Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Rides

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Tue Jul 2nd 2024

Tuesday Evening 1* Ride	1*

Leader: Michael Tayler	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: A visit to the hidden estate of Pusey (14 miles). 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. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Andy Belcher Anna Loughlin Diana Whidborne Ian Taylor John Stamp Matt Adamson Michael Tayler Stephanie Haddrell Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 10 Report: very good ride thank you
Distance: 22.53 km (14.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/27945606"
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Tue Jul 2nd 2024

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

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. 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). Downs circuit - Up via court hill and down chain hill. Longish ride so bring lights please. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Andy Pixton Chris Bailey Eddie Little Graham Bergdahl Jane John Jo Little John Tranter Joy Arthur Karen Townsin LeeAnn Norris Sharon Bedford Yvonne Bird Riders = 12 Report: After a bit of a grey day the sun came out to coincide with the start of our ride - so what a better way to spend an evening than on a bike on the Downs above Wantage. Thanks LeeAnn for leading the second group. Great work on the hills everyone.
Distance: 44.00 km (27.34 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47290060"
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Tue Jul 2nd 2024

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) Hackpen Hill and 7 Barrows. (2nd try...). I am proposing this route as it is one of my favourites and we (wisely) avoided the hills last Tuesday.
Riders: Anke Otto Barry Stanton David Jackson Des Higgs Gareth Smith Julie Haynes Louise Bowers Paul Kyberd Roger Turnbull Riders = 9 Report: The Seven Barrows route includes an ascent of Hackpen Hill. However, that is well worth doing in return for the swoosh down towards Lambourne and the lovely ride on the road past Seven Barrows. All of this was enhanced by the low sun on the hills and almost ideal weather with maybe just a touch of chill in the air. The Seven Barrows road is one of my favourites and it was great to introduce it to a couple of people in the group who had not cycled there before. Many thanks to Des for being Sweep, Anke for the photo and all those on the ride for a very enjoyable evening.
Distance: 34.92 km (21.70 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/59343471
Lovely Evening for a Ride
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/59343471"
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Tue Jul 2nd 2024

Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride	3*

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. We are keen to welcome new riders and can make recommendations. 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. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Robin Tucker Steve Legate Riders = 2 Report: Three of us on what turned out to be a fine evening. We rode up Lark Hill and then through Bitham Woods up to the Ridgeway. Along and down to Lands End, and back up to Scutchamer's Knob. Then it's time to go round the Harwell woods, over to Rowstock, more woods and back to Wantage.
Distance: 27.36 km (17.00 mi)
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Thu Jul 4th 2024

Daytime 1* plus - Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Susie Turnbull	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
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). ELECTION DAY RIDE - this ride is 30 miles to Shrivenham and back. A long ride, so 2* in length but at a 1* pace with lots of stops. Plus its very flat. Our coffee stop will be the excellent Bloomfields in the centre of Shrivenham
Riders: Diana Whidborne Mila Yearley Susie Turnbull Val Smith Riders = 4 Report:
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47313335"
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Thu Jul 4th 2024

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Ride to Shrivenham to join the 1* ride for coffee at Bloomfields. Similar route but round the other way, hopefully helping with the headwind. Starting at the more conventional 10.00! 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: Angie Fisher Barry Stanton David Bridge Des Higgs Geoff Neill John Groves John Salmon John Tranter Louise Bowers Roger Postbeschild Roger Turnbull Stephanie Haddrell Tim Hoyle Riders = 13 Report: Lovely to see 13 riders out for a Thursday morning ride. Thanks to roger for amending the route to take into consideration the wind- the ride back was a breeze! Thanks too Roger for leading a group. It was a bright morning although quite windy with much of the ride out into the wind so we earned our coffee and cake. we split the group into 2 with Roger taking John T, John G ,Louise Roger T, John Salmon, and Geoff , and Steph taking Des, Barry, Angie, David and Tim. needless to say Rogers group got to the cafe first! An enjoyable longer ride with good company and we met up with the 1* group at the cafe. Thanks all for your company and so good to see John after a long lay off.
Distance: 48.28 km (30.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47387384"
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Sat Jul 6th 2024

