Crafted Classique Sportive

Challenge yourself to cycle either 100km or 100mi through the stunning Suffolk landscape and picturesque costal scenes as part of Ipswich Cycling Weekend this 30-31 August.

Sponsored by digital agency Crafted, the Crafted Classique sportive blends beautiful countryside with quality local produce, an exciting route and a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Starting from the historic Ipswich waterfront, with its unique maritime architecture, cafes, restaurants and bars, you can prepare for the ride with a complimentary espresso before setting off for this timed event. Afterwards, you can enjoy a delicious free hog roast, provided by Cult café, and savour a refreshing Adnams beer, brewed in sunny Southwold on the Suffolk Coast.

The route begins at Neptune Marina on the Ipswich docks and rolls out across the Suffolk countryside to the beautiful coastal villages of Thorpeness and Aldeburgh (100 miles), before returning to the pubs, shops and cafes of the Ipswich Waterfront. There are different distances to choose from – 100km or 100 mi – although both are based on the Ipswich and Coastal Grand Prix route, which is being ridden by pro teams the following day.

Registration opens at 7.30am and closes at 8.30am, with the ride getting underway at 9am. The event costs £25 to enter and includes Mule Bar nutrition and pre and post ride refreshments.

Ipswich Cycling Weekend

The day after the Crafted Classique sportive sees the pros roll into town for the Ipswich Coastal Grand Prix. Cheer on Britain's top elite cyclists as they race 200km through some of the most beautiful parts of the county. The finale of the British Cycling Elite Road Series, the race will start and end on the Ipswich waterfront.

For those who prefer their cycling at a more leisurely pace, there will also be a Sky Ride on Sunday 31 August. Bring your family and friends for a great day out exploring traffic-free routes you can't usually ride. There will be lots to do both on and off the bike, with cyclists of all ages and abilities taking over the town centre.