London to Brighton Off-Road

A mix of flat, fast, and easy riding, plus some challenging downhill and uphill sections. The course is long so expect to put in some hard training work.

What's included?
- a fully signed and well marshalled route, with mile markers
- complimentary water - please bring an already full water bottle to refill!
- complimentary snacks at rest stops including energy bars
- route map (available on the day)
- participant pack (to be received by post around 4 weeks before event day)
- downloadable GPX Files (available in advance of event day)
- expert training guidance provided by MTB Fitness
- medical support
- mechanical support
- medal for all finishers
- 6 rest stops on the route, two of which provide complimentary snacks

This year, we have introduced start waves that take place every 30 minutes from 6.30am - 10.00am. You’ll be able to choose your start time as part of the registration process. Please note, changing between start waves will not be permitted before or on the day of the event.

Entry is available on a first come first serve basis, but be quick, entry sold out 5 months in advance last year!

You need to be at least 16 years old to take part in this challenging event. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult

This event is completely planned, organised and managed by the British Heart Foundation and your entry fee only covers the cost of organising the event. We therefore ask participants to pledge to raise at least £250. Your support will raise vital funds to power the science of life saving research.

Creating an online fundraising page is the easiest way to raise money and just takes a few minutes!

06:15 Information point open
06:30 -
10:00 Start time of ride - Waves of participants set off every 30 minutes
10:00 Information point closes
20:00 Cut off time at finish line
As there is a chance of bad weather/fading light during the later parts of this event, we strongly recommend participants packing bike lights.

Each rest stop will have a cut off time that you must try to make. If you fall behind these cut off times our helpful team of marshals and our ride support team will advise you of your options.

The route

Distance: 61 miles
Profile: 1,295m climbing
Terrain: Cycle tracks, forest single track, South Downs Link
Starting at Apps Court Farm, you'll quickly pick up the Thames Cycle Track as you enjoy idyllic scenery across the river as you head out of the city. You'll then encounter some stunning views as you cycle through Weybridge, Shere, Southwater Country Park and Steyning. We're not done with you yet though, you'll have to conquer the monster climb of Truleigh Hill right at the end of the ride - it's not for the feint hearted, but the views at the top out to the sea make all the hard work worthwhile. Then it's on to Brighton where you'll bask in the glory of the welcoming crowd at the finish line.

Our route has been exclusively designed by Rough Ride Guide

Checkpoints

There will be regular checkpoints out on the route, where you will be able to access important necessities such as toilets, water and medical and mechanical support. Details relating to location and facilities will be available closer to event date.

Terrain

We're proud of the unique varied nature of our route. You'll be faced with a number of different elements of mountain biking including tough climbs, technical descents, rocky surfaces, dirt trails, forest paths, rapid single track and the popular South Downs Link.

In order to get you to Brighton safely, there are some small road sections - these are just to connect you to the next bit of exhilarating mountain bike riding - but don't be disheartened if you're met with a small section of tarmac.

Make sure you have the right kit

If you're not sure what to wear on the day and what you need to bring with you, take a look at our recommended cycling kit list. You'll receive your participant number in the post around 4 weeks before the event.

As the ride is predominantly off-road, we recommend at least a CX (30+mm) tyre - the ride is not suitable for narrow wheeled bikes, slicks or on road tyres.

We strongly recommend riders come with bike lights in case of bad weather and fading light during the evening sections of the ride.

Refreshments & facilities

Food and drink will be available to purchase at the start/finish and at some of the rest stops. There will also be complimentary snacks, energy bars and water at all rest stops. Please make sure you bring cash with you on the day.

Toilets will be available at the start, finish and at rest stops along the route.

Support

You will be fully supported at this event with an experienced medical team, marshals and a fully signed route. Support vehicles will also be available to collect you and your bike from our rest stops should you find you are unable to complete the challenge.

Bike mechanics will be available along the route and will be stationed at our rest stops. We would recommend you bring a puncture repair kit and some spare inner tubes as in some instances, it may be quicker for you to deal with small punctures yourself. Our mechanics will check your bikes over and fix small repairs for free, but if any extra parts are needed you will have to pay.