Southern Grit Gravel Sportive

Southern Grit Gravel Sportive – Herne Hill, United Kingdom

• Date: 25 April 2027
• Location: Herne Hill Velodrome, London, United Kingdom
• Distances: 110km, 100km
• Event Type: Gravel Sportive

The Southern Grit gravel sportive offers a challenging day out on the mixed terrain of the Surrey Hills and North Downs. Starting from the iconic Herne Hill Velodrome, the route heads south into a landscape of fast woodland trails, chalky climbs, and quiet country lanes. Timed for late April, the ride often coincides with the region’s bluebells carpeting the forest floors, with trails clear of the summer’s overgrowth. It is a day for confident riders, a self-supported adventure through the best of the area's springtime scenery.

With two distinct routes, participants can choose their challenge. The longer 110km option packs in 1,400 metres of climbing, while the 100km route offers a deceptively tough alternative with only slightly less elevation at 1,355 metres. Both versions of this London gravel ride begin with a climb from Herne Hill to Crystal Palace before dropping down to explore a string of parks. The character of the ride shifts as it reaches the North Downs, with expansive views across the Weald on clear days before diving into long, flowing woodland descents.

This is a self-navigated event, where riders use a supplied GPX file to find their way. The experience is enhanced with live GPS tracking for every participant, allowing friends and family to follow along online. This dot-watching feature adds a unique dimension to the day, showing the field spread out across the landscape. While the tracking provides live results as riders return to the velodrome, the ethos remains one of self-reliance; pacing, mechanicals, and navigation are all part of the journey. There are many other gravel events in United Kingdom, but few combine this tech with a classic day out.

The course is a thoughtfully curated journey. After an early stretch through Selsdon Wood and a steady climb up Baker Boy Lane, the route drops towards the halfway feed station. From here, the terrain around Earlswood Common and Reigate introduces sandier tracks before the stout climb through Gatton Park. It is here the routes diverge, with the 110km option staying high along the ridge towards Headley Heath. The 100km route takes a more direct, punchier line home, making it a true test of resolve despite its shorter distance.

The day begins with coffee and croissants at the velodrome, setting a welcoming tone. A well-stocked feed station at the 54km mark provides a chance to refuel before the latter half of the ride. The finish is a celebration of the day’s effort, with pizza and beer awaiting riders back at Herne Hill. This combination of a challenging route and warm hospitality makes the Southern Grit gravel sportive a fixture on the calendar for those seeking a proper adventure just south of the city.

Southern Grit is designed for riders comfortable with a full day on varied surfaces, from fast-packed dirt to loose, rooty singletrack. The chalky climbs of the North Downs can be particularly testing, demanding good technique and consistent effort. It is a ride that feels properly earned, rewarding participants with a sense of accomplishment and a memorable day on the bike. More details and registration information can be found on the official event website.