Stage 7: Rolling into Richmond – Where History Meets Hills
Erin Powell | 29. September 2025
After six days of pedalling through the UK, Day 7 brought us to the charming market town of Richmond, North Yorkshire, a place where cobbled streets, sweeping countryside views, and centuries of history converge in one unforgettable stop on the igus:bike tour.
From smooth trails to stone castles
The morning started with a gentle ride from Skeeby through to Richmond but not before we cycled past Skeeby solar farm, a shining example of the UK’s renewable energy ambitions. Spanning 166 acres (roughly the size of 93 football pitches) this £39 million project is the largest solar farm in Yorkshire and the fourth largest in the UK!
As the UK pushes to triple its solar capacity by 2030, projects like Skeeby are vital. They demonstrate how innovation, investment, and environmental stewardship can come together to build a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
In Richmond, we saw historic stone buildings and the imposing silhouette of Richmond Castle, one of the oldest Norman fortresses in England. The castle stands in a commanding position above the River Swale, close to the centre of the town of Richmond. It was originally called Riche Mount, ‘the strong hill’ and was constructed by Alan Rufus from 1071 onwards following the Norman Conquest of England.
The Station
Nestled on the edge of the River Swale, The Station is a stunning example of Victorian railway architecture reimagined for the 21st century. Originally opened in 1847 as part of the York & Newcastle Railway, the station was designed by renowned architect George Townsend Andrews and transported tourists, farm produce, and military personnel during the World Wars. After closing in 1969, The Station reopened in a reimagined form in 2007 as a collection of art galleries, an independent cinema and artisan food selections!
Our Riders
Ashleigh Carter
Ashleigh has been at igus for 6 years, starting off as a SEO & content creator. Fast forward 6 years and she is now the Marketing manager, a wife and a new mum, who jumped at the chance to be part of the bike tour if it meant a full nights sleep!
