Windsor Chester Windsor is a legendary 600km cycling event (or randonnée). It traces its roots to the birth of British long-distance cycling.

The original event was established in 1976 to help British riders qualify for the gruelling Paris Brest Paris (PBP) 1,200km ride. This initiative directly led to the founding of Audax UK, the long-distance cyclists’ association. The event used the eagle logo used to represent this event from its very first edition. This in turn was the inspiration for “Sheila”, Audax UK’s eagle logo.

The Evolution of the Ride
Windsor Chester Windsor has always been an out-and-back journey starting near Windsor Castle. To do this, it crosses the Chilterns and the Cotswolds to reach Chester, before returning along the same route.

The initial route heavily relied on busy main roads and eventually died out around 1991 as traffic increased.

The 2015 revival
However, in 2015 the London Edinburgh London team revived and updated the event. It now uses quieter country lanes and picturesque villages, creating the classic 600km route that you can enjoy in 2027. Click here for an account of the 2015 edition in Cyclist Magazine, and the 2019 edition by Andy Walsh in his Diagonaliste blog..

One thing that hasn’t changed is the time limit! Accordingly, riders still have a strict time limit of 40 hours to complete the 600km distance, requiring considerable stamina and mental endurance. It remains hugely popular in the Audax UK community for its foundational role in British long-distance riding.

The event last took place in 2019, reviving its primary purpose as a qualifier for Paris Brest Paris. We took a break from organising the event in 2023, returning in 2027 as the original and best 600km qualifier for the legendary Paris Brest Paris. Want to enter the 2027 edition?