1-2-1 Gift Voucher
From £150.00 – £265.00 inc. VAT
Please visit our NEW ‘Gift Voucher for Mountain Bikers’ page to make your purchase!
Please visit our NEW 'Gift Voucher for Mountain Bikers' page to make your purchase!
We Create Experience
Treat your partner, friend or family member to a MTB gift voucher for a 1-2-1 guided mountain bike ride with our expert leaders and coaches. This perfect present is suitable for any level of mountain biker, entitling them to a half day (up to 3 hours) or a full day (up to 6 hours) bike ride on the extensive trail network of some of the best mountain biking areas of the UK. These include the following:
- The South Downs - Our home national park
- The Surrey Hills - Laden with amazing sinuous singletrack
- Isle of Purbeck - Discover the Jurassic Coast
- Wales Never Fails - Say's it all!
- Peak District - All weather, amazing classic natural MTB
- Lake District - Simply world class!
Our UK wide team that includes the awesome Liz Peacock, can provide a completely bespoke experience across England, Wales and Scotland.
These perfect MTB presents for Christmas, birthdays and other special occasions such as mothers day and fathers day, can also go towards paying for that dream mountain biking weekend that they would love to go on. To see what trips we host, then please visit our weekend trips page.
The real benefit of a 1-2-1 is the chance to take advantage of our guides extensive mountain biking knowledge in parallel with having a great laugh and an amazing tailored ride.
For beginners, we will take you through bike set-up and provide core skill tips before we head out on a fully custom ride.
Bike Hire
We can organise bike hire for you when you purchase one of our MTB gift vouchers, in any of the areas we offer custom mountain biking experiences. Once you have purchased your eVoucher above, get in touch via email to book your MTB trip and we will take your details to secure a superb bike for you.
Check out our hire partners:
- Riverside South Downs - South Downs (analogue)
- Southern eBike Rentals - South Downs (eBikes)
- Beacon Bikes - Brighton & the South Downs (eBikes)
- Surrey Hills Bike Rental - Surrey Hills (eBikes and analogue)
- Bikes & Hikes - Brecon Beacons, Wales
- The Bike Garage - Peak District
Do you have a question?
If you have any queries at all regarding our MTB experiences please do not hesitate to contact us via email or phone on 07840724611
38 reviews for 1-2-1 Gift Voucher
38 reviews for 1-2-1 Gift Voucher
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Rated 5 out of 5
Dean Donaldson –
I’d been recommended Marmalade through local bike shop as newbie to MTB this Summer, ended up with a slight tumble on a wet autumnal run. I knew I could benefit from some 1-2-1 coaching locally.
Firstly Sean has been a star all the way through, from initial call to booking and then follow up.
As for the ride itself; fantastic day out with Jimbo, who took me on a well-paced guided tour over the South Downs. Incredibly patient as well as an all round great guy. Great conversation and well-timed coffees accompanied the invaluable tips on positioning and set-up as a novice… and the fact he’s a qualified bike mechanic, was able to share some fantastic insights and help on some tweaking that I could benefit from to – bonus!
All just helped to cement a lot of stuff in my mind and putting stuff into practice on the day has inspired more confidence on how to attack the next few rides as the weather changes. Also encouragement to lock in with some local groups to gain more experience, which am now looking forward to.
Already booked in with another group session, so that in itself is recommendation enough! 😉
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Rated 5 out of 5
Daniel Lock –
I booked in for a 1-2-1 ride with Sean around the Surrey Hills. Basically, prior to arriving for the ride, I was a nightmare customer because of illness and injury. Sean was patient and understanding throughout. As for the ride, it was brilliant. We rode a lot on Holmbury and Pitch Hills and sampled some great singletrack. I can’t speak highly enough of Marmalade and Sean. He was great company and really good at gearing the experience to make it as rewarding as possible. My experience was excellent and I’ll definitely book into one of the group rides in the future.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Jeff Grimes –
Mixture of coaching and guided ride in the Surrey Hills expertly led by Andy for myself, daughter and her partner. We had a great time and the level of challenge was just right. Andy’s coaching points were very clear and we all felt the benefit. Can’t recommend Marmalade highly enough.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Lee Martin –
Marmalade organised a great route in Snowdonia which was perfect for me (50 years old) and my two teenage sons.
Marmalade also sorted out the hire bikes which were perfect.
Pace was comfortable on the technical terrain which offered all manner of challenges from rocky downhills to crossing bogs. The level of coaching was judged just right.
We all had a great day and would love to book up again.
Thank you for making my 50th birthday so memorable.
