Sometimes the best way to get through a tough time is to look to the future. Creating a to do list of epic events or adventures gives one something to focus on and brings a bit of optimism to life. In fact, studies show planning, anticipation and the build up to a trip is where much of the enjoyment of traveling comes from. To that end, one of our customers recently shed light on the amazing gravel options available in the UK. After doing some research, I was amazed how much British gravel is out there and the variety of options available to would-be bike adventurers. It’s not a great time to travel these days, but if you start planning now, it may be a viable option for the late spring/early summer.
So a few points before we get started. There are many different types of “trails” in the UK. Bridleways, footpaths, and towpaths. Bridleways are ancient public rights of way that used to be pack horse trails; they can be accessed by walkers, cyclists and horse riders (footpaths are for hikers only). There are also canal towpaths that can be connected with gravel to go almost anywhere in the country. With this structure, one could travel from the outskirts of Manchester into the centre of London without using roads.
There are lots of different riding options throughout this region (generally southeast of Manchester). There are a number of unused railway lines that run for miles. Also, there are many bridleways, one of these is called the Pennine Bridleway, which runs for 250 miles along the length of the Pennine Hills in the Peak District.
There are a couple local routes around the area to include a loop around 3 local reservoirs: Ladybower, Derwent and Howden. This is where the Royal Air Force trained for the dambusters bombing raids during World War II using the towers of the dams for target practice. Pretty cool place for a WWII inspired Warhawk gravel bike to ride (named after one of the most numerous fighters in World War II).
This area is a good track for bikepacking or it can be done in parts and is often included by local riders in daily riding. A popular ride, this 28 mile loop takes in a good variety of terrain, some single track, mixed gravel and forestry tracks. The scenery and wildlife is spectacular. Riders often see deer, mountain hares, owls, and all sorts of other birds.
In fact, there are so many options for gravel riding in the UK the problem is selecting which to take. One epic route runs from Manchester to Glasgow, some 380 miles with 20K feet of climbing along the way. Another option is King Alfred’s Way, a 217 mile loop just west of London.
There are also miles and miles of canal towpaths that can be used alongside gravel to go almost anywhere in the country. I could travel from here into the centre of London without using roads.
There are also a growing number of gravel events in the UK. I have included a link below to what Cyclist UK rated as the top 20 due to take place before the pandemic. As you can see the scene is pretty popular over here and growing. Want to learn more about the events offered in the UK. Check The best UK gravel events for 2020 | Cyclist. There are even epic events like Unbound Gravel (formerly Dirty Kanza) along the border of England and Scotland that follow old growth forest gravel roads and single track, all offering centuries of history.
While we all struggle through these uncertain times, it's important that we appreciate the things we do have in life and allow ourselves the opportunity for optimism by looking forward to future adventures.
Interested in learning more about gravel in the UK? Other resources available include: Podcast about the UK gravel scene. Unpaved Podcast – The adventure cycling & bikepacking podcast
0 comments