RIDE CANCELLED - 2 to 3* Saturday Half Day Proof Ride	2*

Leader: Jan McCabe	Start Time: 11:15 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: RIDE CANCELLED. Too much rain and standing water. - Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Half day ride (60-70km / 38-45 miles), with a tea stop, riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Note the start time : 11:15 from Old Mill Hall Come and join me for a fairly flat leisuerly ride to Proof Social bakery (https://www.proofbakehouse.com/ ), out through Tubney, Cothill and Sunningwell, with our break just about at the half way point, and then take the National Cycle Network route back through Abingdon to return via Steventon (Will be back in good time for the football if anyone cares!) Note - Having heard great things about this cafe, I called in for my first time last Saturday.... it didn't disappoint, although the cake selection was a little limited by the time I got there (about 1pm)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47390925"
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Tue Jul 9th 2024

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. Rain forecast for most of the ride. - 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). Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time. Loop round the vale before an ascent of Sparsholt Firs
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47402448"
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Tue Jul 9th 2024

RIDE CANCELLED - Tuesday Evening 1* Ride	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Ride cancelled due to rain. Update Mon 8/Jul: with heavy rain forecast overnight, thundery showers tomorrow lunchtime and with rain potentially persisting into the evening, Tuesday's evening ride is looking doubtful. A decision wiĺl be made tomorrow by 4pm. Please keep an eye out for further updates. Sparsholt (13 miles). 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. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31940260"
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Tue Jul 9th 2024

RIDE CANCELLED - Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: RIDE CANCELLED - Rain forecast, risk of standing water. 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 Hackpen and Kingstone Lisle Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/39459951"
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Tue Jul 9th 2024

Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride RIDE STILL ON!!	3*

Leader: David Yearley	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: RIDE STILL ON!! NO SUCH THING AS BAD WEATHER, ONLY INAPPROPRIATE CLOTHING. We will start promptly at Wantage Market Place at 18:30. Off-road ride around local tracks, with a planned route of about 17.5 miles. It has been wet the last couple of days, so expect some mud and wet patches. The forecast is for some light rain for the first hour or so. Knobbly tyres required and lights can be useful to get home at the end, especially if you stop for a drink at The Nelson in Wantage. 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. This one may just be wet. 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. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time. Feel free to let me know you're coming. Text message or WhatsApp message with your name would be useful please. See you there!
Riders: Cai Wilson David Brown David Yearley Robin Tucker Steve Legate Riders = 5 Report:
Distance: 24.46 km (15.20 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47481254"
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Thu Jul 11th 2024

Daytime 1* Thursday Ride	1*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
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). Ride out to the Cantorist cafe in Childrey. 17 miles / 27km
Riders: John Tranter Lindsey Barker Patrick O'Leary Riders = 3 Weather: Report: Holiday time with a few regulars away, but great to be out in the Vale with Lindsey and Patrick. We had a fun ride with no problems and lots of chat and enjoyed the good service at the Cantorist.
Distance: 28.97 km (18.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47502987"
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Thu Jul 11th 2024

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
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). Ride out to the Cantorist cafe in Childrey. Via Uffington and Fawler Hill.
Riders: Angie Fisher Barry Stanton Chris Marchant Des Higgs John Groves Joseph Marchant Karl Blake LeeAnn Norris Louise Bowers Peter Dalgliesh Richard Kidd Terry Ryland Riders = 12 Report: Another good turnout (weather influenced). Welcome to Joseph Marchant riding with us alongside his dad. A perfect day for cycling - sunshine with a gentle cooling breeze. We set off at a steady pace with everyone using their own road skills by leaving gaps where necessary - no problems, a very good and easy ride to lead. The only climb was Fawler Hill so some of the group took a hillier route back to Wantage after coffee in Childrey, the rest took the flat option. A very good ride in good company.
Distance: 40.00 km (24.85 mi)
2* Thursday group at the Cantorist
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Sat Jul 13th 2024

RIDE CANCELLED - 2* Saturday Half Day Ride	2*

Leader:	Start Time: 9:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: RIDE CANCELLED - Unfortunately no ride leader was available to lead this ride, instead a ride is being put on for Sunday 14th July. - 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).
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Sun Jul 14th 2024

