The Cotswolds 100/200/300

The Cotswolds 100/200/300 – Bath, United Kingdom

• Date: 19 September 2026
• Location: Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom
• Distances: 105 miles (169 km), 198 miles (319 km), 298 miles (480 km)
• Event Type: Self-supported bikepacking

The Cotswolds 100/200/300 offers a self-supported bikepacking adventure through classic English countryside, starting from the historic city of Bath. With three distinct distances, the event is built around linking the many rewarding descents the region is known for. The routes head north into the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a landscape celebrated by off-road cyclists for its rolling terrain and quiet charm. It is a true test of endurance and skill, designed to showcase the best of the area’s trails.

Riders can choose from a 105-mile, 198-mile, or a new 298-mile challenge. Each route has been crafted to provide a unique experience, with the longer two options covering the full length of the Cotswolds and back. These are not simple out-and-back loops; the return journey follows an entirely different path, ensuring fresh scenery and new challenges. This thoughtful routing allows for a complete immersion in the diverse landscapes of Somerset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, and beyond, creating a memorable long-distance ride.

The terrain is a varied and demanding mix of bridleways, byways, singletrack, and woodland paths, with even some purpose-built mountain bike trails included. While a gravel bike is suitable, some of the descents feature rocky and root-strewn sections that will test handling skills. The routes are characterized by significant elevation, with more than twenty notable downhills on the original 200-mile course, which are invariably paid for with equally significant climbs. This is a tough event for both rider and machine.

This self-supported bikepacking adventure begins with a mass start in Bath. Participants will navigate using a supplied route guide, detailed maps, and GPX files. For the 100-mile route, there is a new option for 2026: a bag transfer to a campsite at the halfway point, allowing riders to experience the journey with less baggage. This creates an opportunity for a more accessible overnight trip without sacrificing the challenge of the ride itself, blending adventure with a touch of comfort.

The journey is as much about the views as the trails. From the Cotswolds escarpment, the sightlines stretch west across the Severn Valley toward the Black Mountains and the Malvern Hills, offering moments of stillness and perspective between the demanding sections. This event is a fine example of the growing scene of other gravel events in United Kingdom that focus on landscape and personal challenge. The atmosphere is one of shared experience and quiet determination against a stunning backdrop.

This multi-day ride is a deep dive into the heart of English trail riding. While timing is self-managed, live GPS tracking allows friends and family to follow along. The event officially concludes back in Bath, completing a full circuit of some of England's finest off-road trails. More information on registration and event rules can be found on the official event website.