Cycle ride feedbacks
We meet on the 1st Friday and 3rd Thursday of the month, contact me on 07933741768 for details. Geoff Aston.
Our photo galley was unfortunately lost in a glich last year. G.A.
Ride report Thursday 17th November.
On a very pleasant sunny morning after days of exceptional rain, 8 set out from Kay's House in Brockenhurst and headed up Rhinefield Road where Ken joined us.
Due to exceptional flooding on the planned route it had to be abandoned. Linda and George who cycled down from Lyndhurst got extremely wet in the flooding before the Lymington River bridge on their way down, and this was on the planned route out and back. So we continued along Rhinefield Road as far as the Keepers cottage turning right onto the cycle track circling around the back of Rhinefield Hotel. We knew there was a Ford on this track and on arrival chickened out of attempting to cross due to the depth of water! Backtracking and turning left at the road, we continued until we turned right onto the cycle track heading south towards Poundhill Enclosure. Eventually arrived back at Rhinefield Road after chickening out again at another Ford This fortunately also had a bridge.
A group photo was taken, then back to Kay's for refreshments. The ride may have had to be rerouted and cut short, but it was just great to be out in the lovely weather. Thanks Kay for an excellent route , lots of laughs and brilliant hospitality .
Ride Report for 04th Nov
On a lovely sunny morning, four members met at the top of the incline at Southbourne Promenade End. After a week of heavy rain and gales it was lovely to see the sun and appreciate the blue sea with the incoming rollers. We soon realised that the strong winds had pushed a lot of sand onto the promenade and the fine weather had brought out the crowds. Concentration was needed in order to avoid the worst of the sand and though there were plenty of wobbles none of us came off. As usual we had a welcome break at the Jazz Cafe,(only one taker for eggs benedict!) and plenty of chat before returning to the start.
Miles 16(approx) Height gained Very little Scenery Beautiful, Linda .
Thursday 15th September
Five riders met at Bolton’s Bench on a cool grey morning at the usual time 10:00am.
We set off towards Ashurst along the Southampton Road turning right to Ashurst Lodge, then crossing over the refurbished railway bridge into Deerleap Inclosure.
Turning left out of the southern gate brought us to the New Forest Wildlife Park for well-earned refreshments.
The return route took us through Deerleap coming out behind the Happy Cheese and back along the Southampton Road, a distance of 9.5 miles.
A familiar but enjoyable route.
George
Friday 2nd September
Friday 2nd September saw us meeting at Gin's farm car park on the coast at St Leonards.
We headed west along the tranquil St Leonards road passing the site of Needs Oar temporary airfield soon entering the Beaulieu estate track Park Lane. it emerged at Sowley Lane passing Sowley pond. The route is largely flat with the occasional slope but surrounded by open fields and intermittent glimpses of the Isle of Wight. We headed north through the hamlet of East End in the direction of East Boulder where we passed the vast array of strawberry polytunnels of New Forest Fruits. We returned via Bucklers Hard. The warm weather enabled us to enjoy a delicious cooked lunch outside together sitting by the Beaulieu River estuary, a truly picturesque setting for this occasion.
Cheers, David
David Haslam
Thursday 18th August
!8th August
Four of us met at Furzey Gardens car park on a pleasant, but not too hot of morning.
After going under the A31 we followed the cycle path to Stoney Cross Plain. We cycled along the road to the cycle path on Ocknill Plain reaching a speed of 14mph along the open flat road. After that it was downhill to the Red Shoot/Emery Down road where an ebike versus manual bike challenge took place up to the Canadian Memorial!! It was then through Highland Water Inclosure to Annie's at Acres Down for coffee and cake. After a very pleasant sit in Annie's garden it was a few minutes ride, including crossing a ford with running water, back to Furzey.
Distance cycled 9.5 miles. Moving time 1hour. Coffee stop 1.5 hours. Led by Linda .
Friday 5th August
Hi Geoff and All
Report of today's ride from Boltons Bench Cricket Pavilion car park:
Under bright sun with a cooling breeze 5 riders including new group rider, Simon Stephens, set off from the Cricket Pavilion at a slick pace to Matley and Denny Woods, thence towards Standing Hat. Shortly before which we spied Kay approaching for a perfectly timed rendezvous. A left loop after the S H gate took us back along refreshing forest-shaded tracks to top of Denny Lodge Hill. Here the ‘leader’ after lagging a long way behind ‘volunteered’ George as Deputy/Stand-in, who ably led the fleeter 5 across open heath to Shatterwood/The Drift. Thence via 2 railway bridges, Ashbury Lodge and Southampton Road to finish at New Forest Golf Club - with its welcome drinks and tea cakes/hot food. The tardy leader had taken a long short-cut to the Club to alert management of the imminent arrival of 5 thirsty and hungry non-golfers. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!
