Reputation: Regional UK event.
[01]
Course Overview
UK Yorkshire coast gravel challenge.
45 mi
Distance
3,000 ft
Elevation
Whitby, UK
Location
June 14, 2026
Date
~75
Field Size
£65-85
Entry Cost
Facts & History
[03]
The Course
Photo: YouTube / MORE Keep Smiling Adventures
Photo: YouTube / MORE Keep Smiling AdventuresUK Yorkshire coast gravel.
Signature challenge: UK Yorkshire coast terrain.
15
MILE
Early Coast
First coast sections.
22
MILE
Midpoint
Halfway through the course.
38
MILE
Late Coast
Final coast sections before finish.
RIDERS REPORT
The route is mostly paved and traffic free but has some off-road sections that could become muddy in the wetter months. Off-road sections are mostly well-maintained gravel tracks with a couple of short flowing single track bridleways.
The route is pretty flat, not completely pancake flat but the few small hills are few and far between and are not too long or too steep.
[04]
From the Field
This route officially starts in a place called Y but as it is a loop you can start in many different locations with lots of train stations to get you to and from the start of this route.
Keep Smiling Adventures · 5.5K views
The route is available in two versions both are the same distance but one takes a more coastal route around Margate which can become busy but skips the Rye harbour section. The other skips the Margate section but adds the Winchelsea loop around the Rye harbour.
Keep Smiling Adventures · 5.5K views
RACER
Racer Reviews
Raced Yorkshire Coast Dirt Dash? Be the first to rate it.
[07]
Training
June 14, 2026 YORKSHIRE COAST DIRT DASH
RIDERS REPORT
Bike of choice should be any bike that can take 30 millimeter plus tires. Tire choice should be more towards the faster rolling tire but with a bit of protection and grip for the off-road sections. Anything from a gravel bike to a hybrid or touring bike will be your best bet.
[08]
Train for Yorkshire Coast Dirt Dash
RACE DEMAND PROFILE
Durability
1
Climbing
4
VO2 Power
2
Threshold
3
Technical
4
Heat
0
Altitude
2
Race Specificity
3
FREE
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[09]
Race Logistics
Airport
Leeds Bradford (LBA) 90 minutes
Lodging
Whitby has lodging. Book ahead.
Food
Whitby has excellent dining. Stock nutrition.
Packet Pickup
Day of typically
Parking
At start/finish
RIDERS REPORT
It is best to have a GPS device for navigation as this route follows lots of different types of ways.
As you are riding around Kent, a well populated area, this makes wild camping harder with remote places being few and far between, so being as stealth as possible is the best way. The bivvy will give you the best option.
[10]
Tire Picks
38mmMIXED
1
Specialized Pathfinder Pro
Fast center, grippy edges. The modern all-rounder benchmark.
2
Panaracer GravelKing SK
Affordable all-rounder. Light knobs add grip without killing speed.
3
Vittoria Terreno Mix
Graphene versatility. Mixed-terrain grip with reasonable rolling speed.
FRONT/REAR SPLIT Rene Herse Snoqualmie Pass 44mm / Specialized Pathfinder Pro 38mmFaster front for reduced rolling resistance on straights, grippier rear for traction on loose climbs and corners
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Similar Races
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the climate like at Yorkshire Coast Dirt Dash?
2024 conditions were described as 'A very wet weekend' in rider footage. June/July timing in Yorkshire Coast location means variable British weather with potential coastal wind effects and rapid weather changes. More weather exposure than Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego.[3]
How are the logistics for Yorkshire Coast Dirt Dash?
Start/finish at YHA Whitby with electronic rider briefing and GPX files provided beforehand. Riders handle their own navigation with no course markings, and registration happens at the event with details 'TBC.' Support vehicle available for rescues only. "non-timed, self-supported reliability trial with overnight camping"[1]
How adventurous is Yorkshire Coast Dirt Dash?
Self-supported navigation through North York Moors and Yorkshire Coast with overnight wild camping and mandatory bivvy gear. Extensive kit requirements including emergency blanket, waterproof jacket, and first aid kit create bikepacking adventure vibes. "OK, so this is a bit of a cop-out. But because the route has so much wilderness, every coffee opportunity was anticipated and enjoyed! But if I had to pick just one then the little village cafe of Rav..."[3]
How prestigious is Yorkshire Coast Dirt Dash?
Event philosophy states 'It's not a race, it's a reliability trial! Stay cool, be nice, don't hurt yourself or others.' Non-timed format with no competitive results or pro field means no racing prestige to speak of.[3]
Should I race Yorkshire Coast Dirt Dash?
If you're local to UK—yes, it's solid. If you're traveling internationally—skip it.
[11]
Sources & Citations
Research sources used to build this race profile. Always verify details with official race sources before making travel or registration decisions.
- Route Maps RideWithGPS: Yorkshire Coast Dirt Dash Day 1ridewithgps.com/routes/47428854
- Other Sources Bikepackingbikepacking.com/event/yorkshire-coast-dirt-dash-2025/
- Media & Press Gravel Cyclistwww.gravelcyclist.com/training-rides/yorkshire-coast-dirt...
- Community dirtdash.cc: Yorkshiredirtdash.cc/yorkshire/
- Community us.alpkit.com: Adventure Cycling In North Yorkshire Route Ycus.alpkit.com/blogs/deeds/adventure-cycling-in-north-york...