Matt in Group C2C

What to Expect on King Alfred’s Way

A legendary four-day off-road cycling adventure through ancient Britain.

Ride through 10,000 years of history

From ancient stone circles and Iron Age hillforts, to sweeping chalk trails and woodland tracks, the King Alfred’s Way Cycle offers one of the UK’s most iconic off-road cycling adventures. But what happens when you take that epic route, add a passionate support crew, sprinkle in a team of like-minded cyclists, and ride for a cause that truly matters?

You get something much more than just a bikepacking route. You get Bike the UK for MS: King Alfred’s Way.

This guide breaks down everything you can expect on our 4-day supported cycling trip, whether you’re a returning Bike the UK for MS alumni, first-time off-roader, or curious adventurer searching for your next challenge.

King Alfred's Way
King Alfred’s Way Cycle – Picture from Cycling UK

What is the King Alfred’s Way Cycle?

King Alfred’s Way is a 220-mile (350km) circular bike route through the historic kingdom of Wessex, developed by Cycling UK. It connects four National Trails – the Ridgeway, South Downs Way, North Downs Way, and Thames Path – taking in ancient monuments like Stonehenge, Avebury Stone Circle, and Old Sarum.

It’s about 85% off-road, ranging from wide gravel paths to chalky climbs, forest singletrack, canal towpaths, and sunken bridleways. The scenery is as varied as the surface under your tyres: open downs, misty woodlands, sleepy villages, and ancient hilltop views.

The route was designed with adventure in mind. You’ll cross military training grounds, Neolithic causeways, and Roman roads. It’s a route that blends natural beauty and historical significance with physical challenges throughout.

What makes our ride different?

Most people ride King Alfred’s Way solo, carrying their gear, plotting their route, and crossing their fingers for good weather and working brakes. We do it differently.

When you join Bike the UK for MS:

  • Your gear travels in the support van.
  • Your route leaders keep you on track.
  • Your water stops appear every 15–30 miles.
  • Your team shares stories, snacks, and miles together.
  • And your fundraising helps support those living with multiple sclerosis across the UK.

This is a fully supported group ride, but it’s still an adventure.

Bike the UK for MS Support Van

The Route: Day-by-Day Breakdown

King Alfred's Way route map

May 16–19, 2025
Start and end point: Reading
Total distance: 220 miles
Elevation: 11,850 ft

Day 1: Reading to Liphook – 62 miles

We begin with a gentle roll out from Reading, joining the Kennet and Avon Canal and riding out along easy-going towpaths and rural lanes. As we leave the Thames Valley behind, we begin our transition into more rugged terrain, with woodland trails and bridleways weaving through Hampshire. Today features a mix of forest tracks and sandy sections as we pass through Swinley Forest and Frensham Common, offering early glimpses of the route’s varied surfaces.

Expect occasional rutted sections and narrow lanes lined with ancient oaks. The highlight of the day is reaching the Devil’s Punch Bowl, a stunning natural amphitheatre near Hindhead. We descend through rhododendron-filled trails and head towards our overnight in Liphook.

Day 2: Liphook to Stockbridge – 50 miles

Today starts with flowing singletrack through Queen Elizabeth Country Park, including stretches of the South Downs Way. Prepare for some challenging climbs and rewarding views across the Hampshire downs. We’ll ascend Butser Hill, the highest point on the South Downs, before descending chalky bridleways and entering pastoral farmland.

We ride through Old Winchester Hill, home to an Iron Age hill fort and rich in wildflowers and views. The route weaves through quiet lanes and grassy byways, following ancient tracks that feel timeless. As we approach Stockbridge, we’ll cross sections of Roman roads and pass through villages steeped in history. Be prepared for undulating terrain and short technical descents, especially if conditions are damp.

Day 3: Stockbridge to All Cannings – 49 miles

This is our most history-soaked day. We ride towards Salisbury Plain, a vast, open plateau used for military training and rich with archaeological significance. The route skirts danger zones, keeping us safely on bridleways as we head toward Old Sarum, an ancient hill fort where Romans, Normans and Saxons all left their mark.

