Looking to enter a cycling event in 2026? Whether you’re struggling to stay motivated to keep riding through the winter months, or just looking for a new challenge to help you get out of your comfort zone. There’s nothing like getting an adventure in the calendar to inspire you to get out and ride!
There are so many cycling events out there to pick from, but we’ve done our best to bring you our top picks for 2026 ranging from the accessible first-timer friendly sportives to the next-level challenges for Goats looking to truly test their limits. Check out our suggestions below, and if you’ve got an exciting adventure planned for 2026 make sure you tell us all about it! Click here to share your story.
Top 12 cycling events to enter in 2026
In no particular order (asking us to pick a favourite would be a bit like asking us to tell you our favourite cafe ride snack option – we’ll take the lot!) here are the events that we’re adding to our cycling bucket list for 2026 and beyond.
Chase the Sun
Date: Saturday 20 June 2026
Location(s): UK North, UK South, Ireland, Italy
Distance(s): 173-209 miles
Why it makes the bucket list: Epic coast to coast routes with a friendly, accessible and non-competitive vibe.
We’re not going to lie, when HQ Goat Andy rode Chase the Sun North back in 2023 the rest of us here in the Stolen Goat shed had a major case of cycling FOMO. Chase the Sun is a non-competitive sunrise to sunset cycling challenge which takes place annually on the summer solstice across four locations. You’ve got your pick of the North of the UK (hello, incredible rugged Scottish scenery), the south of the UK, Ireland and Italy. Wherever you choose to Chase the Sun, you’ll enjoy an epic coast to coast ride where the only competition is you versus the sun set. Most of the routes will see you tick off a double century ride, and they all have a fair amount of climbing to contend with. But because it’s a non-competitive event, where every finisher (regardless of how long they take) is recognised. It’s an accessible entry-point into ultra-cycling events.
Check out the SG x Chase the Sun cycling kit collection here.
UKCE Sportives
Date: March-October 2026
Location(s): Multiple UK locations
Distance(s): 17-162km
Why it makes the bucket list: Huge range of cycling events around the UK, with something for every rider at an affordable price point
Ok, busted – you got us! This is technically 11 events, not one. But we had to include UK Cycling Events extensive calendar of sportives (and not just because we’re now their kit partner). There are events happening all through the spring, summer and early autumn in a range of locations across the south and the midlands in the UK, from Suffolk to the New Forest to Dorset and plenty of places in between. The UKCE team have painstakingly planned all the routes to offer up a superb experience whether you’re a seasoned rider looking to push the pace or a new cyclist gearing up for your first ever organised cycling event. That inclusivity is reflected in the wide range of distances on offer, with every event having short, medium and long options. Add in a buzzing atmosphere, great on-course support, free event photos and super cool event jerseys from your favourite Goat-themed cycling brand (*ahem* that’s us). And getting a few UKCE events in your calendar for 2026 is a no brainer! We’re planning to be at each event too, so you can meet the team and check out some Goaty goodness in person.
Isle of Wight Randonnee 2026
Date: 6 September 2026
Location: Isle of Wight, UK
Distance(s): 55km/100km
Why it makes the bucket list: First-timer friendly event showcasing the best of the Isle of Wight’s coastal scenery and supporting local causes in the process.
The IOW Randonnee is a legendary cycling event, which sees some 3,000 cyclists take on either a 55km or 100km route around the beautiful Isle of Wight. The event first started in 1985, and over the years it has raised a huge amount of money to support local charities. Attracting locals and those from the UK mainland alike, the route is an incredibly scenic tour around the quiet lanes and roads, showcasing the natural beauty of the island. Proudly not a race, this is a fantastic event to take on a challenge in a welcoming environment – and support local charities in the process.
Le Loop
Date: 27 June – 20th July 2026
Location: France/Barcelona
Distance(s): Varies
Why it makes the bucket list: Incredible opportunity to ride the Tour de France route, while raising money for a worthy cause
Each year, Le Loop follows the exact same route as that year’s Tour de France – just a week earlier. In 2026, that means a Barcelona start followed by an epic adventure through the legendary French roads and mountains. Riders can choose to do certain stages, thanks to various ‘loop’ options. Or go all in and tick off every ride over a 3 week time period. Most days involve at least 180km in the saddle, but it’s all about inclusivity. It’s not a race, but a challenge. And every day starts with everyone riding together for the first 40km. You can choose your loops (stages) based on your personal strengths and fitness level too. It’s a unique opportunity to truly feel like a pro, as you receive full mechanical and medical support, accommodation, transfers, feed stops… the works! Le Loop riders each have to raise a minimum amount of money to support the chosen charity, the William Wates Memorial Trust.
Heavy Metal Truants: Ride to Bloodstock festival
The 2025 SG x Heavy Metal Truants cycling jersey – inspired by our designer’s very own jacket!
Date: 5th-7th August 2026
Location: London to Catton Hall Park, Derbyshire
Distance(s): ~176 miles
Why it makes the bucket list: The epitome of ‘proper metal’: doing something hardcore, while raising money for worthy causes!
The Heavy Metal Truants were founded by the manager of Ironman Maiden and the editor of Metal Hammer back in 2013. Since then they’ve been uniting metalheads, artists and others in the industry to raise money for charities who support children and young people. Their annual cycle ride, which in 2026 goes from London to Bloodstock festival, is their flagship event. Riders take on around 176 miles of cycling from London to Derbyshire arriving at Bloodstock festival ready to rock. To date they have raised £1.4 million for four children’s charities: Teenage Cancer Trust, Nordoff & Robbins, Childline, and Save the Children.
