the alpine regions. Even local places of Gulmarg with sufficient snow accumulation offer sledging. It is a fun activity where you sit on a wooden board and slide downward. Places like Khilanmarg and Baba Reshi Shrine are very popular as sledging spots in Gulmarg. The white powdery snow at these spots is perfect for a smooth downhill sledge. The activity is quite safe for children as well senior-citizens as well. It costs less than the other sports and is readily available. Go for on-spot booking to negotiate about the price. Even locals of a particular place offer this to tourists. Needless to say, December to March is the ideal time to come for such snow-activities in Gulmarg. For a better and challenging experience, you can visit alpine regions such as Kongdoori, Mary's Shoulder, etc. Snowmobiling: Snowmobiling is a popular adventure to unleash the madness that the hill station holds. Snowmobile rides are available in summer as well as winter. However, thrill doubles when the ride is enjoyed in the snowy meadows, by the glaciers. As you drive through the snowy meadows, the snow flows all around, filling your body with a rush of adrenaline. While different resorts do offer snowmobiling, the most famous ride is from Tangmarg to Gulmarg. Covering a distance of 13 kilometres, it is one of the most unforgettable experiences. As you ride on these routes, you will not only experience a thrill in your heart, you will be captivated by the natural beauty surrounding you. Like other snow sports, the activity is accessible by both beginners and advanced riders. It may be a bit costly, especially in the peak month. The cost depends on the duration of the ride. Make sure you have put on all the safety gears to have a sense of safety and comfort. Ice skating: Last but not list, a new addition to the top adventures of Gulmarg is ice skating. Recently introduced, you can indulge in ice skating as well in Gulmarg. It is one of the best things to do in Gulmarg in winter. You must have heard of normal skating. In the similar manner, it is done on the ice-slopes. While the activity is available in Gulmarg from December to March, January provides the optimum weather conditions for it. The heavy snowfall and below-freezing temperature are the features of Gulmarg in cold seasons and it is exactly what is needed for ice-skating. Some people even skate on the frozen lakes if properly solidified. With proper attention to the techniques, you must have high-quality skating boots for a safe and fun experience. Don't forget the bindings, gloves, goggles, etc. Wear comfortable woollen clothes. BEST TIME TO VISIT GULMARG FOR SNOWBOARDING The best time to visit Gulmarg for snowboarding is from December to February. In winter, the temperature level is between 0°C to -5°C. Heavy snowfall is experienced across town, creating high slopes with excellent snow conditions. The white and powdery snow is just perfect to snowboard. Even many local attractions are accessible in Gulmarg during winter, offering sightseeing tours. Some unmissable ones are Drung Waterfall, Tangmarg, Baba Reshi Shrine, etc. It is also the time for many winter festivals celebrated in Gulmarg. From the snow festival to the winter carnival, you can immerse yourself in cultural programs and competitions. When planning to come to Gulmarg in winter, make sure to pack proper clothes like thermals, sweaters, cardigans and a trench coat. Avoid normal slippers or shoes and go for high boots to walk safely on the snow. HOW TO REACH GULMARG: There are many ways one can pick to reach Gulmarh from their hometown. Starting with the option of air travel. The closest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar International Airport at a distance of about 60 kilometres. Numerous flights are available from different cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Jaipur to the airport. For airport transfers as well as city tours. Next on the list is a train journey. Jammu Tawi Station in Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir is the nearest one, connecting the Union Territory to the rest of the country. From the station, it is a 7-8 hours road drive from Jammu to Gulmarg covering 290 kilometres via Srinagar-Jammu Highway (NH44). Various private as well as government-owned buses operate from Srinagar to Tangmarg. Lastly, you can plan a road trip from Srinagar to Gulmarg, covering 50 kilometres in half an hour, enjoying the enroute scenery. The highway road A-1 offers excellent road connectivity. TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND:
CONCLUSION This winter, plan a thrilling trip to the most popular hill station of Kashmir to enjoy the sport of snowboarding. Since it is the peak season of tourism there, make sure to book everything in advance including hostels, taxis, snowboarding passes and Gondola ride passes. Try local dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao at the cosy cafes in the town. Your trip would be incomplete with a food tour in the town. Have a memorable experience in Gulmarg! 
Here's your route guide for exploring the Kintyre peninsula in Argyll. I start in Campbeltown, just reverse the route if you are starting in Glasgow. It's about 70 miles and you could break the journey with a stay on the Isle of Gigha.
Campbeltown to Tayinloan- 19 miles
Bellochantuy
The first 5 or so miles is inland, through farming country. It's not that interesting, but soon the road joins the coast and things get much more scenic.
There are dozens of places you could stop on a beach and have it all to yourself. My favourite part of the road was the downward, curving approach to Bellochantuy. A cluster of bright, white houses facing a sandy bay. Children were playing on the beach, dogs barking. The road is smooth, wide and flat. It was not busy with traffic when I cycled it. If you are visiting the Isle of Gigha you can catch the ferry from Tayinloan. 
