Richmond CC Rides

RCC Ride Sunday 4th April

2010-04-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

A half day ride for Easter Sunday enjoying our own territory.

Five locals and two guests enjoyed a brisk trip taking in Richmond Park, Hampton Court, Bushy Park, Crane Park and Marble Hill. Sunshine and cloud gave dramatic lighting and we were impressed by a spectacular show of daffodils in The Wilderness at Hampton Court.

Does anyone know where the name "marble hill" comes from? It seems to predate the house but as there is neither marble nor hill.....

Richmond Rides for Everyone Saturday 17th April

2010-04-04T09:12:00.000-07:00

The Wandle trail for Everyone

Meet at Earlsfield Station at 10.40 but get ticket allowing return from Wimbledon.
(eg 9.59 from Richmond)
Description: Eight of us met up outside the station - including one cyclist from East London, and a group from Surrey but, I think, no-one else from Richmond. We cycled alongside the River Wandle in bright sunshine that made even the nettles along the path look attractive. After bustling Merton Abbey Mills and the rural delights of Morden Hall Park we then cut across to Wimbledon to catch the train home, tracking down a doorway from the Abbey en route.

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email Rides@richmondlcc.co.uk

RCC Rides for Explorers : Sunday 9th May

2010-04-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

Along the hog's back

Meet: Richmond , Little Green - by the library before 10.15am

Description: We meet at Richmond but cycle to Surbiton to catch the 11.05 to Guildford. Amongst the spectacular (hilly) scenery we find an art-nouveau chapel and a ruined abbey that gave its name to Scott's first novel. Cafe/pub lunch. Total about 40 miles.

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: rides@richmondlcc.co.uk

RCC Rides for Explorers : Sunday 7th March

2010-03-03T13:42:00.000-08:00

Grand Union Canal

Meet :Richmond, Little Green, by library 10.30am

Description: We cut through Syon Park to Brentford and follow the canal tow-path northwards .... A preliminary ride found the tow-path west of Hanwell dangerously muddy (Yes I did fall in) so plan B is being devised. Lunch in canal-side or other pub.

Four of us met up and headed up the canal. We avoided the muddy parts by cutting off along the Brent valley with the help of Andy's local knowledge. We passd the isolated 12c Perivale Church and after a warming Lunch at Starvin Marvin's at Perivale rejoined the canal at Horsendon Hill. From here on in the surface is good and led us to a footbridge through Paddington Station. From here we returned via Kensington Gardens, Hammersmith and Richmond Park. Enjoyable day with brilliant blue sky but icy wind.

Route

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email Rides@richmondlcc.co.uk

Richmond Rides for Everyone Saturday 20th March

2010-03-02T14:09:00.000-08:00

Bedfont Lakes Country Park

Meet : 10.40am Strawberry Hill Station - west side

Description: After passing through Crane Park and Hanworth Park some back lanes in Feltham take us to a scenic nature reserve created from gravel workings. 11 miles but flat so back about 1pm.

Contact: Paul Luton
rides@richmondlcc.co.uk
Telephone: 020 8977 4016

RCC Rides for Everyone : Saturday February 20th

2010-01-20T11:52:00.000-08:00

Chiswick House

Meet Mortlake Green by station at 10.30am

Description: A short, easy ride taking in the Thames banks and visiting the grounds of Chiswick House where the ground-breaking eighteenth century gardens are being restored. Coffee in the renovated cafe.
We had seven riders - respectable for February - and enjoyed bright sunshine for the ride. Worth repeating when the restoration is complete and the works on the towpath are completed.

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

Rides for Explorers - Sunday 7th February

2010-01-10T14:27:00.000-08:00

Hawksmoor with a side helping of Wren and Archer.

Meet 10.45am at Waterloo Station - by vehicular exit arch ( eg take 10.09 from Richmond)
Description: We take the NCR 4 down the Thames to Greenwich in time for cafe lunch then follow the 'Hawksmoor Ride' from London Cyclist visiting the churches designed by the idiosyncratic 18th century architect returning to Waterloo.
Despite a cool and cloudy day we had a respectable seven riders and managed a quick peek into St Paul's Deptford where a very "bells and smells" service was in progress in the Archer church. We managed a look at the interior of St Alphege and Christ Church Spittalfields was very much open for tourists. Verdict - Hawksmoor's architecture is impressive but you couldn't call it pretty.

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

Rides for Explorers - Sunday 10th January 2010

2009-12-27T10:05:00.000-08:00

Switzerland in Surrey - Box Hill.

