Ormiston Families

Hello! I’m riding my penny farthing, (yes, one of those enormous-wheeled Victorian bicycles), across Suffolk to raise money for Ormiston Families, a fantastic charity doing vital work for children and families in need across the East of England.

They support young people struggling with mental health, families affected by imprisonment, and parents going through incredibly tough times — all with compassion, care, and deep local knowledge.

The Wolf Way

To make things interesting, I’ll be pedalling this gloriously impractical contraption along a long-distance route called The Wolf Way, taking in rural lanes, curious glances, and the occasional passer-by shouting “Do a wheelie!” The route is a 257 mile cycling adventure around Suffolk. Half of it is off road which will be a challenge on this unstable mode of transport, especially the numerous sandy bits which are likely to prove impossible to ride on.

I’m riding solo, but I’d love your support along the way — in the form of donations, kind messages, or even a wave if you spot me creaking past.

Every penny (farthing) you give goes to help real families facing real challenges — and will help keep me motivated through all the sand, headwinds, and saddle-related regrets.

A bit about the bike:

The penny farthing was invented in 1871 and the large front wheel meant that riders could travel fast (larger distance covered with each pedal stroke) before gears and chains existed on bicycles. They were quickly superseded by the 'safety bicycle' (the same design as what we know as a bicycle today) which was developed in the 1890's

Mine is a modern replica made in Sweden, not a 150 year old museum piece. I ride it rather than my ‘normal’ bike as it’s so much more fun. I always compare the feeling to when you first learn to ride a bike as a child. That’s the feeling I get every time I ride it!

The large wheel is 54 inches in diameter and the saddle is just under 1.5 metres above the ground. Different wheel diameters (and crank lengths) are available to suit different rider leg lengths and riding styles.

The tyres are solid rubber. No air means no punctures!

There is a tiny little step on the curved frame that helps you get into the saddle after scooting along for a couple of steps to build momentum. You get down by also using the same step

No brakes and no gears. I slow down by getting off the saddle and coasting with one foot on the step and the other stepping on the small back wheel pushing down on it to slow it down.

The centre of gravity is very far forward and high which contributed to its dangerous reputation for throwing riders off when they hit a bump in the road. This is known as doing a 'header'. I will try to be careful not to find out what that is like on my trip!