Trending
PEARSON 1860 ROUTES
The Pearson community share a love for cycling by posting ride routes for others to enjoy. Below is list of some of our favourites, as well as rides we aspire to, they are often routes that start around London or our Sheen base, with the occasional international offering. They all link through to Strava or Komoot for easy access. We have added some basic ride details to help you choose what's right for you. For future automatic alerts don't forget to follow Pearson 1860 on Strava or follow us on Komoot.
If you've got some hidden gems you want to share with the Pearson community, send a Strava or Komoot link to care@pearson1860.co.uk for your chance to be featured in our newsletter and our Strava page.
The Hardest Hundred: Surrey/Kent.
January, 2022.
Ride one of the toughest routes in the South East - take on 13 major climbs (including 8 in the Top 100 climbs) in Surrey & Kent. Starting in Cranleigh, the route starts in the Surrey Hills, before heading along the North Downs ridge to Kent. Tackle Chalkpit Lane before you head back into Surrey and the notorious Leith Hill. With over 3,000m of elevation, this is as tough a ride as you can get in the South East and a real challenge to put in the calendar for 2021.
183.7km |
3054m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
Urban Skirmish.
January 2022
This urban route takes you into the city, through Kensington Gardens, past Buckingham Palace, Westminster and along the Thames. Taking in the wonderful sights that London has to offer.
29.40km |
97m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Finding Common Ground
January, 2022
67.3km |
370m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
Ride out to explore Wisley, Ockham, Oxchott and Esher Commons - crossing the abandoned runway at Wisley Airfield.
The airstrip, originally grass (converted to tarmac in 1952), was used for testing by the Vickers Aviation Ltd. During WWII it was used as a dispersal site for Vickers Wellington bombers which would have been transported to the site by road from the factory at Brooklands, Weybridge to complete initial flight testing before delivery to the RAF.
GO TO RIDE
Race to Royal Regatta.
January, 2022.
This route takes you out of London and into the gorgeous countrysides of Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. Starting at the Pearson shop in Sheen head to Windsor and Henley on Thames, home of the famous Royal Regatta. Meander your way back through the historic Thames-side village of Cookham and through the Colne Valley Regional Park before arriving back in town.
117km |
570m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
There's Gold In Them There Hills.
December, 2021.
Starting and ending at Dorking Deepdene station, a 53 minute train ride from London Waterloo. This route takes in the best gravel tracks and gorgeous views that Surrey has to offer from Leith Hill, Newlands Corner, and more. Make sure to pop past the Peaslake Village Store for their famous cheese straws.
52.6km |
810m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
Laps Before Lunch.
December, 2021.
The classic Richmond Park laps route where you can go out, put the hammer down and get your dose of the great outdoors before the festivities of the day begin. The perfect route whether you're squeezing in a training ride, making room for Christmas lunch or simply trying to avoid setting the table.
32km |
260m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
Nineteen to the Dozen.
December, 2021.
A ride taking in the deepest, darkest Surrey Hills. Heading up Leith Hill, Hurt Wood and Winterfold through some filling-loosening lanes. With 1370m of elevation over 117km and five significant climbs this is a real leg tester - and the perfect route for the Hammerandtongs.
117km |
1371m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO STRAVA RIDE
GO TO KOMOOT ROUTE
Pedal Into Christmas
December, 2021
16km |
70m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
It's the most wonderful ride of the year. The London Christmas lights are one of a kind, this Pearson route starts at Westminster and takes you past the best displays that our capital has to offer. Regent Street, Oxford Street Carnaby Street, Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square and more. There are plenty of places to stop and grab yourself a festive drink, bite to eat and enjoy that festive feeling.
GO TO RIDE
Testing, testing...
November, 2021
32.1km |
112m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
The ideal test track for a gravel bike. A mix of on and off road sections to understand true capability. Winding towpath section along the Thames, leads into Richmond Park for a gravel climb, across to Wimbledon Common for more technical sections with faster flat compact gravel. Onto Putney Heath and a quick loose descent, onto a road section via the Marc Bolan Shrine. Back to the towpath at Putney boathouse to Sheen.
GO TO RIDE
The Wild North (London)
November, 2021
45.6km |
55m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
This canal and riverside gravel route is sure to offer views to remember. Starting at the Pearson shop you head off over to the north of the River Thames. You will meander your way along the Grand Union Canal which takes you past Osterley Park, Horsenden Hill before meandering back along the Thames to the Pearson shop.
View Strava route
View Komoot route
COP26 Pearson to Glasgow
November, 2021
668km |
5570m |
Road Tour |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
Inspired by the many people who cycled to COP26 from all over the country, we have created a six day tour starting at the Pearson shop in East Sheen and ending in Glasgow. This route takes you through the middle, winding past Nottingham, around Sheffield and through the gorgeous Yorkshire Dales.
View the tour on Komoot
A Whole New Weald
November, 2021
107km |
1089m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
The Weald /ˈwiːld/ is an area of South East England between the parallel chalk escarpments of the North and the South Downs. It crosses the counties of Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex and Kent. It has three separate parts: the sandstone "High Weald" in the centre; the clay "Low Weald" periphery; and the Greensand Ridge which stretches around the north and west including its highest points. The Weald once was covered with forest, and its name, Old English in origin, signifies "woodland". The term is still used today, as scattered farms and villages sometimes refer to The Weald in their names.