One of many beaches alongside the road between Tayinloan and Tarbert
Tayinloan to Tarbert- 19 miles
This part of the route has a coastal section with plenty of tempting beaches. When the weather is good you couldn't ask for more from a bike ride. The sun on your back, the scent of the sea and not too much traffic.
After about 8 miles there's a climb to the village of Clachan which has rows of lovely cottages with perfect gardens. It's worth stopping here for a walk around. 
Cottages in Clachan
Clachan Church, in particular, is a delight. It was built around 1760. Inside there is a beautiful, curved, wooden balcony. I walked up the stairs and took a seat in the balcony to enjoy the silence for a few minutes. I discovered that some of the seating is protected by a door, perhaps these areas were for wealthier members of the community.
Clachan Church
View from the gallery in Clachan Church
Box of numbers to change the hymns board, Clachan Church
There is a collection of medieval grave slabs in the grounds of the church. They are very faded, but the quality of the carving is impressive. One of the slabs has carvings of hounds next to a sword.
Grave slab with carving a sword and hound, Clachan church
The views from this part of the route are spectacular. They look over West Loch Tarbert to the opposite shore.
West Loch Tarbert
After 10 miles you'll reach Tarbert. A waterfront location with buildings reflected in the water. A place to get a ferry. A pint of beer in the sunshine. A walk to the ruined castle.
Tarbert
Ferry from Tarbert to Portavadie- 25 minutes
The ferry from Tarbert to Portavadie
This can be a wildlife spectacle. I watched a pod of dolphins, their fins dancing up and under the water.
"There's a seal!" One of the other passengers pointed to a head bobbing on the surface. "He'll be after the same shoal of fish as the dolphins. " Portavaide to Loch Ruel viewpoint- 8 miles
The 3.5 miles to Kames has a steep climb. There are great views over the fields to the sea and hills of the Isle of Arran.
Views of the hills of the Isle of Arran, seen near Kames
The Kames Hotel is a great place to stay, if you are looking to break your journey. Another reason to stop here is the Shore Road, a short but beautiful cycle with woodland on one side and water on the other.
In Tignabruaich take a look at A.Irvine and Son, a vintage store front. It's a reminder of the golden age of this village, when twenty steamboats arrived each day with holidaymakers. This is where Glaswegians came in the summer, before the era of cheap package holidays to Europe.
A. Irvine & Son shop front in Tignabruaich
There is a steep climb out of Tignabruaich, but its worth it to reach one of Scotland's finest views. Loch Ruel viewpoint shows off the beauty of the Kyles of Bute.
Loch Ruel viewpoint with a sign pointing out what you can see
The view of the Kyles of Bute from the Locch Ruel viewpoint
Loch Ruel viewpoint to Dunoon- 20 miles
The road heading to Dunoon bumps up and down
This section goes up and down a lot, but the smooth road makes for pleasant cycling. You leave the coast behind and head inland for fields, forests and moorland.
It's worth taking the 1 mile diversion to Kilmodan Church and the sculptured stones. I loved this church with its symmetrical collection of differently shaped windows. There's a pair of tall arched windows, a pair of small round windows and 4 square windows. It was built in 1783. 
The Georgian era Kilmodan Church with its different shaped windows
Inside there's a unique arrangement of three galleries, each with its own stair and door to the outside. The reason it is like this is supposedly because 3 branches of the Campbell family fell out. The separate balconies meant they could come to church without having to be near each other.
Inside Kilmodan Church
Some of the other things I enjoy about this church are the oil lamps hanging from the ceiling, the decorative handles on the front door and the chain on the outside, to pull the bell. I wanted to hear the sound, but I resisted the temptation to try it.
The place where the church is located is also lovely. Next to the River Ruel with forested hills in the background. The kind of place the word 'idyllic' was created for. 
Kilmodan Church has a gorgeous riverside location
There's a collection of carved gravestones at Kilmodan. All but one of them date from medieval times. The detail on them is impressive, with deer, human figures and unicorns.
Unicorns on one of the Kilmodan stones
Dunoon- take a look at the Royal Marine Hotel
When I arrived into Dunoon there was one building that took my breath away. The Royal Marine Hotel is a stunning piece of architecture. Built in 1890 it has a distinctive Tudor style. I stopped here for a bit of lunch, more as an excuse to take a closer look at this place
The Royal Marine Hotel, Dunoon
I loved the stained glass windows with sailing ships.
Stained glass windows inside the Royal Marine Hotel
The hotel is right next to the ferry terminal. It takes 20 minutes to cross over to Gourock. Trains from Gourock to Glasgow take around 40 minutes.
The final ferry of this route. Dunoon to Gourock
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