There is something special about turning up somewhere together.

This year, twenty of us from Girls That Ride Bikes are heading to Stone Circle, not just to ride, but to be part of something bigger. What started as a few group rides has grown into a community that shows up for each other, and Stone Circle feels like the perfect place to bring that energy. For some of us, this will be our first time riding an event like this. For others, it is another chapter in a long love of bikes, big days out, and shared miles. But what connects us is the same. We ride because it makes us feel strong, free, and part of something.

At this year’s Stone Circle Gravel festival, the Girls that Ride Bikes are creating a hangout space in the form of our first expo tent at a festival, leading a women’s shakedown ride on Friday, and dedicated women’s waves for each route. A place where people can come and sit down, take a breath, and feel like they belong. Our stand at the Festival Fort will be filled with deck chairs, friendly faces, and the kind of atmosphere that says you do not have to rush off or prove anything. Come and chat. Come and meet people. Come on your own and leave with new ride plans. That is what we are about. We will also have our merch with us, which always feels like more than just something to buy. It is a way of recognising each other out on the road, a small signal that says you are part of this too.

Being invited into the Stone Circle this year means a lot. Creating a dedicated space for women and FLINTA riders, and offering supported ways to take on the routes, makes a real difference. It changes who feels welcome at the start line. For those riding with us in the Girls start wave, or joining the shakedown ride, you will not be doing it alone. You will be surrounded by people who understand the nerves, the excitement, and the joy of just getting out there, and for anyone who is not sure yet, who is hovering on the edge and wondering if this is for them, it is. Truly. Whether you come to ride, to watch, or just to sit in a deck chair and take it all in, there is a place for you with us.

Stone Circle is going to be a big weekend. But the best part will be the simple moments. Sitting together before a ride. Spotting a familiar jersey out on the route. Hearing stories at the end of the day.

We cannot wait to be there.