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Oxford Special Sunrise May Day ride | 3* |
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Leader:John Tranter |
Start Time:5:30 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:This year May Day falls on a Sunday and it is great that the ancient Oxford tradition of the choir singing at sunrise from the tower of Magdalen College is back. So I am repeating last year's slightly bonkers idea of putting on a May Day sunrise ride to Oxford and back. The bad news is - it starts at 5.30. The good news is this means we can catch the wonderful early morning light on the river and the ancient buildings of Oxford, as well as hopefully getting at least some sense of the occasion. I can't guarantee that we will be able to get anywhere near the Magdalen tower - I suspect the whole city will be going crazy - but it should be an adventure!We head out to Fyfield, under the Tubney tunnel and across to Sunningwell before joining the river by Kennington for a lovely route into town past the College boathouses with views across Christ Church Meadow. Then we will take a look at some of the best buildings Oxford has to offer (including my own St Cross College) before heading out of town again to Wolvercote for a big loop around Port Meadow. Finally we conquer Cumnor Hill and head for home. It is just over 40 miles and my plan is to be back in Grove by just after 9. Costa in Grove will be open for post-ride refreshments and facilities. This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Monday before the ride. |
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Riders:Andrew RimmerChris Bailey Jo Little John Tranter Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce Sally Bensoussis Sharon Bedford Simon Wysocki-Jones Riders = 9 Weather:Report:After a week of varying weather reports, things ended up OK. Overcast, so no perfect sunrise on show, but it was dry and clear and we made good time over to Kennington and the river. Simon's rowing knowledge was helpful as we cycled past the college boathouses, and we heard the bells of Magdalen tower across the meadow. Once we got into town, we hit various crowded hotspots - the pubs were open and all sorts of merriment was underway. We got through to St Giles for a cake stop (thanks again to Simon for the home made cake) and a VIP loo stop at St Cross College. The loop around Port Meadow was as nice as always and everyone conquered Cumnor Hill without too much difficulty. Then we were back on familiar roads heading for home.Thanks to all for great company on a nice ride. | ||
Distance:70.81 km (44.00 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/88734461 | |
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35762947" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 1* Ride | 1* |
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Leader:Diana Whidborne |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:This is a pre-bookable ride. Please book your place by texting the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride (don't forget to include your name).Our leisurely and sociable Tuesday evening 1* rides are designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of 10-15 miles at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph, following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way. |
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Report: | ||
Distance:19.96 km (12.40 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/27459351" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 2* (lower bridging) Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Steve Swanton |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Lower Bridging Ride north to Lyford and Hinton Waldrist returning via Pusey and Charney Bassett. |
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Riders:Barry StantonDes Higgs Gareth Smith Joanna Houlston Karl Blake Steve Swanton Val Smith Riders = 7 Weather:Report:A relatively flat route for our lower bridging ride - a gentle up to Southmoor and a gentle downhill back to Charney Bassett, but at 19 miles this was the longest 2* evening ride of the season so far. All taken at a steady 2* pace. We made a small detour from the advertised route through Longworth to the church, pond and manor. A lovely hidden spot. We stopped to enjoy our surroundings before continuing on the bridleway to Hinton Waldrist. Lights were required from Pusey due to the gloomy overhead conditions and the temperature was definitely dropping during the last few miles. Back in Grove about 8:15. Thanks all for a mellow ride. | ||
Distance:30.58 km (19.00 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39309720 | |
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29754434" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 3* Ride | 3* |
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Leader:Sharon Bedford |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly.Route out west via Uffington and Fernham Let me know if you would like to join please - anytime from the Wednesday before the ride. |
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Riders:Andrew RimmerAndy Pixton Chris Bailey Clare Hazell James Bosley Jerry Bird Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce LeeAnn Norris Roger Postbeschild Sharon Bedford Simon Wysocki-Jones Yvonne Bird Riders = 13 Report:Popular ride tonight so we split into two groups. Many thanks to Katherine for leading the second group.It was a warm humid evening and for the first time this year it felt like summer cycling. Maybe for that reason both groups seemed full of good cheer and there seemed to be smiles all around. | ||
Distance:39.00 km (24.23 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39160443" | ||
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Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Robin Tucker |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:WMP |
Description:Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather. |
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Report:Up Goddards Brook then Moonlit Barn (lots of trees down).Over to the water tower and a sweet loop round to bluebell woods before going down to Lands End, up the other side and down again at Ginge. Brilliant dry trails! | ||