Thanks to George and to Brian, Kay, Tim and Simon who cycled all or a greater part of the 22.3km ride in 1hr 45mins on the move, in such good humour. With even more kilometres riding home for Kay and George.
Next ride: Thursday18th - leader by appointment by Geoff. David B
Brockenhurst Circular Ride Thursday 21st July 2022
6 headed out from Kay's House, Linda and George having already cycled to join us from Lyndhurst and Beaulieu Road respectively.
We headed to Meerut Road to Join Rhinefield Road, turning right at the top of the hill and down towards Aldridge campsite and Beachen woods where we joined the forest tracks. Turned left to go through Hurshill Enclosure heading towards Rhinefield. At the tracks crossroads we took a detour to Blackwater Carpark in the hope - unfullfilled- of finding an ice cream van! So we backtracked and resumed the ride crossing Rhinefield Road and followed the track running behind Rhinefield house and back down Rhinefield road, where after a short distance we turned left back onto the forest tracks, over a Ford and back to the crossroads. From there we followed the outward route back to Kay's for refreshments. The distance was about 14 undulating miles. The weather was perfect for cycling after the extreme heat of Monday and Tuesday and there were several necessary "slurp" stops on the way to take in water.
I think we all enjoyed it! Kay L.
Friday 1st July 2022
After meeting in the car park of Furzey Gardens, seven of us set off on a beautiful morning for a challenging ride north of the A31. After negotiating a muddy underpass we took the cycle path to Stoney Cross, then on the road to Fritham. We took the cycle path through the woods and onto Hampton Ridge, passing some interesting remnants of WW2 before reaching Frogham. Here there were more donkeys than people or cars, with one particular group lazing about outside the pub!!! From there it was left towards Hungerford and a timely stop at The Potting Shed coffee shop, where we sat in their beautiful garden for well earned refreshments and chat. Having cycled some serious ups and downs on the outward journey we knew what we were facing on our return trip!!
Distance cycled 17miles (27.5 km) Height Gain 843ft (257m) Actual cycle time 2.5 hrs.
Apologies to anyone who is feeling a bit stiff or sore post ride.L.Y. Thanks Linda for a great ride and report.G.A.
Thursday 16th June 2022
4 us indulged in another ride to the Jazz Cafe for a splendid snack of egg benedict and various other goodies . The esplanade was at it's best , with people in a happy holiday mood and some cases sizzling in the heat. Blue sky , blue sea left us in a happy mood . Promenade closed July and August so next promenade ride will be after August . Thanks to all for coming and good company,
G.A.
Thursday 19th May 2022
Seven of us met up at Ken‘s house and made a prompt start.
We went down the back lanes over the railway crossing and up the steep hill to the church. As expected some of us had to get off and walk for a short while.
We then cycled through Roydon woods (another long steep hill) to Dilton Farm and on to
Beaulieu Heath.
We then followed a track into Roundhill campsite, and rode around the perimeter and a lovely long, swooping downhill cruise back to Ken’s house.
It was a delightfully social ride at an easy pace - 15km, 2 hours 10 minutes, of which one hour 30 minutes was moving! We enjoyed lots of chat, both during the ride and for an hour at Ken’s house - luckily he’d provided two cakes! Ken G.
Friday6th May
> Six of us enjoyed our first ride along the seafront in about a year. We set off from Southbourne on a lovely sunny morning and cycled the 7 miles to the Jazz Café for brunch as usual.
> On the return ride, we found that our preferred ice cream venue is under refurbishment but we did manage to buy ice creams at a nearby kiosk.
> We all agreed that we would be happy to repeat this ride soon for those who were not able to join us this time.
>
> Best wishes
> George
Friday 1st April
Five of us - David, Ken, George, Kay and Linda enjoyed a crisp and sunny ride this morning, rather different to the usual.
We met at Moors Valley and did an initial 3 miles up towards Verwood and back, passing lakes, streams, rivers etc.
We then did a very winding and narrow “through the forest“ track.
We were out for just over two hours followed by coffee or lunch lunch at the on-site restaurant. A lovely morning and it was suggested that we should definitely repeat this ride next year, but starting at the car park just south west of Verwood. (to avoid the Moors Valley car park charges).K.G.