GO TO RIDE
View the Strava route
In And Out Of The Big Smoke
October 2021
Starting at Tower Hill and ending at the Pearson Cycles shop, this 30km route promises to highlight some of the best sightseeing that London has to offer. On our doorstep is an abundance of history and beauty just waiting to be explored. Some of the sights to look forward to are the Tower of London, St Paul's Cathedral, Hyde Park, views of the city from Richmond Park, and many more.
30.0 KM |
121 m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
View the Strava route
View the route on Komoot
Olympic Nostalgia
October 2021
The 2021 Olympic Road Race route cuts through central London to cross the River Thames at Putney Bridge. Pass the Pearson shop (come in, grab a coffee and say hi if you have the time), cycle through Richmond Park and Bushy Park before starting the loop through Surrey.
Take on the famous Box Hill, repeated loops excluded from this route, and enjoy the breathtaking view once you have conquered the zig-zag hill, before heading back towards London passing through Esher and back through Richmond Park.
128.0 KM |
986 m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
View the Strava route
View the route on Komoot
Two Days Up North
October 2021
By Angus Dodd
Less than three hours from Euston and we were stepping off the train at Oxenholme, conveniently positioned at the southern gateway to the Lake District. The plan was to ride to Edinburgh in two days, through the heart of the Lakes and then north through the Borders. We 'Komooted' the route and included some so-called gravel. Three of us riding: Stephen, an Olympic rower with outsize lung capacity; Chris, a deliberately under-prepared every day cyclist with a new gravel bike & no cleats; and me, with my Pearson Objects in Motion & some new 4 Season tyres (I’m sure Guy Pearson called them unpuncturable).
We had booked to stay at the Wheatsheaf on the first night. Turns out there are two Wheatsheafs near Oxenholme and we merrily set off to the wrong one. Route corrected, rain & darkness coming down and we arrived at the right one, in Brigsteer, 7-8km due west of the station. Our keys were left out, our rooms were nice, but the pub - and our dinner venue - was otherwise closed. Back into Kendal by taxi and some tramping of empty streets eventually landed us at a decent Thai restaurant.
Our first day took us north through the Lakes to another hotel on the north shore of the Solway Firth. The forecast could not have been worse. 95% chance of torrential rain and 30mph wind. We tried to convince ourselves that we’d be in the 5% area of no rain - we never found it. Our route was great: first west over undulating green-ness to the Windermere Ferry. Then north up the lake-shore path (sometimes actually in the lake) and on small roads to Skelwith. Komoot is great but it does sometimes take you on artificial detours to keep you off the true road - in this case we got a pleasant tour of a static caravan park before arriving at Skelwith. From Skelwith there is the brutal 25% well-named Foulstep climb - I have to admit our party only had a 33% success rate on it - two of us succumbing to the gradient & wet leaf combination. Next stop was Grasmere for cake & coffee, with the rain now upgrading from persistent to near torrential, and a pathetic 40km done.
From Grasmere, a few nice lanes before the grind over Dunmail Raise - only 2km or so, but not much fun with big trucks and a lot of spray - and then down to the fantastic car-free western shore of Thirlmere. Over the Victorian dam at the north end and then north to Threkeld, skirting the lower slopes of Blencathra. In any normal weather, these would have been superb roads. With no cars and only sheep for company the road is taped over the moors and fields, remote and spectacular. As it was, we were cold & very wet and really wondering how we had only completed half the 130km planned. A puncture in my indestructible tyres was at least an excuse to stop and put on the last of our clothes and eat something before pressing on north.
Via some proper muddy farm tracks and fields we were finally Into Carlisle and Komoot took us on a suburban cycleway. Much better than it sounds and, at last, the rain seemed to be abating. Carlisle being bereft of soft southern deli cafes, we settled for Subway and dried out under their toilet hand-dryers. Spirits now marginally higher we pushed on, over the border, and then turned left and west for the last 15km to Powfoot, on the shores of the Solway Firth.
Day 2 dawned sunny and cold with sunrise over the Solway. Small roads took us north until we hit the M6, just south of Lockerbie. From there, an efficient but functional route north on the A road which tracks the M6 - not the most beautiful road but good to get the kilometres on the clock early in the day. At Moffat, the route took us down a road suspiciously marked as being a dead end. Sure enough we ended up on a grassy but rideable track and then a muddy and unrideable path. But it didn’t matter, the sun was out and we pushed our bikes up the kilometre or so to the road (it is, of course, very easy to avoid the pushing by just riding on the road).
With 60k or so done, we were at the top of Beeftub and the top of a glorious, snaking, perfect road, 20km descent, eventually passing the source and then following the course of the River Tweed. Past the Crook Inn (“Food served all day” - closed) to a miraculous (because it was open & good) café in Broughton for lunch.
The route on to Edinburgh didn’t decline in quality. We ducked the cross-Pentland gravel option and stayed to the south east of hills, still on great, deserted tarmac until the outskirts of Edinburgh. Chris, being the local expert, then abandoned Komoot and went full urban guerrilla as we came into Edinburgh centre via the Water of Leith and the canal.
