Many experts. One Critical Care Team. One patient given the best chance.
July 3, 2026
At 09:30 on Friday 18 September, a team of intrepid cyclists will challenge themselves to cycle from Windsor Castle, London, all the way to Great Western Air Ambulance Charity’s (GWAAC) Almondsbury Airbase whilst raising vital funds for our lifesaving work.
Could you join them?
The Route
Day one – London to Marlborough
The team will set off from Windsor Castle on the edge of West London at 9:30, avoiding the morning rush hour as they start their journey to Marlborough; riders will stay here overnight at a hotel before continuing the journey on day two.
As the team start their challenge, they will pace themselves for what lies ahead. It won’t take too long for them to wind their way out of London and enter the peace and quiet of the Berkshire countryside. The morning ride is demanding, but with regular stops at Winnersh, Mortimer, and Brimpton to recharge. Around midday, riders will then stop near Newbury for a well-earned lunch.
After lunch, they will continue their journey for 25 miles before arriving in the Wiltshire town of Marlborough. This journey will see them head north of Newbury through the village of Ramsey and then over a short, sharp hill, before the final push into Marlborough. 61 miles done, day one complete!
Once the team arrive at their overnight accommodation, they will be able to check in and take a well-earned opportunity to rest and freshen up before the team go out for an evening meal – a chance to reflect on a gruelling first day and bond with their fellow teammates before getting a good night’s sleep ahead of an even tougher day two.
Day two – Marlborough to Bristol
The second day is the most challenging with the team completing 82.1 miles and climbing 1,228m in elevation. They will start earlier than day one with the cycling starting at 8:00. The roads around Marlborough will quickly become country lanes with a limited amount of traffic. The route will include short hill, then a steep descent, and a flat road to Westbury and Frome. After completing the first 40 miles, they will stop for lunch in the village of Witham Friary. They’ll need to maintain their pace throughout the day to complete the 82.1 miles, but our guides will support them.
After lunch, they will face a demanding climb just before Castle Cary. Following this, the remainder of the day cycling (30 miles) is downhill and flat.
Upon arrival in Bath, they’ll pick up the cycle route to Bristol and be on the final stretch.
Waiting for them in Almondsbury will be a welcome party and a reminder of why they have battled through the challenge – at the finish line, they’ll be greeted by family and friends, our crew and our fleet. This will be a poignant moment as they realise that their hard work across two demanding and challenging days, will help the crew save lives.
Day one route
Day two route
Want to take part?
Does the challenge sound like something you’d like to take part in? we’d love to see you on two wheels!
Registration costs just £99, with each participant pledging to raise £1,200 through fundraising, achievable with the support of GWAAC and TFA.
The only limit to fundraising is your imagination!
Jump into our online fundraising resources for loads of ready-to-go ideas, templates, and guidance. We’ll even provide you with bespoke resources for this challenge to help you reach your target.
From the moment you sign up, our Events Manager Charlie, and the rest of the GWAAC team will keep the inspiration coming with a mix of tried-and-tested favourites and some fun, slightly daring ideas. Some are simple, some are silly, some need a bit of planning — but every one is designed to help you hit your target!
What you’ll receive when you sign up
- Welcome pack
- GWAAC Cycling Jersey
- Invitation to a tour of our airbase
- A certificate to commemorate the achievement
