BAMBURGH CASTLE CYCLE SPORTIVE

Bamburgh Castle Cycle Sportive 2027: A Majestic Spring Ride Along the Northumberland Coast
Spring returns to Bamburgh Castle for another edition of this beloved cycling event, now entering its seventh year. Cyclists from all skill levels will have three routes to choose from: a scenic 50km ride suitable for beginners and first-timers; an exhilarating 100km route that caters to novice and experienced cyclists alike; and the challenging 160km course designed for intermediate to advanced riders.
Starting and finishing in Bamburgh, each route offers stunning coastal views and historic landmarks. The shorter 50km ride is relatively flat with picturesque stops at Seahouses, Beadnell, and Embleton, where cyclists can admire Dunstanburgh Castle's imposing silhouette against the North Sea backdrop. With an elevation gain of just over a thousand feet, this course provides a gentle introduction to sportive cycling.
The intermediate 100km route winds through a variety of terrain along the coast, with stops at Seahouses and Acklington before heading inland via Warkworth and Amble. Cyclists can expect rolling hills that add up to nearly three thousand feet in elevation gain over this distance. The longer 160km ride builds on the intermediate course but extends further into Northumberland's countryside, including a loop around Alnwick Castle and Eglingham before returning to Acklington.
Feed stations are strategically placed along both the 100km and 160km routes, providing cyclists with essential refreshments such as drinks, pastries, cakes, chocolate, and sweets. Cyclists on the longer route will also enjoy an additional feed station at mile 78 for further sustenance during their ride.
Registration can be completed either Saturday evening between 5pm and 7pm or Sunday morning from 6:30am onwards. Participants receive a bike tag with timing chip, ensuring accurate tracking throughout the event. Cyclists are free to start anytime between 7:00am and 8:30am but must leave by the latter time.
Upon crossing the finish line, all participants will be greeted with Wild Deer merchandise, medals, snacks, and drinks in recognition of their achievement. An exclusive t-shirt can also be purchased for £14 when signing up to commemorate this special event.
For safety reasons, cyclists are reminded that helmets must always be worn while adhering strictly to the Highway Code throughout the ride. The minimum age requirement is 17 due to the open-road nature of the routes.
On-site parking at Bamburgh Castle costs £4 per vehicle and can be paid for by cash or card on arrival, though competitors are encouraged to carpool, walk, cycle, or use public parking in nearby Bamburgh if necessary. No overnight parking is permitted within the event grounds; please follow marshal instructions regarding parking arrangements.
Join us at Bamburgh Castle this spring and immerse yourself in a day of cycling along Northumberland's picturesque coastline, surrounded by historic landmarks and welcoming communities.
Enjoy the ride!