Overnight in Edinburgh and back in London by train for lunch on Thursday.
269.0 KM |
2350 m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
View Day 1 and Day 2 on Strava
View the tour on Komoot
Puncheur 2021
October 2021.
The challenge of Puncheur is not a long list of nasty climbs, neither is it mega-endurance. The challenge is to keep up a good tempo along rolling roads over 62 miles and to keep your rhythm up and over the short climbs and drags.
There are long, flat stretches, draggy climbs, some fast descents, and short, sharp, steeper hills to get out the saddle and punch your way over. Pace it to ensure you have something in your legs to get you up Ditchling Beacon at the end.
100.0 KM |
1458 m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Palace to Palace.
October 2021.
A London to Windsor ride is perfect loop for winter training. It is long, flat and doesn't take you down tiny lanes, so you can accumulate base miles at maximum speed. Follow the road through Richmond Park, pedal through the tranquil Surrey countryside to the majestic Windsor Great Park, behind the royal residence of Windsor Castle. The return leg is shorter and faster, so you'll be home in time for lunch. Pop into the Pearson shop and say hi on your way past.
122.0 KM |
540 m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
FROM CITY TO SANDY SHORES.
September 2021.
Make the most of the sunshine and enjoy a jaunt to the beach. Starting from the Pearson shop, in East Sheen, this road route takes you through Esher, Guildford and Midhurst to the sandy shores of West Wittering.
After dipping your toes into the ocean, you might be inspired to cycle all the way back however, for those who prefer to enjoy the luxury of a train ride back with a beer, it is a 12.4 km cycle from West Wittering to the Chichester station.
After dipping your toes into the ocean, you might be inspired to cycle all the way back however, for those who prefer to enjoy the luxury of a train ride back with a beer, it is a 12.4 km cycle from West Wittering to the Chichester station.
105.0 KM |
1041 m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
LEE VALLEY VELOPARK ROAD CIRCUIT.
September 2021.
Lee Valley VeloPark’s one mile floodlit road circuit is cycling's very own premium road in the heart of East London, built as part of a world-class venue.
How can you cycle the road circuit?
Lee Valley VeloPark offers taster sessions, skills sessions and pay and ride sessions to allow you to experience this premium 1-mile floodlit road cycling circuit.
1.62km |
5m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
SPORTIVE BREAKS: THE SOUTH DOWN BEAST.
September 2021.
A challenging late season ride that packs in plenty of ups and downs as we ride through the South Downs National Park.
Whilst the featured climbs over the South Downs via Butser Hill, Harting Down and Duncton Down may be the more obvious route highlights, the challenging nature of this ride comes from the fact that it’s rarely flat, with the bigger hills linked by sections of shorter, punchier ups and downs the whole way round.
Away from the climbs, there are plenty of stunning views from the top of the South Downs ridge and some grin-inducing downhills along the way.
This is a terrific route, made even better with the chance to ride it with mechanical support, timing chips, feed stops and a finish-line village. To find out more and to book your place on the October 9th ride, click here.
148km |
1979m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY.
August 2021.
The 100-mile ancient road (now, technically, off-road) runs from Winchester to Eastbourne, wending its way through wheatfields and across chalk downland. Take in the famous Chanctonbury Ring, an Iron Age hill fort, followed by the Old Man of Wilmington, a giant chalk carving dating back to the early 18th century.
At the top of the popular Truleigh Hill climb stop off at Cadence Cycle Club, a cyclist-friendly barn conversion offering coffee and pastries as well as spectacular views across the English Channel. A dip in the sea once you've arrived in Eastbourne is a must, no matter the time of year. Fish and Chips aid recovery, so once you're dry be sure to head down to Qualisea on Terminus Road for your fix.
Now either turn around and ride back to Winchester or hop on the train and get some serious shut-eye!
158km |
3578m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
URBAN SKIRMISH III.
August 2021.
Starting and finishing at London Waterloo station, this trip takes you across Lambeth Bridge to Parliament Square and to the Royal Loop of St. James' Palace and Buckingham Palace. A detour to the Royal Parks of Hyde Park and Regents Park (don't miss the Giraffes!) in all your cycling gear will make you feel right at home at these cycling hotspots.
Bring a tote to pop into the shops down Regent's Street and Piccadilly Circus before joining back up to the Thames via your trip down the Mall and Trafalgar Square. The cycleways down the Thames will have you looking up from your handlebars at London's most famous skyscrapers.
Cross the river at the famous Tower Bridge and stop off for a bite to eat at Borough Market showcasing London's best produce and culinary culture.
Finally a gentle pedal down the Queen's Walk on London's Southbank will link you back up to London Waterloo, for the train home.
27km |
78m |
Road (Urban) |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
A Trail of Two Cities.
July 2021.
A virtually entirely off-road route to the coast. Leave London and follow the Thames to Weybridge, along the Wey Navigation to Guildford. Pick up the Downs Link, a cycle path converted from a disused railway line, to Shoreham and the coast. Finish along the front to Brighton station, for a used railway ride home.
114km |
663m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
To Brighton!
July, 2021.
A quick route to Brighton via Ditchling Beacon. Taking in the North and South Downs climbs, this ride is varied with rolling, lumpy and fast sections. Fish and chip rewards greatest effort - recommend the Regency Cafe on the front in Regency Square for the best in town, and a cycling obsessed owner, 5 *. Trains easily caught back to London with bikes on weekends if required!
86.81km |
1127m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
She bangs the 'drons
June, 2021.
This is a wonderful ride starting in South Manchester and heading into the Peak District to see the rhododendrons, quiet lanes, lovely scenery and some short sharp climbs with over 1200m of ascent.
Head out towards Nether Alderley and up Artists Lane to soften the legs, down Birtles and onto Gawsworth then Sutton on the edge of the Peaks. Some "peak climbing" (you will enjoy Withenshaw Lane) leads you to the bottom of Wildboarclough. From here enjoy the beautiful Clough Brook, the masses of rhododendrons (mid June) as you meander up the valley, skirt around Macclesfield forest and into Langley.
Hang a sharp ride, some short steep 'bergs around Tegg's Nose to cross the Cat and Fiddle road, head over to Kerridge and then bash it back to Hale. Spot the Elk bar and enjoy a drink. You definitely won't be disappointed - and you've definitely earned it!
87km |
1200m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain |
Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Weare Street
June, 2021.
The ancient road of Weare Street near Ockley is a beautiful and tranquil highlight to this flowing ride through Surrey. So named for being a 'weird' street as opposed to having anything to do with a weir, despite there being a stream running down the length of it. The road was part of the busy thoroughfare between London and Chichester known as Stane Street (stone in Norse) that carried trade goods by horse and cart.
Weare St. was somewhat of a bottleneck - dark, secluded and in places narrow, it was often the haunt of highwaymen (keep an eye on your Garmin!) and beggars hence the aptly named Smugglers Lane nearby. We approach from the south before joining the railway station road and subsequently heading towards Newdigate.
83km |
873m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
To Kings Langley!
May, 2021.
Have you ever wanted to visit Kings Langley? The setting of William Shakespeare's Richard II, Act III, Scene IV. Home of Kings Langley FC. Birthplace of John Milbank - the Anglican theologian.
Well, if you follow the Grand Union Canal from Brentford, then you are in for a treat!
This route follows the towpath through some of the shadier areas of North London. Pick your way between fisherman and walkers past Watford to Kings Langley - beyond even the reach of the Tube. The route loops back through Harrow to rejoin the canal system near Wembley.
100km |
426m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Leith Hill - Brighton - Leith Hill.
May, 2021.
A suitably epic gravel ride for the longest Saturday of the year. Ride from the base of Leith Hill down to the coast and back through the South Downs & Surrey Hills. Taking in some of the best gravel in the South East, this is a classic summer off-road challenge.
Fancy riding this route with mechanical support and feed stops? Glorious Gravel are offering just that, on June 19th. Book your place now
143.1km |
1631m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Pearson's Rutland Classic.
May, 2021.
A lovely 3-hour road ride from Cafe Ventoux, a well-known cycling Cafe in Leicestershire (with parking if you want to drive to do the start.)
From Ventoux, you head north on some typical Leicestershire lanes before taking in the climb of Burrough on the hill - there's an ice-cream van at the top for those taking on the route in the Summer months to stop and have a screwball or 99.
After descending you'll ride a lot of the roads used in the UCI Rutland Cicle classic before heading around Rutland Water's North and east shore, before heading through the market town of Uppingham. Stop at one of the many cafes and shops before taking on a couple of challenging climbs on the way back to Ventoux.
74.4km |
1115m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Nineteen to the Dozen.
April, 2021.
A ride taking in the deepest, darkest Surrey Hills. Heading up Leith Hill, Hurt Wood and Winterfold through some filling-loosening lanes. With 1370m of elevation over 117km and five significant climbs this is a real leg tester - and the perfect route for the Hammerandtongs.
117km |
1371m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Wighty-Tighty Lefty-Loosey
April, 2020
This route takes you out to the Wild West Wight. These trails offer breath-taking views and lung-busting climbs, paired with coastal cycle paths and scenic Island villages.
The route begins from Ryde and heads out through the small village of Havenstreet before ascending onto the backbone ridge of the Isle of Wight. It skirts round Carisbrooke Castle and then heads out onto the fabulous Tennyson Trail; through the dense woodland of Brighstone Forest, before emerging into the sunshine at Chessell.
Taking to the tarmac for a short while, the route descends open winding lanes to the coastal village of Yarmouth, skirting round the town before heading south along the Old Railway Track to Freshwater. From Freshwater the route begins to climb up onto the most picturesque trail on the Island, offering magnificent views out over The English Channel.
A technical descent then takes you down onto the famous Military Road, before heading back in land and climbing once again onto Brighstone Down. From Shorwell the route heads through the tranquil lanes of Atherfield before heading north through the thatched village of Godshill and onwards to another dismantled railway line that takes you back to the centre of the Island.
A climb back over Arreton Down will be sure to sap any remaining energy from your legs, before a beautiful descent down to Seaview Seafront and a spin back along the coast to Ryde.
