Essential information
We'll stop at a pub (or occasionally a cafe) for lunch unless otherwise stated. There are often morning coffee and/or afternoon tea stops as well but carry some energy food just in case.
Return time into central London is about 18.00, perhaps a bit later in summer. Sometimes rail lines close at short notice and we have to change the route. If you are joining us after the first meeting point it's best to phone the leader and check.
Ensure your bike is roadworthy. Bring spare inner tube, pump, tyre levers, waterproof and some energy food. Lights are essential from October through to March when we are likely to return after dark.
We ask for a small donation of 50p per ride (except on Newcomers' Rides) towards the costs of administering the programme, running the website, printing, postage, promotion, etc.
The CTC has produced a guide to cycling with groups like ours – read it here.
Ride guide
There are rides to suit different styles, experience and fitness levels – choose a ride you'll enjoy. Feel free to phone or email the ride leader about the distance and terrain to expect. And we do wait for the person at the back...
| Special newcomers ride to welcome you to our cycle club ... we'll look after you! if you've mainly used your bike to get to work these rides will nicely introduce you to riding your bike for days out in the country and the fun of riding in a group ... familiar faces are very welcome too. | |
| * | Easier and shorter 30-50 km (20-30 miles)—these are ideal for beginners with emphasis on the social aspect and sightseeing, for families, children, parents, grandparents ... |
| ** | Medium distance 55-85 km (35-55m)—steady pace yet time to enjoy lunch, etc. |
| *** | Faster and longer 90-150km (55-95m) and often hilly—you'll need to be fit ... normally with a light touring or road bike. |
| **** | We are now offering a few specially hard rides for people training for cyclosportives such as l'Etape du Tour—on the basis you could be dropped if unable to keep up with the group! |
| Official Audax event – more from www.audax.uk.net – very popular with the more serious riders ... however most of those included in our list are the shorter (100-200km) ones enjoyable for medium paced riders. | |
| Rides organised by other groups (such as LCC) —not covered by CTC leader public liability insurance. | |
| Mainly on rough tracks perhaps muddy—mountain bikes normally used. | |
| Start & finish in travelcard/freedom pass area or not using trains at all—low or no travel cost. | |
| Walk 12-20 km (8-12m) often with picnic lunch bring food & drink (no bikes!). |