The sun is coming
I’m not afraid to admit that I now exist as a fair weather rider. The feeling of the sun’s rays on my skin over the last week has been the tonic I needed to get off the turbo and back onto the roads (the lighter evenings also help). And with a hint of warmth in between those widely spaced isobars, it’s got me excited about the forthcoming season.
However the Jewell in the crown of my cycling calendar, Ride London, has sadly been postponed for 2025 until further notice, I’ve had to look elsewhere to fulfil the excitement of what was such a joyous event.
Thankfully, the UK has a smorgasbord of epic sportives to choose from and even though some of the most popular events sold out months ago, there’s still time to secure a place in some brilliant alternatives.
But, I can ride on the roads for free…
If you’re new to sportives, you might wonder why people pay to cycle on roads that are free to use. A fair argument I guess. The answer lies in the experience. Many sportives offer traffic management or even fully closed roads, making for a safer and more enjoyable ride. Then there’s the camaraderie, well-placed refreshment stops, and that unbeatable sense of achievement when you cross the finish line, often with a well-earned medal to show for it. If you’re looking for a goal to keep you motivated, a sportive could be just catalyst you need to cut back on the booze and get back in the saddle 🙂
Scotland
Etape Loch Ness
Location: Inverness
Distance: 66 Miles
Date: 27th April 2025
Price: Charity entry minimum £150.00
Event Link: https://www.etapelochness.com/
We told you last year, and it’s happened again—the event has already sold out!
However, there’s still a way to secure your place. Team Macmillan has charity spots available, giving you the chance to take part while making a real difference. Simply raise a minimum of £150 to support people living with cancer.
The Etape Loch Ness offers 66 miles of stunning, traffic-free roads, including a 4.8-mile climb that ascends 380 meters, challenging but achievable for riders of all levels. It’s the perfect way to kick off your cycling season!
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Etape Caledonia
Location: Pitlochry, Perthshire
Distance: 40-85 Miles
Date: 15 May
Price: From £57.00 plus fees
Event Link: https://www.etapecaledonia.com/
Widely regarded as one of the UK’s most sought-after sportives, this event stands out thanks to its fully closed-road course-a rare and exciting opportunity for cyclists. Unsurprisingly, it sells out every year and is well worth the journey, even for those traveling from beyond Scotland.
Set against the breath taking backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, the 136km route takes riders through rolling terrain, past the serene waters of Loch Rannoch and Loch Tummel, and up a twisting climb alongside Mt Schiehallion. With a total elevation of 1,083 metres, this stunning route promises both a challenge and unforgettable views that showcase the very best of Scotland’s natural beauty.
England
Wiltshire classic
Location: Salisbury
Distance: 49-116km
Date: 15th March 2025
Price: From £30.00
Event Link: https://www.ukcyclingevents.co.uk/products/the-wiltshire-classic-2025
The Wiltshire Classic has earned its place as a rider favourite, offering a scenic journey through the rolling landscapes of the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Steeped in history, the route winds through charming Saxon villages, including Rockbourne, home to the remains of an Ancient Roman villa dating back to the Iron Age and the 5th century.
Starting at Salisbury Racecourse, all three route options take you on a ride through Wiltshire, Dorset, and Hampshire before looping back. As you cross county lines and the divide between South-West and South-East England, you’ll glide along smooth, undulating roads that make for an enjoyable and flowing ride.
This sportive is all about embracing the great outdoors, enjoying time on two wheels, and soaking up the peaceful countryside as you weave through quiet backroads and picturesque rural villages. It’s the perfect way to experience the beauty of this historic region.
Surry Hills classic
Location: Cranleigh
Distance: 50-123km
Date: 10th May 2025
Price: From £30.00
Event Website: https://www.ukcyclingevents.co.uk/products/the-surrey-hills-classic-2025
Challenge yourself on the Long or Middle Route, tackling Leith Hill—the highest point in Southern England at 294m—as you explore the breathtaking Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you opt for the Long Route, you’ll also take on the legendary Box Hill, a must-ride climb that puts even seasoned cyclists to the test.
New to cycling? The Short Route is perfect for you. Covering just over 50km with 500m of climbing, it offers a fantastic introduction to the stunning Surrey Hills, making it ideal for beginners and casual riders.
Whichever route you choose, you’ll ride through an ever-changing landscape, from rolling chalk downs and dense woodlands to open grasslands and peaceful heaths.
Cross the finish line and celebrate with a well-earned medal, delicious post-ride treats from our sponsors, and a buzzing event village filled with great food, good company, and a shared sense of achievement.
Want to ride for free? Pledge to raise £100 or more for Alzheimer’s Research UK, and your entry fee is covered!
The Fred Whitton
Location: Grasmere
Distance: 112 Miles
Date: 11th May 2025
Price: £105.00 plus fees
Event Website: https://fredwhittonchallenge.co.uk/
The Wheelbase Fred Whitton Challenge is one of the UK’s most renowned sportives, celebrated for its difficulty and often compared to European classics like the Marmotte. Spanning 112 miles through the stunning Lake District, the route starts in Grasmere and tackles iconic climbs such as Kirkstone, Honister, Newlands, Whinlatter, Hardknott & Wrynose, and Blea Tarn passes.
Elite riders conquer the course in just under six hours, while many sportive cyclists take over eleven hours to complete it. The challenge includes every major Lakeland pass, with the infamous 30% gradient of Hardknott Pass hitting riders hard at mile 94.