We worked with the Heavy Metal Truants to design a special cycle jersey for their riders, inspired by our Chief Designer Trevor’s own jacket. Pretty cool!
Unbound Gravel
Date: 28th-31st May 2026
Location: Kansas, USA
Distance(s): 25-350 miles
Why it makes the bucket list: The world’s most high profile gravel race that every off-road adventurer needs to experience!
For the triathletes in the room, Unbound is the Kona of gravel riding. Iconic, legendary and firmly at the top of many-a gravel cyclists’ bucket list. Taking place in the Flint Hills in Kansas USA, this is a challenge, an adventure and an epic gathering of riders from all around the world. You can go the whole hog and take on the 350 miles Unbound XL race if you’re feeling bold. But there are shorter events (starting from 25 miles) to make it more accessible. In recent years, you’ll find many pro riders lining up on the start line too.
Grinduro Scotland
Date: 26th-28 June 2026
Location: Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland
Distance(s): >100km
Why it makes the bucket list: Part race, part party with the promise of type 1 fun – need we say more!?
Set in the spectacular grounds of Drumlanrig Castle, Grinduro Scotland is a cycling festival where the ride turns into a party. The main event is on the Saturday, a gravel road races meets mountain-bike style Enduro race. The terrain mixes pavement and dirt, and the finishing times are based on four timed segments rather than the overall loop time. The distance is roughly 100km. The race is only a small part of the weekend, expect a festival atmosphere with live music, camping, cool art and awesome handmade bikes. The fact there’s a dedicated ‘hangover ride’ tells you all you need to know: this is one big cycling party!
Bealach Na Ba Cycle Sportive
Date: 16th May 2026
Location: Shieldaig, Scotland
Distance(s): 45 miles
Why it makes the bucket list: Experience “the holy grail of UK cycling climbs” in this challenging sportive where insanely beautiful scenery is your reward for all the lung-busting efforts
If you’re up for a challenge, the Bealach Na Ba cycle sportive needs to go on your 2026 to-do list. 45 miles of ridiculously great scenery, and the chance to cycle up the legendary Bealach Na Ba mountain pass – a 626 metre, 9km long climb – on closed roads. All while raising money for charity. Take a look at the video from SG Ambassador, Stu, below to see what you’re missing if you don’t get yourself on that start sheet.
The Fred Whitton
Date: 10th May 2026
Location: Lake District, UK
Distance(s): 112 miles
Why it makes the bucket list: One of the UK’s most infamously tough cycling sportives. Complete it and you’ve got bragging rights for life!
Ask any UK-based cyclist about The Fred Whitton challenge and you’ll be met with hushed, reverent tones. This gruelling sportive is widely seen as the toughest in the UK, rivalling some of Europe’s hardest cycling challenges to boot. The 112 mile ride takes you through UNESCO World Heritage listed scenery. A tour of the very best the Lake District has to offer. But you’re going to have to sing for your supper here, because you’ll take on infamous climbs including: Kirkstone, Honister, Newlands, Whinlatter, Hardknott, Wrynose, and Blea Tarn passes. With the gradient kicking up as steep as 30% (right in the final 14 miles too, ouch!) this is a cycling event for riders who want to truly test their limits. Do you dare? Ballot entries are already sold out for 2026, but you may still be able to get a charity place. Or you can add it to the list for 2027!
Stone Circle
Date: 26-28th June 2026
Location: Stonehenge, UK
Distance(s): 80km-220km
Why it makes the bucket list: The UK’s answer to the likes of Unbound!
Stone Circle is an American-style gravel festival. Think epic rides and all the good vibes! Family (and dog) friendly, event weekend is packed with live music, good food, kids activities and even ‘bike jousting’ alongside the cycling events. Things kick off with a spin out and a fancy dress hill climb on the Friday, followed by a dawn ride out past Stone Henge on the Saturday with three distances to choose from. Hop off the bike and into the party, then shake off any sore heads with yoga and a hangover ride on the Sunday. Gravel riding at its finest!
Etape Loch Ness
Date: 26th April 2026
Location: Loch Ness, Scotland
Distance(s): 66 miles
Why it makes the bucket list: Closed road riding around the iconic Loch Ness – a monster of a ride that shouldn’t be missed!
Etape Loch Ness is a 66 mile (106km) 360° route around Loch Ness on traffic free roads – the largest sportive in Scotland. Alongside an amazing route, with 900m of climbing just in case you were worried it wouldn’t be enough of a challenge (!), the Event Hub is also host to Q&A sessions, an expo for any last minute purchases plus pop-up bars and local food for that post-ride refuel.
Girls That Ride Bikes Wild Weekender
Some of the Girls That Ride Bikes community taking on Chase the Sun.
Date: 31st July – 2nd August 2026
Location: Dorset
Distance(s): Range of rides and distances on offer
Why it makes the bucket list: An inclusive weekend of cycling, adventuring and connecting with likeminded women – perfect!
After the success of their first event in 2025, the Girls That Ride Bikes Wild Weekender is back for 2026! This women’s cycling festival is all about connection, inclusion and celebrating the joy of riding a bike. Featuring a range of self-navigated and guided rides, suitable for all abilities and all types of rider, the weekend also includes river dips, wood-fired sauna sessions, yoga, panel discussions and workshops, live music and plenty of local food and drink to fuel a weekend of fun.
You can find out more about the Girls That Ride Bikes community in our interview with founder Roanna Warren, and you can also check out the kit collection we created for GTRB here!
Are you planning to enter any of these events, or have you already ticked them off? Send us your photos here or drop us a comment on social and tell us all about it! We’ll be attending plenty of events in 2026 so make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter to be the first to hear where we’ll be.