For the first time ever, visitors can ride their bikes through the historic grounds of Cirencester Park as part of a special one-day cycling event this May 2024.
Bathurst Gravel takes place on Saturday 11 May 2024 and invites participants to ride their bikes along a 12km gravel course through the grounds of Cirencester Park between 10am and 4pm.
The event welcomes everyone from seasoned cycling enthusiasts to families and young riders looking to enjoy a day out — and offers the rare opportunity to take in the breathtaking Cotswold scenery on two wheels.
There's also a festival village on-site with refreshments, entertainment and plenty of cycling-related stalls offering everything from repairs to the chance to test out an Ebike.
The Cirencester event takes place on the same day as the Bathurst Cycling Festival in Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia — and raises funds for the Cirencester Bathurst Friendship Initiative, which aims to connect the two places through commerce, education, sport, the arts and tourism.
Bathurst Gravel's local organiser, Andy Kirk of Velo Events, said: 'Join us on a spring day for an exclusive opportunity to cycle a purpose designed dedicated seven-mile route based within the grounds of the Bathurst Estate.
'The Bathurst Gravel event not only gives existing riders a challenge but also new riders and families the perfect opportunity to enjoy a day of safe riding on a mainly gravel, traffic-free circuit.'
Lord Bathurst said: 'I’m pleased that the Bathurst Estate can provide access to Cirencester Park to ride bicycles for this exciting one-day event alongside our friends in Australia.'
International lead for the Bathurst Cycling Festival, Simon King, added: 'We are indebted to all our partners and supporters in setting up this new event; so, come along and set yourself a challenge and raise money for our local charities: Cirencester Housing for Young People; The Churn Project; and The Cirencester Bathurst Friendship Initiative and make it an even more special day out.'
Tickets to Bathurst Gravel cost £12.50 per person or £25 for a family of up to two adults and three children under 16. Spectator tickets are free but must be booked online in advance to access the festival village.