Lee -
Rated 5 out of 5
Jon Richards –
121 with Sean in Peaslake. Had a fantastic time getting back on the saddle. Sean’s knowledge of the area is immense, the ride was tailored for the weather and my ability following a few runs. A really good way to spend a morning. Great conversations on the rides back up to the top too, it was like being out with an old friend rather than someone I just met. Would thoroughly recommend and I can’t wait to do it again/ get involved in other Marmalade activities.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Bruce Ferguson –
Having ridden with Marmalade several times before, Sue and I were really excited to hear about the new Tweed Valley trips. Sadly the dates didn’t work for us, so we approached Sean to enquire about a custom trip. Sean arranged two days of amazing riding with Liz. The first was in Liz’s back yard, exploring unmarked trails around Dalbeattie and Kippford. A mix of short, sharp climbs, twisty single track through the woods, exhilarating descents and ice cream to die for! Day two was a “big day out” in the Tweed Valley, starting from Innerleithen, climbing to the top of Minch Moor and then following various ups and downs via the Three Brethern back to the riverside and returning to base. The riding was very different each day but Liz’s intimate knowledge of both areas and her boundless enthusiasm made for a cracking couple of days riding in a mountain biking mecca. Liz was able to link sections of single track for us, gauging our abilities and energy levels to perfection. For me, every Marmalade experience has been a great experience; they are second to none. Thank you Sean for introducing us to Liz, who made the two days so thoroughly exciting and memorable. And I must mention Liz’s home made snacks 😉
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Rated 5 out of 5
Rob Elder –
I was bought a 1-2-1 full day guided MTB ride as a gift. Sean was very helpful in talking me through the options and I decided to go for a day’s biking on the Isle of Purbeck.
Everything was excellently planned so I was well prepared on the day. From the ferry across, the great single track and wide sweeping trails, the Jurassic coast and amazing weather with stunning views it was a fantastic day.
Sean was not only a great guide but also great company. I would have no hesitation in recommending marmalade and a day out with Sean. Thanks again.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Matthew Perry –
We had a great day with Sean on the South Downs. Not only is he a top bloke to spend a day with, he is also an excellent guide and coach!
Sean devised an great route for us allowing for varying ability levels and was flexible with his time to allow for the best weather window which made for a brilliant experience.
I would thoroughly recommend marmalade to anyone and look forward to another day with Sean some time soon!
Thanks!
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Rated 5 out of 5
Jonathan Donnellan –
Fantastic guided tour around Surrey Hills with Sean as a surprise birthday present. Couldn’t have asked for a better day and guide.
Sean was friendly, helpful and brought the great weather with him too! He tailored the day to the mixed ability of my partner and I, and took us on some excellent single track runs. Can’t recommend Marmalade MTB enough, thanks for the best day!
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Rated 5 out of 5
Andrew Farr –
Booked a session with Jim and Sean, been riding some tough downhill venues and wanted to refresh and iron out the bad habits we’ve picked up over the years. Excellent coaching, really stripped us back and looked at where we could improve, a lot as it turns out! Informative, insightful and fun! A lot of experience/input from both and it showed with the knowledge and way the session was put together. So nice to be able too tailor your own training. We will be back for more… Thanks
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Rated 5 out of 5
Mark Wild –
I have just spent a half day riding with Sean in the Surrey Hills. I’ve got to say it was probably the best ride I’ve had in a long time!
Sean’s expert knowledge of the area meant we could pack in some superb trails in a relatively short time on both Holmbury and Pitch Hills. To be honest, it probably would have taken me days to find all the trails on my own and even more rides to thread them all together and make such a great route.
Sean preceded every trail with a mini briefing, giving me an idea about what to expect next. The climbs then seemed to fly by while we had a chat!
All in all an excellent morning out and I cannot recommend Sean and Marmalade MTB highly enough! -
Rated 5 out of 5
Joss Bigmore –
We spent a very enjoyable day with Sean on the South Downs last week, a great mixture of single track and trails finished off with an excellent lunch by the river! Sean was incredibly knowledgable about the area, picking routes that offered something for all the mixed abilities in our group. Most importantly he managed to stop my bike squeaking! A great day that I cant recommend highly enough.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Duncan Blakelock –
What a superb day out on the SDW trails with Sean. A fountain of SDW and general MTB knowledge and a top bloke too. For someone training to do the SDW it was invaluable. Thoroughly recommended!! Looking forward to my next Marmalade ride in the Scottish Borders end of July!
