Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Rides

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Sat Apr 1st 2023

3* Saturday Half Day Ride CANCELLED DUE TO HEAVY RAIN & STANDING WATER!!!! 🌧️💧💦💧	3*

Leader: Eddie Little	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: RIDE CANCELLED 💦💦💦
Description: As a courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. Half day ride (60-70km / 38-45 miles). with a tea stop, riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Likely to visit distant destinations. Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing likely. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text 07512645320 or email edlittle157@gmail.com to Eddie no earlier than 09:00am on the Sunday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. As the weather is very changeable this week I thought it would be a good idea to keep this ride within the Vale & at the shorter distance. A relatively flat ride, so from Grove we’ll head out towards Denchworth & pass on through W/ Hanney Southmoor, Northmoor, Yelford, Cote, Aston, Bampton, Hatford & Stanford in the Vale then returning to Grove via Park Lane. Ride distance 37.05 miles/59km. Stopping for morning coffee either at Aston Pottery or Bampton Garden Centre. Expect to be back in Grove for 01:00pm.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42362165"
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Tue Apr 4th 2023

Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres required and good lights when it gets dark (‘get you home’ lights in Spring/Autumn). We are keen to welcome new riders and can make recommendations or have spare lights to borrow if you let us know. Dark, cold and wet - we’ll ride in any two. But please let us know if you are coming so we can tell you if we decide to cancel due to bad weather or other reasons.
Riders: David Yearley Philip (Pip) Jackson Robin Tucker Roger Postbeschild Riders = 4 Report: Dry, but with puddles and 2 new riders - with one electrically assisted! It was a good chance to try out a classic route and have some fun. So we left Wantage to the East and climbed up to the Ridgeway gently via Goddards Brook and Bitham Woods. Then, as we felt the energy (carbohydrates or lithium cells), we nipped down the back to Lands End and back up to the top near Betterton. On to Harwell and down the grassy hill - there is a rather ugly burned out land rover at the bottom at the moment - hope that gets cleared up soon. Around the woods, which is always good fun, even if some of the water still sat in muddy puddles, then on to Rowstock and back towards Icknield Greenway to and Wantage. Not completely without incident though, as on the last stretch of cycle track, a dog jumped across the path to be with its owner and Robin's braking and a gentle impact saw him on the ground. Fortunately neither man nor beast seemed to be harmed, and we were all soon on our way.
Distance: 28.97 km (18.00 mi)
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Tue Apr 4th 2023

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 1.5-2 hour ride at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph) Hanney and Southmoor
Riders: Barry Stanton Des Higgs Gareth Smith John Tranter Julie Haynes Lisa Footner Steve Swanton Val Smith Riders = 8 Weather: Report: After what seemed like endless weeks of miserable weather, finally it all came together for our first Tuesday night of the new season - cloudless blue skies, no wind and lots of riders keen to get out into the Vale. It was a bit chilly, but we can't complain about that! All went well, a few puddles on the road to Denchworth but otherwise the floods of last weekend had drained away nicely. Lots of chat, a relaxed pace and back before it got properly dark. Perfect! Thanks to all for being such a great group.
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29569339"
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Tue Apr 4th 2023

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Gainfield and Fernham
Riders: Andrew Rimmer Andy Pixton Glyn Brooks Jane John Jo Little Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce LeeAnn Norris Mark Shepley Sharon Bedford Yvonne Bird Riders = 11 Weather: Report: Perfect weather for a start of the season, 2 groups, no issues and a barn owl accompanied the second group for a while after Baulking. What more could you ask for a start to the season
Distance: 37.75 km (23.46 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/8833265280
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31836121"
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Thu Apr 6th 2023

