If you’re looking for a proper challenge, incredible scenery and that buzz of riding alongside hundreds (or thousands) of other cyclists, then entering a sportive is the perfect goal. We’re lucky in the UK to have some of the best road cycling sportives around — from leg-burning climbs to beautiful rolling countryside, there’s something for everyone.
Here are five of the best UK cycling sportives to add to your bucket list.
1) Fred Whitton Challenge
📅 Date: May
📍 Location: Grasmere, Lake District
📏 Distance: 112 miles (~180 km) with nearly 4,000 m of climbing
🔗 Link: fredwhittonchallenge.co.uk
If you know, you know. The Fred Whitton is legendary and brutally tough, featuring iconic climbs like Hardknott and Wrynose Pass. A real badge of honour if you can tick this one off.
2) Etape Loch Ness
📅 Date: April
📍 Location: Inverness, Scotland
📏 Distance: 66 miles (106 km), fully closed roads around Loch Ness
🔗 Link: etapelochness.com
This one is breathtaking, in every sense. Closed roads, stunning views, and a long climb up Glendoe all make this one a Scottish classic. One of the most scenic sportives you’ll ever do.
3) Dragon Ride
📅 Date: June
📍 Location: Margam Park, South Wales
📏 Distances: Various — up to the mighty Dragon Devil at 296 km with over 4,500 m of climbing
🔗 Link: dragonride.co.uk
A big one on the sportive calendar. Epic climbs through the Brecon Beacons, fast descents, and a great atmosphere. There’s a route for everyone — from tough to seriously tough.
4) Tour of the Cotswolds (Ride 24/7 Sportive)
📅 Date: July
📍 Location: Cirencester, Gloucestershire
📏 Distances: Usually 77 km, 116 km or 162 km
🔗 Link: British Cycling Events
If you’re after rolling hills, quiet lanes and postcard villages, this is a gem. A friendly, scenic sportive that’s great for newer riders or anyone wanting a beautiful day out on the bike.
5) The Chiltern 100
📅 Date: June
📍 Location: Amersham, Buckinghamshire
📏 Distances: 60 km, 100 km, 160 km options
🔗 Link: chilternclassic.co.uk
Often called one of the toughest sportives in the South East. It packs in all the classic Chiltern climbs with steep gradients and punchy lanes. Expect plenty of short, sharp climbs and lovely countryside.
Final Thoughts
From the savage climbs of the Lake District to the rolling beauty of the Cotswolds, these UK sportives have something for every rider. Whether you want to push your limits or just enjoy a day out in great company, pin one of these onto your calendar and get training.
If you’re planning one of these for next year and want help getting event-fit, drop me a message — I’ve helped loads of riders get the most out of their big day.
See you out there!
