Dark Skies Gravel Race
Date: Saturday 28th February 2026, 4:00 PM start ⏰

To register: britishcycling.org.uk

Part of the Dark Skies Festival in the National Park, this race is one-of-a-kind 🏞️, taking place in an area famous for its lack of light pollution, one of only 24 internationally recognized Dark Sky Reserves 🌌

Riders will start their journey in daylight and continue into the dark on a mix of public roads, bridleways, forests, and open moorland 🏔️

Dark Skies says:
“Riding at night gives a completely new experience, whether you’ve tried night riding before or not. At Dark Skies, anyone can take on the amazing route that combines quiet gravel paths and fast country lanes. Don’t worry though, the North York Moors is full of big views and climbs, and the distance itself is a real challenge at night!”

If you’re nervous about tackling a long night ride, the entry fee includes a fully marked route, passing through some inhabited areas (and maybe even a few pubs 🥳) and a hot soup station to help you feel safe during the night. Fellow riders and event teams are there to encourage you and ensure the experience is more fun and safer than riding alone 👍

Entries are now open on the British Cycling website, and the organizers will soon release details on the required equipment, the exact route, and race timings.

📍 Sutton Bank National Park Centre

Postcode: YO7 2EH
🔥 Official race start point! Stunning views of the countryside sky
✨ Enjoy the stars and a walk in nature before or after the race

📍 Danby Lodge National Park Centre

Postcode: YO18 7LT
🌠 Amazing center for stargazing experiences, with star sessions and warm coffee
💥 Perfect for families and those who want a calm vibe before the race

📍 Cawthorn Roman Camp

Postcode: YO21 2TA
⭐ Perfect spot for full dark sky viewing
🔥 Ideal experience for photography and stargazing

📍 Chop Gate Village Hall car park

Postcode: YO18 8QA
🍻 Great spot for a star session with a nearby pub
✨ Perfect if you want to hang out with friends under the sky

📍 Rosedale Chimney Bank car park

Postcode: YO18 8TF
🌌 Open view of the sky full of stars
💥 Perfect spot for night trips and adventures under the dark sky