Daytime 1* Thursday Ride	1*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Easy sociable ride of 24-32 km (15-20 miles) at a pace of 14-17km/h (9-11 mph). A leisurely ride around the Vale, with a cafe stop at Stanford or Southmoor, depending on how we feel at the time! Approx 16 miles / 25km.
Riders: Carin Tranter John Stamp John Tranter Katherine Boyce Patrick O'Leary Sarah Macaulay Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Glorious weather finally for the Thursday rides. Perfect blue skies and hardly any wind made for lovely riding conditions. A great group rode well together and we decided to have our cafe stop at Munch in Southmoor, where we were very well looked after. We then cruised him via Charney Bassett and Denchworth. Thanks to all for your company.
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/117157362
1* Thursday group in West Hanney
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Thu Apr 6th 2023

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Roger Postbeschild	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Sociable ride of 24-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 18-20km/h (11-13 mph). Faringdon Coffee House, usual route via Fernham and Hatford.
Riders: David Bridge Des Higgs Roger Postbeschild Terry Ryland Riders = 4 Weather: Report: A familiar route to Faringdon with familiar faces. Faringdon Coffee House remains an excellent venue and samosas were duly enjoyed. An unexpectedly stiff headwind out to Fernham - thanks to Des for taking the wind. we did however get our reward on the homeward leg!
Distance: 37.50 km (23.30 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42429199"
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Sat Apr 8th 2023

2* Saturday Half Day Ride	2*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Half day ride (45-55km / 30-40 miles), with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). A classic route to the west of the Vale, through Charney, Hatford and Fernham to Shrivenham. We then take in the sights of lovely Bourton before heading for Ashbury and the descent back down to Uffington. Not sure on cafe opening times, but we have options in Shrivenham and Ashbury, with a back-up of Costa back in Grove! 34 miles / 54km
Riders: Barry Stanton David Jackson Des Higgs John Tranter Roger Postbeschild Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Another lovely day for a ride around the Vale. We decided to go clockwise on the loop to take advantage of Ashbury shop as a cafe stop - a good move and they looked after us well. Steph had to head back, and the rest of us carried on with a good pace through Shrivenham, Hatford and Charney Bassett back to base. Thanks to all for a very enjoyable ride.
Distance: 54.72 km (34.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/117337663
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41716389"
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Mon Apr 10th 2023

Thames Bridges Ride Easter Special CANCELLED DUE TO POOR WEATHER CONDITIONS.	3*

Leader: Eddie Little	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: RIDE CANCELLED.
Description: As courtesy to the ride leader, we ask that you pre-book for this ride. All day touring ride (80-100km/ 50-65 miles), lunch and possibly tea stop en route, at a riding pace of 18-22 km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable. This is pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text or email your name to Eddie. Text 07512645320. Email edlittle157@gmail.com no earlier than 09:00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. This is a repeat of the ride I ran for the first time Easter 2022. The ride proved to be popular, so here we go for 2023 with a few alterations. The main aim of the ride is to cross the River Thames multiple times. This will happen mostly in the morning. On leaving Grove we’ll head for Abingdon - on Thames, this being the first crossing. We’ll then take in some stunning views of the River Thames as we pass over a further eight bridges, Culham Lock, Appleford, Clifton Hampden & Dorchester - on - Thames. We’ll stop for brunch at Shillingford Bridge Hotel for around 12:00pm. I have provisionally booked a table for up to 12 riders, though the hotel is flexible! The hotel offers fantastic views over the Thames along with an excellent brunch menu serving from 12:00pm onwards at a very reasonable price, along with Coffees/Teas & a nice selection of tray bakes. I will need to know final numbers for the hotel by Sunday 9th April. So please let me know if you would like to be added to this ride. Once refreshed we’ll make our way passing over the Thames at Wallingford, Crowmarsh & finally Goring - on - Thames. We’ll then leave the Thames behind us & start our journey through the stunning Berkshire countryside of Ashampstead Common & Yattendon, stopping at Hampstead Norrey’s Community Shop & Cafe for afternoon Tea/ Coffee. Once we are all refuelled we’ll carry on with our final part of the ride passing through Beedon Common, Peasmore & Brightwalton. We’ll finish the ride with the wonderful descent of Chain Hill. Ride Distance 61.05 miles/98km.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38766838"
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Tue Apr 11th 2023

