Bike Bath back this weekend for 5th year

That's right, the South West's most beautiful cycling event is back this weekend for its fifth straight year.

Bike Bath sees cyclists take to the ancient Roman city's streets on rides that cover 25, 50, and 80 miles of stunning South West countryside.

You can register online, and there are still places available from the very reasonable price of £20 for the 25 mile route, up to £33 for the 80 miler.

The rides themselves cover some of the area's most beautiful towns, including Frome and Lacock on the 80 mile ride, Bradford-on-Avon - named the Times' best place to live - on the 50 mile ride, and Timsbury on the shorter 25 mile ride.

Each route will be fully sign posted, and you'll be provided with a back-up map, a timing chip to keep track of your progress, and a GPS file should you need it.

Feed stations can be found on each route, and they'll be stocked with food and drink from local suppliers.

Upon completion you'll have access to a post-ride meal, a bar in the event village at Bath Rugby's Recreation Ground stadium, and a high-quality finisher's medal.

If it interests you, the routes for all three rides can be found with all the glorious gradient and elevation information included, here. 

Run by events company Iconic Cycling Events (ICE), Bike Bath is one of a series of sportives and cycling festivals that the company run in some of the most beautiful parts of the country.

Bike Bath's sister event Bike Oxford takes place on September 11, and ICE's other events which include bike rides in exotic places like Harrogate and Cape Town, take place from May to November.

If you want a little taste of the action, here's what you can expect via Bike Bath's 2013 preview: