Once you’ve ticked off the shorter 30–40km loops, the natural next step in your gravel riding progression is the big day out. The 50–100km range is where gravel really starts to feel like an adventure: more planning, more food, more scenery, and that deep satisfaction that only a long ride delivers.
These five UK gravel routes are all available on Komoot and cover the length of the country, from the wild moorlands of the South West and the remote reservoirs of Wales, to classic Peak District rail trails, Highland wilderness, and accessible long rides near London. They’re ideal for riders who want endurance without committing to full bikepacking trips.
This is UK gravel cycling at its boldest.
If you’re just getting started with gravel or prefer shorter rides, make sure you check out my first guide: 5 Incredible UK Gravel Cycling Routes (30–40km Loops You Can Ride Today). It’s the perfect companion article and a great way to build confidence before stepping up to these longer 50–100km adventures.
1. The Westcountry Way (South West England – Devon & Somerset)
Komoot:
https://www.komoot.com/collection/977403/-the-westcountry-way
Region: Devon & Somerset
Distance: 189km total (perfect for 50–100km segments)
Difficulty: Hard
Terrain: Moorland tracks, bridleways, quiet lanes
Best for: Big scenery, serious climbing, true adventure riding
The Westcountry Way is one of England’s most iconic long-distance gravel routes, running coast to coast between Plymouth and Minehead. It crosses both Dartmoor and Exmoor, delivering some of the most rugged and dramatic terrain you’ll find in southern England.
While the full route is usually tackled over several days, it’s ideal for building epic single-day gravel adventures. Choose a 60–90km segment and you’ll get:
- Vast moorland landscapes
- Long gravel climbs
- Remote riding
- A true sense of scale
This is not a “casual” gravel ride. It’s demanding, rewarding, and perfect for riders who want their gravel to feel wild and purposeful.
2. Elan Valley Bothy Gravel Loop (Wales)
Komoot:
https://www.komoot.com/tour/161197514
Region: Mid Wales
Distance: ~50–90km
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Terrain: Reservoir tracks, quiet gravel lanes, upland roads
Best for: Scenic riding, solitude, Welsh wilderness
The Elan Valley is one of the UK’s hidden gravel gems. Vast reservoirs, empty roads, and quiet gravel tracks combine to create one of the most peaceful long rides in Britain. The Bothy loop on Komoot forms the backbone of a superb long gravel day that can easily be extended into the 70–90km range by linking surrounding forest roads and valleys.
Expect:
- Huge skies and water views
- Rolling climbing rather than sharp gradients
- Long, uninterrupted gravel sections
It’s the kind of ride that feels remote without being intimidating, making it a perfect stepping stone into longer adventure gravel riding.
3. West Highland Way (Scotland)
Komoot:
https://www.komoot.com/collection/887973/west-highland-way-mountain-biking
Region: Scottish Highlands
Distance: 154km total (rideable in 60–100km sections)
Difficulty: Hard
Terrain: Gravel tracks, rough path, moorland trails
Best for: Epic Highland gravel, remote riding
The West Highland Way is legendary. While traditionally a walking route, many sections are rideable on gravel or mountain bikes and feature in Komoot’s mountain biking collection. By selecting the more gravel-friendly segments, you can build unforgettable long day rides that showcase Scotland at its wildest.
Ride sections around:
- Bridge of Orchy
- Rannoch Moor
- Tyndrum
And you’ll experience:
- Vast open landscapes
- Rough, characterful gravel
- True “big ride” atmosphere
This is a route for confident riders who want their gravel cycling to feel genuinely epic.
4. High Peak Trail & Monsal Trail Loop (Peak District)
Region: Peak District National Park
Distance: ~65.7km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Railway paths, crushed limestone gravel
Best for: Flowing long rides, accessible endurance
If you want a long gravel ride without extreme technical difficulty, this is one of the best in the UK. Linking the High Peak Trail and the Monsal Trail into a single loop creates a near-perfect endurance gravel route: consistent surfaces, gentle gradients, and stunning limestone scenery.
It’s ideal for:
- First 60–70km gravel rides
- Group gravel days
- Riders who value flow over technical challenge
You get distance without brutality, making this one of the most rideable long gravel routes in the country.
5. Essex All Road (East Anglia / London)
Komoot:
https://www.komoot.com/tour/314489493
Region: Essex, East of England
Distance: ~64km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Mixed gravel, bridleways, quiet lanes
Best for: Long rides near London, winter gravel
This route proves you don’t need mountains for a big gravel day. The Essex All Road tour weaves together gravel tracks, farm roads and quiet lanes into a surprisingly satisfying long-distance ride.
Why it’s brilliant:
- Accessible from London
- Drains well in winter
- Perfect for building endurance
- A great “training” long gravel route
If you want to develop your gravel fitness without long travel, this is an ideal choice.
Already riding the 30–40km routes comfortably? These longer rides are your natural next step. If not, start with my 30–40km UK gravel loops guide and work your way up to these epic day adventures.
Quick Comparison
| Route | Distance | Region | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Westcountry Way | 50–100km segments | South West | Wild moorland gravel |
| Elan Valley Bothy Loop | 50–90km | Wales | Scenic reservoir riding |
| West Highland Way | 60–100km sections | Scotland | Epic wilderness gravel |
| High Peak & Monsal Loop | 65.7km | Peak District | Flowing endurance ride |
| Essex All Road | ~64km | East Anglia / London | Accessible long rides |
Frequently Asked Questions About Long UK Gravel Rides (50–100km)
How fit do I need to be?
If you can comfortably ride 40–50km on gravel, you’re ready to move up. A 60km gravel ride often feels like 80–90km on the road due to slower speeds and rougher terrain.
Do I need a mountain bike?
No, but tyre choice matters:
- 40–45mm tyres minimum
- 45mm+ for Scotland and Westcountry Way segments
- MTB is useful but not essential
How much food and water should I carry?
- 2 bottles minimum
- Extra snacks for remote routes
- Plan cafés where possible (Peak District and Essex are great for this)
Is Komoot good for long rides?
Absolutely:
- Excellent surface data
- Strong offline navigation
- Easy route adjustments
Always download offline maps before setting off.
What tyres work best?
40–45mm tubeless gravel tyres with a semi-slick centre and side knobs:
- Schwalbe G-One Bite
- WTB Raddler
- Specialized Pathfinder Pro
Are these routes rideable year-round?
- Peak District and Essex: Yes
- Westcountry Way, Elan Valley, Scotland: Best from spring to autumn
Do I need bikepacking gear?
No. These are long day rides:
- Frame bag or saddle pack
- Tools and spares
- Waterproof layer
- Extra food
How does this article link with your 30–40km routes?
Think of them as progression:
- 30–40km = exploration
- 50–100km = endurance and adventure
Together they form a perfect UK gravel riding roadmap.
Final Thoughts
If your short gravel loops have left you wanting more, these five routes are your next challenge. They offer distance, depth, and diversity: moorlands, mountains, reservoirs, rail trails and countryside gravel. They prove that the UK isn’t just good for gravel cycling – it’s exceptional.
Save them on Komoot, plan your food, pick your tyres, and start building bigger gravel days into your riding.
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