RIDE CANCELLED - Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: RIDE CANCELLED - Cancelled due to an incoming wall of water and wind. - Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres required and good lights when it gets dark (‘get you home’ lights in Spring/Autumn). We are keen to welcome new riders and can make recommendations or have spare lights to borrow if you let us know. Dark, cold and wet - we’ll ride in any two. But please let us know if you are coming so we can tell you if we decide to cancel due to bad weather or other reasons.
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Tue Apr 11th 2023

RIDE CANCELLED - Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: RIDE CANCELLED - Due to extreme weather forecast for this evening tonight's 2* ride has been cancelled. - Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 1.5-2 hour ride at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph) Letcombes and Childrey
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29627938"
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Tue Apr 11th 2023

RIDE CANCELLED - Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Jo Little	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: RIDE CANCELLED - Ride cancelled due to strong winds and heavy rain forecast - Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Fyfield and Longworth, then back through Stanford.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42447998"
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Thu Apr 13th 2023

Easter Family Ride	1*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: A flat circular Family ride around quiet local roads designed for young riders accompanied by a parent or guardian. We will ride at a pace to cater for all, taking stops as required for refreshments. We will head out to Denchworth and on to Lyford and Charney Basset, returning via Denchworth. There will be club members on hand to support and our trusty local mechanic Karl, aka The Modern Cyclist, to deal with any problems en route. Please bring a drink and ensure that your bike is roadworthy, tyres pumped and brakes working! Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader.
Riders: Carin Tranter David Bridge Diana Whidborne John Stamp John Tranter Patrick O'Leary Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 7 Report: A fine morning for a ride although sadly no families signed up! Having a group of experienced rider we decided to ride a little further than planned, out to Southmoor for coffee via Lyford and back through Charney Bassett. A very pleasant 1* ride with good company.
Distance: 23.50 km (14.60 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42282337"
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Thu Apr 13th 2023

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Sociable ride of 24-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 18-20km/h (11-13 mph). Depending on the weather we will head either to Appleton or Southmoor.
Riders: David Jackson Des Higgs Paul Bentley Roger Postbeschild Terry Ryland Riders = 5 Weather: Report: A very enjoyable ride with no problems other than the wind on the return journey. The weather was kind to us so we could sit outside at Appleton Shop and not freeze to death! Out via Hanney and Fyfield Wick before a nice coffee and snack. Homeward through Hinton Waldrist, Gainfield and Charney to Grove. Thank you all for a very enjoyable ride (and grateful for my e-bike)
Distance: 41.00 km (25.48 mi)
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Sat Apr 15th 2023

Back-on-your-Bike Ride 2023	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Our Annual Spring Ride aimed at those who haven't been cycling much over the winter and want to dust off their bike and get the pedals turning again. Newcomers will be very welcome and it's an opportunity for club members to bring family and friends. Please note that children are very welcome but need to be accompanied by a responsible adult. This will be a gentle ride around the quiet lanes of the Vale of White Horse visiting the villages of Denchworth, Lyford, Southmoor and Charney Bassett. We'll stop regularly to catch our breath and take in the views and we'll a stop by the shop in Southmoor for refreshments (or ice creams or Easter eggs) about half- way round. The full route will be about 16 miles but there are several short-cut options for those who would prefer a shorter ride. To help gauge number, please let Steve know if you are planning to come.
Riders: Brian Hipwell Carin Tranter John Tranter Kevin Hazell Lorna Swanton Martyn Wigmore Michael Tayler Nick Portsmouth Sarah Bowen Steve Swanton Riders = 10 Weather: Report: Great to see some familiar faces using today's ride to get back out on their bikes. Initially, conditions were cool and overcast, but as we reached Lyford the sun came out and by the end it had turned into a lovely bright afternoon. The blackthorn blossom was at its best and there were green shoots in the hedgerows. Being a 1* ride we took it gently and stopped in each of the villages en route to enjoy our surroundings and a natter. We had a longer stop outside the 24/7 in Southmoor. It wasn't quite warm enough for ice creams, but the mini-eggs went down nicely. On the way back we enjoyed the gentle descent to Charney Bassett and the lovely view south towards the Downs. As no one was in a hurry to get home, we added an extra mile to the green at Goosey to enjoy the Spring sunshine. Thanks everyone for your good company on an enjoyably mellow ride. Looking forward to the restart of our evening 1* rides on Tuesday .
Distance: 27.52 km (17.10 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/118050763
Back-on-your-bike riders at Lyford April 2023 Back on your Bike 2023 Back on your Bike 2023 Back on your Bike 2023
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29715171"
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Sun Apr 16th 2023