99.25km |
1461m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
For Queen and Country!
April, 2020
"Follow a James Bond themed ride - along the River Thames, through Staines, to Pinewood studios - home to the James Bond franchise since the filming 'Dr. No' (1962), right up to the yet to be released 'No Time to Die' (2021).
Following the national cycle network, the route takes little lanes to Burnham Beeches, before dropping down past Dorney into Bond's old school - Eton. Across the cobbled bridge into Windsor the route skirts Windsor castle.
Plenty of cafes in Windsor for a quick coffee before heading through Great Windsor park, Egham, Chertsey and home.
115.42km |
546m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Shere Drop
March, 2021
The route is a challenging scenic loop through Surrey. A fast return leg is a great reward for early efforts through the lanes. Ride the roads raced by the pros in the Tour of Britain.
95.59km |
922m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Friendly Fire!
February, 2021.
Ride the Basingstoke canal to Deepcut - skirting the edge of the army training grounds - watch out for friendly fire!
Circling Guildford at its furthest point, the route comes back along the North Downs Way, climbing along the top of the North Downs ridge. The way back is via Cobham and Esher common.
113.7km |
843m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Lady Marmolada.
February, 2021.
Everyone has heard of the Maratona, a 140k epic sportive starting and finishing in the mountain village of Corvara, in the heart of the Dolomites. This 85k, 2680m route is a worthy alternative, incorporating the gruesome Passo Fedaia (9/10 in 100 Italian Climbs), a climb that isn’t on the normal Maratona route.
The start is Corvara, the village at the foot of the first climb, Passo Campolongo (6k, 353m height gain). It’s not pronounced like the name of a certain Italian groupset manufacturer and you may sound like a fool if heard calling it that! One of the easier climbs in the region, it still provides a good 20-25 minute warm-up for the day ahead. Descend on the other side to Arabba - getting into the hairpin habit and being wary of the broken road on the inside of some corners.
Once at Arabba, turn left at the roundabout and you have a long false-flat/downhill through the sleepy village of Livinalongo. Keep going to Salesei, up and down, with superb views of the Civetta ahead, before turning off to the right onto a smaller road following signs to the Marmolada. After a nice steep little descent past the barns that dot the hillside and a war cemetery, you are back onto flat(ish) roads as you cross over the river.
Follow this road down through a short unlit tunnel until you get to a big junction, with Fedaia clearly signed to the right. Bear right here up a small kick: no, this is not the climb, don’t get too excited yet. Follow this road as it rolls up and down for a few kilometres until you get to the large village of Sottoguda. Here there’s an option to turn right and ascend through an apparently spectacular gorge - but the road was closed in summer 2020 because of tree falls and landslips.
This is where the brutal Passo Fedaia (14k, 1060m height gain) starts, one of the most underrated climbs in Europe. It may not have the fearsome reputation of its bigger cousin, the Monte Zoncolan, to the north but it packs a hell of a punch. Don’t let the steady (relative to what comes next) first 5 kilometres delude or comfort you. After this warm-up, the road rises above 10% and after that you don’t see single figure gradients for more than a few metres until the summit. The road doesn’t bend more than a few degrees left or right for the next 3k. As you creep along this dead straight machine of demoralisation for the next 10 minutes (or more), you may well find yourself questioning why you thought this was ever a good idea. Even on the sunniest day, the valley above Malga Ciapela is bleak, enclosed by rock walls on either side. The lack of greenery and abundance of monotone grey rock does an incredible job of amplifying the feeling in your legs. When you finally reach the hairpins near the top, take as much rest as you can on the flatter parts of the turns. The gradient does not relent in the slightest as you crawl your way up the final part of this climb.
When you finally reach the restaurant and customary sign that marks the peaks in the area, I suggest you keep riding before you stop to wait for others. As you come down into the vast open area of the plateau at the top, take in the majesty of your surroundings, especially the Marmolada, at 3434m the highest peak in the Dolomites, looming over you. The huge reservoir that glints in the midday sun and the view for miles down into the next valley make the climb worth it, and more. Take some time to ride along the bridge at the head of the dam and look to your right for a brilliant view of some of the glorious peaks that define the Dolomites and to your left to see the deep blue and majesty of the lake. The dam is one of the filming locations of the newer (and vastly inferior) Italian Job. A nice fact to tell your riding partner if you yourself haven’t blown your bloody doors off. The restaurant at the dam is a good lunch/coffee spot.
If you feel like it, you can always go back down the way you came and finish the route in reverse, back to Corvara. I can guarantee you will struggle to find a place to go faster than you’ve ever been on a bike than on the Fedaia descent. Three figures possible, if not advised. And don’t tell your mum.
But to finish the loop we crack on down the valley and recover on the long flowing descent down the other side of the climb. A great descent. When you get to the bottom, you’ll find yourself in the town of Canazei.