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Rated 5 out of 5
Jeff Grimes –
A great morning’s riding with Jim who was an excellent coach and didn’t miss a thing. He gave me feedback on my current performance and advised on quite a few areas for improvement as well as improving the bike set up. I also got to ride some new routes. All I need now is to practise what he has preached.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Victoria Bathe-Taylor –
I booked a session with these guys because I’m an absolute nooby beginner to mountain biking – I came to it only last year and while I can ride a bike just fine, I don’t really have any skills. I came in with zero knowledge and not that much confidence and by the end of two hours Jim had me standing up on my pedals, at least until my thighs gave up! It was absolutely brilliant. Jim is the most patient coach I’ve had for any sport ever so a million thanks for getting me up out of that saddle. It’s just the beginning for me, more coaching is needed so I will definitely be booking more sessions. Highly recommended!
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Rated 5 out of 5
David Hufton –
A great day in the Surrey Hills with my son and grandson led by Sean. You could not wish for a more thoughtful and knowledgeable guide. Highly recommended for both the nervous and confident alike. We will be back for more.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Andy Hopkinson –
April 2021
Had a great day out at Slindon Estate and the South Downs 1-2-1 with Sean.
Everything was done at a steady pace and he was happy to break when I needed it ♂️
Passed on lots of useful info and tips, even a bit of cockpit mechanics enroute.
Thoroughly enjoyed the day and well worth it.
Ended with a fun run on the trails. Unfortunately, I bottled the ‘drop in’ on the bomb hole only to be told I unknowingly took the harder route going round the lip…..win win in my eye -
Rated 5 out of 5
Tom Harding-Newman –
Sean guided us around the trails of Holmbury and Pitch Hills just before Christmas 2020. So much fun! It was my first time doing some proper mountain biking and I absolutely loved it. Sean set a good pace (poor chap had to keep up while all the rest of us were on e-bikes!) and showed us the best that the area had to offer. We covered a lot of ground in just a few hours! He was really helpul in providing riding tips and great fun to spend the time with. I highly recommend using him as a guide.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Ken Stannard –
Thanks Sean, for an epic tour of the Hurtwood trails. Enjoyed every minute and wouldn’t have been the same without you – would have got very lost and probably hurt myself. Until the next time! Ken
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Rated 5 out of 5
Ewan Pett –
I had an awesome time in the Surrey hills for my 18th , excellent coaching from Sean with helpful tips just increasing my grin with every trail
Would absolutely reccomend this to anyone who is thinking about giving it a go 🙂
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Sean –
Amazing to meet you dude! My 18th was awesome but not as good as shredding singletrack on the Surrey Hills. All the best for rest of 2020 and see you on the otherwise.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Emmeline Killa –
What an incredible experience! Firstly to organise the mountain biking trip Sean was quick and professional at planning the trip. Andy took my teenage son and his friend and they were beaming when they came back as well as buzzing for days afterwards begging me to organise the next trip. When I asked what did they like most they said Andy was amazing to talk too plus he taught them skills they never knew and the mountain biking trip was a real adventure and fun!
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Rated 5 out of 5
Nick Jacob –
Brilliant for novices and intermediates alike! We had a 1-2-2 session with Paul in Stanmer Park and out on the South Downs, mainly getting my partner comfortable on varied surfaces. Paul was both a great guide, with some fab trail suggestions and also really good at building confidence with bike handling tips, whether on the muddy singletracks or the best lines to take on rocky, flinty bridleways. Super fun, enjoyable day out and we both came away feeling we’d made a load of progress in one afternoon.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Jason Richardson –
My wife got me a 1-2-1 with Marmalade mtb for my birthday. I gave Sean and call and we had a chat about what kind of riding I’d like to do. From the start Sean made me feel super relaxed. I can honestly say it’s some of the best riding I’ve done.
Everything I look for in mountain biking.Sean knew exactly what trails to do on the Surry Hills and it was epic. I don’t often get tired legs from going down hill but after 4 hrs they were shot. I can’t recommend them enough. Absolutely awesome. I was smiling all the way back to Essex.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Panos Theofilopoulos –
I went to Surrey Hills with MarmaladeMTB last Saturday. The process of organising the ride was seamless and our instructor was exceptional. Had a fantastic time! Highly recommended !
