Lancashire Gravel Epic

Lancashire Gravel Epic – North England, United Kingdom

• Date: 4th July 2027
• Location: Gisburn, North England
• Distances: 103km, 68km
• Event Type: Gravel Sportive

The Lancashire Gravel Epic offers a classic off-road challenge, a demanding gravel ride in Lancashire that journeys through the region's most remote landscapes. Starting and finishing from Gisburn Forest, the event takes riders deep into the quiet hills of the Forest of Bowland. It’s a route defined by its contrasts, testing riders with long climbs and rewarding them with quiet roads and memorable off-road sectors that feel a world away from the everyday.

Two distinct routes are on offer, each presenting a significant challenge. The long course covers 103 kilometres with 2,200 metres of climbing, a formidable day that includes a stretch of the Pennine Way. The medium route, at 68 kilometres and 1,500 metres of elevation, is more direct but no less rewarding. It focuses on the core challenges of the area, including the event's signature gravel sector, while omitting the northernmost loop of the longer option.

The route is a true mix of surfaces, with just over half of the distance taking place off-road. The day begins and ends on the flowing fire roads of Gisburn Forest. In between, the course weaves together quiet, rolling tarmac back roads with rougher sections of gravel. The experience of this Lancashire gravel ride is one of constant adaptation, from road climbs like Bowland Knotts to concentrating through the lumpy, uneven sections that require more technical experience.

The centrepiece of the ride is the crossing of Salter Fell. This old Roman Road presents a 17-kilometre passage through the heart of the Forest of Bowland, celebrated as one of the most remote gravel trails in the country. The segment begins with a long, uphill drag that tests the legs, and includes rocky sections that may require a brief walk. The effort is rewarded with a profound sense of isolation and a long, flowing descent back toward the finish.

The event is designed as a full weekend experience, with camping available at the start/finish area in Gisburn Forest. This creates a welcoming, club-like atmosphere where riders can gather before and after the ride. The day is well-supported with feed stations, mechanical help, and a signed course, a fine example of the strong scene in the region, which hosts many other gravel events in the United Kingdom.

This is a tough day suited to riders with good fitness and experience with varied off-road conditions. A gravel bike with wide (42-50mm) tyres is ideal, although a hardtail mountain bike would also be capable. This gravel ride in Lancashire delivers a memorable experience through its blend of tough climbs and remote beauty. For full details on registration and timings, please consult the official event website.