Regular Wantage Ride	3*

Leader: Jo Little	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
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. Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 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. Starting at Grove we'll head out towards to Littleworth and then zigzag our way to the first cafe stop at Coln St Aldwyns (26 miles). We'll then head to Bibury before turning back down through Castle Eaton and Highworth before stopping at the Hinton Marsh Farm shop in Shrivenham (46 miles) and then back through Uffington to Grove. 60 miles in total.
Riders: Andy Pixton Barry Stanton Eddie Little Jane John Jo Little John Tranter Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce LeeAnn Norris Lisa Footner Roger Postbeschild Sharon Bedford Yvonne Bird Riders = 13 Weather: Report: We were lucky to finally get a (mostly) dry day for cycling and, although the sun didn't shine, it was pleasant weather for cycling. We were joined on the first part of the ride by Kath and Lisa, who are continuing with their injury rehab. The route took us on some unfamiliar roads, with some beautiful views of the Cotswolds and villages. We stopped in Coln St. Aldwyn for our first cafe stop, at the local community shop/cafe. We were really pleased with the stop and highly recommend it - a large outdoor seating space, good service and great cakes. They shut at 12 on sundays though, so you need to get there early enough. We then stopped in Bibury for the obligatory photos before carrying on over the hills to Shrivenham. Unfortunately the cafe there was shutting soon, but they did takeaways for us so we were able to carry on back to Grove suitably refreshed. This was a really enjoyable ride and it was amazing to get into the Cotswolds with relatively little climbing. Definitely a ride I would like to repeat. Thank you to Ed for leading a second group and to everyone for being such a great group to cycle with.
Distance: 96.56 km (60.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42341739"
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Tue Apr 18th 2023

Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres required and good lights when it gets dark (‘get you home’ lights in Spring/Autumn). We are keen to welcome new riders and can make recommendations or have spare lights to borrow if you let us know. Dark, cold and wet - we’ll ride in any two. But please let us know if you are coming so we can tell you if we decide to cancel due to bad weather or other reasons.
Riders: David Brown Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Steve Legate Riders = 4 Report: Wind from the East, so we went east first keeping to floor of the Vale, and worked our way out to the Harwell woods and climbed the steep but shorted climb at the corner of the campus. Then we had the benefit of a wind-assisted run on the Ridgeway back to the monument to Baron Wantage, and a fun descent of Jolly Green and Goddards Brook. I forgot to switch off my Garmin, so the distance includes a rough subtraction of my car journey home!
Distance: 27.36 km (17.00 mi)
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Tue Apr 18th 2023

Tuesday Evening 1* Rides Restart	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: For our first Evening 1* ride of the season an out-and back ride to Goosey (8.5 miles) with the option of an extra 2-mile loop via North Denchworth. Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 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 (16-24km) at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph (13-16kph), 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.
Riders: Anke Otto Carin Tranter Diana Whidborne Martyn Wigmore Michael Tayler Steve Swanton Tim Waite Victoria Cartmel Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Despite a chilly overcast evening a good turnout for our first 1* evening ride of the season. A warm welcome to Anke and Vicky on their first rides with us. We made good time to Goosey with the wind behind us. Finding the small church open we went in to have a look around. We also had a nice chat with a local who was wondering what was going on with all the bikes parked up outside. As it had now become quite gloomy, we decided against the optional loop retracing our tracks back to Grove. It was harder work this way into a cool headwind. Back at Old Mill hall everyone said how much they had enjoyed it. See you all next week.
Distance: 13.84 km (8.60 mi)
First 1* Tuesday of the season - at Goosey church 18Apr23
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13302456"
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Tue Apr 18th 2023