Monday 21st March 2022
Tim led us on a really interesting ride from Stockbridge , on the west side of the Test valley , north along quiet lanes to Goodworth Clatford , where we crossed the River Anton , a tributory of the River Test , to Harewood and south to Wherewell , to West Down and the southbound cycle track to Stockbridge, a distance of 13.99 miles and top downhill speed of 31 mph. We admired stunningly beautifull rural villages , fantastic solar farms , WW2 remains in Harewood , in this remote , hilly and quiet area of North Hampshire.All agreed , this area deserves further rides . Lunch at the White Hart, and I investigated the ancient nearby chapel , marked E.R. 1538 (that's the first Elizabeth R !) and well worn sword sharpening hollows in the entrance stone wall. Thanks Tim , for devising this enjoyable ride , and hope your new bike went well, G.A.
Friday 4th March 2022
9 of us met at Cadman's Pool for a cycle through Holly Hatch and Broomy Lodge Inclosures to High Corner Inn , which wasn't open until 1130 , so onwards to the Red Shoot Inn , to repair a puncture , then on through Black Barrow lanes back to High Corner for refreshment and chat . A nice gradual hill through Holly Hatch back to Cadman's Pool , distance 9 miles , ascent altitude total 184 metres , descent altitude 84 metres. Thanks for all coming , Kay and her new bike rack , George for guiding us through some of the forgotten parts of the route , last done on 2016. G.A.
Friday 4th February
A great ride led by David H,thanks for leading David ,
The 10 mile ride went well, we all enjoyed coffee at the Minstead community shop who now have several benches to sit on, even cushions are provided. The ride was mostly on tarmac with very little traffic. Some of those amongst us discovered for the first time a descent down very muddy Mill Lane to Muddy Bottom. We had very fine weather and all returned intact to Lyndhurst with only marginal amounts of mud on us. D.H.
Monday 17th January 2022
A wonderful ride of 14.9 miles ,through Rhinefield , and totally unique , as we cycled 5 abreast along the normally busy A35 (closed due to Holmsley bridge repairs ). We nominated Kay to work her charm on the workmen to let us through the construction site to Holmsley Station cafe , but I was nominated instead. Said workman was surprisingly polite in turning me away, with a strange hand signal, and we detoured through Wilverley Inclosure , back along the Set Thorns railway path to Ken's house for excellent refreshment of coffee and homemade cakes. Thank you for all attending and Ken for leading and refreshment , G.A.
Monday 20th December 2021
8 riders had a marvellous Christmas lunch at Fairweather's Beaulieu , Sue winning the surprise bike gift . Big thanks to Linda for organising and guiding us through all the uncertainity of covid restrictions, G.A.
Friday 3rd December 2021
Eight of us met at the war memorial in Lyndhurst on a mild but grey morning.
Hilarity ensued when it was discovered that Linda's recently acquired bike had it's front wheel on back to front. George and Geoff and a set of allen keys soon solved the problem, so we set off along Southampton Road
We turned left into the forest and meandered our way through Busketts Lawn Inclosure, crossing Bartley Water and exiting on to Woodlands Road. We followed the road to Ashurst where three members returned directly to Lyndhurst and the remainder went into Deerleap Inclosure.
We all met up again - including Kay - at Linda's for teacakes, mince pies and sherry
Our next meeting is Monday 20th December when we have a Xmas lunch booked at Steph's Kitchen for 1pm... thanks Linda for leading this route , your excellent Christmas hospitality and entertaining report. G.A.
Monday 15th November 2021
A good turnout of 6 folk met at the Mottisfont Abbey CP and a ride up the minor road to Stockbridge , passing some beautiful autumn leaf colours , interesting rural villages and the 2,800 acre Leckford Estate , owned by John Lewis and supplying produce to Waitrose. The Woodfire cafe in the High Street was an excellent al fresco stop over for refreshment besides one of the babbling streams of the River Test . An interesting ride down the railway line back to the car park followed . About 13 miles , an excellent and interesting ride , thanks to all and Tim for organising and welcome to David Haslam for coming along on your first ride with us . G.A.
Friday 5th November 2021
A big turn out of 7 folk , nice to see David back and Linda on her e bike. Brilliant weather put us in a good mood for a happy ride to Denny Wood , trees looking beautiful in their Autumn colours, round to Balmerlawn Hotel terrace for coffee and mini cakes in the sun and much anecdotes ,chatter and noisey banter,which didn't seem to prevent the manager from inviting us back again ! Return route via New Park track , Pinkney Lane etc . Well done everybody for a brilliant day , thanks again for making it such fun , G.A.
Monday 18th October 2021
George led Tim, Ken and myself on a switchback ride from Janesmoor Pond through the legal circuituous gravel tracks of Kings Garn Gutter, exhilirating down hill spins and hardy slogs up the slopes , which we all felt a little smug about as we coped with quite well . Onwards and upwards through the relative comfort of Long Beech concrete (ex WW2 ) paths south to the A31 underpass and down to Furzey Gardens for scrumptious drinks and snacks and the inevitable chats and anecdotes , all accompanied by dank skies and grey drizzle . Back to Janesmoor Pond , about 10 miles , thanks George et al for great morning out , G.A.
