Fred Whitton Challenge 2025 | UK Road Cycling

112 miles | 10,400ft elevation | temperatures: blistering

On Sunday, 11th May the Lake District once again played host to the Wheelbase Fred Whitton Challenge, a 112-mile sportive renowned as the UK’s most demanding one-day cycling event. Starting and finishing in Grasmere, 2400 riders took on the challenge, which includes the formidable ascents of Kirkstone, Honister, Newlands, Whinlatter, Hardknott, Wrynose, and Blea Tarn passes.

The riders were treated to fine Cumbrian weather, with blue skies and temperatures pushing towards 20 degrees. Chapeau to all those who made it round the brutal course.

Beyond the physical challenge, the event’s core mission remains fundraising for vital charities. Since its inception in 1999, the Fred Whitton Challenge has raised over £2 million for causes including Macmillan Cancer Support, the Great North Air Ambulance, and local mountain rescue teams. This was the 25th running of the event which remains a bucket list goal for the vast majority of road cyclists.

The event is steeped in tradition and remains a core part of the cycling community here in Cumbria. It honours the legacy of Fred Whitton, a passionate advocate for cycling in Cumbria and member of Lakes Road Club. Respecting Fred’s ideals, it remains what it was always meant to be: a challenge. The support on the roadside was fantastic as always, with spectators lining the roads of the villages that the event passed through.