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Gareth Smith	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 1.5-2 hour ride at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph) Hanney, Lyford, Stanford
Riders: Barry Stanton David Jackson Des Higgs Gareth Smith John Stamp Julie Haynes Stephanie Haddrell Val Smith Riders = 8 Report: Eight riders participated in this Tuesday evening ride on a rather cold evening due to a chilly easterly wind. The upshot wasa headwind from Denchworth to Hanney and then again when returning bac to Grove from Stanford-in-the-Vale via Park Lane. However, apart from that it was a good evening for a ride with a curious feeling of it being brighter at one point later on. Presumably the cloud thinning more than compensated for the descending sun at some point.
Distance: 27.36 km (17.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/7457756
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/7457756"
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Tue Apr 18th 2023

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Nicole Pethybridge	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Hackpen, Sparsholt, Fawler, Goosey, Denchworth
Riders: Andy Pixton Chris Bailey Jane John Jo Little Joy Arthur LeeAnn Norris Lisa Footner Nicole Pethybridge Yvonne Bird Riders = 9 Weather: Report: A slightly challenging ride so early in the summer calendar, or at least that is how I felt but we gamely set off on a cloudy and windy evening. A slight hiccup as the leader (me) promptly dropped my front light before we had left Wantage but thankfully that was the only mishap of the evening. It was great to be back out in the evenings and also to see Lisa back on her bike joining us for the roads that didn't trouble her knee too much. The wind did at least give us a bit of a boost up to the ridgeway but we had to make the effort heading home. An enjoyable evening with a steady climb under our belts
Distance: 31.50 km (19.57 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31945783"
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Thu Apr 20th 2023

Daytime 1* Thursday Ride	1*

Leader: Lorna Swanton	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Please book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Easy sociable ride of 24-32 km (15-20 miles) at a pace of 14-17km/h (9-11 mph). To Ardington via Icknield Greenway and Ginge.
Riders: John Stamp Kevin Hazell Lorna Swanton Sarah Macaulay Steve Swanton Riders = 5 Weather: Report: In a slight deviation from the planned route, Steve led us on an exploration of cycle paths through Kingsgrove on the way to Lockinge, where we picked up the Icknield Greenway to Ardington, through the village and over the 'bridge of lesser doom' before leaving it to rejoin the road. Sarah had to get back early and doubled back before the bridge, leaving four of us to continue on the road up to Ginge and along to Betterton, enjoying the wide-open views in the spring sunshine before descending to Ardington again, this time stopping at the ever-welcoming Grocer Chef. Return to Grove via Lains Barn, with the stiff breeze behind us - the right way round to do a ride. Thanks, everyone, for your company.
Distance: 23.82 km (14.80 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/118484082
Thursday 1* riders on Icknield Greenway 20Apr23
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39408994"
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Thu Apr 20th 2023

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Sociable ride of 24-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 18-20km/h (11-13 mph). A classic loop to the east - out through Denchworth and Hanney to Steventon, up the hill and along Featherbed Lane to East Hendred. Then we use parts of the new Icknield Way to get us back to Ardington for coffee at the Grocers Chef. Then back via Wantage. 18 miles / 28km
Riders: Barry Stanton Des Higgs John Salmon John Tranter Malcolm Heavens Patrick O'Leary Pauline Clark Terry Ryland Riders = 8 Weather: Report: It was great to welcome John to the club, and also to welcome back Malcolm after a few years gap. Perfect weather, apart from perhaps a slightly niggling breeze on the way out (but we enjoyed it heading back). Very good service and excellent coffee and cakes at the Grocers Chef in Ardington. Thanks to all for fun company.
Distance: 30.58 km (19.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/118483212
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42554608"
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Sat Apr 22nd 2023