Monday 20th September 2021
Hi everyone. Lovely ride today by 5 of us (Myself (Ken), Geoff, John Robinson, our new man Tim and first timer Martin).
We set off from Knightwood Oak car park, down to Woods Corner then South of Burley and the long swooping descent to Holmesley Passage. We took the old railway line north and then into Burley for coffee and cake. (Cakes for Martin!). We took the Lyndhurst Road as far as Anderwood and then back on the gravel trails to Knightwood Oak. A bit longer ride than usual at 23km and a surprising 215m of ascent - well done everyone, a really pleasant morning, which I really enjoyed.
Our next ride is the first Friday in October, the 1st.
Volunteers to plan and lead (to Geoff) please.
Thanks again to all who came for making it such a pleasant time.
Ken
Friday 3rd September 2021
Lots of folk away / injured / recovering , so John R and myself cycled to the Belmer Lawn hotel for coffee and a natter in the refurbished terrace , all very nice and plush . Usual route back to the Bench . Denny wood and the mature oaks was looking particularly good - very peaceful. G.A.
Monday 16th August
Ride, but no report
Friday 6th August 2021
A warm welcome awaited us on return from our cycle ride on Friday. Ken did say at the beginning that he hadn’t actually managed to cycle all the route so there were a few surprises. 6 of us set off from Sway down through lower Pennington, then on tracks and through some woodland and came out at the A337 and rode on the pavement 100 yards to the entrance to the tip. We then picked up a long narrow path which took us all the way to Keyhaven.
Cycling along the seawall towards Milford was a real challenge, the 50 mph head on wind bringing some of us to a standstill. We enjoyed bacon and sausage Ciabattas at the Lighthouse café and returned via Sturt pond, the eastern outskirts of Milford, and then, a real surprise, very well defined tracks through fields of 8 foot high maize. We re-crossed the A337 at Everton and then followed a succession of bridal paths and very quiet minor roads all the way back to our cars. Thanks for joining Sue and myself for these 13 varied and interesting miles and some have already spoken about doing it again!
See you soon,
Ken
Monday 19th July
Lovely ride for 3 of us from Lymington sea wall to Needles Eye Cafe Milford for Meditteranean type swim in warm (18 degrees) sparkling clear water , then coffee at Needles Eye Cafe and return via the Salt Road . The bike swim is a first for the group and well worth repeating when it's as hot as this , currently 30 degrees sunny, didn't even feel cold !
Thanks to Ken and Tim for making the day , G. A.
Wednesday 30th June 2021
5 of us took off from Southbourne for an enjoyable ride to the Jazz Cafe , Poole and back , due to cafe restrictions we had to forego our customary egg benedict and had to rough it with warm sausage rolls - it's a hard life !
This was the final day before the promenade was closed for July and August between 10 am and 6 pm , so we can promenade cycle outside those time if we want , or possibly use the rental e scooters . Thanks to all for turning up and an enjoyable day. G.A.
Friday 4th June 2021
3 of us ventured onto new ground south of Deerleap and through to the Drift Inn , where restrictions meant we were unable to gain refreshment, so a quick change of plan and back to the Wildlife Park for coffee, flapjack and chat catchup . Tim , our guest , enjoyed the ride , hope to see you again Tim, we're sure you will be in good hands with two other train enthusiasts in the group !
G.A.
MondaY 17TH May 2021
Numbers down so cancelled
Friday 7th May 2021
Four cyclists met at Cadmans Pool car park near Stoney Cross for a ride south through the A31 underpass to the Canadian Memorial.
We then passed through Highlands Water Inclosure before arriving at Annie’s at Acres Down for coffee/tea and a choice of 6 homemade cakes.
Our return journey was on a slightly different route covering 10 miles in total.
Best wishes
George
Monday 19th April 2021
John, George and myself cycled along Southampton Road to Ashurst onto The Wildlife Centre for convivial coffee and Eccles cakes and putting the world to rights , back through the watchamcallit centre road to Southampton Road and back . Good to get out and looking forward to getting back into our more adventurous routes and routines, especially as our normal watering holes are opening up (Annie's ,Spot in the Woods, Rosir Lee's etc) G.A.
Friday 2nd April 2021
5 of us met up at Bolton's Bench for coffee and hot cross buns , courtesy of George and his motorhome, nearly 3.5 month's after we last saw each other , what a long , long winter lock down, but we all survived , so that's the main thing , and still cycling. Thanks George for your excellent hospitality again. An excellent warm up ride down through Denny Wood to Kay's for garden refreshment and more catch up chat , thanks Kay for this well appreciated break . Back up to Pinkney Lane and Lyndhurst in beautiful spring weather . About 10 miles , enjoyed by all. G.A.