When you get to the edge of that town, bear right up the Passo Pordoi (13k, 786m) signposted to Pordoi and Arabba. As you snake up the side of the mountain, keep looking out through the pine trees to see the view of the ever-dwindling Canazei. About a kilometre before the top of the climb, you emerge out of the trees to tackle the final hairpins of this climb. Once at the top, the highest point on the ride, stick on your gilet or wind jacket, preferably the Pearson Ins and Outs, and get ready for the next descent. Passo Pordoi is not the hardest climb in the Dolomites but as Daniel Friebe says in his book Mountain High “none are as essential or, for that matter, quintessential”. The top will be crowded with cyclists of all nationalities, ages and weights. Look out for the pros too: if they have the kit, they may be real.
The descent down the other side of the Passo Pordoi back to Arabba is perfect for nailing your descending skills. Full to the brim with great hairpins, the lack of vegetation on the corners allows the rider to see through them and check for cars. And cows. At the bottom, you’ll find yourself once again in the village of Arraba. The final climb is up the Passo Campolongo (you better not have forgotten what I said about it). Don’t worry, this is the shorter side that you descended at the start. Once you’ve finished that final 15-minute climb, you can relax, all the climbing is done for the day. All that’s left is the final descent to Corvara. if you get it right it is a really nice smooth descent. If you get it wrong, you may find yourself in a field.
At the bottom of that, you are back in Corvara. Drag yourself to one of the many cafes or restaurants in the town for a post-ride coffee, beer or gelato. Job done.
85km |
2682m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Puiggy in the Middle Mallorca.
February, 2021.
A gem starting in the winding Balearic country lanes, rising to sweet-smelling Pine forest climbs and on to the smooth roads up to the highest point of the island, the famous Puig Major climb, also known locally as 'The Pig' at just under 900m.
This is rewarded with the best and longest descent on the island eventually dropping into the town of Soller at around sea level. A 5km drag out of town before turning back onto quiet mountain passes to climb the Col de Soller at 500m giving tremendous panoramic views on the descent of the south of the island.
From here it’s a great feeling as all the hard work has been achieved in riding half of the Tramuntana Mountains, and if the wind is behind you, the speed on the flat lanes home can be exhilarating. Obviously the best part of the ride is heading to the Pro Cycle Hire cafe for cool isotonic recovery 🍺.
Thanks to Bruce at Pro Cycle Hire for the route.
128.8km |
2118m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Magical Morocco.
February, 2021.
For a lesser known cycling destination, with wild hills and views to take your breath away (literally), head to Morocco. Offering some on the world's most staggering beauty and unspoilt routes, this is certainly a country for a holiday on your bike worth bragging about.
Start your day with a big breakfast at Cafe Clock in Marrakesh and set out towards the snow-capped Atlas Mountains on the horizon. This route starts in the city and takes in a mix of rough roads and trails up to the ski station of Oukaimeden at 2650m. The descent from there to the town of Imlil has to be seen to be believed, breathtaking views and exhilarating trails will keep you yearning for more.
Thanks to Adam and the team at Sportive Breaks for the route.
109km |
3207m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
BLOCKHAUS.
January, 2021.
This week's aspirational ride means heading over to Italy to take on the Blockhaus; a climb steeped in cycling history, first tackled in the Giro d'Italia back in 1967 where a youthful Eddy Merckx was first to cross the line.
The summit can be reached by taking three different routes, but the climb up via Pretora is the "percorso della giornata" (or route of the day to you and me) which we've found to be the most "tame" way to summit, with hybrid bikes and novice cyclists regularly making their way up to the top. Take in the striking views of the coast from 2068m above before descending your way back to your hotel, or getting ready to take on the other two routes to the top.
Thanks to Kevin from Giro D'Abruzzo for the route, head over to their site to get your trip booked for later this year.
https://girodabruzzo.com/
64.5km |
2088m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Le Razzamatazz.
January, 2021.
Le Razzamatazz takes in a few of the lesser-known and slightly more gentle climbs in the spectacular Vallée Verte.
Embrace the slopes of the Col de Vernaz and Col du Jambaz, before tackling the epic Col de la Ramaz and finishing off the lap of Roc d’Enfer with the Col de l’Encrenaz.
A scenic and solid day, you can choose which comes first once you’ve finished.
Thanks to Joe Pearson at Buzz Cycling Morzine for this route - you can find out more about cycling in Morzine by clicking the link here: https://www.buzzperformance.com/cycling/buzz-cycling-holiday/
90.7km |
2194m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Decembergs.
December, 2020.
We have two routes to help you burn off that Christmas pud and keep your legs turning as we tick into the new year.
1. A 90km classic taking in a brief selection of Kent(ish)'s leg stingers. Watch out for the climb up Chalkpit Lane, it'll make you regret every one of Auntie's sweet Sherries.
89.7km |
1097m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
2. A gruelling 140km ride, taking in no less than 10 of Kent's toughest climbs, as you wind your way through Caterham, Oxted and Warlingham. 2100m of ascent - respect to you!
142.3km |
2117m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
The Bartlett
November, 2020
60.9km |
931m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
An and off-road route starting and ending in Beddington-Park, designed by legendary Pearson cyclo cross pro Tony Bartlett. A route taking in the climbs and beautiful views from Surrey's North Downs.
GO TO RIDE
The Hills Are Alive...
