Another early start to grab the daylight.

Once we’ve headed through some suburban sprawl a surprisingly green route. Lunch in Richmond Park, before heading back across Wimbledon, Wandsworth and Clapham Commons.

Suitable for all bikes new or old but definitely not racers. Mild off road shouldn’t cause other bikes any problems.

Total distance between 35 and 40 miles but as this is essentially a town ride you can drop out at any time. Pace decidedly moderate.

Bring lights of course.

Report

Roy, Rob, Ian, Paul for a pre Christmas Ride. My usual route over Streatham, past the rather glorious waterworks, through Tooting and Colliers Wood, then up through Wimbledon.

Eventually we arrived at what is possibly London’s most dangerous quasi-cycle crossing, across the murderous A3 to get through the Robin Hood Gate into Richmond Park. As someone who used to drive, somewhat speedily at times, I know that at this part of the road driver are just waiting for the long straight so that they can gun the engine. Here, on a bend, there’s a thoughtfully provided crossing but with no lights controlling it. Sensible folk would detour to the bridge but it’s always tempting to try to dodge the traffic. Eventually we managed it – then saw a guy with a sign bravely step into the torrent of traffic to allow horses from the nearby stables to cross.

Into Richmond Park through the Robin Hood gate and by now the day was truly wonderful. Blue skies and wonderful winter light. A three quarter tour of the park with lunch in the middle at the cafe and we left to climb up through the Roehampton Estate, then across Putney Heath, Wimbledon Common and Clapham Common. Ian tells me the dodgier activities hereabouts are a thing of the past but unless I’m mistaken the tea bar advertised itself as doing a 24-hour trade.

Back through a variety of south London backstreets and byways we arrived at the famous Brandon Estate. Well it should be. Hidden in the middle of the estate, which is surprisingly green once you venture in, is a Henry Moore. The other reason? Some of Dr Who was filmed here – it was home to Rose’s mum. Check out the pic with Ian and Roy – put back the crossed floor tiling which Southwark Council has very recently tarmacced over and the scene may look familiar.

Around 35 miles of gentle pootling all in all. Glorious winter weather.