I completed the Ride Across Britain Challenge this past week - lots of fun, and as you mentioned some great scenery and "herd of deer". I particularly liked the Cheddar route although it almost killed me on the climb as I did it after a 30minute workout; my oops!!!
My handle on Rouvy is Dave1920. Given my age (70+yrs) you will not see me anywhere near the top of any listing LOL!