3* Half Day Sunday Ride	3*

Leader: Sharon Bedford	Start Time: 8:30 am	Start Location: Beacon Car Park
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Half day ride (60-70km / 38-45 miles), with a tea stop, riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). As it is Bastille Day I thought we would attempt a nice hilly route as homage to the TdF riders. We don't have the Alps or the Pyrenees but we do have our very own Berkshire Downs. Please note the 8.30am start (from the Beacon Car Park) so we can hopefully get to the cafe stop at Hampstead Norreys before all the other bike clubs arrive.
Riders: Barry Stanton Jo Little Joy Arthur Sharon Bedford Riders = 4 Report: Ride with GPS promised hills - and the route certainly delivered on that! Other than a short flat section (on the off road cycle way) just after the cafe stop, it was up and down most of the way. The early start worked well as we managed to get to coffee before the rush and we were able to find a table in the lovely sunshine, (much appreciated after all the recent rain). Thanks to Barry, Joy and Jo for joining me - and being a great group to lead.
Distance: 66.00 km (41.01 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47451093"
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Sun Jul 14th 2024

2* Half Day Ride	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: A 38 m ride out to Filkins for coffee. 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). Check back later for ride details. Note this replaces the Off-road Sunday ride for which there was no ride leader available.
Riders: Alan Fisher Angie Fisher Anke Otto David Jackson Des Higgs Jenny Gower Julie Haynes Louise Bowers Matt Adamson Stephanie Haddrell Terry Penn Riders = 11 Report: A lovely morning for a ride with great company, and so please to see Terry and Jenny its been a while! So the route was planned last minute to fill a gap, and for that I apologise for two reasons 1 there was quite a lot on busy roads although the early start helped and the Filkins was shut, despite their website saying open every day- It is just open Wednesday to Saturday! Great that I had a plan B which was to stop at the Swan at Radcot, and we arrived at 11.30 just before the lunchtime rush to enjoy some light refreshments by the river. As food wasn't served until 12 the option was to stay and eat or head off so we split the group and I stayed with Angie and Alan ,whilst the rest of the group led ably by Jenny, with Des as sweep headed home. A lovely morning with some beautiful villages and even better company. Thanks all for joining me!
Distance: 60.35 km (37.50 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47537062"
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Tue Jul 16th 2024

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Jan McCabe	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). Blowingstone Hill, Seven Barrows, return via Hackpen and the Letcombes Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Graham Bergdahl Jan McCabe John Tranter Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce Sharon Bedford Riders = 6 Report: Opps - Forgot to write the report at the time, now 4 weeks later and I can't remember!!
Distance: 39.00 km (24.23 mi)
Tuesday 3* Tue 3*
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31945240"
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Tue Jul 16th 2024

Tuesday Evening 1* Ride	1*

Leader: Steve Boreham	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: Loopy Tuesday - a figure of 8 loop around the Vale (13 miles). 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. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Adrian Herbert Karen Davenport Lorna Swanton Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Susan Holdroyd Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Select group of six of us set out for what turned out to be a dry ride, despite some dark clouds lurking. Unplanned change was afoot (or should we say a peddle?) when found that the road to Lyford was closed (for resurfacing which is good news😀). Easy change to make - on to West Hanney and curl round anticlockwise to Lyford then on to Charney Bassett, and the rejoin the original route up to Asti Stud and back. Overall distance unchanged really. Nice relaxed ride, plenty of time for a few “natter” stops😮, so ended up back at Grove around 8.15. Turned out to be a very pleasant evening to be out. Thanks all!
Distance: 20.92 km (13.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42209996"
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Tue Jul 16th 2024

