36 THINGS TO DO IN 2024

Ride new events, learn new skills and challenge yourself, we've got a host of ways to make the most of your riding in 2024

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Climb higher 

TAKE ON ONE OF THE UK'S TOP THREE CLIMBING SPORTIVES

The Alps, Pyrenees and Dolomites might be where your mind first goes when thinking about rides packed with climbing and beautiful vistas but there's also plenty to be had on your doorstep too.

1 Dragon Ride

Brecon Beacons, Wales 3 June, dragonride.co.uk

Entry fee: £25-£40

The Dragon Ride, set in the Welsh countryside, prides itself on being the UK's "toughest sportive". Distances start at 100km (62 miles), with the hardest option the 296km (184-mile) Dragon Devil route, with 4,614m (15,137ft) of climbing.

2 Fred Whitton Challenge

Lake District

12 May, fredwhittonchallenge.co.uk Entry fee: £99

This charity sportive is held every year in memory of Fred Whitton, the former Lakes Road Club secretary, who died of cancer in 1998. The 180km (112-mile) route takes in the famous passes of Kirkstone, Whinlatter and Hardknott, climbing 3,169m (10,400ft).

3 Struggle Moors 

Yorkshire tethestruggle.com

Entry fee: £59 

With a max gradient of 33%, the ascent of Rosedale Chimney Bank is the centrepiece of the Struggle Moors sportive. The classic 160km (100-mile) route clocks up a total elevation gain of 2,800m (9,200ft).

Bag an Alp

THE PROVING GROUNDS OF THE PROS, RIDE IN THE WORLDTOUR'S WHEELTRACKS

A rite of passage for any cyclist, climbing high into the Alps is unrivalled in terms of racing history, stunning views and, of course, abject suffering.

4 Honour the Alpe's Tour de France Femmes debut