In a fast-paced world, we often forget to slow down and appreciate the journey. For many cyclists, speed and distance become the focus - but what if we redefined adventure? What if we embraced the road less travelled, taking in the sights, sounds, and stories that surround us? This is the essence of Slow Adventure, a philosophy that values the journey as much as the destination.
Lorien James, an avid cyclist and explorer, discovered the magic of Slow Adventure through a personal cycling journey. Like many, he started cycling as a means to commute but quickly fell in love with the freedom it provided. Joining a local club, he became immersed in the social side of cycling, organizing routes and leading rides. But it was only when he set out on his first solo tour that he experienced the true beauty of unhurried exploration.
In 2016, Lorien embarked on a solo adventure along the Lon Las Cymru cycle route, stretching from Chepstow to Holyhead. This journey changed his perspective on cycling entirely. Without the structure of a club ride or the pressure to keep pace, he found himself stopping more often - absorbing the scenery, studying maps, and discovering hidden trails. He realized that the adventure wasn’t just about reaching the next checkpoint; it was about experiencing the landscapes in their raw, untouched form.
His newfound approach to cycling opened up a world of possibilities. He began exploring Yorkshire’s greenways, canal towpaths, and lesser-known off-road routes, breaking free from the rigid paths of road cycling. He no longer worried about keeping up or sticking to the fastest route. Instead, he rode to explore - venturing beyond the hedgerows, tackling cobbled climbs, and following trails that sometimes led to nowhere. Each ride became a personal journey, shaped by curiosity rather than speed.
Slow Adventure is about taking the time to engage with your surroundings truly. It’s about stopping to admire a historic landmark, detouring to explore an interesting path, or even capturing a moment through photography or art.
For Lorien, this new way of riding inspired him to document his travels through illustration, creating artwork that celebrates the landscapes he’s explored. His journeys are no longer just about miles covered - they’re about experiences gathered, stories collected, and memories made.
At Carradice, we believe that adventure is personal. Whether you’re heading out for a short ride through the countryside or embarking on a multi-day tour, our bags are built for those who value the journey.
They’re designed to carry everything you need while allowing you to ride at your own pace - because sometimes, the best adventures aren’t measured in miles, but in moments.
So, where will your next Slow Adventure take you?