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) Uffington via Letcombes and Sparsholt Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time. Note: The description of this ride did mention Hackpen Hilll. However, we will use the route shown on the map which drops down to Childrey and along via Sparsholt and Wescot.
Riders: Angie Fisher Anke Otto David Jackson Des Higgs Gareth Smith Julie Haynes Louise Bowers Paul Kyberd Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 9 Report: The weather forecast for the evening had been mixed but the showers cleared and we had lovely weather for this ride. The route is a little undulating on the way out - via the Letcombes, down through Childrey, then out to Sparsholt and Westcot. However, nothing too strenuous. I made one small deviation from the planned route: We left Old Mill Hall in Grove and turned right along the newly re-surfaced Main Street in Grove. A chance to enjoy the superb road surface before turning into Cane Lane and the inevitable much rougher road surface. Thank you to all the participants for a great group ride, and particular thanks to Anke for the photos.
Distance: 39.43 km (24.50 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/46270096
Tuesday Evening 2* Ride 16th July 2024 Tuesday Evening 2* Ride 16th July 2024 Tuesday Evening 2* Ride 16th July 2024
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/46270096"
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Tue Jul 16th 2024

RIDE CANCELLED - Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride	3*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: RIDE CANCELLED - No other riders tonight, so cancelling and I'll go riding from Abingdon. - 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. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
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Thu Jul 18th 2024

Daytime 1* Thursday Ride	1*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
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 route out through Wantage onto the Icknield Way and then looping around Lockinge and the Hendreds before a cafe stop at the Grover Chef in Ardington. Heading home over Lains Barn road. Approx 13 miles / 20km
Riders: Carin Tranter Diana Whidborne John Tranter Lorna Swanton Mila Yearley Sarah Macaulay Susan Holdroyd Tim Waite Val Smith Riders = 9 Weather: Report: Perfect weather for a bike ride - warm with hardly any wind. A great group assembled, we enjoyed the wonderful new tarmac on Main Street before collecting more riders at Charlton and Lark Hill. Then it was just a lovely potter around the lanes and tracks of Lockinge, Ginge and Ardington. Great cafe stop at the Grocer Chef and then the final challenge of the Lains Barn climb and descent back to Grove. Thanks to all for great company.
Distance: 22.53 km (14.00 mi)
Thursday 1* group at Lockinge Thursday 1* group at Ginge Thursday 1* group at Ginge Thursday 1* group at Ginge Thursday 1* group at Ginge Thursday 1* group at Ginge
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43270574"
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Thu Jul 18th 2024

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
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). Out via Garford to Tubney and then through the tunnel to a cafe stop at Munch in Southmoor.
Riders: Angie Fisher Barry Stanton Chris Marchant Des Higgs John Groves Louise Bowers Matthew Ryland Patrick O'Leary Richard Kidd Steve Swanton Terry Ryland Riders = 11 Report: Weather was definitely good for cycling so we had a big group. We split into two with thanks to Steve S for leading the second group. We left via Denchworth, tried to go via Lyford but road closed so on to Hanney, then Garford, Marcham, Tunney, through the tunnel under the A420 and on to the Munch cafe via the Southmoor bridge. Return was a short route as by now it was rather hot! Well done everyone - a very good ride with very good company.
Distance: 37.00 km (22.99 mi)
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Sat Jul 20th 2024

1* Saturday Morning Ride to Longworth, Pusey and Stanford	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Note the morning start time for this one. A route around the vale going off-the-beaten-track to visit a couple of my favourite hidden places: Longworth Manor and Pusey with a refreshment stop at the Stanford Coffee House. There will be a couple of easy off-road sections along the way, via the grain store to West Hanney and the bridleway between Longworth and Hinton Waldrist, but suitable for all but the thinnest tyres. A round trip of 19 miles, we should be back to Grove by about 1pm. To help gauge numbers, please let me know if you are planning to come. Our regular social and family ride on the third Saturday of the month, usually with a cafe stop. We cover 16-32km (10-20 miles) at a leisurely pace of 13-16km/h (8-10mph), tackling the occasional hill (nothing too long) and easy off-road track (conditions permitting).
Riders: Anke Otto Carin Tranter Des Higgs John Tranter Lorna Swanton Nick Portsmouth Patrick O'Leary Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Susan Holdroyd Tony Clark Riders = 11 Weather: Report: Report to follow
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47658672
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47578445"
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Sun Jul 21st 2024