Sorry this ride cancelled - too much ice around.

Meet at 10.30 on Twickenham Riverside (by eel pie bridge)

Richmond's traditional post-Xmas ride. Back roads / off-road to Mickleham then up the 'Alpine' ziz-zag (not really that steep). Pub lunch at the top, then mostly downhill ride home. Bring lights.

Route

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

RCC Rides for Everyone : Saturday January 16th

2009-12-26T10:13:00.000-08:00

Bushy Park and the Thames

Meet 10.30 at the New "pheasantry" Visitors Centre Bushy Park.

After a glance at the newly restored Water Gardens, we join the Thames at Hampton Court, cycle along the tow-path to Teddington Lock and back via Cobblers Walk. Probable coffee stop. Nine miles and flat.

The rainy start to the day put most people off but two of us set out. The Water Gardens were locked because of dangerous ice (surely melted !) but we had a dry ride past Hampton Court and investigated the cycle facilities on the Hampton Wick side of the bridge. ( poor signage , intrusive kerb and gate.) Topic of conversation - 12th century Sicily , as you do.

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

Cancelled - Rides for Explorers - Sunday 1st November

2009-10-20T14:10:00.000-07:00

This Ride has been cancelled and will take place next year

Burnham Beeches

Meet Richmond Station before 10.45 am

Description: We buy return tickets to Windsor, but get off at Staines to circle past Pinewood Studios and quiet Fulmer, enjoying the autumnal display of Burnham Beeches from traffic-free roads. We avoid the worst of Slough to pick up return train at Windsor.

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

Route

Rides for Everyone - Saturday, October 17, 2009

2009-10-15T06:18:00.000-07:00

Coffee at the Palace

Meet : Mortlake Green (lower end) at 10.45am
Description: We ride up the Thames to Putney Bridge, then cross to visit Fulham Palace, former home of Bishops of London, with its romantic gardens. Here we stop for coffee. Back through Barnes passing the Wildfowl Trust site. About 8 miles, flat.
A respectable contingent of seven took part and all had an enjoyable ride despite the grey skies.
Sorry no photos - forgot camera.

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

Sunday, October 04, 2009

2009-09-26T06:22:00.000-07:00

Wandle Wander

Meet : Richmond, Little Green (by library) by 10.45am.

We head down the Thames to Wandsworth then follow the River Wandle upstream using the Sustrans Wandle Trail with extensive off road (but smooth) sections. The riverside has echoes of constitutional and artistic history that we can contemplate over lunch before cutting back home via Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park. (passing a snuff mill and a gateway from Merton Priory relocated to the old centre of Merton - which is nowhere near Merton High Street !)

Wow record showing - 11 heads on 10 bikes. A bright and not-breezy day made for pleasant cycling and Merton Abbey Mills afforded a range of lunch opportunities.

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

Rides for Everybody Saturday, September 19th : Richmond to Bush Park

2009-08-25T14:00:00.000-07:00

Meet: Richmond, Little Green, by Library at 10.30am

Description: From Richmond to Teddington and back avoiding most of the traffic. A new visitors centre should be open for coffee but we may have to view the restored 18th century water gardens over the fence as the opening is delayed. 11 miles but flattish.

In the event four of us did the ride of whom 3 had come from/through Teddington. We did need to view the Water Gardens over the fence (Opening 1st October) but Susan had a fund of information on the Upper Lodge complex. The visitors centre had excellent coffee (eventually) and a clear demonstration of where NOT to site cycle stands (hidden behind a wall!)

Route

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

RCC Rides Sunday, September 6th

2009-08-20T22:14:00.000-07:00

Chobham Common

Meet : Twickenham Riverside - by Eel Pie Bridge at 10.30am

Description: After practically kidnapping a couple on a tandem eight of us headed out along the Thames to Chertsey and then up through the woods to a pub lunch at Chobham. After lunch we cycled past heather and gorse covered heathland back down to Chertsey Bridge and another Thames side ride to Laleham and finally back into Twickenham down the Crane.
Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Twickenham-to-Chobham

Sunday 2nd August South of Guildford

2009-07-23T13:56:00.000-07:00

Time: 10.45am Richmond Little Green
Description: We cycle through Ham to Surbiton to catch the 11.30 to Guildford. Cycle routes link to the Downs Link railway path which we take as far as Cranleigh (poss lunch at garden centre) before returning via the scenic Surrey Hills.
http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Guildford-Loop

Six of us turned up and just made the train. (note - allow more time for holdups). Guildford traffic is scary but we were soon on an abandoned railway through quiet woodland. Nottcuts GC provided lunch (seemed popular with cyclists) then we followed Surrey Cycle Way signs through the folds (presumably meaning hills) with an afternoon drinks break at Dunsfold overlooking cricket. More hills led to a satisfying downhill to the Guildford Rd. Weather perfect and very little traffic on most of the roads. (inclined to do some more rides from Guildford next year - any comments ?)

