MONSAL HEAD

ASHFORD IN THE WATER, BAKEWELL

This perfect arc of smooth tarmac takes you from the bank of the River Wye to an amphitheatre-like finish in front of the inn at the top. It’s not the steepest climb, having a maximum gradient of just 1-in-6, and far from the longest, so Monsal Head is an unremarkable ascent compared to some. But nonetheless it’s a favourite hill climb course, for which the record holder is still the great Malcolm Elliott. Set in 1981, his 1 minute 14.2 seconds has withstood all challenges, so keep this in mind when you set your computer at the bottom. As you start, look carefully and you will see 6 inches of repaired road in the left gutter. This super-smooth surface will aid your search for speed over the opening section. Since the gradient is steady the whole way, with no twists and turns, you have nothing to distract you from your task – force the pedals, round the corner, and check your time: have you beaten the record?