MERCIAN FESTIVAL OF STEEL

LITTLE EATON DE21 5EG

Sunday 16 August 2026. This is an open event, and Free of Charge, to all.

Organized Rides will commence from 08:45 from Mercian HQ, Duffield Road Industrial Estate, Duffield Road, Little Eaton, Derby DE21 5EG.

Please follow the attached link for further details:

www.belperbc.co.uk/event-details/mercian-festival-of-steel

Choosing your Ride - You will be directed to the “Buy Tickets” page, but tickets are Free of Charge.

Both the “Bill Betton Memorial Road Ride” and “Jeff Bowler Road Ride” are already fully booked, so we have added two additional places to each, on a first come first served basis. There are spaces available on both the “Crowbar” Gravel Ride and “Ventura” Gravel Ride.

Small group of riders of similar pace will form up and depart at intervals following the start time for each ride; groups will stay together and no one gets left behind. There may be a difference in pace on inclines or descents, but the group will regroup where safe to do so.

This is a self-supported social ride, so all riders must have the tools and spares to do their own roadside punctures and repairs. There will however be plenty of riders to assist should this be needed.

Riders should bring sufficient water, or preferred hydration drink, and snacks. Please keep an eye on the weather forecast and bring the appropriate layers, gilet or pack a rain jacket.

The “Legends of Mercian” Awards will take place when the majority of riders have returned, estimated time 14:00.

Festival Event – Live Music, Food & Refreshments to commence at 12:00 noon.

All visitors are welcome to ride to the event by bicycle, even if you are not riding any of the Festival routes. Car sharing is encouraged for those arriving in vehicles. There is a good amount of parking around the Industrial Estate, and directions can be provided to alternative parking close by.