Rides for Everybody Saturday, August 15th River Crane Ride

2009-07-15T13:59:00.000-07:00

Time: 10.45am Strawberry Hill Station - west side
We ride down the Thames past eighteenth century Twickenham riverfront to Richmond, then up the River Crane to Crane Park Nature Reserve, haunt of water voles and kingfishers. A flat 9 mile ride with coffee break

With a total of 11 of us this was the best attendance for some time. (so amazed that I forgot to take photos)

RCC Rides for Everyone : Saturday July 18th

2009-06-26T14:18:00.000-07:00

Ham House, Richmond Park and Teddington Lock

Time : 10.30 am
Place : Richmond Green by Library

After riding out along the River to Ham House we cut inland to Richmond Park and then back to the river for Coffee at the Hawker/YMCA Centre before returning down river to Richmond.
About 9 miles with gentle slopes.

RCC Rides : Sunday July 5th

2009-06-20T14:10:00.000-07:00

Surrey Countryside and Bookham Common

Time: 10.30 am

Place : Twickenham Riverside

Six of us headed out via Esher to Cobham where we switched to tracks through farmland across the Mole and wooded Bookham Common. After a pub lunch and dodging a brief shower we circled back modifying the planned ride with a "purple" track across Oxshott Heath and returned via Claygate and Kingston. ( noting a 20mph limit road with self enforcement limited to a few humped crossings )

Route

RCC Rides for Everyone : Saturday, June 20th

2009-06-07T12:46:00.000-07:00

The Surrey Thames

Meet at 10.30 : Bushy Park - Fountain Car Park.

Across Hampton Court Bridge, we take the towpath up as far as Walton Leisure Centre for coffee before returning the same way. There is always lots to see on the river. 8 miles and flat.

(optional extension to view the results of recent renovation in Bushy Park)

RCC Rides : Sunday June 7th

2009-05-24T12:38:00.000-07:00

The Chilterns and Maharajah's Well.

Meet Richmond Station by 10.15 to catch the 10.29 to Reading.

We follow NCR4 on back roads out of town and up into the hills. At Stoke Row there is a exotic wellhead marking the gift of the Maharajah of Benares. After a pub lunch we continue down into Wallingford and back along the Thames using a quiet track for most of the way.

Despite a dire weather forecast nine of us made our way to Reading. We enjoyed a sunny ride through beechwoods to the Black Horse - the pub that time forgot - and enjoyed freshly prepared baguettes with our beer in the garden. After a thrilling descent we made our way along the foot of the hills past fields of white poppies. A red kite gave an aerobatic display. After pretty Goring we slogged along a bit of main road but then turned off to prettier Whitchurch and a bridlepath which got us back to Reading just as the rain started.

About 35 miles.

Route

RCC Rides for Everyone : Saturday, May 16th

2009-05-19T10:39:00.000-07:00

Stately Houses of West London

Time: 10.25am
Place: Twickenham rail station forecourt
Description: We take a back-street route through St Margaret's to reach the Thames, then cut through the park of Syon House. The Grand Union Canal towpath takes us to Osterley Park where we have a coffee break before following the Duke of Northumberland's River back to Twickenham . About 11 miles and flat .

Nine of us braved the cloudy skies. The threatened rain did not appear and we enjoyed good spells of sunshine.

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

RCC Rides : Sunday, May 3rd

2009-04-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

Spring Wildflowers in the Surrey Hills

Time: 10.30am
Place: Twickenham riverside by Eel Pie Bridge
Description: We cycle through Kingston and Tolworth before cutting across Horton Country Park and Ashstead Common to Leatherhead and the Mole Gap. Past Box Hill Station, a steep climb takes us to Norbury Park – run by Surrey Wildlife Trust and looking like an Alpine meadow. Lunch at Bocketts farm. 36 miles, tracks a bit rough in places.

Only six of us enjoyed this ride, one on a fixer (ouch). Temperature just right and clear views. The grasslands will be better later in the year though. Bocketts Farm good for filled baked potatoes and Mars Bar Cake.