Oxford Special ride - all day via Garsington	3*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: 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. NB: start at Old Mill Hall, Grove. A re-run of a classic all day Oxford ride, this is a fairly gentle ride, only really designated 3* by the total distance (around 85km / 54 miles). We will go out via Hanney, Steventon & Sutton Courtenay to Long Wittenham, then cross the Thames at Clifton Hampden and go through the Baldons to Garsington and Wheatley. Then a super cunning cut through to Shotover and Headington to view the house with a shark in the roof and a drop down Headington Hill right into the heart of Oxford for a bit of light tourism / tourist dodging (some ex-Bursar's secrets will be revealed). Then we head north along the Oxford Canal to Wolvercote for lunch at the Plough. A circuit of Port Meadow to Botley and Cumnor is followed by a gentle run home via Fyfield.
Riders: Anke Otto Barry Stanton Jenny Gower John Tranter Louise Bowers Nick Dunton Roger Postbeschild Sharon Bedford Simon Atkin Steve Swanton Terry Penn Riders = 11 Weather: Report: This is always an interesting ride to lead - it has three reasonable climbs, a lot of roads to the east of Oxford that we rarely use, a few off-road sections and of course it also has the beauty and complexity of central Oxford in peak tourist season. But it went well - we had a great group and grateful thanks to Jenny for volunteering to lead a second group on the road. We made good time in the first third of the ride with a nice tailwind (interesting protocol point - with two e-bikes on the ride, spending too much time above 15.5mph/25kph can be awkward as this is the cut-off speed for the motors). We managed to fit in a comfort break at Notcutt's Garden Centre before heading for the tranquility of the Baldons and the first big climb up to Garsington. A drop down to Wheatley was followed by the biggest climb, up Old Road, the rough track to Shotover and the big descent to Headington. After a brief shark stop we dropped down Headington Hill into town, saw some of the sights and then took the canal towpath to a very good lunch at the Plough in Wolvercote. A loop around Port Meadow, the final climb of Cumnor Hill and we headed for home on familiar roads. Thanks to all for a great day out.
Distance: 86.90 km (54.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/204549760
3* ride to Oxford - the Headington shark Oxford 3* ride - the Hertford Bridge Oxford 3* ride - the Oxford Canal
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43739442"
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Tue Jul 23rd 2024

Tuesday Evening 3*	3*

Leader: Jo Little	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). Chain Hill, West Ilsley, Liley, Court Hill, Challow Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Barry Stanton Chris Bailey Jo Little Joy Arthur Lisa Footner Matt Adamson Sharon Bedford Simon Atkin Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Great loop as always, with the humid evening making the hills harder than normal - that's my excuse anyway! The views were great as always and it was good to welcome Matthew on his first 3* ride. We cut the ride a bit short, missing out the West Challow section and choosing to either finish in Wantage or go straight back to Grove. The nights are already drawing in a bit and that would have made the ride too long for the time of year. Thanks to everyone for their company.
Distance: 40.23 km (25.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/23018531"
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Tue Jul 23rd 2024

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) NOTE: Although the ride description in "Ride with GPS" below describes the route as a bridging ride - it is not. Hinton Waldrist, Hatford, Stanford Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Angie Fisher Chris Marchant David Jackson Des Higgs Gareth Smith Louise Bowers Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 7 Report: A lovely, warm, still evening for a fairly flat ride with the route taking us on a loop via Charney Bassett, Lyford, Southmoor, Hinton Waldrist, Pusey, and Stanford-in-the-Vale. The modest rise towards Southmoor was taken in our stride and we made steady progress overall. No surprises, apart from a sudden sneeze by one of the participants which led to a chorus of "Bless You!". Thanks to all participants for an enjoyable ride, and particularly to Des for being sweep.
Distance: 32.99 km (20.50 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31381542
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31381542"
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Tue Jul 23rd 2024

Off Road Tuesday Evening Ride	3*

Leader: David Yearley	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: We will be riding, but if you can let me know if you're planning to ride this will help with planning. 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. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47699499"
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Tue Jul 23rd 2024