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Rated 5 out of 5
Ross Smart –
Booked a session with Sean for myself and a friend to ride part of the South Downs. Although keen bikers, we’d never done anything like this before and were both a bit apprehensive but Sean put together a brilliant bespoke experience for us. The ride was really well suited to our level and ability and Sean took great care to ensure that the ride was fun and a great introduction to the South Downs. Sean made it very clear that the ride was at our pace and we could do as much or as little as we wished with stops as and when we decided and we never felt rushed along. Sean’s knowledge of the area was brilliant and he was very informative in pointing out other areas we could ride without a guide should we wish to visit again. We had an excellent day and even made a pit stop for a bit of lunch – not even the at times torrential rain could dampen our spirits! Overall would 100% recommend booking a 1-2-1, we are already looking to do it again.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Gareth Jones –
Sean spent time with my 5 and 8yr olds helping them with their technique before a bespoke trip through beautiful Houghton Forest – an amazing day can’t thanks Marmalade enough
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Rated 5 out of 5
Phill Heaty –
Fab day out in the Surrey Hills with Sean the downs make the ups worth it…nice and chilled with something for every one fully recommend it
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Rated 5 out of 5
Sam Harris Dean –
We had a fantastic day out with Sean. Not sure who enjoyed it more, two 11 year old boys or this 50+ year old man. Sean was great fun and a great teacher. We are all looking forward to doing it again. Thank you for everything. Sam
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Rated 5 out of 5
peppy.mudstockings –
After a fab skills session with Jim a couple of months ago I decided to treat myself to a guided 1-2-1 with Sean at Stanmer Park, and what a treat it was!
As a self confessed trail junkie I was a little unsure when Sean suggested a little XC cruise out along a section of the South Downs but wow, the sunshine, the views, the landscape were amazing! So much so that it’s persuaded me to sign up for an actual XC ride (never thought that would happen). His knowledge of the area and the bikes is fantastic, pointing out sights along the way, and doing trailside maintenence when my gears started playing up.
The overall experience is friendly, professional and most importantly oodles of fun. I can’t recommend these guys enough and would not hesitate to do book again – infact I already have!!! -
Rated 5 out of 5
Katrian Graham –
We spent 3hrs 1-2-1 with Sean in the Surrey Hills. My girlfriend was not very confident on her new MTB and hadn’t done any off road riding before, she was very apprehensive. Sean took us through bike setup and explained what we would be doing before setting off. We started with some wide easy trails with my girlfriend learning some basic riding skills to build confidence. Sean went through how to position yourself on the bike to ensure maximum control and talked through braking techniques with a demonstration. As my girlfriends confidence built we started heading down some single track trails. Sean cycled behind my girlfriend to provide support and instruction. By the end of the 3 hrs she road down Barry knows best which was far beyond my expectation. Sean was excellent, knowledgeable and ensured we got the most our of the day. Could not recommend him highly enough and will be riding with him again.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Ian Budden –
I had a 121 session with Sean in the Surrey Hills. Sean is a thoughtful and encouraging guide, showed me some great trails and gave lots of brilliant advice that improved my riding straight off.
I’d recommend this whole heartedly. Really good experience… Thanks Sean!
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Rated 5 out of 5
Seb Potiriadis –
A jar full of shred, hips loosened, shoulders following head round corners, tyres ripping. A great day of riding. New trails learned…. The best compliment we can give is that we are planning to come back for another trip.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Nick Collins –
Great day out with Sean who showed us new trails and gave us some excellent tips for riding faster with more confidence!
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Rated 5 out of 5
Sue Ferguson –
A whole jar of Marmalade fun! We celebrated Bruce’s 60th birthday in the Surrey Hills. We were with Jim in the morning to develop some skills and techniques, and then Sean came along in the afternoon too for some guided trail riding. Jim’s coaching was spot on, and with plenty of chances to practise. The afternoon trails were just great, swooping from one single track to another – some technical and rooty stuff with smooth fast tracks too. Oh yes a bit of climbing built in!!
Thank you so much both of you, the day was just as I had asked for and we will be back!
I will be flying the Marmalade flag!Sue
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Rated 5 out of 5
Paul Nulty –
A really fun few hours with Sean riding round the Surrey Hills. He’s got great knowledge of the area and was super helpful. The tips he gave about riding position and bike set-up were invaluable.
The money spent riding with Sean is probably better value investment than any gadget or bike upgrade!
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Rated 5 out of 5
John Cooper –
Met up with Sean Howell of Marmalade MTB yesterday for a coaching day in the south downs. He made me feel at ease all day and is a fantastic coach. We went through my bike and sorted out some set up issues which was causing confidence problems with my riding, I was running my tyre pressures too high and my front shock was pumped up to 250psi when it should have been 130psi. He said my attack positions were spot on already so i spent the day learning climbing techniques, turning, descent and single track techniques. I now know how to attack routed sections properly and small drop offs, I feel a lot faster already. Now all I have to do is keep practicing what he has taught me, it’s all down hill from here lol.
