The story of the crafty cyclist,

Hi, I’m James ,a Design & Technology teacher from London. In 2023, I was lucky enough to be offered a sabbatical for the 2025 summer term—an opportunity to step outside the classroom and bring something meaningful back to it

As I am a keen cyclist, I planned a solo bike ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats. But I wanted the journey to be more than just physical—I wanted it to enrich my teaching and celebrate something close to my heart.

So, I came up with the idea to meet craftspeople along the way—makers, artists, and skilled technicuans keeping endangered heritage crafts alive across the UK. These are the people whose stories often go unheard but whose work forms the backbone of our cultural identity.

Initially, I reached out to various Worshipful Guilds. Most didn’t respond—but the Worshipful Company of Weavers, kindly donated £300 to support the project. That money went towards a microphone I now use to record interviews with each of the craftspeople I meet.

The real breakthrough came when I discovered the Heritage Crafts website. Their UK-wide map of craft practitioners was an incredible tool—not only helping me find makers across the country but also allowing me to build a 20-day route around them.

Now, mid-journey, I’ve met extraordinary people—textile artists, blacksmiths, historical toolmakers, and many more. I’m documenting each visit through photos, stories, and interviews. These will form the basis of a podcast series I’ll release after the ride, to share their voices and skills more widely.

I’m raising £200 for Heritage Crafts, the charity that made this journey possible. Their work supports endangered crafts and helps ensure future generations can continue to make, shape, and pass on these incredible skills.

If you’d like to support Heritage Crafts, please consider donating. Every bit helps celebrate and protect the UK’s craft heritage.