October, 2020
154.1km |
2171m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
This route is designed and tested by Pearson 1860 sponsored rider Mattie Dodd. When planning the route he wanted to include as many of the big climbs of the South Downs as he could. The result is over 150 kilometres and 2000 metres of climbing. It’s a route with parcours and climbs similar to that of an Ardennes classic. The short, sharp kicks of Surrey may have you wondering what all the hype is about in the continent.
The route takes you through Richmond Park just after leaving the shop. It is then pretty much a straight line out to Epsom through the back roads. A cheeky stretch of gravel gets you into the classics mindset for the day ahead. If you (or your tyres) aren’t up to it, a quick look at the map will provide an easy detour. So far, however, it has provided no huge obstacle for 25mm tyres. Once you’re in Epsom, the buildings and people start to disappear as you get out into Surrey.
The first small test is a gentle climb up to Epsom Downs. After this there is a brief stretch on Reigate Road, that is the one and only big road, don’t worry. After that it’s a baptism of fire up Coldharbour Lane, if you’re not warmed up already, you will be after this. Then a descent of one of Leith Hill’s 8 different passages to the summit, and you’re climbing up another.
Then you’ve got a brief rest as as you trundle along some nice backroads before reaching Ewhurst. Next up it’s Barhatch Hill, a climb that drags on and only gets steeper. After that it’s the descent of Pitch Hill as you go back down past Ewhurst. After this you’ve got the pleasant climb of Holmbury Hill.
Next it’s Whitedown, one of the 2 climbs on this route included in the 100 Climbs. After this, you’ve got the smooth, flowing descent of Effingham. Then it’s up Whitedown’s younger sister, Crocknorth. As you come under the railway bridge, you can breathe a sigh of relief as all the climbing above 15% gradient is finished.
A few kilometres along the ridge and you take the descent of Ranmore Common Road. At the bottom of that your a matter of minutes away from the moneymaker, Box Hill. At the top of that, you’ve got the viewpoint, an opportunity to look out over Surrey and see all the potential roads out there just waiting to be ridden.
After that you carry on through Box Hill Village and back towards Epsom. A ride around the perimeter of the Downs let’s you see the vast size of the area. Then you head down into Epsom and through the back roads back towards home. As you come through Raynes Park you go up Copse Hill, a final kick in the teeth, just for good measure. Then it’s through Wimbledon and along the edge of the Common before going down into Richmond. Through the park for a second time and it a easy spin back down to the shop.
GO TO RIDE
Planespotting
October, 2020
76.32km |
275m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
Interesting route out of London via Hillingdon. Busy roads at times, so aim to go out early and avoid the traffic. Once past Uxbridge, and over the Grand Union Canal, suddenly the city falls away into country side and little lanes. On the way back in, the route skirts along next to Heathrow Airport before reaching Richmond and back to the shop!
GO TO RIDE
Glorious Gravel
October, 2020
69.08km |
1329m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
The Surrey Hills but not as you know it. Starting from Cranleigh we tour the Winterfold Woods and the Hurtwood, the home of Mountain Biking south of London. The trails are a mix of pale yellow and chalky white gravel with occasional sand traps to watch out for. As we extend along the North Downs we take a short tour through Denbies Vineyard before cutting across to the feed stop in the scenic village of Holmbury St Mary and then southwards on a mix of trail and path, and finally onto a section of the Downs link that was the rail line through the hills until the 1960s.
Enjoy this rich gravel riding area and see the hills you know in a whole new light.
GO TO RIDE
Sent to the Tower!
September, 2020
66km |
1078m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
A mix of gravel and road on the way to Leith Hill Tower via Redlands woods. The tower offers one of the most iconic views in Surrey - on a clear day you can see all the way down to the South Downs. The descent of summer lightning is challenging but perfectly ridable for an experienced gravelist. Test your skills on this advanced graveling ride!
GO TO RIDE
Say Cheese!
September, 2020
100km |
1537m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
A route with plenty of elevation as you head out through the "sticks" to Cheddar Gorge.
Starting off at Odd Down with fresh legs, head east and start ticking off the villages. Compton Dando, Stanton Wick and Bishop Sutton fly past as you start to climb on your way out of West Harptree, winding towards Cheddar. It's downhill to coffee and cake once you've conquered the rise from Churchill to Shipham.
With (relatively) fresh legs after your coffee stop at Rockface, the road heads up through the breathtaking Cheddar Gorge, before heading back towards Bath through the fantastically named Farrington Gurney.
Save a bit in the legs for the final push into Bath, as you head up to the Combe Cycle tunnel, the longest Cycling Tunnel in Britain,
Unclip and relax as you reach your destination - the fantastic Colonna and Smalls Coffee Shop on Queens Square. Fancy something stronger? Wheel your bikes over the cobbled roads to the Raven for a more traditional feel to your post-ride tipple.
GO TO RIDE
Fens and White Elephants
September, 2020
94.6km |
249m |
Cyclocross/Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
These fenland tracks look easy-going in the summer but in the winter they are coated in the thick claggy mud deposited by the farmer's tractors.
This route sets off along the River Cam and Lode Way towards Ely - cross nature reserves and bird reserves on a well-marked National Cycleway. From Ely it crosses West to St Ives and then back into the centre of Cambridge on the massive 'white elephant' projects of the Cambridge Guided Busway.