If you havent already I highly recommend coaching days with Marmalade MTB.
Fantastic day out with Sean who I am happy to call a new Buddy.
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Rated 5 out of 5
peter.d.mcmahon –
I booked on to the south downs 1-2-1 but this is my Third 1-2-1 with Sean. Sean has intimate knowledge of this area and tailors to the session to what the rider wants to do and their abilities. Sean has the ability to make you feel relaxed in his company and makes the session fun.
Sean has excellent bike knowledge, so can also help you get a perfect setup for your steed and give excellent tips for trail skills. (testament to how fast he shreds it down)
Its always a pleasure riding with Marmalade and would fully recommend this to anyone! Even for group ride sessions also.
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Rated 5 out of 5
d.salisbury21 –
I booked a one 2 one session with Marmalade after riding out on my own on the South Downs for a few months. I thought I might need some input on keeping safe and best practice as I had no other experience.
Sean and the team at Marmalade have been fantastic before , during and after the session. I honestly felt like I had been part of their world for years. No judgement on my fitness level and the session was all about me and how I ride and maximising the enjoyment.
I picked up and put into practice lots of helpful tips and skills and had a great day…I also got lots of advice on a new bike, as I was looking to upgrade from a budget bike and now going out with confidence and looking forward to more sessions and hopefully some group rides in the future.
I honestly cannot recommend this highly enough….. It has definitely increased my ‘Smile Factor’.
d.salisbury21 –
I booked a one 2 one session with Marmalade after riding out on my own on the South Downs for a few months. I thought I might need some input on keeping safe and best practice as I had no other experience.
Sean and the team at Marmalade have been fantastic before , during and after the session. I honestly felt like I had been part of their world for years. No judgement on my fitness level and the session was all about me and how I ride and maximising the enjoyment.
I picked up and put into practice lots of helpful tips and skills and had a great day…
I also got lots of advice on a new bike, as I was looking to upgrade from a budget bike and now going out with confidence and looking forward to more sessions and hopefully some group rides in the future.
I honestly cannot recommend this highly enough….. It has definitely increased my ‘Smile Factor’.
peter.d.mcmahon –
I booked on to the south downs 1-2-1 but this is my Third 1-2-1 with Sean. Sean has intimate knowledge of this area and tailors to the session to what the rider wants to do and their abilities. Sean has the ability to make you feel relaxed in his company and makes the session fun.
Sean has excellent bike knowledge, so can also help you get a perfect setup for your steed and give excellent tips for trail skills. (testament to how fast he shreds it down)
Its always a pleasure riding with Marmalade and would fully recommend this to anyone! Even for group ride sessions also.
John Cooper –
Met up with Sean Howell of Marmalade MTB yesterday for a coaching day in the south downs. He made me feel at ease all day and is a fantastic coach. We went through my bike and sorted out some set up issues which was causing confidence problems with my riding, I was running my tyre pressures too high and my front shock was pumped up to 250psi when it should have been 130psi. He said my attack positions were spot on already so i spent the day learning climbing techniques, turning, descent and single track techniques. I now know how to attack routed sections properly and small drop offs, I feel a lot faster already. Now all I have to do is keep practicing what he has taught me, it’s all down hill from here lol.
If you havent already I highly recommend coaching days with Marmalade MTB.
Fantastic day out with Sean who I am happy to call a new Buddy.
Paul Nulty –
A really fun few hours with Sean riding round the Surrey Hills. He’s got great knowledge of the area and was super helpful. The tips he gave about riding position and bike set-up were invaluable.
The money spent riding with Sean is probably better value investment than any gadget or bike upgrade!
Sue Ferguson –
A whole jar of Marmalade fun! We celebrated Bruce’s 60th birthday in the Surrey Hills. We were with Jim in the morning to develop some skills and techniques, and then Sean came along in the afternoon too for some guided trail riding. Jim’s coaching was spot on, and with plenty of chances to practise. The afternoon trails were just great, swooping from one single track to another – some technical and rooty stuff with smooth fast tracks too. Oh yes a bit of climbing built in!!
Thank you so much both of you, the day was just as I had asked for and we will be back!
I will be flying the Marmalade flag!
Sue
Nick Collins –
Great day out with Sean who showed us new trails and gave us some excellent tips for riding faster with more confidence!
Seb Potiriadis –
A jar full of shred, hips loosened, shoulders following head round corners, tyres ripping. A great day of riding. New trails learned…. The best compliment we can give is that we are planning to come back for another trip.