Route

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

RCC Rides for Everyone : Saturday, April 18, 2009

2009-04-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

Morning Coffee at the Palace.

Time: 10.45am
Place: Mortlake Green, lower end
Description:We ride down the Thames to Putney Bridge then cross to visit Fulham Palace, former home of Bishops of London, with its romantic gardens. Here we stop for coffee. Back through Barnes passing the Wildfowl Trust site. About 8 miles, flat.
But we didn't! Susan turned up to lead and Paul to back-mark but no other riders. We cycled home through the park.

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

5th April RCC Ride to Windsor - New River and Great Park

2009-03-28T10:06:00.000-07:00

Date: Sunday, April 05, 2009
Time: 10.00am
Place: Richmond Station
Description: Taking 10.11 train to Windsor from Richmond, the 11 riders crossed to Eton and followed the cycle path along the landscaped flood relief channel before joining NCR 4 to cross the Thames at Dorney. After pub lunch at Fifield, we entered Windsor Great Park at Blacknest Gate and cycled alongside the lake past the cascade and ruins from Leptis Magna. (Lybia). The rather busy path took us to Saville Gardens for tea and traffic-free roads led us back to Windsor. A red kite swooped low overhead assessing our fitness - exhausted cyclists forming a major part of their diet.

Route

Contact: Paul Luton
Telephone: 020 8977 4016
Email: paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

RCC Rides for Everyone Saturday 21st March

2009-03-20T06:02:00.000-07:00

River Crane to Bedfont Lakes

Time: 10.30am
Place: Bushy Park by Upper Lodge on the park road to Hampton Hill
Description:We ride up the River Crane path then cut across through Feltham Air Park to where an innovative new park and nature reserve has been created from gravel workings. Back through Hanworth Park and quiet back roads. About 11 miles flat with a coffee break. Ten riders enjoyed the sunshine - and an entertaining way of crossing the A316.

http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/To-Bedfont-Lakes

RCC Ride Sunday 1st March

2009-02-23T17:32:00.000-08:00

Olympic Site Exploration
Twelve of us braved the morning mists of Richmond Green at 9.30 on a Sunday morning and set off via Chiswick, picking up a 13th member , to the stuccoed terraces of North Kensington, and Georgian Bloomsbury. Descending the social scale to Bethal Green we reached Victoria Park and a greenway, along the top of a sewer, that gave us a good view of the growing Stadium. After lunch in a well hidden cafe those who had elected to cycle back made our way via the mile End Park Green Bridge through the City and West End to Hyde Park and so home.

Richmond Rides for Everyone Saturday 21st February

2009-01-20T14:30:00.000-08:00

A short flat riverside ride taking us from Mortlake down to Hammersmith and back up along the Mall.
Nine of us assembled and after a visit to the Tomb of Sir Richard Burton, made in the style of an Arabian tent, and perhaps an extended coffee break we shortened the ride by cutting across Chiswick Bridge and down the new cycle ramp back to the towpath and Mortlake.

Route

Date Saturday 21st February
Meeting : Mortlake Green lower side.
Time 10:45 am
Contact Paul Luton 02089774016 / paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

Richmond Rides Sunday 1st February

2009-01-10T13:20:00.000-08:00

The ruins of Ankerwyke Priory, where King John stayed before signing Magna Carta, are now surrounded by damp woodland studded with snowdrops. We cycle out up the Thames have a brief expedition on foot (change of footwear recommended) then back to the 21st century with lunch in a local pub and a ride home through the slightly strange area cut off by Heathrow.

Six intrepid cyclists set out from Twickenham. The sky brightened as we cycled along the Thames past Laleham and we didn't need walking boots to reach the snowdrops around the 2500 year old Ankerwyke Yew. At lunch at the Perseverance we were joined by another member and then set off home into an icy blast. "Character building" said Sue. At least we got back before the serious snow.