Distance:27.36 km (17.00 mi) | ||
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Daytime Thursday 1* Ride | 1* |
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Leader:Lorna Swanton |
Start Time:10:00 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:To Stanford for coffee, leaving Grove via Kingside to Williams roundabout. Then a short stretch of the main road, over the railway bridge, before cutting down to the track across to Hanney by the grain store. Charney Bassett, Gainfield, Stanford, returning via Park Lane and Denchworth. On the long side at 16 miles, with a stretch of roughish track.Easy sociable rides from 16km-24km (10-15 miles) at a pace of 13-16km (8-10 miles) per hour usually with a cafe stop. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. As a courtesy to the ride leader, please book your place by texting them (incl. your name), no earlier than the Friday before. |
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Report:No bluebells on our ride, but plenty of oil-seed rape gleaming golden in the sunlight as we passed by on the track. A few pauses along the way - including one at the edge of Stanford to direct a lost HGV driver to White Horse Business Park (his instructions said Whitehall) - made for a mellow ride. Stanford Coffee Shop served excellent refreshments as usual; we returned to Grove via Park Lane and Denchworth. Thanks to everyone for your company. | ||
Distance:25.59 km (15.90 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39302236" | ||
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Daytime 2* Thursday Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Roger Postbeschild |
Start Time:10:00 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Sociable rides of 24km - 40km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 18km - 20km (11-13 miles) per hour, usually with a café stop. During school holidays there will be shorter family rides of 16km - 24km (10-15 miles) at a slower pace. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed.We will ride to Appleton Community Shop for coffee and snacks, forecast is good so sitting outside should be fine. Bluebells in Tubney Wood will be an additional attraction! On the longer side for a Thursday ride at 40.8km but pan flat. |
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Riders:Des HiggsDiana Whidborne Ernie Trimble John Groves Karl Blake Paul Bentley Roger Postbeschild Terry Ryland Riders = 8 Weather:Report:Lovely weather, great company and a new picnic bench outside the Appleton Community Shop (courtesy of the Parish Council for services to the community during the Covid pandemic). What's not to like!The promised bluebells duly put up an appearance in Bagley Woods and Ernie and Di were rejoicing in their extended range courtesy of electric conversions by Karl. A diversion via Hanney on the way back rather than Charney to avoid some tar and chipping resurfacing. | ||
Distance:39.00 km (24.23 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39287802" | ||
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3* Saturday Half Day Ride | 3* |
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Leader:Sharon Bedford |
Start Time:9:30 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Half day ride (60-70km / 38-45 miles), with a cafe stop, riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Likely to visit distant destinations. Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing likely.A local(ish) route. Winding our way through the Vale to Ashbury before tackling Ashbury Hill. Bit if a climb I know, but hopefully we will then be rewarded by a wonderful downhill section. We will continue all the way to Great Shefford (via a cafe stop at Priscillas Kitchen in East Garston) before winding our way back. About 60k in all Please let me know if you plan to join |
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Report:Despite the rain overnight the weather was kind to us. Not only was it dry but we saw a fair amount of sun. The wind was behind us for the climb of Ashbury Hill (still tough!) but more crucially it made for the splendid ride down the other side. It felt like we hardly had to pedal from the Ridgeway to Priscilla's Kitchen in East Garston.The coffee and food at the cafe were excellent which was a good job, as we then had to climb back over to Wantage - this time with the wind against us. We all tackled the hill with relish and I think we were all generally pleased with our climbing given that it is still early in the season. The whizz down Chain Hill was marred slightly by a irresponsible driver - but the other drivers were generally very courteous. We all went off in different directions at the outskirts of Wantage, being home in time for lunch. A great group to lead and a splendid way to spend a Saturday Morning. | ||
Distance:59.00 km (36.66 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39159857" | ||
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Blowingstone-White Horse Audax |
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Leader:Nick Dunton |
Start Time:9:30 am |
Start Location:Thomas Hughes Memorial Hall, Uffington |
Description:One of the more challenging local 100km audaxes, back after two year’s absence owing to Covid. Manned control at Marlborough, plus four info controls.Note this is not a led ride: it will be run under Audax UK regulations and each rider is responsible for route-finding and their own safety. You pay a small entry fee and food and drink are provided at the start and finish. Any surplus funds are donated to local charities. Online entry and payment via PayPal at https://audax.uk/event-details?eventId=9694 Any questions, contact Nick. |
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Riders:Andy EllisJackie Jarvis Julian Gough Martin Casey Pauline Casey Robin Tucker Simon Wysocki-Jones Riders = 7 Report:As tradition dictates, a day of perfect cycling conditions. Kudos to the riders who entered, especially those rode to the start. [I'm in awe of the guy who arrived first in 3 hours, 50 minutes, having cycled to the start from Bristol as part of a 300-km day out!] Surplus money from entry fees and food donations will be donated to Thames Valley Air Ambulance and Flexicare. Enormous thanks to the team of support workers who help this to be such a popular local event. | ||