2* Saturday Half Day Ride	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: A ride out to Coleshill for coffee .Route TBC Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Half day ride (45-55km / 30-40 miles), with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph).
Riders: Barry Stanton David Jackson Des Higgs Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 4 Weather: Report: A chilly morning requiring layers and gloves, so we set off at a fair pace to keep warm, riding through Denchworth, Goosey, Baulking and Fernham before stopping at Little Coxwell for a drink and regroup. Thankfully the sun had started to break through. We then headed onto Great Coxwell past the Tithe barn and onto Badbury Clumps where we were greeted by a spectacular display of bluebells and very friendly national trust staff. Time to derobe before enjoying the descent into Coleshill where the apple crumble cake proved very popular and was truly scrumptious. Refuelled we rode through Little Faringdon and Langford and on to Bampton where we stopped for comfort break and some lunch. it was then time for the last hill of the day up to Buckland from Buckland Marsh and back to Grove via Charney Bassett. A great ride through very quiet and scenic countryside and villages with great company in spite of the bad Dad jokes, Barry Stanton!
Distance: 64.70 km (40.20 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42614109"
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Sun Apr 23rd 2023

Off Road Sunday Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. A short and easy off-road ride from Wantage. 15 miles loop from Wantage, with no great challenges and lots of tracks through the woods. Would suit mountain bikes and gravel bikes, knobbly tyres recommended. We are keen to welcome new riders of all abilities. Sometimes we ride in cold and/or wet - but please let us know if you are coming so we can tell you if we decide to cancel due to bad weather or other reasons.
Riders: David Jackson Lily Winston Robin Tucker Roger Postbeschild Sally Bensoussis Stephanie Haddrell Terry Penn Tim Waite Victoria Cartmel Riders = 9 Weather: Report: The first of our new season of off-road rides, and nine of us gathered under the statue of King Alfred on what I now realise what was St George's Day to ride off to meet our dragon! We checked our bikes, and made the sensible precaution of lowering air pressure in a few highly inflated tyres, for extra grip. Showers had passed overnight, and while it looked like no more would fall, the ground was going to be wet and slippy in places. We set off to the east, leaving Wantage by the cycle track. Soon we were climbing steadily alongside Goddards Brook. This is slow and steady work, but goes on and on, steepening at the end. Then a little descent, along the gallops and a final push up to the Ridgeway! From The Ridgeway we could see for miles on either side. We stopped to breathe it in (and catch our breath after the climb). Then rode on flat but high ground to see Scutchamer's Knob. From here we took a grassy, sometimes bumpy descent - but one that can be done at any speed - down to the corner of Harwell Campus, and followed the wire fence round to the woods, where we twisted through the trees. Ok, a few of us may have got stuck in a muddy puddle, but we were all grins! Eventually we came out the other side, on Sustrans/NCN 544, now known as the Icknield Greenway. Turning left, we followed this back to Wantage, enjoying the drop and climb over Ginge Brook. Well done to everyone for completing the course!
Distance: 24.14 km (15.00 mi)
Off-road 23Apr2023 halfway up to the Ridgeway Off-road 23Apr2023 on the Ridgeway Off-road 23Apr2023 along the Ridgeway Off-road 23Apr2023 coming down from the Ridgeway (mind the posts!)
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Tue Apr 25th 2023

Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres required and good lights when it gets dark (‘get you home’ lights in Spring/Autumn). We are keen to welcome new riders and can make recommendations or have spare lights to borrow if you let us know. Dark, cold and wet - we’ll ride in any two. But please let us know if you are coming so we can tell you if we decide to cancel due to bad weather or other reasons.
Riders: David Brown Luc Binet Philip (Pip) Jackson Robin Tucker Roger Postbeschild Steve Legate Riders = 6 Report: It really felt like the proper start to the riding season with six people out and the trails in mostly good shape. We did find one muddy section off the back of the Ridgeway that was a real skills test though, all slithery and wheels going a bit sideways, but good fun and everyone staying mostly upright. We headed up at Letcombe through Segsbury Castle, a solid climb, but once done, it was done, then looped south to Sheepdrove, getting in a bit a a tarmac drag before the fun descent at Sparsholt Field. A bit of B-road and it was another fun little descent into Sparsholt before heading to the pub at Denchworth. Mileage includes the ride back to our Wantage start point.
Distance: 30.58 km (19.00 mi)
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Tue Apr 25th 2023