Monday 21st December 2020
George did us proud with an excellent al fresco get together in the lee of his motorhome , serving drinks , tea and superb home made mince pies (thank you Ann). Well wrapped up , we enjoyed a good gossip for 90 minutes - so nice to see everybody and hear their news, thank you George. Next ride is Friday (first Friday) .1st January 2021 , but we agreed we would all be doing other things , so no ride that day.
Monday 18th January 2021 is our next ride, suggestions made for the promenade ride if a nice winter day - can be exhilirating , let's see ,
Very best wishes,
Geoff
Friday 11th December 2020
A lovely morning. Ken, George, Kay and Linda cycled out the back of KnightWood Oak car park into Anderwood enclosure and up to Bolderwood.
The drizzle soon stopped and we had soft, hazy, misty sunshine through the trees, with pigs. George pointed out a small stand of Alpine spruce, which he had not seen before in the forest.
From Bolderwood we enjoyed the long run down to Wood’s corner and from there a quick sprint along the road and into Burley New enclosure, Burley Old enclosure, Dames Slough enclosure, over the road, through the car park into Anderwood enclosure and back to Knightwood Oak car park. We had a delightful picnic break about 11:45 with the bonus of chocolates provided by Linda.
I really pleasant 18 km. We meet again on Monday 21st for a Christmas picnic, venue to be notified.
See you then, Ken
Monday 19th October 2020
Great 10 mile ride lead by John R across to Matley Wood over to Deerleap and the Wildlife Park for covid coffee and biscuits and great craic (Irish / Scots dialect interesting emptimological history) featuring submarine pens , cafe routes , war stories etc. Back via Matley Heath, Ashurst Lodge (no mud!) A35 to the Bench . Forest very dry . Thanks everybody for great morning out , G.A.
Friday 2nd October 2020
Rained off due heavy downpours.
Monday 21st September 2020
A nice little ride from Bench to Balmer Lawn hotel for coffee on the terrace in lovely sun and excellent home made chocolate cake .Kay joined us for part of the ride , thanks John R Brian and Kay for making this such an enjoyable event - the forest looked magnificent and very relaxing , G.A.
Friday 4th September 2020
Kay led 5 of us on a diverse route through Hollands Wood , Parkhill Inclosure,Derry Lodge , Perrywood, Rail bridge , New Copse Cottage, bridge , Standing Hat and back to her's for excellent coffee cake, coffee and Jaffa Cakes in her garden where we had the usual lively discussions about all things topical. Thanks Kay for organising this and your kind hospitality ,
G.A.
Monday 17th August 2020
Five of us set up from Ken’s out from Brockenhurst along the old railway line and then through Setthornes campsite. (at the exit from which Ken unexpectedly found himself totally alone!) From here we stayed on the road to make sure we got to the Holmsley tearooms in good time to enjoy a long leisurely halfprice brunch at which we were joined by Sue and Mairi. We then departed via an off road trail under the A35 and up to Wilverley enclosure, but this time we took a new route, courtesy of Linda, which took us back under the road and through a river (of course!). We then returned to Brockenhurst via the trails in Wooton enclosure and the old railway line, but this time going across Hinchelsea Bog to South Weirs and back to Ken’s.
A lovely ride in warm sunshine.
Next ride is Friday September 4th, possibly along the seafront to the jazz café.
Best wishes to all, Ken
Friday 7th August 2020
A small but happy group of two of us (JR and GA) headed down from the Bench to Balmer Lawn Hotel for a pre booked track and trace coffee on the terrace , sheltering under the intense sun from some super large shades for some catch up chat .The shady ride of Parkhill Inclosure was a great boon in the heat , Mairi was due to drive to join us but was beaten by the Lyndhurst traffic and turned back. Interestingly our temperatures were taken at the hotel and full covid protocols observed so we were able to relax - prebooked track and trace refreshment stops maybe the way forward for our little group in the future. 10 miles in total , but felt more in my terrible post lock down unfitness ! Thanks John for joining me , see you all next time . G.A.
Monday 20th July 2020
John Robinson, Brian, Linda and George met at Ken’s house, George and Linda having cycled from home! We went up to the old church and through Roydon Woods as far as Dilton Farm. From here we carried on east towards Beaulieu Heath, continuing across the heath as far as the main runway. We then circled back and re-entered Roydon Woods at Little Dilton farm, where we rested for our drinks and snacks. Ken had lost his fairly early on in the journey, so many thanks to all who contributed! The route back to Ken”s was by crossing the A337 at the Filly Inn, making the route an 18km figure of eight with 140m of height gain. A really good trip, especially as only George and Linda had done the tracks as far as Dilton farm previously and none of the group had gone the route we took beyond that.