Distance:104.00 km (64.62 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/26655804" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 1* Ride | 1* |
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Leader:Stephanie Haddrell |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:This is a pre-bookable ride. Please book your place by texting the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride (don't forget to include your name).Our leisurely and sociable Tuesday evening 1* rides are designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of 10-15 miles at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph, following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way. |
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Report: | ||
Distance:19.31 km (12.00 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38657827" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 2* Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Roger Postbeschild |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly.A ride out to the west, no climbing of note. I won't need the e-bike! Please text me if you wish to ride. |
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Riders:Barry StantonDavid Jackson Des Higgs Diana Whidborne Joanna Houlston Karl Blake Roger Postbeschild Susie Turnbull Riders = 8 Weather:Report:After a little rain this morning, a pleasant evening with a westerly breeze and great company, including the 'Battery Girls' as they dubbed themselves this evening.The tailwind home was lovely and we did an average 21kph. | ||
Distance:40.00 km (24.85 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39317206" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 3* Ride | 3* |
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Leader:LeeAnn Norris |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Ride South to Sparsholt and then Seven Barrows 43Km. Please note that this route has been amended 18:33 09/05/22 to a shorter route. |
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Riders:Andrew RimmerAndy Pixton Chris Bailey James Bosley Jerry Bird Jo Little John Tranter Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce LeeAnn Norris Nicole Pethybridge Roger Turnbull Sharon Bedford Yvonne Bird Riders = 14 Weather:Report:A lovely ride tonight with some blue skies and fantastic views. Great climbs by all.Special thanks to Sharon for leading the second group. | ||
Distance:38.30 km (23.80 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31836142"" | |
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31836142"" | ||
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Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride | 2* |
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Leader: |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:WMP |
Description:Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather. |
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Report:Great ride, heading south and getting to Fawley (not the one near Southampton!) | ||
Distance:29.93 km (18.60 mi) | ||
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Thursday 1* daytime ride | 1* |
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Leader:Lorna Swanton |
Start Time:10:00 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Easy sociable rides from 16km-24km (10-15 miles) at a pace of 13-16km (8-10 miles) per hour usually with a cafe stop. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed.As a courtesy to the ride leader, please book your place by texting them (incl. your name), no earlier than the Friday before. |
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Report:An impromptu ride arranged at short notice through the Thursday riders WhatsApp group - please contact Carin Tranter (07771 823301) if you're on WhatsApp and would like to be in this group.We decided to go to the Grocer Chef at Ardington for coffee and thought up a pleasant roundabout route to get there. Taking the cycle path from Grove to Wantage, we cut through by the Humber Ditch to Charlton Road, the Nelson and the cycle path to Lockinge, then joined the Icknield Greenway as far as the junction beyond the narrow steep bridge. Up to Ginge, Betterton, then a lovely descent into Ardington, where we had a leisurely coffee before returning to Grove (or climbing some more hills, in David's case). Sunshine brought out the colours in the landscape - fresh greens and yellows, blue sky - and we enjoyed a few pauses to take it all in. Thanks everyone, for your company. | ||
Distance:22.05 km (13.70 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39408994 | |
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Daytime 2* Thursday Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Des Higgs |
Start Time:10:00 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Sociable rides of 24km - 40km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 18km - 20km (11-13 miles) per hour, usually with a café stop. During school holidays there will be shorter family rides of 16km - 24km (10-15 miles) at a slower pace. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed.We will ride to a new cafe at Faringdon. |
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Riders:Barry EggbyDes Higgs Diana Whidborne John Groves Karl Blake Kevin Hazell Martin Hook Paul Bentley Roger Postbeschild Susie Turnbull Riders = 10 Report:A good turnout with good weather. Barry brought two friends with him from Abingdon and they left the ride before coffee. No incidents or mechanicals - the ride went very smoothly. We tried a new cafe in Faringdon, Mai's Cafe, which was a mistake as the coffee was not good - no taste or flavour - and the service was very slow. Food OK but not very well presented. One not to be used again. I apologise to all riders for this. Susy left us early at coffee so just 9 of us on the home run.Thanks you one and all for a lovely ride - except for the coffee! | ||
Distance:40.23 km (25.00 mi) | ||
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New Forest Weekend day 1 | 3* |
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Leader:Jo Little |
Start Time:9:30 am |
Start Location:Lyndhurst |
