The Ridgeway Gravel Epic
From Glorious Gravel
Event summary
This event promises breathtaking views, gentle rolling hills, and the chance to encounter iconic landmarks such as the ancient White Horses in Uffington and the famous racehorses of Lambourn. Riders of all abilities are welcome, with rolling routes that include off-road climbs and thrilling descents, ensuring an exhilarating day for everyone. With camping available in the ride village for those looking to stay overnight, it's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the excitement of gravel cycling. Mark your calendars for this epic adventure and join fellow cycling enthusiasts for a day filled with camaraderie, stunning scenery, and unforgettable memories!
The Ridgeway Gravel Epic
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Races
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The Ridgeway - Long Route
Entries closed08:00
£62.72
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The Ridgeway - Medium Route
Entries closed08:00
£62.72
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The Ridgeway - Short Route
Entries closed08:00
£62.72
Event information
A rolling route along the Ridgeway, gravel roads and back lanes in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Wiltshire. Starting in Newbury, we head north for nearly 20km over a couple of climbs before following the Ridgeway for 50km. We then head into the backlanes and gravel roads of Wiltshire.
The route is lumpy throughout with a quick & mostly downhill finish.
MEDIUM ROUTE
The medium route follows the long route but cuts off around 20km of the Ridgeway and some of the lumpier terrain in Wiltshire.
Lots of variety and great views await on this lovely 70km route.
SHORT ROUTE
A short but varied ride which can be broken into three parts. First we head north on mostly gravel trails on rolling terrain. Then, the middle section is on The Ridgeway before a quick last third on a mix of backroad and gravel trails back to Newbury Showgrounds for a beer
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.
Organiser's description
Choose from 50 to 110km of glorious gravel riding in Berkshire, Oxfordshire & Wiltshire with beautiful scenery and gentle rolling hills in all directions.
Stay over the night before with camping available at the ride village.
RIDE HIGHLIGHTS:
Ride the best sections of the famous Ridgeway, widely regarded as Britain’s Oldest Road.
Lovely views throughout the ride on the back roads and gravel trails of Berkshire, Oxfordshire & Wiltshire.
See ancient White Horses in Uffington and famous race horses around Lambourn.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A rolling route on Britain’s oldest road. Expect climbing throughout & some sharp descents (mostly off road) and a mix of terrain from grass, dirt trails & plenty of old school gravel on the Ridgeway.
RIDE DIFFICULTY
All three routes are rolling with mostly off road climbs but this ride is suitable for riders of all abilities.
Long Route ****
Medium Route ***
Short Route **
TECHNICAL DIFFICULTY
Conditions on The Ridgeway can vary a lot based on weather. After rain, this can be slippy & muddy. When dry, it can be dusty & rutty in places but a lot of the off-road sections roll really well.
Long Route ***
Medium Route **
Short 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. If dry, a slightly wider all-round gravel tyre (40-50mm) will be ideal
EVENT PROGRAM
21st August: GPX files and pre ride briefing sent by email to each rider.
23rd August: 7.45am: Ride village at Newbury Showgrounds opens. Collecting your ride number takes approx 10 mins.
23rd August: 8am to 8,45amm: Ride start. We will give you a short ride briefing and set you off in small groups.
23rd August: 6pm: Rider village closes.
23rd August: 7pm: Link to ride times & rider photos sent to each participant by email.
Location
RG18 9QZ
Newbury Showground, Priors Court, Hermitage, Thatcham, UK
The Ridgeway Gravel Epic
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.
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