Ian Budden –
I had a 121 session with Sean in the Surrey Hills. Sean is a thoughtful and encouraging guide, showed me some great trails and gave lots of brilliant advice that improved my riding straight off.
I’d recommend this whole heartedly. Really good experience… Thanks Sean!
Katrian Graham –
We spent 3hrs 1-2-1 with Sean in the Surrey Hills. My girlfriend was not very confident on her new MTB and hadn’t done any off road riding before, she was very apprehensive. Sean took us through bike setup and explained what we would be doing before setting off. We started with some wide easy trails with my girlfriend learning some basic riding skills to build confidence. Sean went through how to position yourself on the bike to ensure maximum control and talked through braking techniques with a demonstration. As my girlfriends confidence built we started heading down some single track trails. Sean cycled behind my girlfriend to provide support and instruction. By the end of the 3 hrs she road down Barry knows best which was far beyond my expectation. Sean was excellent, knowledgeable and ensured we got the most our of the day. Could not recommend him highly enough and will be riding with him again.
peppy.mudstockings –
After a fab skills session with Jim a couple of months ago I decided to treat myself to a guided 1-2-1 with Sean at Stanmer Park, and what a treat it was!
As a self confessed trail junkie I was a little unsure when Sean suggested a little XC cruise out along a section of the South Downs but wow, the sunshine, the views, the landscape were amazing! So much so that it’s persuaded me to sign up for an actual XC ride (never thought that would happen). His knowledge of the area and the bikes is fantastic, pointing out sights along the way, and doing trailside maintenence when my gears started playing up.
The overall experience is friendly, professional and most importantly oodles of fun. I can’t recommend these guys enough and would not hesitate to do book again – infact I already have!!!
Sam Harris Dean –
We had a fantastic day out with Sean. Not sure who enjoyed it more, two 11 year old boys or this 50+ year old man. Sean was great fun and a great teacher. We are all looking forward to doing it again. Thank you for everything. Sam
Phill Heaty –
Fab day out in the Surrey Hills with Sean the downs make the ups worth it…nice and chilled with something for every one fully recommend it
Gareth Jones –
Sean spent time with my 5 and 8yr olds helping them with their technique before a bespoke trip through beautiful Houghton Forest – an amazing day can’t thanks Marmalade enough
Ross Smart –
Booked a session with Sean for myself and a friend to ride part of the South Downs. Although keen bikers, we’d never done anything like this before and were both a bit apprehensive but Sean put together a brilliant bespoke experience for us. The ride was really well suited to our level and ability and Sean took great care to ensure that the ride was fun and a great introduction to the South Downs. Sean made it very clear that the ride was at our pace and we could do as much or as little as we wished with stops as and when we decided and we never felt rushed along. Sean’s knowledge of the area was brilliant and he was very informative in pointing out other areas we could ride without a guide should we wish to visit again. We had an excellent day and even made a pit stop for a bit of lunch – not even the at times torrential rain could dampen our spirits! Overall would 100% recommend booking a 1-2-1, we are already looking to do it again.
Panos Theofilopoulos –
I went to Surrey Hills with MarmaladeMTB last Saturday. The process of organising the ride was seamless and our instructor was exceptional. Had a fantastic time! Highly recommended !
Jason Richardson –
My wife got me a 1-2-1 with Marmalade mtb for my birthday. I gave Sean and call and we had a chat about what kind of riding I’d like to do. From the start Sean made me feel super relaxed. I can honestly say it’s some of the best riding I’ve done.
Everything I look for in mountain biking.
Sean knew exactly what trails to do on the Surry Hills and it was epic. I don’t often get tired legs from going down hill but after 4 hrs they were shot. I can’t recommend them enough. Absolutely awesome. I was smiling all the way back to Essex.
Nick Jacob –
Brilliant for novices and intermediates alike! We had a 1-2-2 session with Paul in Stanmer Park and out on the South Downs, mainly getting my partner comfortable on varied surfaces. Paul was both a great guide, with some fab trail suggestions and also really good at building confidence with bike handling tips, whether on the muddy singletracks or the best lines to take on rocky, flinty bridleways. Super fun, enjoyable day out and we both came away feeling we’d made a load of progress in one afternoon.
Emmeline Killa –
What an incredible experience! Firstly to organise the mountain biking trip Sean was quick and professional at planning the trip. Andy took my teenage son and his friend and they were beaming when they came back as well as buzzing for days afterwards begging me to organise the next trip. When I asked what did they like most they said Andy was amazing to talk too plus he taught them skills they never knew and the mountain biking trip was a real adventure and fun!