Description:A repeat of a succesful weekend away in 2019 - lets hope the weather is as warm and sunny as it was then.This is day 1 of a two day visit to the New Forest. We are making it a weekend away and are staying in Lyndhurst from Friday to Sunday. It would be possible, however, to travel down early on Saturday and just treat it as a day ride. The ride starts in Lyndhurst and visits Lepe and Beaulieau then skirts past Brockenhurst and along the ornamental drives then loops back round past Cadnum to Lyndhurst. The ride covers a good variety of the beautiful New Forest countryside. Please note the New Forest is not flat! Although there are no really steep hills, there will be continuous climbing throughout the day. We will have a cafe stop in Beaulieu at The Old Bakehouse Tea Rooms and then a lunch stop at The Royal Oak in Fritham. We can then all meet up for an evening meal in Lyndhurst at La Pergola, an Italian restaurant near the starting place, which we will book beforehand. The starting place for both days is the Bolton's Bench car park on the B3056 Lyndhurst to Beaulieu road. When approaching from Lyndhurst village (on the A35 Southampton Road) the B3056 is on the right hand side, opposite the fire station. The car park is immediately on the left. La Pergola is on the A35 just a bit further on, on the left hand side. It has a large car park. Lyndhurst has several small hotels, including the Ormonde House Hotel and The Penny Farthing. There are also some B&B's. We have booked The Ormonde House Hotel for when we stay in May, but the area is popular so it would be best to book quickly. We are limiting both days to 12 riders, as any more is too much on these roads and will split into 2 groups for ease of riding. Please contact Jo if you would like to put your name down. We will set up a Whatsapp group to help co-ordinate everything nearer the time. Jo has contact details for nearly everyone but please could you ensure you have downloaded Whatsapp onto your phone. |
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Riders:Andy PixtonEddie Little Jo Little John Tranter Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce Nicole Pethybridge Peter Brodie Richard Pethybridge Roger Postbeschild Riders = 10 Weather:Report:We split into two groups but were able to keep close enough together to be able to enjoy all the stops together. We had a lovely, warm sunny day for this ride. We enjoyed the stop at Lepe to look at the sea and then moved onto Beaulieu for our cafe stop. Afterwards we had the two ornamental drives to enjoy - one flat, one a 2 mile steady climb. Onto Fritham for a lovely lunch at a pub with a great view, which left us with just 12 miles back to Lyndhurst. We then had an ice cream before going back to the hotel.We were lucky enough to see ponies, foals, highland cattle and also some pigs that decided to cross the road in front of the second group. Nearly all of us were then able to meet up again in the evening for a meal at La Pergola - delicious food and very big portions. Thank you to Eddie for leading the second group and thank you to everyone for being such great company. | ||
Distance:100.58 km (62.50 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38322517" | ||
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2* Saturday Half Day Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Steve Swanton |
Start Time:1:00 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Half day ride (45-55km / 30-40 miles), with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Might be a struggle for new or irregular riders in winter months.A ride out to the eastern side of vale with refreshment stop at the Style Acre Tearoom, Savages Garden Centre, Blewbury. Please text me if you would like join the ride. |
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Riders:Barry StantonCalum Ferguson Des Higgs Diana Whidborne Gerry Jones Glyn Brooks Karl Blake Lorna Swanton Sally Bensoussis Steve Swanton Riders = 10 Weather:Report:A lovely warm day for a cycle ride. A warm welcome to Glyn on his first ride with the club and a welcome back to Calum. | ||
Distance:52.46 km (32.60 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39433278 | |
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39245272" | ||
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New Forest Weekend day 2 | 3* |
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Leader:Eddie Little |
Start Time:9:00 am |
Start Location:Lyndhurst |
Description:A 33 mile (53km) ride in the rolling New Forest countryside.Day 2 of the New Forest weekend. Once we have breakfasted we will meet up for a half day ride, again starting at Bolton's Bench car park in Lyndhurst. This time we'll approach Beaulieu from a different direction and then go across the Heath to Brockenhurst and towards Burley, where we'll have a cafe stop, before re-visiting Bolderwood Ornamental drive and then returning to Lyndhurst. The ride should finish about 12.30pm, allowing plenty of time to return home before the rush hour (hopefully!). Today's ride is lumpier than yesterdays. There are no big climbs but it is a fairly constant up and down for much of the ride. |
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Riders:Andy PixtonEddie Little Jo Little John Tranter Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce Peter Brodie Riders = 7 Weather:Report:We had been checking a variety of weather reports the previous evening and weren't surprised to end up with a wet day's cycling. Luckily it wasn't cold while we were moving and the scenery was still beautiful. The cafe stop was busy and, as an outside table had been booked, rather cold. Luckily we had the Bolderwood Ornamental drive climb to warm us up afterwards!Lots of wildlife again - ponies, donkeys and highland cattle. Thank you to everyone for being such great company to cycle with. We are looking forward to next year. | ||
Distance:54.72 km (34.00 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28974766" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 1* Ride | 1* |
