The (alternative) fred whitton challenge
Fri 28 - Sun 30 Jun 2024
2
Days Riding
2
Nights Accommodation
207km
Total Distance
4,407m
Elevation Gain
7/10
Overall Difficulty
£325
Total Cost
Every year thousands of cyclists gather in Grasmere to tackle the hardest one day sportive in the UK – the gruelling 180 km Fred Whitton Challenge. The ‘Fred’ takes you on a journey through the heart of the Lake District National Park and climbs all six of its high mountain passes. It’s a serious undertaking. But, whilst racing offers a special experience, it does have some drawbacks; namely the inability to stop and appreciate this unique landscape at a slower pace. So why not take two days to complete this iconic journey?
The (Alternative) Fred Whitton follows the original route but splits it over two days, resulting in a slower, richer experience. The extra time gives us the opportunity to immerse ourselves fully in our surroundings and allows us to incorporate a short detour into the remote and magical Wasdale Valley towards Scafell Pike. With the added benefit of being fully supported and with an expedition camp on the Saturday night, you’ll experience a unique version of the ‘Fred’ and meet like-minded people. Together, we'll celebrate milestones and support each other along this incredible journey.
Friday
Arrivals Day at rydal hall campsite
Our meeting point is the wonderful Rydal Campsite, located just outside Ambleside and set in the beautiful grounds of the Rydal Hall Estate. You're welcome to join us from 3 pm. We’ll gather as a group during the afternoon, greeting expedition members as they arrive before enjoying a meal together and preparing for the weekend ahead. The campsite is quiet, well equipped and is surrounded by fells on all sides. If you're travelling by car, directions are in the FAQ below. If you're travelling by train, the nearest station is Windermere. If you’ve arranged for us to pick you up from Windermere train station, we’ll shuttle you and your bike to Rydal Campsite.
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Saturday (Day 1)
rydal hall to low lorton
104km
2281M
Our Fred Whitton weekend starts from our campsite at Rydal Hall and follows the official route through Ambleside towards Kirkstone Pass. This is the first of four big climbs today. The descent off Kirkstone into Glenridding is spectacular with Ullswater stretching out into the distance. We'll make our way to Keswick with Blencathra and Skiddaw as a backdrop before turning left along the shores of Derwent Water to the foot of Honister Pass. We'll pause any conversations as we tackle the steep initial incline. It eases off as the valley widens and soon, there are glimpses of the col. Suddenly we're descending into Buttermere and we'll pause here for the most scenic of lunch stops, provided by our support crew. We'll make time for a quick dip too, for those who enjoy a wild swim. After lunch we'll swing right and start the climb towards the wild and remote Newlands Pass. Before we cruise into our campsite, there's one more climb. The final steep gradient leads deep into Whinlatter Forest. It's just a short distance now, into our campsite. Here we'll refuel and replenish in style before preparing for day 2. Our legs will be aching but we'll be reliving the day's exploits with one eye on tomorrow's route and the crux of the challenge - Hardknott Pass.
Sunday (Day 2)
low lorton to rydal hall
103km
2126M
Today's route starts off on rolling terrain in an area of the Lake District that sees relatively few visitors. It's wild and remote here. The official route heads directly towards Eskdale and the foot of Hardknott Pass. We'll deviate slightly and venture into one of the most isolated valleys in the UK - Wasdale. Cycling along the edge of Wast Water with its steep sided scree slopes, it's hard not to feel intimidation and inspiration in equal measure. Next, the infamous Hardknott Pass. With several passages reaching 30 degrees, it's relentless. Will you clear the top without stopping? We'll regroup here to celebrate and catch our breath before following remote roads deep into the heart of the National Park. Only two more passes stand between us and the finish line. The first, another formidable ramp in the form of Wynose Pass. Situated between lofty peaks, this is not a place to linger. Narrow, weather beaten roads point towards civilisation and soon we'll head towards our final hill alongside Blea Tarn and down the iconic zig zags that enter Great Langdale. We're almost home. As we exit Langdale, remoteness is replaced with bustling tourists and more welcoming Lakeland scenery. Ambleside high street seems a little different today and we'll roll into Rydal Hall campsite for some well deserved cake and a celebratory glass. We've done it!
Expedition Highlights
Knowing from the start line that you're attempting a classic....but have twice as long to do it!
Hardknott Pass - the UK's most iconic and challenging mountain pass.
The descent off Kirkstone pass into the Patterdale Valley and riding alongside Ullswater.
Exploring the shores of Wast Water and experiencing the remoteness of Wasdale Head.
Cycling into the Buttermere Valley with sublime views of the summits of Red Pike and High Stile.
The steep zig-zag descent into Great Langdale.
FAQ
What bike is best for The (Alternative) Fred Whitton Challenge?
The entire route is on tarmac, so a road bike or a lightweight gravel bike, fitted with road tyres, is recommended. Gearing is important. There are 6 long, steep mountain passes to contend with so it's a good idea to have ratios that allow you to spin!
Do I need my own bike?
No, we can arrange rental for you and have it ready for you to ride. Please let us know if you need a bike and we’ll discuss options but rental prices start at £79 for the weekend. We'll need to pre-order this, so advance notice is needed.
What clothing and equipment will I need?
You can find a recommended clothing and equipment list by clicking...
If you are unsure about any of these items, or you need to purchase any of these items, you are more than welcome to get in touch for some help and advice. We've bought our fair share of kit over the years and we're very happy to share what works for us.
How physically fit do I need to be to enjoy the (Alternative) Fred Whitton Challenge?
