Holy Pennines - Gravel Rides 3rd October 2026

Gravel Rides · Holy Pennines, Stanhope

Ride the high moorland gravel of the North Pennines. From Stanhope the route heads up onto the forest tracks and old mineral lines above Weardale, big open country with real gradient and views that earn themselves. This is upland gravel at its best.

Choose Your Distance

Short Route: approx. 50 km

A single loop taking in the forestry tracks and moorland roads above the dale. Manageable for confident cyclists stepping into gravel, and satisfying for experienced riders wanting a quicker day out. Expect a mix of compacted forest gravel, short technical sections and one long sustained climb out of the valley. Cumulative elevation is significant for the distance. Suitable for a gravel or hybrid bike with tyres 35 mm or wider.

_{the 50km route.}

Long Route: approx. 100 km

The full day out, and a serious one. The long route pushes deeper into the North Pennines, linking high moorland byways, forestry gravel and old lead-mining tracks before the long return to Stanhope. You will encounter loose gravel descents, exposed high ground and sustained climbing throughout. This is a route that rewards pacing and respect for the weather. A gravel bike with tyres 38 mm or wider is strongly recommended. Much of the route is exposed.

_{the 100km route.}

Surface and Terrain

• Compacted forest and moorland gravel (majority of both routes)
• Old mineral and lead-mining tracks
• Open moorland byway with potential for mud after rain
• Exposed high ground, weather can change quickly

What Is Included

• GPX file sent ahead of the event
• Marked route on the day
• Feed station(s) on the long route
• Start and finish at Stanhope Methodist Church
• Post-ride food and drink at the venue

What to Bring

• Gravel or hybrid bike in good mechanical order
• Helmet (mandatory)
• Spare tube and basic tools, there is no mechanical support on course
• Weather-appropriate layers, the tops are exposed and October can be cold
• Water for the first section before the feed station

The Venue

Stanhope Methodist Church sits in the centre of Stanhope, the gateway to upper Weardale and the North Pennines. Parking available in the village. The event hub will be open from early morning with hot drinks and food.

Date: Saturday 3rd October 2026
Start time: 08:00
Start location: Stanhope Methodist Church, Stanhope, Weardale, County Durham