Shortly after, riders will spot the unmistakable outline of Stonehenge in the distance. We pass close by via public byways, with the option for a short detour for a better view. After a rest stop, the terrain becomes more rolling, with grassy fields and open farmland leading us towards the Avebury Stone Circles. Less touristy than Stonehenge, but equally magical.

The day ends with a gentle cruise into All Cannings, a peaceful village beside the Kennet and Avon Canal, perfect for a quiet, relaxing evening.

Day 4: All Cannings to Reading – 58 miles

Our final day follows the iconic Ridgeway, Britain’s oldest road. This ancient route delivers long, undulating tracks across open chalk downs. The wide trails allow riders to soak in sweeping views of the Wiltshire and Oxfordshire countryside.

Expect fast, flowing descents and some exposed sections. The wind can be a factor here. We pass the Uffington White Horse, a prehistoric chalk figure carved into the hillside, and ride near Barbury Castle, another impressive Iron Age fort.

As we descend from the Ridgeway and re-enter the Thames Valley, the terrain softens again. A mix of canal paths and rural lanes leads us back into Reading, tired but triumphant.

What kind of bike do I need?

We recommend a gravel bike, hardtail mountain bike, or cyclocross bike if your skills are up to the challenge. Tyres of 40mm+ are ideal, with good tread for loose terrain.

eBikes are welcome! Just be sure to manage your battery range (a spare battery is ideal). We’ll have charging options via our Jackery units at rest stops and camp.

What gear should I bring?

We carry your kit for you, so no panniers needed! You’ll have:

  • An 80L box for your main gear (camping kit, clothes, etc.)
  • A 16L day box for essentials like snacks, layers, or spares, accessible at rest stops

The basics you’ll need to bring:

  • Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad
  • Your chosen bike
  • Optional cooking gear (if not eating out)
  • Riding kit, tools, and personal gear (we send a full checklist)

What’s the vibe like?

Bik the UK cyclist holding hands

Think team spirit, not competition. Around 10 riders, riding at their own pace, supporting each other. There’s no set speed or cutoff times. You ride how you want, slow and steady, photo-heavy, or charging between cafes.

This is about experiencing something unforgettable together, and raising funds for a great cause while doing it.

Is it tough?

Yes… but not too tough.

The route includes some decent climbs, some rutted descents, and lots of varied surfaces. But it’s designed to be doable with training, and we provide training plans to help you get there.

If you can ride 40–50 miles in a day, you’re on track. You’ll also learn from alumni and get advice from our team before you even start pedalling.

What does it cost?

  • £25 to register
  • £440 fundraising target (just £2 per mile!)

This covers your support, accommodation, jersey, logistics, and rider resources. Food is your choice and cost: camp meals, pub dinners, or café stops are all fair game.

How do I sign up?

Just head to our King Alfred’s Way event page and click Register.

You’ll get:

  • A welcome pack
  • Training advice
  • Gear prep support
  • A chance to be part of a purpose-led cycling community

Final Thoughts

What makes King Alfred’s Way so special isn’t just the history – though there’s plenty of that. It’s the sheer variety packed into four unforgettable days of riding. One moment you’re winding through a cathedral of trees in the South Downs, the next you’re cresting a ridge with 360-degree views across timeless countryside.

Each day brings something new: a sweeping descent through a nature reserve, a hidden Roman road, the unexpected sight of Stonehenge rising from the mist. It’s a route that keeps you on your toes and rewards your effort with a constant stream of memorable moments.

Riding it as part of a supported team, without the stress of logistics or navigation, means you get to focus on what really matters: soaking up the ride, the scenery, and the company.

Ready to ride? We’ll see you at the start line in May.

Hillary NC500

From Solo Rides to Shared Purpose: Hilary Jackson’s Bike the UK for MS Story

Meet Hilary Jackson: Fitness Instructor, Solo Cyclist, and MS Fundraiser

Hilary Jackson is no stranger to long days and physical endurance. As a fitness instructor based in the South of England, she’s built her career around helping others stay active and healthy. But with unsociable hours and split shifts being the norm, Hilary has always found herself riding solo. Cycling, for her, was a trial-and-error journey – learning on the go, fitting in rides around work, and taking on challenges like the inaugural RideLondon 100 and multi-day charity rides.

When she discovered Bike the UK for MS, everything clicked: the support, the cause, the team. It was the perfect bridge between solo adventures and shared impact.

A Personal Connection: Riding for Mick and Margaret

Hilary’s motivation to ride goes deeper than the love of cycling. Through her work, she came to know two clients, Mick and Margaret, who lived with multiple sclerosis (MS). Their experiences were very different—Mick dealt with nerve pain and muscle spasms that limited his day-to-day life, while Margaret, once an avid athlete, found creative ways to push forward despite her symptoms.

Their stories stayed with Hilary. They gave MS a face, a voice, and an urgency she couldn’t ignore.

Scotland Calling: The Ride That Started It All

Hillary riding the North Coast 500 in September 2023

One day in early 2023, while scrolling Facebook, a post caught Hilary’s eye: the North Coast 500 ride. In that instant, everything aligned. A chance to return to Scotland, a place that had left a lasting impression during a childhood holiday, and a way to give back to people like Mick and Margaret.

“It was the perfect chance to do ‘bike-packing’ without the packing,” she says. “I signed up pretty much straight away.”

Why I Keep Coming Back: Bucket List Routes and Bigger Purpose

Since that first ride, Hilary hasn’t looked back. From the North Coast 500 to the Sea to Sea, each route has been a bucket-list cycling experience, made even better by the thoughtful planning and support.

“The best part is you can focus on riding, not logistics,” she explains. “And meeting MS groups along the way adds real meaning. I learned so much about the condition—things I never knew before. And it made my fundraising feel more direct and personal.”

From Nervous to Natural: Finding Her Place in the Peloton

As someone used to riding solo, Hilary admits she was nervous about joining a group ride. But those nerves quickly melted away.

“The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Everyone finds their rhythm, and there’s no pressure to ride in a pack,” she recalls. “The faster you go, the more time for coffee at the next rest stop!”

Mint Magnums and Starry Skies: Unforgettable Moments on the Road

Ask Hilary about her most memorable moments, and the stories come pouring out:

Waiting patiently to take a celebratory selfie at the Northumberland border—only to be delayed by another cyclist taking the longest wee in history beneath the welcome sign.

Sitting in the sun with a mint Magnum outside the last shop before Gairloch, waiting for fellow riders.

Stargazing at John O’Groats after a bracing dip in the North Sea.

Mastering the sleeping bag roll after three days of failed attempts.

These are the kinds of memories that make Bike the UK for MS rides more than just challenges—they become shared stories of laughter, struggle, and joy.

The Hardest Bit? Not the Weather!

Despite the usual reputation for UK weather, Hilary’s been lucky. “I’ve had almost wall-to-wall sunshine,” she admits. But that doesn’t mean it’s been easy.

Climbing Hartside Summit into a headwind stands out as a real test. “But if you’ve trained, you just push on. It’s only one more pedal stroke, after all.”

What I’ve Learned: MS, Community, and the Power of Showing Up

Hilary’s rides have been as educational as they have been physical.

She learned that MS may begin much earlier than most people realise, sometimes manifesting as clumsiness or misdiagnosed as dyspraxia. And she heard how, since the pandemic, MS support groups have been struggling to keep their members engaged and connected.

“It made me realise how important our support is,” she says. “We don’t just raise money; we give MS groups a reason to gather and connect again.”

Lessons in Simplicity: From Bikepacking to Camp Life

Hilary expected to enjoy the rides, but she didn’t expect to fall in love with camping.

“Climbing out of your tent and onto your bike is tougher on Day 1 than it is mid-week,” she laughs. “But I’ve been lucky with the weather, and the experience has been magic.”

Still Part of the Family: Staying Connected as an Alumnus

While Hilary hasn’t made it to as many alumni events as she’d like, she still feels part of the Bike the UK for MS family. She follows updates, celebrates others’ rides, and plans to be back on the road again soon.

Hilary’s Advice: Book the Trip, Pack Light, Train Hard

To anyone thinking about joining a future ride, Hilary offers this:

  1. Just book it
  2. Don’t overpack—you need less than you think
  3. Train—it really will make the ride more enjoyable

Hilary’s story reminds us that you don’t have to be an expert cyclist or a seasoned adventurer to make a difference. Sometimes, all it takes is a bike, a cause, and a little sunshine.

Want to join the ride? Bike the UK for MS is waiting for you. And if you see someone rolling their sleeping bag in one perfect swoop, it might just be Hilary.

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Cycling Through Life with MS: Paul James’ Journey with Bike the UK for MS

From the RAF to the Road: Meet Paul James (PJ)

For many, life takes unexpected turns, and for Paul James —better known as PJ—this couldn’t be more true. A lifelong sports enthusiast and former Royal Air Force serviceman, PJ has always embraced an active lifestyle. But in 2022, a sudden decline in health set him on a path he never anticipated. By January 2023, he was diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (MS) , a condition that would challenge his resilience in ways he never expected. Now 55, PJ lives in West Sussex with his wife Sarah and their two miniature dachshunds. While MS may have changed some aspects of his life, it has certainly not stopped him—especially when it comes to cycling.

A Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Like many people diagnosed with MS, PJ had little understanding of the condition before his own journey began. “Beyond the initial shock and uncertainty, the emotional journey was made all the easier by the support network, information, and empathy provided through MS charities and communities,” he says. Connecting with others who understood what he was going through helped him process the news and find the strength to move forward. His biggest takeaway? “It’s good to talk. It’s so true!”

Living with MS: Adjusting to a New Normal

MS is unpredictable, and for PJ, the biggest daily challenge is fatigue. “There can be some steady periods of relatively normal life, but I have to take medication daily to help minimise the extent to which the illness might spread through my brain and spine,” he explains. Adjusting his daily schedule and work routine to accommodate his energy levels has been essential in maintaining a balanced life. While he may have had to make some adjustments, he refuses to let MS dictate what he can and cannot do.

Cycling with MS: A Source of Strength and Freedom

For PJ, cycling is more than just a pastime—it’s a critical part of his MS management. “My neurological specialist thoroughly recommended it to help with joint and muscle strength, along with the cognitive benefits and emotional uplift of doing something I absolutely love.” Fortunately, he hasn’t needed any modifications to his bike. He rides a standard road bike, commuting daily and taking longer recreational rides on weekends through the rolling hills of South Downs and the Surrey Hills.

Finding Purpose: Joining Bike the UK for MS

In 2024, PJ took on the Lon Las Cymru challenge with Bike the UK for MS, and he’s set to do it again in 2025. His motivation for riding is twofold: first, to prove to himself that MS does not define him; second, to raise funds for MS research and support groups. “I recognise my journey is part of a bigger picture of people living with MS, and we rely on a fabulous network of medical teams and support staff who regularly go above and beyond to help MS patients like me.”

The Power of Community: Meeting Fellow Riders & MS Groups

One of the most impactful aspects of riding with Bike the UK for MS has been meeting others along the way. “The opportunity to meet up with MS groups last year was fabulous! A broad mix of lovely people, young and not so young, with smiles and stories to reflect their positivity in handling this wretched illness.” These encounters reinforced his belief in the importance of community and the shared strength that comes from supporting one another.

Lessons from the Ride: Overcoming Challenges One Pedal at a Time

Every long-distance ride comes with its share of challenges, but for PJ, those challenges are what make the journey worthwhile. “The camaraderie of the fellow bikers, the experiences of the MS groups, and the personal endeavour to grind out each pedal stroke over some testy Welsh climbs filled me with incredible joy and appreciation for life. I live with MS, but I am not defined by it.”

Why You Should Ride Too: PJ’s Advice for Future Participants

PJ’s message for anyone considering an MS cycling challenge is simple: go for it. “What’s not to love? Spending time on your bike, in the beauty of wild landscapes, and getting to know new friends literally along for the ride! It’s an absolute blast and, although there are some testy bits, you ride at your own pace. It’s being part of something bigger than any one individual. I’m an old guy with MS, so if I can do it, anyone can. Give it a go!”

