Slow journalism in a fast-paced world.
Three books. Three journeys. One consistent thread: that the best way to understand the world is to move through it slowly, on a bicycle, or on foot, talking to strangers.
The Wild Road Home: 15 national parks, one remarkable adventure
Published October 2026 — Duckworth Books
Outdoor enthusiast, cyclist and acclaimed travel writer Simon Parker was restless for a new adventure, but with a small baby his explorations needed to begin at home. He decided to cycle through all 15 of the UK’s national parks in the anniversary year of the first one’s founding, the Peak District. This became a life-changing journey through a landscape, and nation, in flux.
“Packed with a wide array of compelling and eccentric characters, Parker depicts the great beauty and variety of the UK’s national parks while simultaneously providing a timely reflection on the fragility of our few remaining wilderness areas.“
— Greg Dickinson, The Telegraph
“It’s like riding abreast with a friend who happens to be one of Britain’s most astute, witty travel writers. A lively portrait of our strange little island, from a man who has perfected the art of the travelogue.“
A Ride Across America
Published July 2024 — September Publishing
On the eve of the most divisive US election in living memory, Simon Parker cycled 4,373 miles through eleven states, from the Pacific to the Gulf of Mexico. Frustrated by shallow headlines, he wanted to find the America behind the clickbait — and he did, in schools, rodeos, diners and churches, one conversation at a time.
“Parker is excellent company, the pace and perceived lunacy of his journey perfect for starting conversations.”
“Parker magnificently chronicles the America he encounters — a divided, disenfranchised collection of states he fears for but comes to love.”
“Thoughtful, fun and always willing to be surprised by a nation of dizzying complexity.”
Riding Out: A journey of love, loss and new beginnings
Published April 2022 — Octopus Publishing
In March 2020, as Britain entered its first lockdown, Simon Parker’s life fell apart. His journalism career vanished overnight. A close friend died. With a long-suppressed anxiety disorder starting to surface, he did the only thing he knew: got on a bike. What followed was a 3,427-mile journey from Shetland to the Scillies — and a ground-level portrait of Britain during a most extraordinary year.
“A truly inspiring journey that celebrates the healing power of adventure. A must-read.“
“A fine demonstration that adventure and transformation begins on your own doorstep.”