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Leader:Steve Boreham |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:This is a pre-bookable ride. Please book your place by texting the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride (don't forget to include your name).Our leisurely and sociable Tuesday evening 1* rides are designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of 10-15 miles at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph, following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way. |
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Report:In what was my first ride lead for a while, a select little threesome.Warm welcome to Hilary, who has recently joined us. A nice amble out through Charlton, keeping a beedy eye out for rain showers - some drops but fortunately never really materialised into a full shower. On picking up the Sustrans route, we descended towards Lockinge, lamenting the loss of the wonderful trees that gave a lovely tree-lined avenue. On past "Best Mate" and the Rhino, before enjoying the lovely views before descending in to Ardington. From Ardington, it was decided - due to the mixed weather - rain threatening again and turning cool - to cut back via the "former" tree- lined avenue, for a shorter route home. None of us too sorry we did this as the open road past Lains Barn in the rain had lost its appeal.... Still managed 9.4 miles though.... Thanks both for a lovely ride! | ||
Distance:15.13 km (9.40 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/27580879" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 2* Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Gareth Smith |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not hilly. A Ride out To Goosey, Baulking Fernham and back via Shellingford and stanford. |
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Riders:Barry StantonBrendan St John David Jackson Des Higgs Ernie Trimble Gareth Smith Joanna Houlston Karl Blake Roger Postbeschild Sarah Bowen Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 11 Report:The weather forecast leading up to this ride was good. However, rather late in the day the forecasters changed their minds and predicted rain. Unfortunately these later forecasts were correct. At first the sky showed hope of some reasonable weather but during the mid part of the ride it rained steadily. Our gallant band of riders completed the planned loop despite the rain but we all got very wet. | ||
Distance:32.99 km (20.50 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/59934077 | |
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/59934077" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 3* Ride | 3* |
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Leader:John Tranter |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly.Please let me know beforehand if you are joining this ride. NB: ROUTE CHANGED A west Vale bash, followed by the nice little climb to Knighton and then back along the Spring Line road before dropping down through West Challow and over the lesser ridden 'other Denchworth railway bridge'. 23 miles / 36km. |
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Riders:Andrew RimmerAndy Pixton Chris Bailey James Bosley John Tranter Joy Arthur Sharon Bedford Riders = 7 Weather:Report:One of those days when the weather forecast is all over the place and you hope for the best ... but in the end, we did get rather drenched! However, it was warm rain and everyone was (mostly) smiling. The climb of Knighton Hill was accompanied by a spectacular rainbow and we then took a little short cut in a successful attempt to out-run the second wave of rain clouds looming on the horizon.Thanks to an intrepid group for fun company. | ||
Distance:37.01 km (23.00 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/90416399 | |
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/16109398" | ||
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Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Robin Tucker |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:WMP |
Description:Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather. |
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Thursday 1* daytime ride | 1* |
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Leader:Carin Tranter |
Start Time:10:00 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Easy sociable rides from 16km-24km (10-15 miles) at a pace of 13-16km (8-10 miles) per hour usually with a cafe stop. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed.As a courtesy to the ride leader, please book your place by texting them (incl. your name), no earlier than the Friday before. Ride up to Childrey village stores via Denchworth, Challow Marsh and West Challow. Return along the track to East Challow. |
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Report:This ride changed route as it went along. Firstly we decided not to have coffee in Childrey as planned, but meet up with the 2* riders at Stanford. We did the first part as outlined on the website, by going up to Childrey via Challow Marsh and West Challow, but then we came back down the big hill from Childrey to the A417, turned into Goosey to get off the main road and then round to Stanford via Park Lane. We returned from coffee back along Park Lane again and through to Denchworth and Grove.The weather was beautiful and sunny without being too hot. A lovely ride! | ||
Distance:30.58 km (19.00 mi) | ||
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Daytime 2* Thursday Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Roger Postbeschild |
Start Time:10:00 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Sociable rides of 24km - 40km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 18km - 20km (11-13 miles) per hour, usually with a café stop. During school holidays there will be shorter family rides of 16km - 24km (10-15 miles) at a slower pace. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed.A ride in the Vale with coffee at Stanford Coffee Shop. 38km. |
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Report:Glorious weather (unlike Tuesday evening!) and a great, if select bunch, good to see Richard out on a club ride.A bit of a headwind out but a very nice tailwind back. We met up with the one star group at Stanford (where it was nice to have coffee that actually tasted of coffee) and had the now traditional follow up coffees at Parsons. Possibly a little speedy for a two star at 23kph but there were no complaints! | ||
