Description
Ride Overview
A ride of contrasting terrain with rolling terrain to suit the rouleurs at the start of the ride followed by some challenging climbs on the long route to suit the grimpeurs as we return via the Cotswold Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A challenging long route or medium route suitable for most riders.
Long Route: 161km, 1686m
Medium Route: 101km, 732m
Key Climbs:
Rushmire Hill – 3.3km, 5.0% avg gradient
Stouts Hill – 1.6km, 9.3% avg gradient
Ride Highlights
Glorious rolling terrain: Aside from the two big climbs near the end of the ride, the majority of the route is on rolling terrain on quiet backroads. It’s late summer riding at it’s best.
Ride through picturesque villages: The Cotswolds are one of the most beautiful parts of the country and this route takes us through stunning traditional villages.
Two classic climbs: After 130km in the legs, we hit the two main climbs of the day. First up is Rushmire Hill and then comes Stouts Hill with an average gradient of 9%. Two back to back beasts before a fast descent home.
The Route
Cotswolds Beast: May 21st 2023
Pick between the 161km long route or 101km medium route over our glorious rolling terrain in the stunning Cotswolds with a couple of punchy climbs at the end of the long route. A fantastic ride taking in the best back roads of this beautiful part of England.
Start Time: From 8am
Finish Time: Ride Village closes at 6pm
Long Route Cut Off: Must be through route split (97km) by 2pm
Start / Finish Location: Didmarton
Long Route
Long Route: 161km, 1686m
A ride of contrasting terrain with rolling terrain to suit the rouleurs at the start of the ride followed by some challenging climbs on the long route to suit the grimpeurs.
Heading out east from the start at Didmarton you’ll pass through picturesque Cotswolds villages on quiet country lanes looping past the edge of Cotswold Water Park before we turn back and start to head for the hills.
There’s plenty of challenge towards the end of the ride including a 3km climb out of Wotton-Under-Edge followed by the shorter but steeper Stouts Hill often used for local cycling club hill climb events before a fast descent home.
Medium Route
Medium Route: 101km, 732m
Starting in Didmarton, the medium route follows the first 99km of the long route over rolling terrain in the heart of the Cotswolds. The route is up and down all ride on quiet back-roads but there are no significant climbs and only 732m of elevation so it’s suitable to riders of all abilities looking for a century ride in a beautiful part of the country.
FAQs
Is the route marked?
Yes, the route is fully marked. We also suggest bringing a bike GPS to follow as well, we will send you a GPX file with the route one week before the ride.
How do I find out my start time?
Riders start in groups of maximum 6 at a time. We will send you an email after you have booked to choose your start time between 8am and 10am, if you are riding with a friend you can choose to start with them.
Where is the start / finish?
The ride starts and finishes in Didmarton. There is free parking onsite as well as a toilets & refreshments.
What happens if I have a mechanical / accident?
It is important you prepare properly ensuring your bike is in good condition & physically ready for the challenge. If you have an accident or mechanical, we have support at the feeds and sweep van at the back.
What shall I pack with me for the ride?
You need to have two water bottle, basic kit to repair punctures, inner tubes & riding with a helmet is compulsory. Our feed stops have water, cake, fruit & bars.
Do I get a medal at the finish?
Yes, when you finish the ride you will go through the finish line and get your hard earned UK’s Hardest Hundred medal.