 

PJ’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and his spirit of adventure. Through Bike the UK for MS, he has not only found a way to continue doing what he loves, but has also contributed to a cause that supports countless others living with MS. His story serves as an inspiration to anyone facing challenges—on or off the bike.

 

Are you ready to take on your own adventure? Join Bike the UK for MS and be part of something truly life-changing. Want to support PJ on Lon Las Cymru? Donate to his challenge here.

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MS Stories: East Cumbria MS Society Group

Over the years, Bike the UK for MS has visited many different MS Society groups, having supported and been supported by them across many of our trips throughout the whole history of the charity. One such group is the East Cumbria MS Society Group. This is a group we have met a number of times across both our Lands End to John O’Groats trips and Sea to Sea trips. Through these meetings we build a meaningful bond with local groups, adding extra motivation and meaning to our riders efforts.

Sea to Sea 2023 Riders meeting the East Cumbria MS Society Group – photo credits: Ella Miles

Our most recent visit to the East Cumbria Group was at Penrith on the end of the first day of riding on our Sea to Sea trip, at the amazing Penrith Rugby Club who kindly let us stay overnight. The MS Society group were kind enough to share a bit about Bike the UK for MS within their most recent newsletter. Discover more about the local group, alongside some of our riders and ride leaders stories (and some amazing photos) within the Newsletter, which they have kindly let us share on here…

It is a highlight of our rides to meet and spend time with these local MS Societies, and to see the crucial work they do for those living with MS in their communities. For anyone looking to discover more about the East Cumbria MS Society group you can find them through the MS Society website; East Cumbria Group | MS Society. Additionally, if you are looking for info on your local MS Society group you can find them through the MS Societies local search tool.

Finally, discover more about our Sea to Sea trip for 2024 here, your 2024 adventure awaits!

Some of the Loughborough RAG Students having completed our July 2022 North Coast 500 Ride - Photo Credit: Unknown

University RAG Partnerships with Bike the UK for MS

Over the years, Bike the UK for MS has worked with many University RAG groups, having students from a number of different universities riding with us. Looking ahead to the 2024 Trips, we are excited to continue this fantastic partnership, working with RAG groups from Manchester, Nottingham, and Loughborough Universities. 

Some of the Loughborough RAG Students having completed our July 2022 North Coast 500 Ride – Photo Credit: Unknown

What is RAG?

But what is University RAG? RAG is an organisation through which students can discover and tackle amazing challenges whilst raising money for good causes. For example, the university RAG will often run RAG fairs with a number of challenges and causes represented. Ultimately, these fairs provide a place where students can take the opportunity to visit a number of different charity stands to discover the causes they could support and the adventures they could tackle. 

Manchester Get into Volunteering Fair

These RAG Fairs are a highlight of our off season, getting to travel out to different universities and meet some amazing people, looking to tackle the country by bike whilst raising money for Multiple Sclerosis Research and Awareness. This year we have been lucky enough to attend the Manchester Get into Volunteering fair, spending the day in the Student’s Union promoting our rides for 2024. It was great to see the interest across the board, from our 14 days of riding Land’s End to John O’Groats ride to our 3 day Sea to Sea trip.

The Bike the UK for MS stand at the Manchester RAG Fair – Photo Credit: Tommy Blake

Loughborough RAG

Looking ahead, we will be in Loughborough for the Loughborough University Unlock an Activity Night on the 9th October! This is a fantastic opportunity to share our new Loughborough RAG specific trip for 2024, that being the iconic London to Paris Route. After multiple years of students joining us on our NC500 trips, we can’t wait to tackle this new challenge with them! 

If any Loughborough students are interested please do come down and visit us. We’d love to share more information on the challenge with you, discuss bikes or even just say hello! 
If any university RAG groups or clubs are interested in partnering with us to have riders joining our trips, please do get in touch at info@biketheukforms.org, we’d love to hear from you.

Some of the amazing group from Robinson College, Cambridge who tackled our 2023 Sea to Sea trip – Photo Credit: Tommy Blake