Cotswolds Gravel X
From Glorious Gravel
Event summary
With options for both new and experienced gravel riders, the Cotswolds Gravel X promises a thrilling ride that combines challenging climbs in the hills with a fast, flat finish. Expect a day filled with breathtaking views, charming villages, and varied countryside as you navigate the diverse terrain. Camping is available the night before, ensuring a fun-filled weekend for all participants. Join us for this remarkable cycling experience and enjoy the camaraderie and excitement that awaits on the trails!
Cotswolds Gravel X
This event has taken place
Congratulations to everyone who took part. We're waiting on information about the next edition of this event.
Did you race? Let the community know how you got on and leave a review.
Previous editions
Add your review
Reviews
Done this event?
First-hand event reviews from people who have been there, done that and got the breathable T-shirt, really help everyone choose their next event.
Races
-
Cotswolds Gravel X - Long Route
Entries closed08:00
£62.72
-
Cotswolds Gravel X - Medium Route
Entries closed08:00
£62.72
Event information
A ride of two halves taking in some of the best gravel & backroads of the beautiful Cotswolds.
Heading out of Didmarton, we head north west into the hills for a punchy first 45km packed with climbs of all shapes and sizes.
After a stop for a sandwich at feed two we head onto the Fosse Way – get in a good group and work together to smash through this fast 20km section. After this, its a quick 13km section on a mix of tarmac and gravel back to the finish line.
MEDIUM ROUTE
The medium route takes out a chunk at the start and near near the end but has the routes have the same shape with a tough first half in the hills and a quick second half on the Fosse Way.
For a medium route it does have challenging sections but is rideable for cyclists of most abilities.
Our team work tirelessly to create the best gravel routes in the UK. All courses are fully signed so you can just enjoy the ride.
Checkpoints with proper food
An epic ride deserves proper support. We have tea, coffee and cake at the first feed and sandwiches & crisps at the main feed. Checkpoints are approx every 30-35km
Accurate GPX Files
A few days before the ride, we will send GPX files for all of the route options so you can follow the course on your GPS as well as the signs.
Mechanics Available
At the rider village & at selected feed stops we have mechanics available to help with any bike issues. We also have spare inner tubes, CO2 & more.
Rider Support Vans
We are here to make sure you have a great day on the gravel. If you have any major mechanicals or need collecting, support vehicles are a phone call away.
Beer at Finish Line
You will be greeted at the finish line with a beer & food available from our food truck. Perfect to chat about your day with fellow riders.
Bike spares
2 x inner tubes suitable for the size of your tyre
If running a tubeless set up, have a tubeless repair kit including plugs and spare sealant.
Multitool | Chain link specific for your bike chain
Small pump | Brake pads (especially in wet conditions)
Personal Medical kit
1 x crepe roll bandage | Gauze or similar absorbent dressing
Assorted plasters | Antiseptic (spray, cream or wipes) | Prescribed medication
Organiser's description
Taking in sections of the Roman Fosse Way and off road tracks in the hills including the Cotswolds Way & Monarchs Way, this is a great day on the bike suitable to new & experienced gravel riders in a lovely part of the country.
Camping available on Friday night.
RIDE HIGHLIGHTS:
Get into the Cotswolds Hills on the Cotswolds & Monarch Way.
Finish with a fast, flat 20km section on the famous Fosse Way.
Enjoy stunning views over the charming Cotswolds as we ride through picturesque villages and varied countryside.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A punchy long & medium route with a challenging first half in the hills & a fast second half on the Fosse Way.
RIDE DIFFICULTY
The first 40km on the long route is all up & down with on & off road climbs of all shapes and sizes including some a couple of very sharp ascents.
The second half is mostly flat – expect the ride to take 4.5 to 7 hours.
Long Route ***
Medium Route **
TECHNICAL DIFFICULTY
The route is 50/50 on & off road with the gravel being a real mix of terrain from smooth gravel, forest tracks to rockier sections and some narrow trails.
Long Route ****
Medium Route ***
TYRE & BIKE RECOMMENDATIONS
This route is designed for gravel bikes but you will be fine on a hardtail MTB. We do send out tyre recommendations closer to the time as if it’s wet you will want wide, knobbly tyres. In normal conditions, a slightly wider, all-rounder tyre (40-50mm) will be ideal.
EVENT PROGRAM
24th April: GPX files and pre ride briefing sent by email to each rider.
26th April: 7.45am: Ride village in Didmarton opens. Collecting your ride number takes approx 10 mins.
26th April: 8am to 8,45amm: Ride start. We will give you a short ride briefing and set you off in small groups.
26th April: 6pm: Rider village closes.
26th April: 7pm: Link to ride times & rider photos sent to each participant by email.
Location
GL9 1DS
Didmarton, UK
Cotswolds Gravel X
Glorious Gravel
Outdoor Adventures in Cycling. Glorious gravel rides across the UK from the Isle of Wight to the Scottish Highlands. Explore the UK way off the beaten track.
On Find a Race