Tuesday Evening 1* Ride	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: A hillier ride out to Ginge using the cycle tracks and paths through Charlton to West Lockinge. We will then follow the Icknield Greenway through Ardington to Ginge. Return to Grove via Lockinge and Lains Barn completing a figure of eight (11 miles). 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. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Adrian Herbert Anke Otto Carin Tranter John Stamp Karen Davenport Lorna Swanton Michael Tayler Nick Portsmouth Steve Swanton Tim Waite Riders = 10 Weather: Report: Report to come
Distance: 18.51 km (11.50 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47709662
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47677162"
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Thu Jul 25th 2024

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). Out to Letcombe Regis by back routes of Grove and Wantage, to Letcombe Bassett, up Holborn Hill then along and down to Childrey for coffee at Cantorist Farm. Return via Goosey and Denchworth.
Riders: Diana Whidborne Lorna Swanton Louise Bowers Mila Yearley Steve Swanton Riders = 5 Weather: Report: A select group of three set off from Old Mill Hall in gentle drizzle, Louise joining the 1* ride as all the other 2* riders were away, ill or otherwise busy. We introduced her to the path by Crown packaging down to Pike Reach and up to Stockham, where we met Mila by the school. At Letcombe Bassett, Steve caught up with us and we proceeded up Holborn Hill, across and down to Cantorist Farm at Childrey. After a leisurely stop, sitting outside as the hint of rain had dried up, we enjoyed the descent to the A417 and the return to Grove via Goosey (where Louise left to make her own way home) and Denchworth. A really pleasant morning - thanks, everyone, for your company.
Distance: 25.91 km (16.10 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/44737467
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/44737467"
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Thu Jul 25th 2024

Cancelled - Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader:	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Ride cancelled, sorry we are short of 2* ride leaders this week due to the holiday season. If you are interested in becoming a 2* ride leader, please contact Katherine, the ride secretary. Club rides can only happen with ride leaders. 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).
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Sat Jul 27th 2024

2* Saturday H/D Ride. Northmoor, Yelford, Aston > Pottery & Great Brook.	2*

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. Half day ride (45-55km / 30-40 miles), with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). This is one of my favourite rides, keeping away from major towns & sticking to quiet cycling routes. A relatively flat route with only one climb towards the end of the ride. From Grove we’ll head out to Denchworth passing through Southmoor, Northmoor, Stanton Harcourt, Yelford & Cote. We’ll stop at Aston Pottery for our elevenses. Once refreshed we’ll take the cycle route along Great Brook passing over the Thames at Tadpole Bridge. Then as promised, our one & only climb of the day Buckland Hill. Expect to be back in Grove for around 01:30pm. Ride distance 35.02 miles/56km.
Riders: Barry Stanton David Bridge David Jackson Des Higgs Eddie Little John Tranter Louise Bowers Steve Swanton Riders = 8 Weather: Report: It was really nice to reuse this old route, taking us through some lovely quiet country lanes & giving some great views of the Thames. Drivers were very considerate & pulled in when required to let us pass. We all enjoyed our refreshment stop at Aston Pottery, where we all tucked into some delicious freshly baked scones, along with tea’s & coffees. Service was as usual excellent, along with some spectacular flower borders. On the return journey the A420 proved to be a little challenging to cross. Thanks to Des for leading a second group when required. A nice ride with excellent company & no issues. Hopefully see you all on another ride soon.
Distance: 56.33 km (35.00 mi)
2* H/D Ride to Aston Pottery July 2024. Spectacular display Aston Pottery July 2024.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47609562"
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Sat Jul 27th 2024

3* Brunch Ride	3*

Leader: Sharon Bedford	Start Time: 7:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Moved forward by a week by request so as not to clash with century ride Back by popular demand from 2022 (rained off in 2023 so hoping for better luck this year). We will meet early at 7am at OMH to enjoy some (hopefully) lighter traffic. We will then stop for brunch at https://www.bearandraggedstaff.com/menu/ before riding back to Grove. Please let me know whether you are coming by 5pm on Thursday 25th so I can book a table.
Riders: Chris Bailey Jenny Gower Jo Little Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce Sharon Bedford Terry Penn Riders = 7 Report: Being welcomed by a glorious sunny and warm morning made the early start easier. Starting out at 7 meant quieter roads and an excellent brunch stop. The Bear & Ragged Staff provided efficient service and great food. Great Andy could also join us for brunch. Once fuelled we made quick work of the cycle back to Grove. A total ride of 77k and home before noon to enjoy the rest of the day! We agreed it was certainly worth considering a repeat of the ride some other time.
Distance: 77.00 km (47.85 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39958172"
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Sun Jul 28th 2024