Many thanks, Ken .
Friday 3rd July 2020
We meet again! 5 of us at the Bench and off through the woods to Denny Wood and down to Brockenhurst and Kay's garden for socially distant seating in her garden for our own refreshments and a catch up of everybody's events , which was most enjoyable after such a long absence. Return through the triangle , Pinkney's Lane and Lyndhurst - wonderful to see the forest in full new growth , especially the flowering chestnut trees. Thanks to all who were able to come. G.A.
Ride Monday 15th June 2020
Kay lead a marvellous ride of 12 miles through Butts Lawn , Hurst hill and Rhinefield , being very unusual as the group met in two separate parties, one from Brock and one from Lyndhurst in "the triangle" , due to good logistical planning by Kay this all worked out ok and the two groups synchronised perfectly. Thanks Kay for leading this , unfortunately I haven't got the technical expertise to transfer your more detailed report from Whatsapp to this site, many thanks G.A.
Cycle ride Friday 5th June 2020
Thanks George for leading this ride and your report.
The Bench, Lyndhurst was the meeting place for our first group cycle ride since Lockdown.
Linda, Kay, John J, George and Roger (who arrived on his new bike) were the 5 riders. Welcome back Roger! We rode past the cemetery and joined the Beaulieu Road to Matley Heath, then on to the New Forest Wildlife Centre just in case we could use their benches for our picnic. As expected, all closed so we found a fallen tree in Deerleap Enclosure for our socially distanced snacks. Unsurprisingly, there was a lot of conversation about the current situation. We returned via Ashurst Lodge and Southampton Road to Lyndhurst.
A very enjoyable short ride led by George. We are all looking forward to the next ride in 2 weeks time.(correction by G.A. next ride Monday 15th June , 3rd Monday / 1st Friday pattern maintained)
Friday 6th March to Friday 5th June 2020
3 month's of lockdown , zero actual rides , but we had some marvellous virtual rides along the Loire valley contributed by Linda and a wild ride in the Scottish highlands by G.A. plus some entertaining WhatsApp posts and picture quizzes and Zoom get togethers , which kept us all connected and spirits up.
Friday 6th March 2020
7 of us headed out from Ken's house for a marvellous ride along the railway track to Wootton Bridge and on through Brownhill Inclosure and back the same way , this was an unknown area to me, bordering on the western edge of the forest and had a feeling of remoteness and isolation which was quite energising. Ken informed us that the railway track was built in the late 1800's , mainly by hand and some steam tractors and was disbanded by Dr Beeching in the early 1960's, pity the cycle lane cannot follow the track as it heads more westward. The usual racuous refreshment at the Terrace cafe , followed by a marvellous ride through bike wash and shampoo at Ken's . Many thanks Ken and the team for a marvellous day in lovely weather, G.A.
Monday 17th February 2020
Cancelled due waterlogged ground and low turn out
Friday 7th February 2020
Well done David for a enjoyable and entertaining ride from the Bench through Brick Kiln and onto the Ornamental drive and snacks at the Terrace Cafe with South African anecdotes and photos from Kay. Return ride through Park Hill Inclosure and we didn't get lost due to the expert local knowledge of David , 14.2 miles and quite a fast riding time , thanks to all for an enjoyable ride. G.A.
Monday 20th January 2020
A good turnout of 7 people and the star of the show was Linda's new electric bike - well done Linda , we hope you have many happy hours on it . George led us on a new route through Holland's Wood down to Balmer Lawn and onto The Terrace Cafe where we enjoyed sun and toasties on the terrace and the usual New Park route back - 12.2 miles which we all enjoyed, G.A.
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December 2019 Christmas Lunch
Well done Linda for organising a very nice Xmas lunch at Minstead Lodge - totally different surroundings , nice to help disadvantaged youngsters as well , interesting place , we all enjoyed good company and food, G.A,
December ride 2019
George organised a marvellous sherry and warm home made mince pies in his motorhome at the Bench - we then rode to Spot in the Wood for more Christmas chat over coffee - many thanks George for arranging this , G.A.
MONDAY 18th November 2019
Brock, Black Knoll, Wide Lawn, Brinken Wood, Viney Ridge, Fletchers Water, somewhere between 7 and 12 miles depending on which miles you used - Statute miles, Roman miles, Nautical miles or even JJ miles !
7 of us - yes seven ! riders massed at Kay's house for a rural roll through the enchanting Forest glades offering stunning views of Autumn colours. Mud levels were moderate, hill levels . easy and toasted tea cakes at Kay's house afterwards - superb!