Date: Sunday 1st February 2009
Meeting Point:Twickenham Station
Meeting Time: 10:30
Contact: Paul Luton (02089774016 paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk)

http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Snowdrop-Ride

Richmond Rides Sunday 11th January

2008-12-01T11:00:00.000-08:00

A 35 mile burn-off-the-Xmas-pudding ride. Low traffic /mild off road route to Leatherhead, through the Mole gap then up Box Hill Zig-Zag. Pub lunch at the top then down through Headley and Epsom.
7 of us turned up on a less cold and bright morning. The white surface to the tracks across Horton Country Park and Ashstead Common looked worrying and the headwind trying but , encouraged by the sunshine, we reached Box Hill and ground our way up to the summit (172m) enjoying the views. After lunch at the Hand in Hand we flew along the downhill, downwind return.

http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Kingston-to-Box-Hill

Date Sunday 11th January
Meeting Teddington Station
Time 10.30am
Contact Paul Luton 02089774016 / paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

Richmond Rides for Everyone Saturday 17th January

2008-12-01T10:00:00.000-08:00

Ride from Strawberry Hill down the Thames to Richmond then up the River Crane to the Crane Park Nature Reserve.

Well the five of us who turned up had a good ride in the sunshine and a tour of the nature reserve where 40% of us are past/present volunteers. No water voles though and just the nesting holes of kingfishers. We will try again later in the year when we hope that more people will join us.

Date: Saturday 17th January 2009
Meeting Point: Strawberry Hill Station
Meeting Time: 10:45
Contact: Paul Luton (02089774016 paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk)

http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Strawberry-Hill-to-Crane-Park

Invitation Ride - from Andy Longfellow

2008-11-17T13:00:00.000-08:00

I'm keen to lead a ride to Borough Market on Saturday 13th December and hope that Ealing and Richmond LCCers can join me!

We'll meet and leave promptly at 0930 from the south side of Kew bridge on Saturday 13th December. Wrap up warm, fit panniers for goodies and bring lights to guide us home if necesary.

RCC pre Xmas Ride and Lunch 14th December

2008-11-17T12:00:00.000-08:00

A refreshing ride in Richmond Park before meeting up with other LCC groups for lunch in the White Cross in Richmond. (12.00)

Date Sunday 14th December
Meeting The Little Green Richmond - by the Library.
Time 10.30 am
Contact Paul Luton 02089774016 / paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

Richmond Rides for Everyone Saturday 15th November

2008-11-16T14:38:00.000-08:00

Meeting in Bushy Park and making a circular tour into Richmond Park with a coffee stop.
Date: Saturday 15th November
Meeting Point: Bushy Park, Fountain Car Park, by the kiosk
Meeting Time: 10:30
Contact: Paul Luton 02089774016 paul@pluton.eclipse.co.uk

A Halloween Story - Round Richmond Park In The Dark

2008-11-07T23:36:00.000-08:00

We set off, all of us, huddled together in the dark. Lights loomed from either side and flashes of red, green and orange made us stop and start in fear. We found our path and wound our way up the hill to search for the gate and its keeper. He stood in our path, large and wrought with anger. We sneaked in by his side and found ourselves in a magical place, so dark, so very dark. We shouldered our fears, put our lights and smiles on full beam and set off to lighten the darkened lands before us.

The wind whistled through our clothes, numbing feet, ears and toes but still we pressed on. Lights dangled, spilling globes of enlightenment on the ground. We split into groups to weave our own magical spells in the dark, talking incantations to ward off the demons in the dark.

Soon we had a hill to climb; a mysterious shape loomed in the dark distance. We pooled our tricks and spells, flicked our gears and trod on our pedals to conjure an allure to take us over the looming giant. Our spell took us clear and we sailed down and onwards.

At the crossroads, a creaking signpost forced us to split with its craggy fingers pointing the way home for part of our group. We separated, showering enchantments on each other, jinxes to be guardians over our departing friends.

Another gate, another keeper, this one friendlier than the last but still encircling us with breaths of chill wind. And then we were once more in the land of lights, rushing past, crushing the air in front of us. We turned away and meandered towards the river, a gentle slow giant, reflecting the whites of our eyes and steering us towards warmth and ale. We entered the Cross and soon were settled, supping ales drawn up from the heart of the hostelry, telling tales of demons fought and wars against witches won.

Halloween Ride - Friday 31st October

2008-09-30T01:52:00.000-07:00

We will be taking a spooky tour of Richmond Park on Halloween night after dark and after the gates are closed to all but cyclists, wildlife and ghosts from yesteryear. Afterwards we will head to our favourite haunt, the White Cross in Richmond. Bring lights, and wear something reflective.
Meeting Point: Richmond Little Green, opposite Richmond Theatre
Meeting Time: 19:15
Contact: Sue Higham (07940 338820 / rccrides@gmail.com)

Richmond Rides for Everyone - Saturday 18th October

2008-09-30T01:50:00.000-07:00

We will be meeting in Bushy Park and then heading out to Walton and back. The ride will be about 10 miles long and we will be stopping for coffee.

