![Cover image](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/photos/united-kingdom/berkshire-buckinghamshire-and-oxfordshire/3301675223/broadway-hill-1.webp)
The Cotswold Challenge
A road cycling route starting from Fairford
Embark on a challenging journey through the Cotswolds, taking in breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks.
Map
![Map miniature of "The Cotswold Challenge" cycling inspiration in Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Bristol/Bath area, United Kingdom. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/routemaps/600/united-kingdom/gloucestershire-wiltshire-and-bristol-bath-area/fairford/road/95612.webp)
With a total distance of 120km and a grueling ascent of 1219m, this road cycling route is for true cycling enthusiasts seeking an epic challenge. Along the way, you'll encounter highlights such as Coln Rogers, Pen Hill, Ford, Broadway Hill, Chipping Campden, Stretton-on-Fosse, Churchill, Ascott-under-Wychwood, Shilton, and Southrop. Prepare yourself for legendary climbs, picturesque villages, and stunning vistas as you conquer the Cotswold Challenge.
road
120 km
1219 m
Savage
Route profile
Highlights on the route
0 km
0 km
Start: Fairford City centerFairford: Experience tranquility and natural beauty through cycling in Fairford.
Fairford is a delightful locality in the Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, and Bristol/Bath area of the United Kingdom. Despite being a smaller town, Fairford has great cycling potential. The quiet country roads offer peaceful rides, allowing cyclists to explore the scenic countryside at their own pace. Nearby, the Cotswolds offers stunning landscapes and quaint villages that are perfect for cycling enthusiasts. One popular cycling route in the area is the Lechlade Loop, which takes you through picturesque villages and along the River Thames. Fairford may be a hidden gem for cycling lovers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.14 km
14 km
Coln RogersVillageColn Rogers is a hidden hamlet boasting ancient architecture and panoramic views over the Coln Valley.
26 km
26 km
Pen Hill270 mPeakPen Hill rewards cyclists with exceptional vistas over the stunning Vale of Brize Norton.
39 km
39 km
FordHamletDiscover the charming village of Ford, with its idyllic setting and notable historic buildings.
47 km
47 km
Broadway Hill310 mPeakBroadway Hill introduces cyclists to breathtaking Cotswold panoramas and an exhilarating climb.
53 km
53 km
Chipping CampdenTownChipping Campden is a quintessential Cotswold town with honey-colored stone cottages and a vibrant arts scene.
62 km
62 km
Stretton on FosseVillageStretton-on-Fosse is a quaint village nestled within an area of outstanding natural beauty, offering peaceful cycling routes and scenic views.
81 km
81 km
ChurchillVillageExplore the historical village of Churchill, known for its picturesque setting and the legendary Chequer's Tree.
89 km
89 km
Ascott-under-WychwoodVillageAscott-under-Wychwood mesmerizes with its idyllic Cotswold charm, complete with thatched-roof cottages and beautiful countryside.
103 km
103 km
ShiltonVillageShilton welcomes cyclists with its delightful stone-built houses, medieval church, and a picturesque ford.
114 km
114 km
SouthropVillageSouthrop is a tranquil Cotswold village encompassed by flourishing countryside, boasting centuries-old architecture and a sense of harmony.
120 km
120 km
Finish: Fairford City centerFairford: Experience tranquility and natural beauty through cycling in Fairford.
Cycling routes from Fairford:
Cycling routes nearby:
![Image of Lechlade](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/gloucestershire-wiltshire-and-bristol-bath-area/lechlade-4.webp)
![Image of Cricklade](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/gloucestershire-wiltshire-and-bristol-bath-area/cricklade-5.webp)
![Image of Highworth](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/gloucestershire-wiltshire-and-bristol-bath-area/highworth-5.webp)
![Image of Broad Blunsdon](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/gloucestershire-wiltshire-and-bristol-bath-area/broad-blunsdon-5.webp)
![Image of South Cerney](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/gloucestershire-wiltshire-and-bristol-bath-area/south-cerney-4.webp)
![Image of Cirencester](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/gloucestershire-wiltshire-and-bristol-bath-area/cirencester-3.webp)
![Image of Stratton](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/gloucestershire-wiltshire-and-bristol-bath-area/stratton-5.webp)
![Image of Northleach](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/gloucestershire-wiltshire-and-bristol-bath-area/northleach-4.webp)
![Image of Carterton](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/berkshire-buckinghamshire-and-oxfordshire/carterton-4.webp)