I’m sorry to say that this one has sold out, but you do now have plenty of warning to get into the 2026 Ballot…
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The Struggle Dales
Date: 25th May 2025
Price: £59.00
Location: Harrogate
Distance: 140-200 KM
Event Website: https://ridethestruggle.com/products/struggle-dales-hardest-sportive-in-yorkshire
Plenty of sportives claim to be Yorkshire’s toughest, but with nearly 10,000 feet of climbing crammed into 100 miles, this event from the Struggle team makes a strong case. Featuring legendary ascents like Malham Cove, Greenhow Hill, and the punishing gradients of Park Rash, this is a ride that demands serious preparation—no shortcuts, no easy miles.
Band of climbers toughest 100
Date: 16th-17th August 2025
Price: From £48.00
Location: Sheffield
Distance: 68-131 Miles
Event Website: https://www.bocescapes.com/
The Band of Climbers Toughest 100 is the UK’s most demanding and hilliest sportive, set to take place over the weekend of 16th–17th August 2025 in Sheffield and the breathtaking Peak District.
Make it a weekend to remember by kicking things off with a fun hill climb race and social ride on Saturday afternoon. Then, on Sunday 17th, take on the UK’s toughest sportive—now with an all-new XXL route option that takes the challenge to another level.
The legendary original route may cover just over 100km (62 miles), but don’t let the distance fool you—it’s arguably the hardest sportive of its kind. With over 3,200m (10,500ft) of elevation packed into 22 relentlessly steep ascents, every mile is earned.
For perspective, The Toughest 100 has 65% more elevation per mile than the notorious Fred Whitton Challenge. While “The Fred” averages 85ft of climbing per mile, this event demands a punishing 154ft per mile—or 29m per km compared to 17.5m per km on “The Fred.”
This isn’t just a challenge, it’s a test of pure grit. Are you ready to take it on (It’s a hard no from me!)
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Wye Valley Brewery sportive
Date: 31st August 2025
Price:From £32.04
Location: Stoke Lacy
Distance: 37 -53 Miles
Event Website: https://findarace.com/events/wye-valley-brewery-sportive
Set against the rolling hills of Herefordshire, between the Malverns and the Wye Valley, this late-season sportive offers a stunning ride with a unique starting point—one of the finest breweries in the West Midlands. With two picturesque routes to choose from—60km (37 miles) or 85km (53 miles)—there’s an option for every rider, whether you’re looking for a relaxed spin or a rewarding challenge.
Nestled in the heart of the ‘Hop Shires,’ the route winds through tranquil Herefordshire lanes, past hop farms, apple orchards, and striking red-soiled farmland, all while offering breathtaking views of Hay Bluff and the distant Welsh mountains.
Those tackling the longer route will follow the meandering River Wye before looping around the Much Marcle ridge and heading towards the magnificent Malvern Hills. A source of inspiration for Edward Elgar’s compositions—including Land of Hope and Glory—these hills add a touch of musical heritage to an already unforgettable ride.
Oh, and if you fancy a post-ride refreshment, I can personally vouch for the Wye Valley Pale Ale!
Wales
Tour de Môn
Date: 17th August 2025
Price: From £34.99-£51.99
Location: Anglesey
Distance: 3.5- 106 miles
Event Website: https://alwaysaimhighevents.com/events/tour-de-mon-2025
Set against some of the most breathtaking coastline in the UK, this sportive takes riders on an unforgettable tour around the island of Anglesey. With over 1,000 participants each year, it has become a highly anticipated event for both cyclists and the local community, who offer their enthusiastic support along the route with warm Welsh hospitality.
Cyclists will be treated to stunning countryside and coastal roads, with a highlight being the ‘Flying Mile’ at RAF Valley—an exclusive closed-road section that offers a rare, uninterrupted riding experience to test your speed.
Whether you’re part of a cycling club, riding with your family, or taking on the challenge for charity, this friendly event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, making it a truly memorable experience for everyone.
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The Dragon Ride
Date: 22nd June 2025
Price: Charity places available from £25.00
Location: Port Talbot
Distance: 98km-296km
Event Website: https://www.dragonride.co.uk/
No introduction neede. The Dragon Ride is one of the UK’s most iconic and legendary cycling events, renowned as one of the toughest sportives in the British Isles. In 2025, this epic challenge returns for its 21st edition, once again setting off from the stunning Margam Park in South Wales.
With four routes to choose from, ranging from a testing 98km to a gruelling 296km, there’s a challenge for every rider—whether you’re looking to push your limits or completely shatter them.
Think you have what it takes to conquer the mighty dragon? There’s only one way to find out!
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The Wales Sportive
Date: 28th June 2025
Price: from £45.00
Location: Tenby
Distance: 40-112 mile
Event website: https://www.thewalessportive.com/
The Wales Sportive offers three route options: 42 miles, 70 miles, or 112 miles, all of which are designed to accommodate riders of all experience levels and fitness. Open to anyone who’s confident in completing their chosen distance, this event provides a rewarding yet achievable challenge for all participants.
The course itself is both scenic and tough, with even the 42-mile route featuring some demanding climbs, especially in the final 15km. As part of the Long Course Weekend which is essentially a long-course triathlon event spread over three days, you’ll benefit from fantastic crowd support throughout many sections of the route, making it an unforgettable experience. The Welsh really do know how to cheer!