Date: Saturday 18th October
Meeting Point: Bushy Park, Fountain Car Park, by the kiosk
Meeting Time: 10:30
Contact: Sue Higham (07940 338820 / rccrides@gmail.com)

Richmond Rides - Sunday 5th October

2008-09-30T01:48:00.000-07:00

We will be taking the train to Winnersh and then doing a 28 mile circular route. It will be largely on country roads with easy gradients, with some busier roads for the first three miles in and out of Winnersh.

Date: Sunday 5th October
Meeting Point: Richmond Railway Station
Meeting Time: 09:45
Depart Time: 10:08 train to Winnersh
Contact: John Goddard (07712 013 001 / rccrides@gmail.com)

Note that on the return route, the train will terminate at Twickenham on the return journey.

Richmond Rides for Everyone - Saturday 20th September

2008-09-07T05:49:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 20th September, we will be taking part in the "Give your Car the Day Off" festival at Barnes Green.

We will be leading a ride from Barnes Green across Richmond Park and out to Ham and Petersham. We will meet up at the LCC stand on the Green at 10:30. The ride will be about 10 miles long and will be suitable for riders and bikes of all types.

Come along a little early and visit our stand. You can talk to our volunteers about cycling in the borough and can take away leaflets and maps covering the local area.

Date: Saturday 20th September
Time: 10:30
Place: Barnes Green, LCC stand. Look out for the green and white logo
Contact: Sue Higham rccrides@gmail.com / 07940 338820

Richmond Rides for Everyone - Saturday 16th August

2008-07-31T02:12:00.000-07:00

Starting from Bushy Park, we will be riding out to Claygate. We will be crossing Littleworth Common and Arbrook Common and our route will take us along leafy roads, cycle paths and bridleways and will total about ten miles. The ground across the commons should be firm at this time of year, but it might not be suitable for skinny wheeled bikes. There are a couple of small hills on this route but nothing too challenging.

Date: Saturday 16th August
Meeting Time: 10:30 am
Meeting Place: Fountain Car Park in Bushy Park
Contact: Sue Higham (07940 338820 or rccrides@gmail.com)

Richmond Rides for Everyone - Saturday 19th July

2008-07-09T07:29:00.000-07:00

Easy paced ride along the riverside through Twickenham, Richmond and St Margaret's and along the River Crane cycle way to the Shot Tower and Nature Reserve. Byo food. About 9 miles.

Date: Saturday 19th July
Meeting Time: 10:45
Meeting Place: Strawberry Hill Station, west side on Wellesley Road
Contact: Sue Higham (07940 338820 rccrides@googlemail.com)

Richmond Rides - Sunday 6th July

2008-07-01T02:14:00.000-07:00

On Sunday 6th July we will be leading a around the quiet country roads in the Windsor area. Meet us at Richmond Railway Station at 09:30. We will get the 09:45 train to Windsor and Eton Riverside and will start our ride from there. Leaving Windsor through Windsor Great Park, we pass through Maidens Green and head out to Binfield. We then ride to White Waltham for a pub lunch and head back to Windsor passing through Bray and Dorney on the way. The ride will be approx 28 miles. We will use the cycle path through the park and the rest will be on road.

Date: Sunday 6th July
Meeting Point: Richmond Railway Station *
Meeting Time: 09:30
Ride Leader: Sue Higham
Ride Contact Phone: 0771 252 8573
Ride Contact Email: rccrides@gmail.com

* Alternatively, you can meet us outside to Windsor and Eton Riverside station at 10:15.

Bike Week - Richmond Rides for Everyone

2008-05-25T15:26:00.000-07:00

A gentle, easy paced ride from Bushy Park and out west along the Thames towpath to Walton Leisure Centre for tea/coffee. Return by same route with optional extension around Bushy Park. 8-10 miles.

Date: Saturday 21 June
Meet time: 10:30am
Meet Place: Bushy Park - kiosk at Fountain Car Park
Contact: Jonathan Rowland (0797 6294626 rccrides@gmail.com)

Bike Week - Bike+Music Tour

2008-05-25T15:16:00.000-07:00

Come and visit venues in the borough that made musical history. See the houses the Beatles lived in the film 'Help!', cycle past the place where Noel Coward was born, visit the venue of the Rolling Stones first gig and many more venues. We'll visit as many places as possible and give you a brief history of each location. We'll end up at the Cabbage Patch pub in Twickenham for their regular Sunday night folk club. Entry will be a discounted £5 and there will be some food available. The Cabbage Patch also hosts the continuation of the legendary Eel Pie club on a Wednesday (the original is part of the tour).