Ewan Pett –
I had an awesome time in the Surrey hills for my 18th , excellent coaching from Sean with helpful tips just increasing my grin with every trail
Would absolutely reccomend this to anyone who is thinking about giving it a go 🙂
Sean –
Amazing to meet you dude! My 18th was awesome but not as good as shredding singletrack on the Surrey Hills. All the best for rest of 2020 and see you on the otherwise.
Ken Stannard –
Thanks Sean, for an epic tour of the Hurtwood trails. Enjoyed every minute and wouldn’t have been the same without you – would have got very lost and probably hurt myself. Until the next time! Ken
Tom Harding-Newman –
Sean guided us around the trails of Holmbury and Pitch Hills just before Christmas 2020. So much fun! It was my first time doing some proper mountain biking and I absolutely loved it. Sean set a good pace (poor chap had to keep up while all the rest of us were on e-bikes!) and showed us the best that the area had to offer. We covered a lot of ground in just a few hours! He was really helpul in providing riding tips and great fun to spend the time with. I highly recommend using him as a guide.
Andy Hopkinson –
April 2021
Had a great day out at Slindon Estate and the South Downs 1-2-1 with Sean.
Everything was done at a steady pace and he was happy to break when I needed it ♂️
Passed on lots of useful info and tips, even a bit of cockpit mechanics enroute.
Thoroughly enjoyed the day and well worth it.
Ended with a fun run on the trails. Unfortunately, I bottled the ‘drop in’ on the bomb hole only to be told I unknowingly took the harder route going round the lip…..win win in my eye
David Hufton –
A great day in the Surrey Hills with my son and grandson led by Sean. You could not wish for a more thoughtful and knowledgeable guide. Highly recommended for both the nervous and confident alike. We will be back for more.
Victoria Bathe-Taylor –
I booked a session with these guys because I’m an absolute nooby beginner to mountain biking – I came to it only last year and while I can ride a bike just fine, I don’t really have any skills. I came in with zero knowledge and not that much confidence and by the end of two hours Jim had me standing up on my pedals, at least until my thighs gave up! It was absolutely brilliant. Jim is the most patient coach I’ve had for any sport ever so a million thanks for getting me up out of that saddle. It’s just the beginning for me, more coaching is needed so I will definitely be booking more sessions. Highly recommended!
Jeff Grimes –
A great morning’s riding with Jim who was an excellent coach and didn’t miss a thing. He gave me feedback on my current performance and advised on quite a few areas for improvement as well as improving the bike set up. I also got to ride some new routes. All I need now is to practise what he has preached.
Duncan Blakelock –
What a superb day out on the SDW trails with Sean. A fountain of SDW and general MTB knowledge and a top bloke too. For someone training to do the SDW it was invaluable. Thoroughly recommended!! Looking forward to my next Marmalade ride in the Scottish Borders end of July!
Joss Bigmore –
We spent a very enjoyable day with Sean on the South Downs last week, a great mixture of single track and trails finished off with an excellent lunch by the river! Sean was incredibly knowledgable about the area, picking routes that offered something for all the mixed abilities in our group. Most importantly he managed to stop my bike squeaking! A great day that I cant recommend highly enough.
Mark Wild –
I have just spent a half day riding with Sean in the Surrey Hills. I’ve got to say it was probably the best ride I’ve had in a long time!
Sean’s expert knowledge of the area meant we could pack in some superb trails in a relatively short time on both Holmbury and Pitch Hills. To be honest, it probably would have taken me days to find all the trails on my own and even more rides to thread them all together and make such a great route.
Sean preceded every trail with a mini briefing, giving me an idea about what to expect next. The climbs then seemed to fly by while we had a chat!
All in all an excellent morning out and I cannot recommend Sean and Marmalade MTB highly enough!
Andrew Farr –
Booked a session with Jim and Sean, been riding some tough downhill venues and wanted to refresh and iron out the bad habits we’ve picked up over the years. Excellent coaching, really stripped us back and looked at where we could improve, a lot as it turns out! Informative, insightful and fun! A lot of experience/input from both and it showed with the knowledge and way the session was put together. So nice to be able too tailor your own training. We will be back for more… Thanks
Jonathan Donnellan –
Fantastic guided tour around Surrey Hills with Sean as a surprise birthday present. Couldn’t have asked for a better day and guide.
Sean was friendly, helpful and brought the great weather with him too! He tailored the day to the mixed ability of my partner and I, and took us on some excellent single track runs. Can’t recommend Marmalade MTB enough, thanks for the best day!