Off Road Sunday Ride	2*

Leader: Roger Postbeschild	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Court Hill Centre
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. Off-road half day ride around local tracks, usually 15-30 miles. Knobbly tyres required. We are keen to welcome new riders of all abilities. This is at the bottom end of the distance range at 24.6 km, but makes up for it by being a bit hilly, with 392 m of climbing, most of which is on good surfaces. We will wait at the top of each climb. Pretty much nettle free, which is a plus! Start is at Court Hill Centre - or experienced folk can ride up from Wantage to get in a bit more distance and climbing! Cake and coffee (or lunch) on return to Court Hill Centre. If you are driving to the start, please park in the lay-by rather than the centre.
Riders: Eddie Little Roger Postbeschild Terry Penn Riders = 3 Weather: Report: Just the three of us, school holidays, and, possibly, the somewhat lumpy route, may have restricted numbers. A beautiful morning, with a slight cooling breeze when beyond the Ridgeway. Eddie and myself rode from home, we met Terry at the scheduled start at Court Hill Centre. Yours truly managed one unceremonious dismount due to attempting to cross a deep rut at an angle - a soft landing was enjoyed, much to the amusement of the others! A half-way refreshment stop was taken, courtesy of Terry, where we met up again with Jenny, who had run from Court Hill. Further refreshments were taken at Court Hill on returning there.
Distance: 38.70 km (24.05 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/206663567
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47734327"
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Tue Jul 30th 2024

Tuesday Evening 1* Ride & Pub Night	1*

Leader: Carin Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Old Mill Hall
Description: A longer ride to Southmoor out via Lyford returning via Charney Bassett (14 miles). There will be optional stop at the Fox in Denchworth towards the end of the ride. I will be staying at the pub, so riders will need to find their own way back to Grove after the ride stops in Denchworth. The ride may also be a little shorter if the temperature is very hot 😊 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. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Adrian Herbert Anke Otto Carin Tranter Steve Boreham Val Smith Riders = 5 Weather: Report: A very hot evening for the 5 riders but the breeze did cool us down if we kept going! The ride was slightly shorter than advertised, we cut across at the Sheep House Farm road to Charney rather than going all the way up to Southmoor. We returned to Denchworth via Asti Stud where myself, Anke and Steve stopped at the pub. Val and Adrian returned to Grove together.
Distance: 19.31 km (12.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45788483"
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Tue Jul 30th 2024

Tuesday Evening 2* Pub Ride	2*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
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) Flat loop around the Vale via Charney Bassett, Hatford and Baulking. Pub night - we will stop off at the Fox in Denchworth for those who want to eat and drink there. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Angie Fisher David Jackson Des Higgs John Tranter Roger Postbeschild Tony Clark Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Scorchio! Although as long as we kept moving, the breeze was nice. In the end it was a pretty perfect summer evening. Thanks to all for joining me - it was a nice group with lots of chat and banter. Also great to enjoy the hospitality at the Fox with Roger and the other groups.
Distance: 37.01 km (23.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47743422"
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Tue Jul 30th 2024

Tuesday Evening 3* Pub Ride	3*

Leader: Chris Bailey	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). Great Brook via Buckland, return via Standlake Pub Night!. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
Riders: Barry Stanton Chris Bailey Eddie Little Graham Bergdahl Jo Little Joy Arthur Paul Smith Sharon Bedford Riders = 8 Report: A very warm evening, so a steady ride and few stops to maintain a cooling breeze. Joined for the first time by Philippe Marchioro
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42156182"
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Tue Jul 30th 2024

RIDE CANCELLED - Off Road Tuesday Evening Pub	3*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: RIDE CANCELLED - Sorry, the weather is too nice! OK, not enough riders around! - Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader 07901 622622. 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. Pub Night!. Please arrive by 6.20pm for the ride leader's briefing and a prompt start to the ride. We are not always able to wait beyond the start time.
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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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