Little has changed on the high chalk ridges and quiet, wild places of Dorset in the 30 plus years this classic has been run. The early autumn weather is perfect for the riders, headbangers and loiterers alike. The first finishers usually show their extreme fitness and cycling skills by returning soon after lunch. Many others enjoy taking their time to appreciate and enjoy the quiet in the sunshine. You see an enormous variety of wild life from rabbits to deer and pigeons to buzzards.

Starting from Dorchester it takes in countryside near to Piddlehinton and Cheselbourne. It then goes west towards the Dorset Gap and along the Wessex Ridgeway to Buckland Newton. You then climb Batcombe Hill and return to Dorchester along the high ridge of the chalk downs.

This is a self led reliability ride. You will need to find your own way round. Latest updates are on Facebook. Many riders use GPS and/or a smart phone. Please be prepared to be independent and for example pay for a taxi back if things go badly wrong.