Southern Grit
Southern Grit is a self-supported gravel sportive in London for riders who prefer responsibility over hand-holding.
Starting and finishing at the iconic Herne Hill Velodrome, this is an off-road event that leaves the pacing to you and the terrain to do the talking. Chalk climbs, woodland tunnels, flint-strewn descents and long stretches where rhythm matters more than bravado.
You ride your effort. You manage your day. You own the outcome.
The Event
Southern Grit is not a guided group ride and not a fully marshalled convoy. It is a self-supported gravel sportive.
You roll out with the field, spread naturally across the course and navigate using the GPX provided. There is no broom wagon. No on-course mechanical team shadowing you. Preparation is part of the event.
Two route options:
90 km
110 km
Both routes deliver sustained climbing, mixed surfaces and classic South London gravel conditions. It’s a gravel ride in London that feels far from the capital once the chalk dust starts to rise.
Route Highlights
The open runway expanse of Kenley Aerodrome
Chalk trails across Riddlesdown
Rolling North Downs terrain in Happy Valley
The gravel descent off Box Hill
The sustained Col de Denbies grind
The shaded tunnels of Hangers Wood
Woodland flow through Bookham Common
The leg-draining sand of Esher Common
What's Included
Coffee and croissants at the start
GPX route files (90 km & 110 km options)
Clearly defined route planning
Well-stocked mid-route feed station
Medical cover
Pizza and beer at the finish
Self-supported event: Riders are responsible for navigation, pacing, mechanical issues and carrying appropriate tools, spares and nutrition.
Who It’s For
Southern Grit suits confident gravel riders looking for a challenging but achievable day out.
If you’re comfortable riding 90 to 110 km over mixed terrain and can handle chalk, flint, woodland trails and the occasional sandy stretch, you’ll enjoy this.
Typical moving averages range between 12 to 18 km/h depending on conditions and route choice.
It’s demanding enough to feel significant. Approachable enough to be realistic.
FAQs
Is this a race?
Can I choose my distance on the day?
Do I need to navigate?
Is there mechanical support?
Where does it start and finish?
Rider Reviews
“Hands down the best off-road sportive I’ve done. Trails I simply didn’t know existed so close to South London. Challenging for seasoned riders but accessible for those new to the discipline. See you there again next year!”
— James K., London
“Best Southern Grit ever. Perfect gravel to tarmac ratio, just the right amount of technical and oodles of new trails… the kms flew by nicely in the second half.”
— Stuart
“An excellent day’s riding. Mostly off-road on legal trails, just over 100 km. Discovered cut-throughs, byways and unknown bridleways I’ll definitely be using in future… pizza and beer at the end — a lovely day out.”
— Pete Owen
“Fabulous day out — another great route.”
— Stuart