The Grindleford Goat

Our signature ride is The Billy. At 106km it features some of the most demanding climbs, including Mam Nick and Longstone Edge, and exciting descents in the Peak District.

The 54km Nanny will be a tour suitable for reasonably fit adults and determined juniors under their charge. It takes in some of our most stunning scenery and natural beauty.

A 65km adventure gravel 'reliability' route, The Gruff route changes every year. Fully 'untethered', riders are free to make their own pace & choose whichever cafes or hostelries they fancy! There may be a longer 80km option

This year's FREE mixed terrain Kid is a fantastic and challenging family MTB route of 22km - on quiet drove roads and country lanes it includes a beautiful 2km 'one day only' section on private trails linking Bank Top and Mag Clough farms. There is a 'Tarmac only' route available as GPX or paper map.

*The Billy No Mates - in response to rider requests, we have plotted a NEW century ride for this year - the Imperial Billy will be a carefully curated 100 mile route, 65 miles signed, 35 self supported - you will get a GPX file emailed 7 days before the event - a Snack Stop and Feed station on route with guaranteed pre and post ride meal options. The Goat herders will be there until you're all home and safe!

Brief history

In 2013, the residents of Grindleford organised a new Cycle Sportive event to raise funds for the Grindleford Community Shop. It took place in September as part of the inaugural Peak District Cycling Festival. The event raised £4,000 and has happened each year since. This has been a major contribution towards the success of our vital community shop. Do make sure you visit to see this quirky cafe and store whilst you're in Grindleford. 

The event is very popular, selling out in 2024 with over 400 riders of all ages and abilities. As described above, the event features three fully supported routes, plus a gravel 'reliability' route. After a successful debut in 2023, we have tweaked our 100 mile 'Century' route for those who need to push the boundaries of the Goat pen. 

All rides start and finish in Grindleford. Progress can be as quick (or slow) as you like, within our time cut offs. All the routes will incorporate opportunities for refreshments and other interesting diversions. We will provide a snack stop and/or feed station on all signed rides. 

It's called The Goat because they climb steep hills and eat a lot! The rolling start is preceded by quality barista coffee or hot drink of your choice, local dry-cured bacon rolls or Derbyshire oatcakes with brie and mushroom or vegan option (you can pre-order these when you register for the ride). Quality locally made sausage rolls, home made flapjack and crumble cakes will be available at the feed stations and an optional post ride Nepalese curry or Sunshine Pizza will be waiting for you at the finish.

Entry this year is limited to 400 participants and 'early bird' tickets will be kept at last year's prices - ALL PROCEEDS will go to the Grindleford Goat Charity, raising much needed money to support our local community.