Tuesday Evening 1* Ride & Pub Night	1*

Leader: Steve Boreham	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: A loop around the Vale to Lyford and West Hanney (11 miles). There will be optional stop at the Fox in Denchworth towards the end of the ride. Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 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 (16-24km) at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph (13-16kph), 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.
Riders: Anke Otto Diana Whidborne John Stamp Karl Blake Martyn Wigmore Michael Tayler Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Tim Waite Victoria Cartmel Riders = 10 Weather: Report: Well, my first ride lead, or even first ride of the year - could not have gone more smoothly. A lovely number of ten of us set out on what was a pleasant evening in the sunshine - even if there was a slight chill in the air(!) Welcome back again to new riders Anke and Vicky. Routine pause by the walnut tree in Denchworth, before curling round to Lyford, where we had a nice lengthy relaxing stop outside the church. Suitably refreshed, embarked on the next stage - on to West Hanney and another pause outside the church. Everybody very relaxed and enjoying the fresh air. On then to the next "church" - that is "3" aka the pub! Four riders opted to return straight to Grove while six of us stopped for well earned refreshments. Thank you to Michael for sweeping, and to you all for a great ride and lovely evening.
Distance: 17.70 km (11.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/27469877"
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Tue Apr 25th 2023

Tuesday Evening 2* Pub Ride	2*

Leader: Jon Townsin	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 1.5-2 hour ride at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph) Hackpen, Sparsholt. Pub night
Riders: Barry Stanton Chris Gray David Jackson Des Higgs Gareth Smith Graham Bergdahl Jon Townsin Sarah Gray Stephanie Haddrell Val Smith Riders = 10 Report: A lovely evening to tackle Hackpen Hill. We welcomed Graham for his first Tuesday ride and also new to me was Sarah. Good to see the e-bikes making the hills doable!
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/34657569"
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Tue Apr 25th 2023

Tuesday Evening 3* Pub Ride	3*

Leader: LeeAnn Norris	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Grove, Denchworth, Garford, Marcham, Frilford, Charney Bassett, Goosey Pub night
Riders: Chris Bailey Eddie Little Jane John Jo Little Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce LeeAnn Norris Lisa Footner Nicole Pethybridge Sharon Bedford Riders = 10 Weather: Report: Well a chilly one tonight but at least it wasn't raining and it wasn't windy. We had a lovely sunset and a rainbow without the rain which was lovely to witness on the last section of the ride. Special thanks to Kath for editing the ride so that we spent a little less time on the A roads. I can't recall how to upload the version that we did so if you see this Kath, if you could upload the edited version, that would be terrific.
Distance: 36.69 km (22.80 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31958156
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31958156"
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Thu Apr 27th 2023

Daytime 1* Thursday Ride	1*

Leader: Diana Whidborne	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Easy sociable ride of 24-32 km (15-20 miles) at a pace of 14-17km/h (9-11 mph). A gentle ride out through the letcombes meeting the 2* group at The Cantorist in Childrey for coffee
Riders: Andy Belcher Diana Whidborne John Stamp Karl Blake Sarah Macaulay Tim Waite Riders = 6 Report:
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Thu Apr 27th 2023

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: A ride out to Childrey for coffee via Shellingford Fawler and Westcot. Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Sociable ride of 24-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 18-20km/h (11-13 mph).
Riders: Barry Stanton Des Higgs Malcolm Heavens Stephanie Haddrell Steve Swanton Terry Ryland Victoria Cartmel Riders = 7 Report: A ride out to Childrey Cantorist to meet the 1* group and Kath Boyce. we headed out at a pace to keep warm with the wind behind us to Charney Bassett. We then headed to Hatford and Shellingford and onto Uffington where we faced the main hill of the day Fawler Hill, which was not easy as we were riding into the wind. A first hilly 2 * for Vicks who took the challenge well and made it up with one break, a noteable achievement when tackling such a hill for the first time. On through Kingston Lisle and then along the springline to Westcott and Sparsholt before heading to Childrey for a very welcome coffee and cake. Lucky for Vicks the last doughnut had her name on it! It was lovely to meet the 1* riders and catch up, over coffee and Di waited for us to finish as Vicks was returning viw the 1* route. Steph left us at the cafe and we then went on up the hill to Letcombe Bassett and then to Letcombe Regis before returning to Grove. A good mornings ride without incident and with good company.
Distance: 40.00 km (24.85 mi)
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Sat Apr 29th 2023