Distance:39.00 km (24.23 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39448198" | ||
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Monthly Saturday 1* Ride - Awayday from Standlake | 1* |
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Leader:Steve Swanton |
Start Time:2:00 pm |
Start Location:Standlake Village Hall car park, OX29 7SB |
Description:Our regular family and social afternoon rides on the third Saturday of the month covering 16-32km (10-20 miles), usually with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 13-16km/h (8-10mph). Occasional short or gentle climbs. As a courtesy to the ride leader, please book your place by texting them (with name), no earlier than the Sunday before.For a change of scenery, an awayday ride to Witney starting from Standlake (11 miles from Grove), where there is a large car park outside the village hall. We'll ride out on narrow lanes through Northmoor and Bablock Hythe to Stanton Harcourt. We'll then pick up the delightful winding lane through the old gravel pits, passing Rushy Common Nature reserve, to enter Cogges the back way. A series of cycle paths will bring us to Cogges Manor Farm Museum. After a tea stop at the museum cafe, we'll continue through the centre of Witney under the A40 and out to Ducklington to pick up the minor road to Cote. We'll pass the isolated St, Marys chapel at Old Shifford and return to Standlake via an easy track with a beautiful tree arch. A round trip of about 19 miles, this is a relatively flat ride with only a few undulations, one gentle climb and one nice descent. At least 2 of us are thinking of cycling over to the start from Grove to make a longer ride - please let me know if you would like to join us. |
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Riders:Diana WhidborneGerry Jones Lorna Swanton Maeve Moggach Martin Hook Michael Tayler Patrick O'Leary Roger Postbeschild Steve Swanton Tim Waite Riders = 10 Weather:Report:Gerry, Roger and I cycled from Grove to Standlake for the start of the ride. Good to see Martin again with Maeve on the tandem (we missed you Louise and Marielle). 10 riders and 9 bikes headed out along the single-track lane through Northmoor towards Bablock Hythe. After the recent heavy rain the verges were burgeoning with cow parsley but in several places the hedges were being devoured by colonies of tent caterpillars – we stopped by a particularly large patch to investigate more closely. We turned down to the Ferryman Inn at Bablock Hythe to see the Thames. Sadly, there is no longer a ferry across to Eaton; a long-standing campaign for a footbridge has still to bear fruit – one day hopefully. We continued on to Stanton Harcourt, picking up the Oxfordshire Cycleway route along the narrow winding lane through the lakes into Witney. This was surprisingly busy and we gave way numerous times to let traffic pass. From the A40 overbridge there was a lovely view across the trees to the spire of St Mary’s church. Entering the town, we dropped down onto the cycleway through Cogges to Manor Farm for our tea stop. The good news for Roger was that their excellent egg and bacon roll is available all-day.After our refreshments, we weaved our way through the centre of town picking up the cyclepath to take us under the A40 to Ducklington. We stopped to admire Witney lake, while Maeve took the opportunity for some impromptu tree climbing. In a change of planned route, we continued along the lakeside path and then crossed a bridge to pick up the concrete SSE road into Ducklington. Through the village, we crossed the A415 and climbed up onto the Aston ‘roller-coaster’. Despite modest elevation, this road gives marvellous views south across the Thames valley and Vale to the North Wessex Downs. After a lovely descent, we turned off to Cote and continued through the fields to Old Shifford. We split into groups of three bikes for a stretch of the B4449, only to see no traffic at all, before we turned off onto the track past the water-sports centre before Brighthampton. A final mile through pretty Standlake and we were back at the village hall just before 5pm. A thoroughly enjoyable afternoon out. Thanks to all for your company and particularly to Roger and Gerry for sweeping and for accompanying me there and back. | ||
Distance:30.74 km (19.10 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39433530" | ||
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Regular Wantage Ride | 3* |
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Leader:Sharon Bedford |
Start Time:9:30 am |
Start Location:Beacon Car Park |
Description:Monthly 80-100km (50-65 miles) all-day touring ride, lunch and possibly tea stop en route, at a riding pace of 18-22km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable. All-day touring ride (80-100km / 50-65 miles), lunch and possibly tea stop en route, at a riding pace of 18-22km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable.A ride to explore the countryside around Hungerford (without going into the town). As ever when we head south there will be a few hills - but we should be rewarded by some lovely views. Lunch planned at c60k at Wendy's Community Cafe in Great Bedwyn. Let me know if you want to join - on or after 9th May please. |
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Report:Just two of us out today - but what a glorious ride it was. Warm sunshine but not too hot. Big blue skies and green fields.Route worked well - if a little hilly in places. Lovely lunch in the Great Bedwyn Community Cafe - plus a bonus ice cream stop in Lambourn to give us the energy to get up and over the last hill. One of the highlights was seeing a Barn Owl sweep in front of us - although not quite sure what it was doing out in broad daylight. Thanks to Jo for keeping me company. | ||
Distance:97.00 km (60.27 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39160169" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 1* Ride | 1* |