Meet at Richmond train station at 16:30, opposite the site of the Rolling Stones first gig - The Crawdaddy Club. We hope to end up at the Cabbage Patch at 19:00 in time to have something to eat and then move on to their folk club for some music. Folk doesn't take your fancy? Come along anyway, there will be a history leaflet and some music available, so you can stop once we reach the pub and take home a memento of Richmond's musical history. Can't make the ride? Meet us at the pub for an evening of Richmond's finest musical entertainment.

Date: Sunday 22nd June
Meet time: 16:30
Meet Place: Outside Richmond Station
Contact: Jonathan Rowland (0797 6294626 rccrides@gmail.com)

Bike Week Ride - Solstice Ride

2008-05-25T15:15:00.000-07:00

Well, it's nearly the solstice when this ride takes place...

With all the other South West London LCC groups meeting at the Roebuck for a drink and chat, who are we to argue that that's not worthwhile? We'll pootle about for an hour or so and then head for the pub and a drink and chat. Don't fancy the ride? Meet at the pub around 20:00.

Date: Wednesday 18th June
Meet Time: 19:00
Meet Place: Little Green, Richmond
Contact: Jonathan Rowland (07976 294626 rccrides@gmail.com)

Richmond Rides - Sunday 1st June

2008-05-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

Ride out from Richmond around urban and rural roads and cycle paths towards Chertsey. Calling at real ale and cider pub and visiting one of Surrey’s best kept secrets, the Great Cockrow Railway, one of the world’s most elaborate railways. About 25 miles

Date: Sunday 1st June
Meeting Time: 10:15 am
Meeting Place: Richmond Little Green (Opposite Richmond Theatre)
Contact: Sue Higham (07940 338820 rccrides@googlemail.com)

Richmond Rides for Everyone - Saturday 17th May

2008-05-02T04:08:00.000-07:00

Come and join us for an easy paced ride around West London. Starting at Mortlake Green we will ride through Barnes, Putney, Roehampton and Sheen covering approx 10 miles.

Date: Saturday 17th May
Meeting Place: Mortlake Green - lower end
Meeting Time: 10:15 for 10:30 departure

Contact: Sue Higham
Telephone: 0771 252 8573
Email: rccrides@gmail.com

Richmond Rides for Everyone - Saturday 19th April

2008-04-16T10:08:00.000-07:00

Come and join us for a ride around the towpaths and roads of Richmond and Petersham. We will stop for coffee at the YMCA/Hawker Centre where there is an enclosed childrens play area. Approx 9 miles.

Date: Saturday April 19th
Meeting Time: 10:15 am
Meeting Place: Richmond Little Green (opposite Richmond Theatre)
Contact: Sue Higham
Telephone: 0771 252 8573
Email: rccrides@gmail.com

A Ride For All Seasons

2008-04-16T02:42:00.000-07:00

Woke up to a blanket of snow, and immediately thought about going back to sleep, but remembered oh no, it’s RCC ride day! Went to meeting point and hoped no one would turn up, but there were 3 hardy individuals, including me, all fired up with enthusiasm. It was still snowing when we set off and continued for a while. We went past Henry VIII’s palace at Hanworth, which he gave to Anne Boleyn when she was still in favour. From there we continued northwards, and the thought that struck me was that the weather was actually very suitable, as even Feltham looks pretty in the snow.

A tour around the perimeter road on the eastern side of the airport then took us to the “lost” villages, Sipson and Harmondsworth, which will be demolished if the 3^rd Heathrow runway is built. Harmondsworth in particular is very pretty, with a quaint square, complete with cottages, pub and church, and this is where we had the hailstones. We continued through Harmondsworth Moor country park, sandwiched between the M4 and the M25 which was beautiful, especially in the snow.

We continued round to the new terminal 5 which has only been open for 2 weeks, and decided to pop in for lunch. The cycle provision is not very good, hardly any cycle routes and no bike parking that we could find. We parked in the motor cycle area, then warmed up in the terminal, and had coffee, cake and soup, which was very welcome. We could watch the planes arriving from the café.