Perfect for cycling - this smooth cycleway is clear of traffic. Watch out after heavy rain - part of the route crosses flood plains which can be several meters underwater after weeks of rain.
GO TO RIDE
Are you being Observed? - A Northern Classic
August, 2020
80.29km |
441m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
The route starts and finishes in the Altrincham area of South Manchester and takes in some of Cheshire's nicest lanes and villages. Out via Lymm and through the beautiful Great Budworth and onto Goostrey to take in the great Meccano set that is the Jodrell Bank Observatory.
Then swiftly on to Siddington before heading home in a Northerly direction through Over Peover and Mobberley.
Finish with a coffee in Hale at the Village Cafe or on a sunny day an ale outside the Stamford Arms.
Sent to us by long-standing and loyal Pearsonite Andrew Rink.
GO TO RIDE
Industrial Revolutions
August, 2020.
89.8km |
979m |
Light gravel/Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
Starting and finishing at the Bath Railway station, this route takes on the National cycleways, abandoned railways and canals of the industrial revolution from Bath towards Bristol and up to the market town of Chipping Sodbury. Here there are a selection of cafes perfect for a mid-ride stop.
The route continues through Little Badminton to Castle Combe. This idyllic village appeared in the film Doctor Dolittle, an episode of Agatha Christie's Poirot and Steven Spielberg's production of War Horse.
Whilst most of the route is perfectly ridable on a road bike, the softer tyres of a gravel bike will make the canal sections much more enjoyable.
GO TO RIDE
Tour de Avoriaz
August, 2020.
A beautiful Avoriaz road loop via Lac du Montriond starting from the Montriond roundabout. Amazing Alpine vistas from every angle, climb the hairpins to Les Lindarets ‘goat village’ and through the pine forest to the spectacle of 1960s Le Corbusier influenced architecture of Avoriaz. Descend the fast wider road back to Morzine back to Montriond. Turn off and ascend back to the lake for a well deserved dip.
Voilà!
35.53km |
1202m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Los Dos Monasterios
July, 2020.
For those staying in Port de Pollenca on the cycling mecca of Mallorca - this epic route is a real test of climbing and endurance. Crossing the middle of the island, the route takes in the climbs, El puig de Sant Salvador and Puig de Randa to Santuari de Cura. These epic climbs rising out from the flat middle of the island dominate the surrounding landscape.
Whilst both climbs boast a café at the top - the pros who ride the island roads everyday through the winter months stop in at the little Supermercat Ca na Conxa in Felanitx for unbelievably cheap pastries and a bottle of coke.
164km |
1785m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Urban Skirmish II
July, 2020.
Out across Hammersmith Bridge and along the cycle superhighway through Kensington. Around the cycle tracks of Hyde Park, past the front of Buckingham Palace. Having crossed the river the route gets really interesting - following the river (as closely as you can!) from Battersea Park to Putney. Plenty of cafes and pubs to stop in for a quick refuel on the way back home.
27.9km |
72m |
Road |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
The Dirty Winza (Editors Cut).
July, 2020.
A beauty of a mainly off-road route (with the odd road stretch) out along the Thames via Weybridge and Basingstoke canal to Deepcut, across the badlands of Swinley Forest (known for its mountain bike tracks), the Jubilee River to Slough, returning via the Grand Union Canal to Brentford and Thameside for the last leg home.
A big ride with dirty great rewards along the way.
116km |
440m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
What have the Romans ever done for us?
Created on June 12, 2020
Setting off through Wimbledon Common, along the Hogsmeade River to Epsom Common to Stane Street. Follow the Roman road down to Box Hill, then across towards Ranmore where you join the bridleway along the bottom of the North Downs. Climb over the downs up Colekitchen Lane and head back into town via Ashtead, Oxshott and Esher commons.
80.42km |
857m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Life On Mars.
Created on May 6, 2020
"This ride takes its name from a Strava section on the route, called Life on Mars. Quite apt we thought when the world feels like a slightly alien environment. While we may not be alone, 'going solo' is our default for the moment, so here's a great ride to enjoy a little cosmic distance. Far out!
Route summary: over Wimbledon Common, Horton Park, Epsom common to Stane Street. Stunning little loop through the bluebells on a easy trail called 'Life on Mars' (no idea why!) Then again along Stane Street and back via Ashtead Common, Claygate Common, Telegraph Hill and then tow path from Kingston to Richmond."
59.83km |
513m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Thames Pathfinder
Created on March 26, 2020
From Pearson Performance Sheen, 50km through Richmond Park, Wimbledon Common, Thames Tow Path, Bushy Park and back through Richmond. Almost entirely off-road!
49.42km |
177m |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE
Pearson Inside Out Gravel Series
Created on March 17, 2020
The route promises to introduce even the most experienced navigators to a ride which spans lesser know paths and tracks across SW London. A mixture of passable off-road and gravel tracks, interspersed by quieter roads to link to one another. The 52km route (42km gravel), leaves Pearson Sheen store SW14 8AG where plentiful coffee and watering facilities are available. Now a segment too, do your best!
52KM |
337M |
Gravel |
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Ride Type |
GO TO RIDE