Winter Solstice Wonders

NB: There is a Sunday event!

Route: Why not celebrate the Winter Solstice with this, the antidote to Christmas shopping? It is a modified and extended version of the Wonders of Wakefield route, mainly off-road on mostly good easy trails exploring some of the rural scenery round Wakefield. This includes Newmillerdam Woods, Rabbit Ings country park, Anglers country park, Nostell Priory, Walton Colliery nature park, Heath Common and Pugneys Lake. The route may be altered or shortened depending on weather, trail conditions and how we are for time.

Lunch: We will stop for lunch at Nostell Priory (National Trust) where there is a café, and also a takeaway with a small selection of hot & cold food - or you can bring your own snap if you prefer. An alternative lunch stop may be used if circumstances dictate.

Lights: We should be back well before sunset which will be at 3:47pm, but nevertheless you are advised to have lights on your bike, especially if you intend riding home afterwards.

Meet: 09:45 for 10:00 departure, close to the recycle bins at Asda superstore, Asdale Road, Wakefield, WF2 7EQ. Don't worry - you won't get clamped!

What3Words: https://what3words.com/outer.peach.proved

Nearest rail station: Sandal & Agbrigg (1.5 miles).

Distance: 25 miles.

Duration: 5 hours including stops (estimated).

Technical difficulty: BLUE (Moderate), nothing particularly technical, but some sections of trail could well be rather slithery if there has been recent rain.

Physical difficulty : BLUE/RED (Moderate to Difficult), 1,300ft total ascent with no long 'lung buster' climbs, but soft surfaces and/or windy conditions would make this more tiring on a 'manual' bike.

Suitable For: Mountain bikes (hardtail is fine), or Gravel bikes but only in experienced/skilled hands!

Recommendations: Lights, Spare tube, Tools, Pump, Snacks, Energy bars/drinks, Water.

Safety: No Helmet = No Ride!