For the journey back to Twickenham, the skies cleared and the sun came out. We saw a woodpecker hammering to build his nest in Crane Park, and then it started snowing again, and one of us got a puncture. All in all, a good, interesting ride, despite the weather and the urban, commutery feel of it. Well worth doing. Thanks to those brave souls for turning up with such enthusiasm.

Words and Pictures by Sue Abel

Richmond Rides - Around the outskirts of T5 - hand baggage only

2008-04-01T10:10:00.000-07:00

Come and join us for a topical tour around the outskirts of Heathrow and past the new Terminal 5 building. Our ride will take us along roads and paths with some off-roading too. The ride will be approx 25 miles long. We will stop for a pub lunch along the way, or bring your own lunch if you prefer.

Route: http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/104500

Date Sunday 6th April
Meeting Time: 10:00 am
Meeting Place: Whitton Train Station
Ride Leaders: Sue and Ian Abel

Contact Name: Sue Abel
Contact Phone: 07919 402005
Contact Email: rccrides@gmail.com

Richmond Rides for Everyone - Saturday 15th March

2008-03-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

Come and join us for a gentle ride from Mortlake, along the towpath, up to Putney and on to Fulham. We will break for coffee at Fulham Palace with gardens and great home made cakes.

Date: Saturday 15th March
Meeting Time: 10:15 for 10:30 departure
Meeting Place: Mortlake Green - Lower End
Ride Leader: Susan Scorer

Contact: Sue Higham
Telephone: 0771 252 8573
Email: rccrides@gmail.com

Richmond Rides: Hills and More Hills - North Downs

2008-02-24T14:07:00.000-08:00

2nd March
Come and join us for a seriously hilly ride around the North Downs. We will be covering approx 35 miles with great scenery, very few cars, and if you aren’t sold on the ride yet, we’ll be visiting the famous pie shop in Peaslake.

We will be meeting at Richmond Railway Station at 08:50 am and will get the 09:09 train to Boxhill and Westhumble. Return rail tickets are £7.80.

Route:
http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Around-the-North-Downs
Date: Sunday 2nd March
Meeting Time: 08:50
Meeting Place: Richmond Railway Station
Contact Name: Sue Higham
Contact Phone: 0771 252 8573
Contact Email: rccrides@gmail.com

Richmond Rides For Everyone

2008-02-14T06:43:00.002-08:00

Saturday 16th February
Meet: Mortlake Green - lower part
Meet Time: 10:15 for a 10:30 departure
Contact Name: Sue Higham
Contact Email: rccrides@gmail.com
Contact Phone: 0771 252 8573

Meet us at Mortlake Green for a ride along the Thames towpath. Starting off from Mortlake Green we will follow the towpath up to Hammersmith Bridge and will come back on the north side of the Thames, returning via Strand on the Green and Kew. There will be a coffee stop along the way. We will cover about 9 miles, mainly on the towpath with some parts on road.

Richmond Rides - Shepperton to Chobham

2008-01-22T08:26:00.000-08:00

Sunday 3rd February
Meet: 09:45 at Fulwell Railway Station or 10:15 at Shepperton Railway Station
Ride Leader: Jonathan Gurney
Contact Name: Sue Higham
Contact Email: rccrides@gmail.com
Contact: Phone: 0771 252 8573

Come and join us for a circular ride around the Surrey countryside. Meet us either at Fulwell railway station at 09:45 or at Shepperton railway station exit at 10:15.

Starting off from Shepperton, we will head out to Chobham, passing Chertsey and Chobham Common, returning to Shepperton through Addlestone and Weybridge. We will cover a distance of 27 miles and will stop for a pub lunch along the way. The ride is on-road so suitable for all bikes.

Route Map:
http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Shepperton-Chobham

Richmond Rides for Everyone - A Joust to the TiltYard for Tea

2008-01-10T09:32:00.001-08:00

Saturday 19th January
Depart: 10:30
Location: Teddington Station
Leader: Susan Scorer
Email: rccrides@gmail.com
Contact: Phone: 0771 252 8573

Meeting Points:
Either at Teddington Station exit on Station Road at 10.15 for a 10:30 departure
Or at Ham side of Teddington Lock at 10:45 for an immediate departure.

Crossing the river at Teddington Lock, this ride makes its way to the Tiltyard Cafe at Hampton Court and then back through Bushy Park. About 9 miles.

In case you were interested, tiltyards were built for jousting matches. The one at Hampton Court was built by Henry VIII and the cafe is named after it. There is also a Tiltyard Tower, where the jousting could be watched. Not all of this info came from Wikipedia.