EARLY SEASON RIDE IN THE HEART OF BERKSHIRE
Setting off from the grounds of Pangbourne College the routes on this early-season ride, the latest in our RIDE Series, serves up some of the best charity cycling sportives in the South.
With a heady mix of rolling terrain and punchy climbs across three road routes, there's sure to be something for every level of cyclist, from those just starting out, to more experienced riders building up strength after the winter months!
Key Information
- Date: 30 March 2025
- Location: Pangbourne College, Reading, Berkshire RG8 8LA
- Cool 34 Miles: £36.50
- Classic 70 Miles: £46.50
- Champion 100 Miles: £48.50
Three routes offer up challenging hills, rewarding views and plentiful aid stations, making it the perfect ride to kick-start your season!
The North Wessex Downs is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and even with its close proximity to Reading, you could be mistaken for thinking that you are miles from anywhere with the peace and serenity on offer. Famed for its hillside chalk figures, as well as being the inspiration for the literary classic, Watership Down, you'll need the strength of Bigwig, and the bravery of Hazel to take on over 4000ft of ascent on the Champion route!
Enjoy a great time in the saddle with the Action Medical Research team on this cycling event with first-class support throughout the day, raising vital funds to help sick and disabled babies and children.
Reviews
wessex downs cycle Route details
Cool Route
Distance: 34 miles
Climbing: 2,273ft
Start time: 08:15 - 09.00
Aid stations: 1 (21 miles)
GPX file: Coming soon
Price: £36.50
Classic Route
Distance: 70 miles
Climbing: 4,235 ft
Start time: 08:15 - 09.00
Aid stations: 2 (24 & 58 miles)
GPX file: Coming soon
Price: £46.50
Champion Route
Distance: 100 miles
Climbing: 6019ft
Start time: 07:00 - 08.00
Aid stations: 3 (24, 55 & 86 miles)
GPX file: Coming soon
Price: £48.50
what's included
chip timing
aid stations
signed routes
medal
free parking
mechanical support
medical assistance
roadside assistance
food & drink to purchase
photos to purchase
what our riders say...
Very well organised! The routes were well signposted, volunteers were wonderfully enthusiastic and supportive, and the feed stations were very welcomed. We all had a fantastic day in gorgeous sunshine & beautiful scenery. Can't wait to do it next year!
volunteer
Can you spare the time to help?
Our RIDE Series depends on the generosity of volunteers who give up their time to ensure that participants have the best possible day in the saddle. We're always looking for willing volunteers to help support our rides so please get in touch if you think you can spare some time, and in return, we'll give you a FREE ride!
Frequently asked questions
Can I ride an e-bike?
Yes, absolutely!
Where is the start location?
The RIDE will start/finish at Pangbourne College.
Do I need insurance?
We recommend that you have appropriate cover for you and your bike. We’ve partnered with Yellow Jersey to provide a 10% discount on their bicycle and travel insurance. You can find out more here.
Are spare parts available for my bike?
We will have spare parts for most common bikes. Spares are chargeable.
What if I get into difficulties, or lost?
You will receive a contact number for our ride control, who will be able to help with any issues.
Do I need to wear a cycling helmet?
You must wear a cycle helmet to take part in our ride.
How long do I have to complete the ride? What if I can’t complete it?
The ride will close at 1800, there will be cut off times if behind you will be asked to move onto a shorter route.
How old do I need to be to take part?
You must be at least 16 on the day of the event to take part; if you are under 18 you must be accompanied by an adult.
What facilities are available?
Free car parking and toilet facilities are available at Pangbourne College.
Riders and supporters will be able to purchase food and drinks pre and post ride from our event village vendors.
Your belongings/valuables should be locked in your car or carried with you, unfortunately we do not offer a bag drop at this event.
Our aid stations on route will provide hot and cold drinks & snacks. Please ensure you carry any additional nutrition, snacks and water you may require for the distance you are cycling.
What are the timings for the day?
Our start times would be between 0700 and 0915. Please see above, each route distance has a set start time.
When will I receive my number and final information?
Event information and updates come via email. Please look out for these. The rider manual with full event information will be available to view and download around 2 weeks prior to the event date.
Your number and timing chip will be assigned to you on the morning of the event. Simply head to our registration tent on arrival.
Where can I find photographs taken on the day?
Official photographs from the event can be found and purchased here https://www.sportsactionphoto.co.uk/p/amr_wessex_photos_2024
The photo's will be live at approx. 5.30pm on the Monday after the event.
I want to buy this as a gift?
What a lovely treat! When you buy as a gift you are entering the same registration process as normal. However, once you have chosen the route/distance then you'll be prompted to answer, 'who is this registration for?' Please select 'someone else...'
The email address you input here will be the email to receive all event correspondence. So you may want to choose to use a different email address if you want to keep your gift secret.
After you have paid you will receive a confirmation of the event entry (to the email address you entered as above) so you can gift this to your rider.
Can I register on the day?
Yes. Please note that there will be a £5 increase to the price for an on the day entry. Entries are via our online system which can be accessed by your mobile phone.
Can I get a refund, transfer or defer my entry?
Please see our Withdrawals, Refunds, Transfers and Deferrals policy here.
Sponsors
ride series
Check out all other road and gravel sportives in the series.
RIDE Castle
11 May 2025
Expect some tough climbs after departing the imposing Tonbridge Castle with 800 other riders and experience some amazing views across the Kent countryside.
RIDE Suffolk Sunrise
18 May 2025
Experienced riders lay down a benchmark on this fast and furious sportive, or newer riders tackle their first long-distance on flat and forgiving terrain
RIDE The Dales
29 June 2025
Follow in the tyre tracks of the Tour de Yorkshire through Summer Bridge and Pateley Bridge before taking on the climb that never ends, Trapping Hill.
RIDE Essex
31 August 2025
Three road route options take riders on a journey through quiet villages and the farmlands of Essex where the undulations will have you in and out of the saddle.