Winter Ride in Berkshire

In another go at building our fitness for the 2012 season I suggest we explore Berkshire, an area that did not disappoint us when we explore its most southwestern part last year.

Start: We meet 8.30am at Paddington for the 8.50am service to Slough. There's a second service at 8.57am although it takes twice the time to arrive. First Great Western are pretty strict about the 6 cyclists limit so we will need to use two services on this occasion. The ride will start at Slough Railway Station promptly at 9.30am. Return tickets to Slough will cost £8.40 or HALF THAT PRICE with group savers.

Route: I'm trying to gradually build up the miles so this ride will be 55 miles long. with a maximum elevation just under 500 feet it's not hilly although the elevation profile shows a few steep climbs. The route takes in Iver Heath, Farnborough Common, Flackwell Heath and parts of Windsor Park so it should be pretty and along quiet roads. This is an INTERMEDIATE level ride and guidance about the group's pace may be found here. Please ensure you are at the right level of fitness for the ride.

Stops: We will have a short snack stop before lunch and the pub lunch will be about 40 miles into the ride for about an hour. Lunch is unlikely to be before 2 pm and we will stop in a countryside pub.

What to bring: Road or hybrid bike in roady condition; snacks and water to refuel regularly as we do not have time to stop to buy them en route; water/wind proof gear; spare inner tube(s), pump, some cash. LIGHTS!!! and a Helmet. Yours and your fellow cyclist's safety is a priority.

Return to London: We have frequent trains back to London and the journey is either 15 or 30 mins long depending on the service. I hope to be back in London by 5.30pm/6ish the latest.

Weather : The ride will go ahead with grey cloud, drizzle or light rain. I will however cancel if the forecast is heavy rain or strong winds. This may result in last minute cancellations for which I apologise in advance.

"One of the aims of the Cycling group is to appreciate of our natural surroundings, local towns and villages. We hope to minimise our impact by making sure that we are responsible for our litter. Please dispose of all of your litter and snack wrappers carefully".

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