Pennine 500

Pennine 500 – Mytholmroyd, United Kingdom

• Date: 29 May 2027 - 01 Jun 2027
• Location: Mytholmroyd, England, United Kingdom
• Distances: 505km
• Event Type: Bikepacking Rally

The Pennine 500 is a self-supported bikepacking rally in the UK, tracing a challenging 505-kilometre loop through the quiet landscapes of northern England. From a group start in the Calder Valley, the route journeys north along the mountainous backbone of the Pennines, reaching Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland before returning south. With almost 10,000 metres of climbing, it is a significant undertaking, designed to test resilience and reward riders with an immersive experience in this historic and varied terrain.

The route begins and ends at the Mytholmroyd community centre, with the clock starting for all riders at 8am. The course unfolds through a series of distinct northern regions, from the forested valleys near Hebden Bridge to the open moors of the Howgills and the remote Allen Valley. It’s a journey through landscapes immortalised by writers like Emily Brontë, a place of heather, stone, and expansive skies. The terrain is a mix of surfaces, favouring quiet lanes, old packhorse trails, and forgotten tracks over busy roads.

As a bikepacking rally, the event is run in a self-supported format, adhering to the long-established principles of ultra-distance cycling. This means riders must carry their own gear, navigate the course independently, and source all their needs from commercial services along the route. The four-day window allows for a range of paces, from those pushing the limits to others taking time to wild camp on the open moors and absorb the atmosphere of these ancient hills. It is a true test of self-reliance against a stunning backdrop.

The character of the riding is defined by its variety. Riders will find themselves on gated farm roads, reservoir access tracks, and venerable routes like the Salter Fell Road. The course is not entirely off-road; quiet, paved sections link the gravel, but traffic is minimal, often limited to just farm vehicles. This thoughtful route design ensures a continuous sense of remoteness and discovery. It’s a chance to find a rhythm among the hills, whether passing through Swaledale or crossing the Salt Road between Lancashire and North Yorkshire.

This bikepacking rally in the UK offers a profound connection to the landscape and the simple act of pedalling through it. The challenge is significant, but it comes with the reward of seeing the country unfold at a human pace, from the flanks of the Howgills to the final descent into Crimsworth Dean. This event is part of a growing calendar of other gravel events in United Kingdom that celebrate endurance and place. More details can be found on the official event website.