5th Saturday Special Thames Bridges Ride 🚴🏻‍♀️🌈🚴🏼	3*

Leader: Eddie Little	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. 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. This is a repeat of the ride I ran for the first time Easter 2022. The ride proved to be popular, so here we go for 2023 with a few alterations. The main aim of the ride is to cross the River Thames multiple times. This will happen mostly in the morning. On leaving Grove we’ll head for Abingdon - on Thames, this being the first crossing. We’ll then take in some stunning views of the River Thames as we pass over a further eight bridges, Culham Lock, Appleford, Clifton Hampden & Dorchester - on - Thames. We’ll stop for brunch at Shillingford Bridge Hotel for around 12:00pm. I have provisionally booked a table for up to 12 riders, though the hotel is flexible! The hotel offers fantastic views over the Thames along with an excellent brunch menu serving from 12:00pm onwards at a very reasonable price, along with Coffees/Teas & a nice selection of tray bakes. I will need to know final numbers for the hotel by Friday 28th April. So please let me know if you would like to be added to this ride. Once refreshed we’ll make our way passing over the Thames at Wallingford, Crowmarsh & finally Goring - on - Thames. We’ll then leave the Thames behind us & start our journey through the stunning Berkshire countryside of Ashampstead Common & Yattendon, stopping at Hampstead Norrey’s Community Shop & Cafe for afternoon Tea/ Coffee. Once we are all refuelled we’ll carry on with our final part of the ride passing through Beedon Common, Peasmore & Brightwalton. We’ll finish the ride with the wonderful descent of Chain Hill. Ride Distance 61.05 miles/98km.
Riders: Barry Stanton Eddie Little Jane John Jo Little Katherine Boyce Lisa Footner Nicole Pethybridge Sharon Bedford Riders = 8 Weather: Report: A lovely day for a club ride, along with great company, perfect weather conditions, fantastic views of the River Thames, bluebells, hills, woodlands & baby lambs frolicking in the sunshine, what’s not to like! Also two nice refreshment stops. Brunch was taken at Shillingford Bridge Hotel, where we all enjoyed various dishes, scrambled eggs with chives, pancakes with bacon & maple syrup & poached eggs, all waitress service! Our second stop was at Hampstead Norrey’s community shop & café where we all enjoyed fresh coffee, tea & an excellent selection of freshly baked cakes. Thanks to everyone for making this a special day, also thanks to Jo for secondary leading when required.
Distance: 98.25 km (61.05 mi)
Abingdon. Thames Bridges Ride 2023 5th Saturday Special. Brunch at Shillingford Bridge Hotel. Goring - On -Thames. Fantastic view of the Thames Goring. Thames Bridge’s crew enjoying afternoon tea at Hampstead Norreys Time for one last photo. Hampstead Norreys Community Cafe.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38766838"
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Ride Filter

Start Locations: WMP
Wantage Market Place; OMH
Old Mill Hall, Grove

Categories: 1* - Suitable for irregular, social, beginner or family riders, pace will match the slower riders. Not hilly or long. Expect rides up to 3 hours. Gentle exercise.; 2* - Suitable for regular riders who prefer to cover some distance but at a more relaxed pace. Likely to be half-day rides. Solid exercise.; 3* - Suitable for experienced riders, may be hilly, long, quick, or any combination! Likely to be half or full-day rides. Challenging exercise.; 4* - Suitable for athletic riders who can ride safely above the 3* standard. Quick rides for the fit.; More Information

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