Matthew Perry –
We had a great day with Sean on the South Downs. Not only is he a top bloke to spend a day with, he is also an excellent guide and coach!
Sean devised an great route for us allowing for varying ability levels and was flexible with his time to allow for the best weather window which made for a brilliant experience.
I would thoroughly recommend marmalade to anyone and look forward to another day with Sean some time soon!
Thanks!
Rob Elder –
I was bought a 1-2-1 full day guided MTB ride as a gift. Sean was very helpful in talking me through the options and I decided to go for a day’s biking on the Isle of Purbeck.
Everything was excellently planned so I was well prepared on the day. From the ferry across, the great single track and wide sweeping trails, the Jurassic coast and amazing weather with stunning views it was a fantastic day.
Sean was not only a great guide but also great company. I would have no hesitation in recommending marmalade and a day out with Sean. Thanks again.
Bruce Ferguson –
Having ridden with Marmalade several times before, Sue and I were really excited to hear about the new Tweed Valley trips. Sadly the dates didn’t work for us, so we approached Sean to enquire about a custom trip. Sean arranged two days of amazing riding with Liz. The first was in Liz’s back yard, exploring unmarked trails around Dalbeattie and Kippford. A mix of short, sharp climbs, twisty single track through the woods, exhilarating descents and ice cream to die for! Day two was a “big day out” in the Tweed Valley, starting from Innerleithen, climbing to the top of Minch Moor and then following various ups and downs via the Three Brethern back to the riverside and returning to base. The riding was very different each day but Liz’s intimate knowledge of both areas and her boundless enthusiasm made for a cracking couple of days riding in a mountain biking mecca. Liz was able to link sections of single track for us, gauging our abilities and energy levels to perfection. For me, every Marmalade experience has been a great experience; they are second to none. Thank you Sean for introducing us to Liz, who made the two days so thoroughly exciting and memorable. And I must mention Liz’s home made snacks 😉
Jon Richards –
121 with Sean in Peaslake. Had a fantastic time getting back on the saddle. Sean’s knowledge of the area is immense, the ride was tailored for the weather and my ability following a few runs. A really good way to spend a morning. Great conversations on the rides back up to the top too, it was like being out with an old friend rather than someone I just met. Would thoroughly recommend and I can’t wait to do it again/ get involved in other Marmalade activities.
Lee Martin –
Marmalade organised a great route in Snowdonia which was perfect for me (50 years old) and my two teenage sons.
Marmalade also sorted out the hire bikes which were perfect.
Pace was comfortable on the technical terrain which offered all manner of challenges from rocky downhills to crossing bogs. The level of coaching was judged just right.
We all had a great day and would love to book up again.
Thank you for making my 50th birthday so memorable.
Lee
Jeff Grimes –
Mixture of coaching and guided ride in the Surrey Hills expertly led by Andy for myself, daughter and her partner. We had a great time and the level of challenge was just right. Andy’s coaching points were very clear and we all felt the benefit. Can’t recommend Marmalade highly enough.
Daniel Lock –
I booked in for a 1-2-1 ride with Sean around the Surrey Hills. Basically, prior to arriving for the ride, I was a nightmare customer because of illness and injury. Sean was patient and understanding throughout. As for the ride, it was brilliant. We rode a lot on Holmbury and Pitch Hills and sampled some great singletrack. I can’t speak highly enough of Marmalade and Sean. He was great company and really good at gearing the experience to make it as rewarding as possible. My experience was excellent and I’ll definitely book into one of the group rides in the future.
Dean Donaldson –
I’d been recommended Marmalade through local bike shop as newbie to MTB this Summer, ended up with a slight tumble on a wet autumnal run. I knew I could benefit from some 1-2-1 coaching locally.
Firstly Sean has been a star all the way through, from initial call to booking and then follow up.
As for the ride itself; fantastic day out with Jimbo, who took me on a well-paced guided tour over the South Downs. Incredibly patient as well as an all round great guy. Great conversation and well-timed coffees accompanied the invaluable tips on positioning and set-up as a novice… and the fact he’s a qualified bike mechanic, was able to share some fantastic insights and help on some tweaking that I could benefit from to – bonus!
All just helped to cement a lot of stuff in my mind and putting stuff into practice on the day has inspired more confidence on how to attack the next few rides as the weather changes. Also encouragement to lock in with some local groups to gain more experience, which am now looking forward to.
Already booked in with another group session, so that in itself is recommendation enough! 😉