Thanks to all for coming and to Kay for organising and the hospitality of her new house and Jess the dog.
Dates : next ride Friday 6th December - I can't do due ex Works Xmas get together , so leader needed.
Thursday 12 December - Bike Xmas lunch Minstead Lodge , Linda has details.
Monday 16th December ride , leader please .
G.A.
Friday 1st November 2019
Furzey , Hampton Ridge, Frogham 17 miles
Soft going on the wet gravel tracks gave us some good aerobic exercise on this remote corner of the Forest - interestingly I recently learnt of an acquaintenance who commuted to Fordingbridge by bike on this route - impressive! G.A supplied the biscuits and coffee at the Forester Pub while John R and Ken provided the anecdotes a thoroughly enjoyable ride , naturally finishing off with the obligatory coffee and excellent giant crumpets at the Furzey Cafe. G.A.
Friday 18th October 2019
Furzey Fandango ! Where is Furzey ? why do I always get lost trying to find it ! Thanks Linda for leading this 10.9 mile ride from Furzey through the underpass and around Kings Garn Gutter and Salisbury Trench and back where we had excellent toasted tea cakes and coffee at the wonderful Furzey Cafe and one of our number regaled us with stories of adventures in the Middle East - also spotting late swallows and fly agiate. Don't forget to try and recruit new members so we can run a ride each session , and avoid having to cancel due to lack of numbers , G.A.
Friday 4th October 2019
Promenade ride cancelled due strong winds, however the message didn't reach George who completed an epic solo ride against the strong wind to the Jazz Cafe and halved his time back , negotiating deep sand drifts along the way. Thanks John J. for trying to get this ride going and well done to George for completing! G.A.
Friday 20th September 2019
Ken led us on a magical ride , North Weirs , South Weirs, Hinchelsea Bog, railway line west, Wootton Inclosure, Wilverley Inclosure, Holmsley Tea Rooms, Back through Wilverley Inclosure, (to old Naked Man road) minor road across Hinchelsea Moor and back to the Weirs and Ken's house for tea and coffee. About 2.5 hours riding about 7 to 10 kilometres.
This was a special ride for me having never cycled through this part of the Forest , interesting and varying landscape , broad leave woods , hills , open moorland , bogs how lucky we are to have the Forest and free access.
Also a first for me was brie, bacon and cranberry sauce sandwich - beautiful flavours , at Holmsley Cafe. Thanks to Ken for leading and John R for powering up the hills and giving us a slipstream ride, . Thanks also to Ken for gaining permission from Commoner to proceed through Drift route , which we partly saw , very impressive.
Route rating = A*
GA
Further out route notes, for future reference:
Crossed stream FB at Trenley Lawn (muddy in wet weather) stream 1 .
Joined railway line near electricity sub station .
Came off railway at unnamed CP
Into Set Thorns Inclosure, south west track to Great Ashen Bank , west track to 2 stream crossing , 2 gas? pipelines , probable tributaries to Avon Water flowing eventually into Keyhaven.
Passed Elkhams Grave area .
North into Broadley Inclosure,
Wootton Inclosure
North cross minor road to Wilverley Inclosure, stream 4 , muddy.
Head west to track under 40 mph rail bridge , to tea rooms .
Friday 6th Sept
Cancelled due lack numbers etc
Friday 16th August
Cancelled due numbers/ weather / family holidays
Friday 2nd August 2019
Cancelled due lack of numbers / weather/ family holidays
Friday 19th July
Cancelled lack of numbers / weather / family holidays
Friday 5th July 2019
George led 4 of us on a spectacular tour of the wildness and scenic beauty of the Northern New Forest , discovering hitherto unknown tracks , rolling hills , panoramic views shimmering in the summer warmth - what a place and right on our doorstep! Route followed was Bolderwood , Bratley Wood, Backley Plain (places I always wanted to explore as viewed speeding down the busy A31, and I believe much favoured smuggling routes of yore, due to its remoteness and hidden hollows). Then we came across the unseen grand country property of Old House - lottery winners wanting a secret grand house ,(not currently for sale) take note! On to Woods Corner and a detour around Burley Grange , passing the back of Burley Church , looking rather well off with it's plush contemporary additions , religion is obviously alive and well in Burley - could this possibly be due to compete with the legendary Burley reputation for witchcraft?
Skirting the dubious pleasures of the Queen's Head , George led us on to the quaint Old Farmhouse Cafe (bike friendly) where one of us excelled in consuming a legendary bacon baguette . Onwards back through Woods Corner and the challenging gravel tracks back to Bolderwood car park - electric bikes revelling in the ascending terrain and leaving me with the novel experience of being the permanent and distant back marker ! Well done George for a brilliant and stimulating route with loads of interest and well researched ,
Cheers G.A.
