Faqs
Who are Pedal Teesdale rides for?
They’re for adults who want to explore Teesdale by bike in a way that feels relaxed, well looked after, and full of the good stuff: lovely riding, local insight, and a genuinely warm welcome. Some rides are more beginner-friendly, others suit riders with a bit more confidence or fitness, and each ride page will help you choose the right one.
Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
Not at all but you do need to be able to confidently ride a bike. Some rides are designed for riders who want a gentle, confidence-boosting day out, while others are better for riders with more experience. We’ll always try to be clear about who each ride is best for, and you’re very welcome to get in touch if you’d like help choosing.
Are your rides adults only?
Yes — unless a ride page clearly says otherwise, our rides are for adults aged 18 and over
How fit do I need to be?
That depends on the ride. We share the distance, climbing, terrain and overall feel of each ride so you know what to expect. We’d always rather help you choose the right ride than have you book something that doesn’t feel like a good fit.
What kind of bike do I need?
You’ll need a safe, well-maintained bike that suits the route and terrain for that ride. The ride page will tell you whether a road bike, gravel bike, mountain bike or something similar is the best fit. Check that your bike is in good condition with this M-check guide.
Do I need to wear a helmet?
Yes please. We want everyone to start the ride feeling comfortable, prepared and ready to enjoy the day. Your helmet should fit properly and be in good condition. See T&Cs
What should I bring?
Bring the essentials listed on the ride page, plus water, weather-appropriate layers, any medication you may need, and a few basic spares for your bike. Please bring an innertube that fits your bike. A change of clothes for afterwards can also be a very good idea on a muddy Teesdale day.
What happens at the start of the ride?
We begin with a warm welcome, introductions, and a simple bike and kit check. There’ll be a short safety briefing too, so everyone knows the plan and can settle in before we roll out. We will practice some of the maneuvers, signals and calls we will need to ride well as a group.
What if I’m not sure a ride is right for me?
Just ask. Send us a message and we’ll help you work out whether the ride suits your confidence, fitness and bike set-up. No pressure, no silly questions.
How many people are on each ride?
Groups are kept small so the day feels friendly, personal and well supported. Unless a ride page says otherwise, scheduled group rides are capped at 8 riders.
Do rides need minimum numbers to run?
Yes. Scheduled group rides usually need a minimum number of riders to go ahead. If that minimum is not met, we’ll contact you with your options in good time.
When will I know if my ride is definitely running?
Usually no later than 48 hours before the start time, unless the ride listing says something different.
What happens if the weather is poor?
Teesdale weather likes to keep us on our toes. We’re happy riding in normal changeable conditions, but safety comes first. If conditions are not right, we may adjust the route, shorten the ride, delay the start, or cancel.
Can the route change on the day?
Yes. Sometimes that is the best way to keep the day safe, enjoyable and suited to the group. We may change the route, pace, timing or start and finish details if needed.
What happens if my bike has a problem?
We’ll help where we reasonably can with small roadside issues, but you remain responsible for your bike and any repair costs. If a bike cannot be fixed safely, the plan may involve walking to an access point and arranging a taxi.
Do you provide transport if I can’t finish the ride?
No — we don’t provide rider transport. We can help you arrange a taxi if needed, but the booking, availability and cost will be between you and the taxi provider.
Can I cancel or transfer my place?
Yes — our booking terms explain what happens depending on how much notice you give. We’ve tried to keep them fair, clear and easy to understand.
Do I get the usual 14-day cooling-off period?
Because guided rides are date-specific leisure services, the usual 14-day cooling-off right does not generally apply. Your transfer and refund options are instead set out in our booking terms.
Are you insured?
Pedal Teesdale aims to keep appropriate insurance in place for the activities it offers. If a guide holds a cycling qualification, that qualification helps shape the remit in which certain activities are delivered.
Do I need my own insurance?
That is up to you, but some riders like to have their own cycle, accident, medical or cancellation cover for extra peace of mind.
Will you take photos on the ride?
Sometimes, yes. We love sharing the feel of a day out in Teesdale, but we also respect that not everyone wants to be in photos. Just let us know before the ride and we’ll do our best to keep you out of shot.
How do you use my personal data?
We use your information to manage bookings, communicate with you, run rides safely and handle any issues if they arise. You can read the full details in our Privacy Notice and Cookie Notice.
How do I get in touch before booking?
Just email hello@pedalteesdale.co.uk and we’ll be very happy to help.
