The Ridgeway Gravel Epic

The Ridgeway Gravel Epic, taking place on August 23, 2025, is a chance to ride Britain’s oldest road, the famous Ridgeway National Trail. Spanning Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Wiltshire, this event offers a mix of rolling hills, ancient gravel paths, and scenic backroads, making it one of the most iconic gravel rides in the UK. Riders can choose between the 110 km long route with 1,500 meters of climbing, the 70 km medium route with 900 meters of elevation, or the 50 km short route with 600 meters of climbing. With stunning countryside views, historical landmarks, and varied terrain, this ride is perfect for both seasoned gravel cyclists and newcomers looking for an adventure. The long route starts in Newbury, heading north with 20 km of rolling climbs before joining the Ridgeway for 50 km of flowing gravel trails. Riders will then continue through Wiltshire’s backlanes and gravel roads, with a fast, mostly downhill finish. The medium route follows the same course but cuts out 20 km of the Ridgeway, offering a slightly easier yet still challenging experience. The short route provides a perfect mix of smooth gravel, backroads, and rolling hills, making it an excellent introduction to gravel riding while still delivering stunning Ridgeway views. Participants will enjoy a fully supported event, including signed routes, GPX files, and well-stocked feed stations every 30-40 km, with tea, coffee, cake, sandwiches, and crisps. Mechanical support will be available at the rider village and key checkpoints, with support vans on standby for major issues. At the finish line, riders can celebrate with a beer and food truck, making for a great post-ride atmosphere. Camping is available at the ride village, allowing participants to make a weekend out of it. With historical landmarks like Uffington White Horse and the famous racehorses of Lambourn, this event combines gravel cycling with history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.