Friday PM

• Arrive Pathfinder HQ in the Forest of Dean - Hoarthorn FarmHouse, Hoarthorn Road, Coleford, GL16 7EY

• Bike / Kit check and prep bikes or early start

• Hotel check-in and meal out / team intro, route brief, questions and social

Saturday

• Approx 7am bike collection from HQ

• 07:30 Team breakfast back at hotel

• 08:30 depart

• Short road ride (approx 40mins) on mostly b-roads to get to the start of the route proper

• Winding back lanes and off road tracks / trails as we head South East towards Salisbury Plain where tracks start to get longer as we turn due South and head into North Dorset

• Approx 18:00 arrive in Swanage for our second overnight stop

• Freshen up and bike / kit checks

• Approx 19:30 - Wander around the beautiful seaside town, de-brief and regale the day’s events / experience over dinner

Sunday

• Later start - 09:00 breakfast either at hotel or locally

• Winding b-roads and some shorter off road sections as we head back North through Dorset, skirting the Wiltshire border

• Approx 16:00 - arrive back Pathfinder HQ for de-brief

• 16:30 / 17:00 - depart home

8th - 10th May 2026

14th - 16th August 2026

9th - 11th October 2026

The Channel March is a beautifully flowing route through the heart of Wiltshire and Dorset, finishing in the stunning seaside town of Swange.

Whilst you can expect technically easier trails, this route has some surprisingly long stints off road to really allow you to find flow and settle into the groove of moving through changing landscapes.

The terrain is predominantly chalk and sand, typical of this Southern belt of land, less challenging than some of our other trips? Yes, but by no means less immersive or engaging - a firm favourite of our founder, Adam.

Rider Kit / Packing List

Our rides often involve long days, changing weather, and remote terrain. Riders should arrive prepared to be comfortable and self-sufficient on the bike.

Our Pathfinder guides will carry some spares for essential trail-side repairs, however, you may be asked to carry some kit on your person / motorcycle. You’ll carry your own clothing and riding gear on the motorcycle, so pack sensibly. If you do not have luggage available, please speak with Pathfinder as we may be able to provide demo kit.

Motorcycle & Riding Gear

• Adventure / dual-sport motorcycle in good working order (if using a demo bike, Pathfinder will ensure bike is in safe working order)

• Full protective riding gear (helmet, jacket, trousers, gloves, boots)

• Waterproof outer layer or laminated riding gear - ideally waterproof trousers too

• Spare gloves (recommended)

• Neck tube / buff

• Ear plugs

• Clear visor or glasses for poor light

On-Bike Essentials

These items should be accessible while riding.

• Hydration system or water bottle

• Small snack or energy bar

• Phone with navigation capability or for emergency requirements

• Personal medication if required

• Driving License

• Emergency contact details / next of kin

Luggage

You will carry your own luggage on the bike.

Recommended:

• Soft panniers or rackless luggage

• Small waterproof duffel to keep vitals dry

• Backpack for essentials

Avoid large or overly heavy luggage systems.

Evening / Off-Bike Clothing

Accommodation and one evening meal is provided, but riders should bring:

• Casual clothing for evenings

• Lightweight shoes or trainers

• Underwear and socks

• Base layers

• Lightweight fleece or jumper

Personal Items

• Toiletries

• Sunscreen (lol)

• Personal medication

• Small towel

• Reusable water bottle

Useful Extras (some will be provided but additional items are recommended if happy to carry)

• Compact tyre repair kit

• Mini compressor or pump

• Multi-tool

• Head torch

• Tyre levers

• Small socket / bit set

• First aid kit

Packing Guidance

Space on the bike is limited and the riding days can be demanding.

Pack light. Bring what you need, NOT what you might need.