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Leader:Carin Tranter |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:This is a pre-bookable ride. Please book your place by texting the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride (don't forget to include your name). Tonight is Pub Night with an optional stop at the Fox Inn, Denchworth towards the end of the ride.Our leisurely and sociable Tuesday evening 1* rides are designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of 10-15 miles at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph, following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way. |
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Report:A very pleasant ride with the four of us. We rode out to Stanford and back via Park Lane. Steve and myself stopped at the pub in Denchworth to join other riders for a meal and Di and Hilary returned to Grove. | ||
Distance:25.75 km (16.00 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29341988" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 2* Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Stephanie Haddrell |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. A 17m ride south via The Letcombes, Childrey Kingston Lisle and back via Goosey and Denchworth. Pub Night! |
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Riders:Barry StantonDavid Jackson Des Higgs John Tranter Karl Blake Roger Postbeschild Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 7 Report:A slightly delayed start due to a minor technical issue with John s bike, which resulted in him returning home to get an alternative and Karl (who had stayed to help him) meeting us at Goosey.Once all assembled and on our way we enjoyed a steady ride out to Letcombe Regis passing the cress beds and assembling at the top of Holborn Hill. It was the best time of the day for a ride, the rain held off and views around the vale were stunning. It was Bernies's first 2 star, the pace a little challenging and he and Des decided to cut the ride short and return via Circourt road to Denchworth, picking up Karl at Goosey on the way. Thanks Des and Karl for your support and kindness. With long legs prevailing Barry, David, and John picked the pace up and Roger and I were feeling rather disadvantaged! We made good time and having left the biggest hill of the day behind us enjoyed the ride out to Kingstone Lisle, Baulking Goosey and arrived at the Pub shortly after 8 to meet Bernie and the one star riders for a well earned pint! | ||
Distance:28.00 km (17.40 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/61190253" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 3* Ride | 3* |
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Leader:Jo Little |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Ride out West to fernham and back via Kingston Bagpuize.38Km Pub Night. |
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Riders:Chris BaileyClare Hazell Eddie Little James Bosley Jane John Jerry Bird Jo Little Joanna Houlston Joy Arthur LeeAnn Norris Nicole Pethybridge Yvonne Bird Riders = 12 Weather:Report:A strong headwind at times made this a harder ride than expected. We also had a short rain shower but, once that had cleared, there was a rainbow and then warm sunshine for the rest of the ride. The view towards White Horse Hill was great as always. We also had a stoat and a muntjac cross the road in front of us. Most people stayed in Denchworth to go to the Fox afterwards.Thanks to everyone for being great company and to Eddie for being the second ride leader. | ||
Distance:37.01 km (23.00 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31836254" | ||
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Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Robin Tucker |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:WMP |
Description:Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather. |
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Thursday 1* Daytime Ride | 1* |
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Leader:Diana Whidborne |
Start Time:10:00 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:A ride out through the Letcombes coffee at Childrey Stores |
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Report: | ||
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Daytime 2* Thursday Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Stephanie Haddrell |
Start Time:10:00 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:To Childrey for coffee via alternative route to ardington and Lockinge, Wantage and the Letcombes. Home via Goosey and Denchworth.Sociable rides of 24km - 40km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 18km - 20km (11-13 miles) per hour, usually with a café stop. During school holidays there will be shorter family rides of 16km - 24km (10-15 miles) at a slower pace. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. |
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Report:Another lovely day for a bike ride with great company. I was on a time schedule so we made good speed as 2* riders as we headed out with the wind behind us towards Laines Barn. We had a quiet passage across the A417 and a smooth run down into Ardington, a quick tour of the village and round west Lockinge to the cycle path as we headed back to Wantage. We then went along the path to Trinder road and Ormond road and out to the Letcombes. A quick respite at the top of Holborn Hill and then onto coffee at Childrey. We arrived just on 11.15 and met up with the lovely 1* group. Excellent service at the cafe, and an in depth conversation on the Monarchy and Politics caused much amusement, as I believe did Terry's entrance to the table!From here the 2* group took the quickest route back via Goosey and Denchworth leaving the 1* group to enjoy the longer route home. A lovely morning thanks to all. | ||
Distance:32.19 km (20.00 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39543569" | ||
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2* Saturday Half Day Ride - OXFORD SPECIAL | 2* |
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Leader:John Tranter |
