The Cotswold Cross: What to expect!

Thinking of riding The Cotswold Cross? Here at The Ark Cycles, we’ve done it a fair few times and can give you a good heads-up on exactly what to expect. This is one of our favourite local fun events with a great atmosphere and supportive crowd. We often see the same friendly faces back again year after year which is testimony to the quality of this event.

In a brief summary to give you an idea: It is an exhilarating on-and-off-road gravel sportive event in the picturesque cotswold hills of Gloucestershire. The ride includes incredible Cotswold views and is enjoyed each year by both locals and people from all over the UK. It’s a challenging ride with undulating terrain and a large mix of both road and off-road sections. There is something for everyone, with 3 different distances on offer.  

The Cotswold Cross Event Overview

The Cotswold Cross offers three thoughtfully designed routes:

• 75km Long Route: Approximately 1,500m of ascent, traversing a mix of country lanes, bridleways, green lanes, byways, and private land.
• 58km Medium Route: Around 1,000m of ascent, guiding riders through the heart of the Cotswolds, including villages like Birdlip, Winstone, and Sheepscombe.
• 40km Short Route: Featuring about 500m of ascent, suitable for those seeking a less intensive yet rewarding experience.

Each route demands a good level of fitness and is supported by friendly marshals to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. 

So What's Included?

For an entry fee of £45, participants receive:

• Chip timing
• Personalised rider numbers
• Access to well-stocked free feed/nutrition stations
• Fully signed and marshalled courses
• GPX routing and printed maps
• The Ark Cycles mechanic support before the event.
• On-course medical and mechanical support
• Professional event photography
• A commemorative finisher's medal
• Complimentary post-ride pasta meal

What kind of bike should I ride for it?

The event organisers recommend either gravel, mountain, or cyclocross bikes. They also mentioned “standard road bikes are not suitable due to varied terrain and potential muddy conditions.” 

We recommend either a fast-rolling XC mountain bike or a decent gravel bike for this event. Most of The Ark team members who will be doing this event will be on their gravel bikes with 40mm and above tyres.

Feel free to explore our range of gravel bikes here.

Or if MTB is more your thing, feel free to discover our wide range of mountain bikes here!

Whatever bike you choose, you’ll be sure to have a great time.

This is a fantastic local Gloucestershire riding event and definitely a challenge worth tackling.