What are the different Gravel Event types?
Gravel racing has exploded in popularity over the last few years, captivating cyclists from all backgrounds and abilities. From bucket-list races in the US like Unbound Gravel to homegrown classics like the Gralloch in Scotland, every year sees more events popping up, each with its own unique charm and challenge.
Why the boom in gravel?
The mass appeal is partly down to the gravel bike itself – a machine that blends the speed of a road bike with the rugged versatility of a mountain bike. This dual-purpose capability makes it a “do-it-all” bike for many riders. It’s even inspired an emerging category known as “all-road bikes,” with brands like Trek and Ribble offering road bikes with enough tyre clearance and geometry tweaks to comfortably tackle off-road sections.
In the UK, gravel events are multiplying every year, fuelling a vibrant scene. These events cater to a wide range of riders – from those seeking a fun and scenic day out to racers hungry for competition. What’s more, there’s now a tangible incentive for those with a competitive streak: if you place in the top 25% at prestigious events like the Gralloch or the Graem Cymru, you can earn a coveted spot at the UCI Gravel World Championships.
Here’s a look at the main types of gravel events:
✅ Gravel Fondos and Sportives
These rides are more about the adventure and camaraderie than racing. Often with multiple route options, they’re perfect for new riders looking to dip their toes in gravel without the pressure of competition.
✅ Gravel Races
These are the real deal for the competitive crowd. Expect mass starts, fast paces, and tough courses that demand both fitness and skill. Races range from short, punchy circuits to 200 km+ epics.
✅ Ultra-Distance Gravel Events
For those who want to go long – really long. These events often cover 300 km or more, with self-supported or semi-supported rules. Think of them as gravel’s answer to ultra-endurance bikepacking.
✅ Bikepacking Races
While not purely gravel, many bikepacking races include big chunks of off-road riding. These multi-day adventures test your ability to navigate, camp, and survive – not just your legs.
The world of gravel events is as varied as the terrain itself. Whether you’re chasing a podium, an adventure, or just a great day out on your bike, there’s an event out there waiting for you.
Events in 2025:
Graeam Cymru (UCI World Championship Qualifier)
Date: 6th September 2025
Location: Wales
Description: The GRAEAN CYMRU Gravel Race takes place in Wales, offering a tough course with a mix of gravel, dirt, and technical terrain. Riders tackle challenging climbs and descents, immersing themselves in the scenic Welsh countryside. The race attracts cyclists seeking a demanding and adventurous gravel experience.
Distance: 105km
Raiders Gravel
Date: TBC
Location: Scotland
Description: Raiders Gravel is a challenging gravel race set in the UK, featuring a mix of rugged terrain, gravel roads, and technical trails. Riders face demanding climbs and fast descents while navigating scenic landscapes, making it a tough but rewarding event for gravel enthusiasts.
Distance: 3 stages: 85km, 100km, 65km
Frontier 300
Date: 6th June 2025
Location: North England
Description: The Frontier 300 is a long-distance gravel race set across the rugged landscapes of the UK. Covering 300 miles, it challenges riders with a mix of gravel tracks, remote trails, and tough climbs, making it a true test of endurance and navigation skills.
Distance: 300km (1 day or 2 day option)
Norfolk Gravel Epic
Date: June 14, 2025
Location: Fakenham
Description: The Norfolk Gravel Epic is a fast-paced gravel race set across the flatlands of Norfolk, with a mix of smooth gravel roads and a few challenging climbs. It’s a great event for testing your speed and endurance.
Distance: 100km, 200km
The Centurion
Date: July 12, 2025
Location: Thruxton
Description: The Centurion is a demanding gravel race featuring a mix of fast gravel roads and technical sections. It offers riders a challenging yet rewarding course, perfect for those looking to test their skills and stamina.
Distance: 100km, 200km
The Wild Goat
Date: July 19, 2025
Location: Scotland (Galloway)
Description: The Wild Goat is a tough gravel race through the hilly terrain of Galloway, Scotland. With a mix of gravel and singletrack, riders can expect a challenging but scenic ride.
Distance: 90km, 120km
Kielder Triple Crown
Date: August 30, 2025
Location: Northumberland
Description: The Kielder Triple Crown is a challenging gravel race set in Kielder Forest, featuring a mix of gravel tracks and forest trails. With multiple distances, it’s a fantastic test of both endurance and skill.
Distance: 50km, 100km, 150km
Surrey Gravel Epic
Date: June 28, 2025
Location: Peaslake
Description: The Surrey Gravel Epic offers a fantastic blend of fast gravel roads and technical singletrack. Riders will navigate the stunning Surrey Hills, with challenging climbs and descents along the way.
Distance: 50km, 100km, 150km
Chilterns Gravel Epic
Date: July 5, 2025
Location: Chilterns
Description: The Chilterns Gravel Epic offers a scenic and challenging route through the rolling hills of the Chilterns. Riders will face a mix of gravel roads, climbs, and fast descents.
Distance: 100km, 150km
Wight Roads Gravel Epic
Date: July 13, 2025
Location: Isle of Wight
Description: The Wight Roads Gravel Epic takes riders across the scenic Isle of Wight, featuring a mix of coastal tracks, rural gravel roads, and some challenging hills.
Distance: 80km, 150km
Ridgeway Gravel Epic
Date: August 23, 2025
Location: Newbury
Description: The Ridgeway Gravel Epic is set along the historic Ridgeway Path, offering a challenging course with varied terrain. Riders will experience a mix of gravel paths, rocky tracks, and rolling hills.
Distance: 100km, 150km
The Distance
Date: June 28, 2025
Location: Cotswolds
Description: The Distance is a long-distance gravel event covering the beautiful and varied terrain of the Cotswolds. Riders will experience challenging gravel roads, climbs, and stunning countryside views.
Distance: 200km
