Eroica Britannia: a weekend of retro bike fun in photos

Thousands of cyclists celebrate cycling heritage at the second running of the Eroica Britannia in Bakewell over June 19-21. Photos by Andy Jones

Eroica Britannia 2015

(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Classic bikes of all ages descended upon Bakewell in Derbyshire for a weekend of retro cycling, food and music as part of the second Eroica Britannia festival.

The three-day event attracted riders from all over Britain and beyond to take part in the UK version of the Italian Eroica event. Everyone taking part - and they were there in their thousands - was encouraged to ride a retro bike and be suitably attired.

Many take retro-themed riding very seriously, with several clubs springing up to celebrate cycling heritage. Even though it is only in its second year, L'Eroica Britannia has become something of a pilgrimage for those with an appreciation of cycling from a bygone era.

>>> Eroica Britannia announces extra ride places for sold-out event

On Sunday, L'Eroica Britannia ride took the 3,000 participants out onto the roads and gravel tracks of the Peak District. Some were dressed as racers from the past decade, others as servicemen complete with full uniforms and regulation army-issue bikes. Others were just there to soak up the atmosphere and have some fun.

Among them were former professionals Malcolm Elliott and British Tour de France legend Brian Robinson, both of whom looked as though they'd carefully kept their bikes and clothing from their racing heydays.

Eroica Britannia 2015

The 'white roads' of Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Brian Robinson, Eroica Britannia 2015

Brian Robinson (right), Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Classic bikes, Eroica Britannia 2015

Classic bikes, Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Army attire, Eroica Britannia 2015

Army attire, Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Malcolm Elliott, Eroica Britannia 2015

Malcolm Elliott got into the spirit of the event, Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Eroica Britannia 2015

Sunday's ride into the Peak District, Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Eroica Britannia 2015

Classic bikes don't always have the best gearing for hills, Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Guvnors Assembly, Eroica Britannia 2015

Guvnors' Assembly, Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Eroica Britannia 2015

Enjoying Bakewell, Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Eroica Britannia 2015

Starting off, Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Eroica Britannia 2015

Even the streets were dressed for the part, Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

Eroica Britannia 2015

Resting is as important as riding, Eroica Britannia 2015
(Image credit: Andy Jones)

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