The 'Fred' is reputed to be the hardest single day sportive in the country and even though we're splitting the route over two days, it's still a significant challenge. We'll be covering roughly 100 km each day and elevation wise, we'll be climbing close to 2300 m each day. So, you'll need to be physically conditioned. That said, the route is achievable for most fit cyclists over the two days since we'll ride at a sensible pace, taking regular breaks to refuel and absorb this unique and often mesmerising scenery. If you're unsure whether you're fit enough, please contact us to arrange a chat.
What sort of prior experience do I need to have, to enjoy the (Alternative) Fred Whitton Challenge?
Not that much really. As long as you can ride a bike for most of the day on tarmac and you enjoy hills, you’ll be fine. This weekend is perfect for those who love a challenge and aspire to complete the Fred Whitton Challenge but perhaps haven't had the time to train in order to be able to complete it in one push. Splitting in into two days makes it doable for most determined cyclists.
How many hours will we be riding for each day?
We'll aim to be riding by 8:30 am each day. This allows for a good breakfast and any pre-ride bike prep. We'll ride together as a group and let the gradient dictate the pace. Completing the (Alt) Fred Whitton Challenge is less about average speed and more about moving efficiently throughout the day and keeping on top of our fuelling. We'll aim to finish each day in time to enjoy a hearty meal and some relaxation time. Our group dynamics will drive some of this but the key is to find a good flow and to keep things moving throughout the day, whilst stopping at the best spots to take in the views.
How many riders will make up the group?
We usually require at least 3 riders to make the expedition viable and we'll never have groups larger than 8.
Will riders stay together during the day?
Yes, we'll stay together as a group. There may be some sections (usually inclines) where those who want to stretch their legs can enjoy a challenge but we'll move together, we'll always be in clear sight of each other and we will always descend together, as a group.
Where will the expedition start and what's the best way to get there?
Our meeting point and camp for the first night is the wonderful Rydal Campsite on the Rydal Hall Estate. You're welcome to join us from 3 pm on Friday. We'll greet other expedition members as they arrive and prepare for the weekend ahead. If you're travelling by car, directions can be found by clicking...
If you're travelling by train, the nearest station is Windermere and we're very happy to pick you up and bring you back to the campsite. We'll drop you back off at the station at the end of the weekend too, if this is helpful.
When and where will we finish on Sunday?
Day 2 will be spent making our way from the Buttermere valley back to our start point at the Rydal Hall campsite and we'll aim to get back by mid-afternoon. We'll clean bikes, sort kit and say our farewells, no doubt with tired legs but with talk of more adventures to come.
Can I leave my car securely during the weekend?
Yes, we’ll meet up at the Rydal Hall Campsite on Friday and you can leave your car at the campsite until we return on Sunday afternoon.
Will my spare clothes and equipment be transported for me during the trip?
Yes. This is an important aspect of the expedition. Being able to travel light and being supported affords a level of flexibility and peace of mind that, we feel, gives the very best chance of enjoyment and success. You will get access to your kit bag whenever we meet up with the support vehicle which is likely to be 2-3 times a day and at the end of each day.
Is there a limit on what I can bring?
The only limit we have is space within the support vehicle. All we ask is that you fit whatever you need transporting into one bag / holdall / suitcase that is no bigger than 100cm x 45cm x 45cm. These measurements equate to a large expedition holdall and should be more than enough for the weekend.
What type of accommodation will we be using?
We'll be using excellent campsites on Friday and Saturday night. We'll have access to a large expedition tent to socialise and eat in and you can either bring your own tent or use one of ours, free of charge. We'll also have a secure bike tent, where we can prepare and service our bikes. Please note, if you choose to bring your own tent, please ensure it is a single or regular two person tent. Anything bigger would create uneccessary issues with the campsite owners.
Will I have to share a tent?
No, but you can if you choose to. All of our tents are two person semi-geodesic. They are comfortable for two or palatial for one.
What's the catering plan?
We’ll provide all meals and snacks between the time you arrive on Friday until we say farewell on Sunday. We love food and know how important it is during an expedition. All meals provided will be healthy and plentiful (cake will just be plentiful). A sample menu can be found by clicking...
Once you've booked onto an expediton, we’ll ask you which meals and snacks you like, so that we have the best chance of offering foods you love.
What if I have food allergies and / or dietary requirements?
No problem. Let's discuss this during the booking process and we'll do our utmost to support your needs.
How do I book onto this expedition?
You can start the simple booking process by clicking...
and we'll contact you to arrange a quick chat, just to make sure you've picked the perfect expedition that matches your ability and expectations. Once we're both happy, we'll ask you for a deposit (50% of the total cost of the expedition), then we'll confirm your place and take you through the rest of the booking process. This involves getting some information from you and us sharing everything you need to know in preparation for your expedition. If you would like to discuss any aspect of this expedition before making a booking, no problem, go to the 'Ask Us Anything' section below and we'll answer your query as quickly as we can.
If we've not covered an area you're keen to explore in the FAQ above, please do get in touch using the 'Ask Us Anything' form below and we'll answer your query as quickly as we can.
Book an adventure in 3 Easy Steps
Start the simple booking process by clicking and we’ll arrange a convenient time to call you. We just need to make sure you’ve picked the perfect expedition for you. If you’re keen to chat before deciding whether to commit to an expedition, no problem, contact us via 'Ask Us Anything' below and we’ll get back in touch as quickly as we can to answer any questions you have.
Once we're both happy that you've picked a suitable expedition, we'll ask you for a deposit (50% of the total cost of the expedition), then we'll confirm your place, via email, and take you through the rest of the booking process. We’ll need to get some more information from you and we'll send you some more details about your expedition.
We’re happy to field any questions you have leading up to your expedition but roughly 14 days before your expedition is due to start, we’ll contact you to make sure you’re ready to join us. We’ll share the final GPX file of your route and update you on any relevant information to include details about other expedition members.