Start Time:9:00 am |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:NB: 9.00 start for this one.Half day ride (45-55km / 30-40 miles), with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Might be a struggle for new or irregular riders in winter months. This is a 2* ride that has pretty much everything! We head out via Charney Bassett and discover the nifty Southmoor footbridge - the safest way to cross the A420. Then we follow the quiet road parallel to the A420 all the way to Cumnor and swoop down Cumnor Hill to the edge of Oxford. From there we utilise a super cunning bike-safe transit of the A420/A34 Botley junction to head north for a lovely circuit around Port Meadow before heading back into town via Wolvercote to my very own St Cross College for a VIP coffee stop. You can only get in if you are a friend of the Bursar, with catering from the fine cafes of St Giles. Then there is more fun with my most cunning bike track and riverside route out of town to the west, before the climb back up Cumnor Hill. We head for home via Fyfield. At just over 40 miles, it is a long ride for a morning, but we have a few short cut options in the final section which we can use if necessary. I expect to be back at around 1-1.30pm. Having said that, there are very few hills and we will stick to a steady 2* pace. |
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Report:Reduced numbers due to half term, Jubilee week, etc but in the end a delightful group to ride with. All went according to plan and it was great showing off the twists and turns of the old roads alongside the A420 and the A34. We picked up coffee and cakes from Gails and were welcomed into St Cross College by the porter for a leisurely break. Setting off again, the riverside paths were as fun as always and we climbed Cumnor Hill the back way via the A34 underpass.Then as a final bonus, we had an unusual tailwind all the way home!Thanks to all for great company. | ||
Distance:65.98 km (41.00 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/91473928 | |
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/27548344" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 1* Ride | 1* |
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Leader:Lorna Swanton |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Some easy off-road riding this evening. We head out along Cow Lane over the railway line and take the track past the grain store up to West Hanney. We then make a tour of East Hanney making a loop using a rougher bridleway and easy track around the playing fields. Back to Grove on-road via Lyford and Denchworth - about 11 miles.This is a pre-bookable ride. Please book your place by texting the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride (don't forget to include your name). Our leisurely and sociable Tuesday evening 1* rides are designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of 10-15 miles at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph, following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way. |
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Report:Three intrepid riders set off after an afternoon of heavy showers, and managed to dodge any further rain, finishing the ride in lovely sunshine. We decided to skip the off-road sections this time and go round on the road, doubling back through picturesque East Hanney after inspecting the fine new bridge over Letcombe Brook at the end of Halls Lane. Around the Hanneys, and along the road to Charney Bassett, we encountered a number of riders whizzing round on a time-trial event. It made me appreciate our leisurely ride, amid beautiful countryside and views, all the more! Thanks to Carin and Steve for your company. | ||
Distance:23.17 km (14.40 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38713161" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 2* Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Roger Postbeschild |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. A 21 m Ride North to Hanney and Hinton Waldrist and retrning via Stanford and Goosey.Please text me if you are riding. |
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Report:The forecast had been iffy all day and at 6PM there were black clouds, thunder rumbles and copious wet stuff. Fortunately, I had a word and by 6.10 the rain had stopped and cleared off South whilst we headed off North at 6.30 into sunshine!The route refused to download for me but was familiar enough. I did try to catch out the group when a left turn crept up on me but all were not fooled by these tactics. Brisk progress for a 2 star ride at 22kph but a small and very able group. Thanks all! | ||
Distance:35.00 km (21.75 mi) | ||
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/41474428" | ||
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Tuesday Evening 3* Ride | 3* |
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Leader:Jane John |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Ride out West up Ashdown Hill, back via Ashbury Lambourn and the Letcombes. 49Km |
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Riders:Andrew RimmerAndy Pixton Chris Bailey James Bosley Jane John Jerry Bird Joanna Houlston Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce LeeAnn Norris Roger Turnbull Sharon Bedford Yvonne Bird Riders = 13 Weather:Report:After an afternoon of heavy showers and being concerned about the amount of standing water I changed the route to a rather less challenging one. Instead we had a fast paced cycle around the vale and once again were amazed to see how localised the showers had been. It turned out to be a beautiful evening and we were treated to spectacular cloud displays as the sun was setting.Thank you to Kath for stepping up to lead the second group and being completely unfazed by a last minute route change. | ||
Distance:41.36 km (25.70 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/91824017?privacy_code=kQAn2kQB3Z3rpAqV | |
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31860749" | ||
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Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Robin Tucker |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:WMP |
Description:Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather. |
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Report:We headed East on the Ridgeway, almost to the A34, then South sweeping an arc round the fields and woods to return to bluebell woods for the descent (a bit slippy after rain) and a climb up and down to Betterton.The pint of beer afterwards went down nicely! | ||
Distance:32.19 km (20.00 mi) | ||
Comment on this ride |
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