The ride began at the National Trust Runnymede Café, where the group assembled: Tony, Simon, Dave W, Dave E, Allan, Keith, Ray, Niall, Steph, Pam, Martina, and Robert. Ged, Carolyn and John, were also at 11's After the usual pre-ride refreshments—tea, coffee, and a chance to catch up—the group set off in good spirits.
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The route first took riders through Old Windsor and into the expansive Windsor Great Park, offering a scenic and relaxed opening stretch. Exiting via Dukes Lane, the group continued on toward the Ascot Racecourse, cycling through the grounds, not over any jumps, before joining Kennel Avenue. From there, the ride carried on down toward Cranbourne and onto Drift Road for a couple of miles, before turning right toward Fifield.
The route then headed onward toward Bray, passing the well-known The Mucky Duck, before joining a particularly enjoyable off-road section. This led the group neatly to a well-earned lunch stop at The Bear Inn (Wetherspoons), at around the 20-mile mark. With glorious sunshine overhead, the group sat outside to enjoy food and refreshments. Dave W left the ride just before reaching the lunch stop.
Refuelled and ready, the group set off on the return leg via a more direct route, heading for Halliford. Travelling east, the riders joined a short stretch of the Jubilee River before leaving it at Dorney and continuing down to Boveney. From there, the route followed the riverside path to the bridge on the Royal Windsor Way, notable for the striking graffiti beneath its arches. The group crossed over and continued into Windsor, then on to Datchet, navigating the level crossing before riding through Horton and Poyle, eventually picking up off-road sections into Staines.
A network of back roads and cycle paths led the group onward to Ashford for a final tea stop. With the day drawing to a close, options were limited as many places were shutting, so refreshments—tea, coffee, and cake—were enjoyed alfresco.
At this point, the group began to gradually disperse. Simon kindly took the lead for the final stretch toward Feltham, with numbers thinning along the way. The last few miles saw individuals peel off toward home, with myself eventually making their own way back home.
In total, the ride covered approximately 55 miles. For some a lot more, the distance proved a challenge after not having ridden over 40 miles in recent times, but it was nonetheless a thoroughly enjoyable day. It was especially good to welcome Pam back, who rode strongly throughout.
Thanks go to everyone who took part for making it such a successful and enjoyable outing, and special thanks to Simon—celebrating another year—for expertly back-marking and supporting the group throughout.
Tony..
