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Fred Whitton Epic
The Fred Whitton Epic
Two unforgettable days in the Lake District
The Fred Whitton Challenge is one of the most demanding and iconic cycling routes in the UK — a 180 km loop with over 3,000 metres of climbing across the Lake District’s most famous mountain passes.
Our Signature Epic transforms this legendary ride into a fully supported 2‑day experience — preserving the challenge while enhancing the journey. By splitting the route into two carefully designed stages, we keep all of the challenge — while giving you the time to ride it properly, enjoy the scenery, and take on the hardest climbs in the best possible conditions.
The route includes an overnight stay at a relaxed 4* country house in the beautiful Eskdale Valley, where rugged mountains, quiet roads and a true sense of remoteness create an authentic Lake District experience — and a memorable midpoint to the adventure.
We follow the full Fred Whitton route, including all major climbs. Where appropriate, we make small, carefully considered improvements — such as avoiding the busy A66 — to create a safer and more enjoyable ride without losing the essence of the challenge.
The result is a more immersive, better-balanced way to experience one of the UK’s greatest cycling routes. This is a challenging ride — but our pacing, support and two-day format are designed to make it achievable for fit, regular cyclists.
Day 1 - The Western Crossing
Build the journey.
Route: Grasmere → Eskdale Valley
Distance: 130km
Elevation: 2300m
Day 1 sets the tone for the entire experience. This is a true Lakeland journey through some of the most iconic terrain in the UK.
Leaving Grasmere, we have a few km to ease into the ride before being faced with the Struggle. Once that's conquered, we head north towards Keswick where the landscape begins to open up.
From here the route builds steadily in character and challenge, linking together the classic Northern passes: Honister, Newlands and Whinlatter, each offering their own distinct feel. We then continue westwards, into the quieter, more remote terrain.
As we approach Eskdale, the scenery becomes wilder and more dramatic with the high fells closing in around us. It's a rewarding end to a full day on the bike and a truly beautiful place to spend the night.
Day 2 - The Queen Stage
Where the challenge defines itself.
Route: Eskdale Valley → Grasmere
Distance: 43km
Elevation: 950m
Day 2 may be shorter in distance, but it delivers the defining moments of the entire tour. After a gentle rollout through the valley to wake the legs up, the road rises toward one of cycling's most legendary climbs: Hardknott Pass.
Steep, unforgiving and unforgettable, Hardknott is the ultimate test. Gradients over 30% demanding concentration, control and determination.
There is little respite as the route continues straight onto Wrynose Pass, creating the most iconic back-to-back climb sequences in the UK.
Having crossed the high passes, the terrain softens slightly as we descend into Langdale Valley, where sweeping views and fast, flowing roads lead us back into Grasmere.
This may be a short and intense finale but we believe it is a fitting way to complete one of Britain's greatest cycling challenges.
Ride Overview
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Two days guided cycling with a remote overnight stay in the stunning Eskdale Valley to give the true Lake District experience
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Two consecutive days riding - a longer, more demanding first day followed by a shorter, still intense, final stage
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Single start/finish location (Grasmere) - park once, ride two days.
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Overnight parking available at start point, closest train station at Windermere (20 minutes drive).
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Best suited to experienced cyclists comfortable riding back-to-back days, who like climbing, and are looking for a more immersive and adventurous two-day version of the Fred Whitton.
What's Included?
The group size is limited to a maximum of eight riders which means everything can be taken care of and you can focus on the ride:
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Expert leadership and on-road support with carefully managed pacing and regroup points throughout.
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1 night stay in 4* accommodation within Eskdale Valley and an optional stay in Ambleside the night before.
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Breakfast
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Luggage transfer between stages
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Support vehicle throughout
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Mechanical assistance and emergency backup
Ready to Ride?
Currently there are no fixed dates for this tour but if you let us know when you'd like to ride, we'll check availability and plan your trip around you.
Based on group size, dates and accommodation availability you will receive your personalised quote which can be secured with a 25% deposit.
From £345 per person.