The Big ‘Un // 2026 Event Details
Location: Brother HQ – Kent, UK
Start: Friday 12th September @ 6pm
Finish: Sunday 13th September 2026
The Routes: Big ‘Un 115km + 1,270m elev. / Bigger ‘Un 155km + 1,770m elev. / Little ‘Un (details TBC) – all taking place on Saturday
We’re super stoked to announce that The Big ‘Un is back for 2026!
What started as a challenging one-day gravel ride has grown into one of our favourite weekends of the year. The riding is still at the heart of the event, but the community, camping, food, drink and chance to spend a weekend hanging out with a wonderful bunch of bike-folk at Brother HQ have become just as important.
Saturday’s main event remains a challenging day out on the trails, with both the classic Big ‘Un and Bigger ‘Un routes returning for those looking to test themselves on some of Kent’s finest gravel, bridleways and back roads. We’re also working on a new Little ‘Un route for riders looking for a more relaxed day in the saddle.
The routes, created through many hours of exploring our local trails, will lead you up and over the stunning North Downs as you’re treated to some of Kent’s finest bridleways, byways, forest tracks and country lanes. Expect a healthy mix of gravel, dirt, singletrack and quiet lanes, along with plenty of incredible views, coffee stops and opportunities to refuel along the way.
Don’t underestimate these routes, particularly if the weather has been unkind. They’re challenging rides, but we think they’re well worth the effort.
The event starts and finishes at Brother HQ, based on a farm on the outskirts of Faversham in Kent, just over an hour by train from London. Riders are encouraged to arrive on Friday evening where we’ll settle into camp, share a few drinks, screen a cycling film in the tractor barn and ease into the weekend.
On Saturday, you’ll be treated to fresh coffee and pastries before heading out onto the route. Back at HQ we’ll have great food, local drinks and a relaxed evening around camp.
On Sunday, we’ll be organising a gentle recovery ride to the coast and are exploring the possibility of securing some sauna spaces along the way!
Still need convincing? Check out this event recap that went up on Bikepacking.com > HERE <
Event Details:
- Check-in Friday night or Saturday morning
- Ticket holders will be given the exact location nearer the event date – Faversham train station is a 5 minute ride away
- Riders will set off at 9am on Saturday – we will stagger departures to avoid congestion on the trails
- The route is mostly off-road – we therefore recommend using a gravel bike with 38mm tyres or larger
- Some sections are particularly rough, so depending on your bike and ability you may have to hike-a-bike these parts.
- A good set of lights – you might be finishing in the dark depending on your speed!
- The route does not pass many bike shops so make sure you pack adequate tools and spares to be self sufficient for the whole day
- Most importantly this is a social ride, not a race, which takes place on public roads and trails. Please be aware and respectful of members of the public whilst out on the route
Ticket inclusions:
- Welcome pack including event patch and stickers
- Coffee and pastry on Saturday and Sunday morning included with ticket thanks to Gills Cafe
- Dinner Saturday night – exact meal to be confirmed (meat, vegetarian and vegan options)
- Local brewed beer and ale will be available to buy on-site after the ride – not included in ticket price
- 2 x night’s camping available at Brother HQ on Friday and Saturday for those that want it
- We encourage guests to travel to the event by bike, however there is parking at Brother HQ for those that wish to drive
Please note: refunds are available up to and no later than 30 days before the start of the event. We will accept ticket transfers up to 14 days before the event.