Friday 21st June 2019
Balmerlawn Hotel revisited , last time was October 2016 - 4 of us had an entertaining swap of sea stories and tasty snacks on the outside patio, after an enjoyable ride through the woods from the Bench - we were all impressed by John's electric bike - glad it came up to expectations John.Back by New Park 19 miles on the trip meter - thanks to all for coming - brushed away some pretty big cobwebs for me and felt a lot better for the exercise . GA
Friday 7th June 2019
Cancelled due heavy rain .
Friday 17th May 2019
14 miles in one gear , but still our muscles ached, however John came to our rescue with ice creams for everyone to keep us going for the final 1 mile - many thanks John.
Our start from Hengistbury Head was chilly and damp , not shorts weather for most of us , the Jazz Cafe at Sandbooks our turn around point was enjoyable - Egg Royale was particularly scrumptious. Our resident cliff slip member enlightened us with the technicalities of slumping while another member kept us informed on the political front.
The promenade ride is always a firm favourite and today proved the case again , thanks to everybody for coming along and for John R. for organising. GA
Friday 3rd May 2019
5 riders met at Standing Hat CP , Richard guided us through Perrywood Inclosure, Frame Heath , over the railway line and onto Moonhills and south to East Boldre where we visited a very rural and pleasant cafe shop and enjoyed cheese and bacon pie wraps and coffee. Back the same way - but with an interesting diversion to Woodfidley Cottages , across the level crossing on back to Standing Hat. Woodfidley was interesting for it's remoteness and intriguing wartime (?) concrete foundations. An enjoyable time had by all about 10 miles . GA
Friday 5 April 2019.
Six of us left Ken’s house on a chilly overcast morning, picked up the old railway track and cycled to Wooton Bridge. We then went through Wooton enclosure, crossed the A35 at Holmsley and continued north, picked up the old railway line again and headed south to the Old Station Tea Rooms where 4 of us enjoyed excellent thick bacon, Brie and cranberry sandwiches. We then followed a narrow muddy track under the A35 then up into Wilverley enclosure where, after some fairly steep hill, we then had a long cruise back to Ken’s.
The ride was just under 15 miles with 170 m of ascent and it’s fair to say that most of us were fairly tired at the end.KG.
Friday 1st March 2019
4 of us parked at Annie's car park (Acres Down) and made steady progress up the 320 foot incline to the Canadian War Memorial , marvelling at the stunning hilly views along the way and then a swift ride down alongside the fence of Puckpitts over a cute little stream in a pretty glade , the start of Highland Water , and up to Stonard Wood with its ancient pollarded trees and grand views over Withybed Bottom. 2 of our group then took the shorter route back to Acres Down , while we located Murray's Passage and a fine ride to Fox Hill ponds car park and a swift downhill ride down to Furzey Gardens for refreshment , joining up with the other 2 of our group . Great ride, thanks for everybody for coming ,not a huge distance but demanding with the hills and some muddy tracks . GA.
Friday 15th February 2019
Richard led 5 of us from Lymington Yacht Haven along the sea wall to Keyhaven and onwards to the newly opened Faros Cafe (formerly Marine Cafe) for the customary drinks and anecdotes. What a splendid day ! blue skies, blue seas, honking Brent Geese and the evocative call of the curlews, Pennington Marshes and the Solent at it's best. Thanks Richard for leading this ride of 10.9 miles.
Friday 1st February 2019
Planned longer ride from Acres Down through Withy Bottom, cancelled as approach roads likely to be icey and untreated.
Friday 18th January 2019
3 of us had a frosty ride through the woods to the Fat Pig (aka The Empress of Blandings) and 8 others arrived by car for an enjoyable post Christmas lunch with the usual selection of lively debate , news and corny jokes. Thanks George and Linda for organising , by common vote we decided to do again next year. GA
Friday 4th January 2019
7 of us met for a frosty ride through Denny Wood , down to Brockenhurst , unfortunately a moment of indecision on my part led to an interesting extra leg and some very cold cyclists arrived at the Terrace cafe , Brockenhurst for refreshment and a welcome warm up. Cycling back through Standing Hat we ignored the sign "Cyclists this way" which was my second mistake of the day as this sign would have led us back to our outward route and familiar paths to the Bench , instead we ploughed through mud and eventually got onto familiar paths into Pondhead Inclosure and the Bench . Thanks to all who turned up, welcome back to Richard and Carol, and apologies for my complete route bungling through the woods.
Don't forget our Christmas lunch at the Empress of Blandings Friday 18th January 1200
Good cycling.
Geoff
Friday 21st December 2018
5 of us met at the War Memorial for our usual Christmas Jolly , much banter resulted after imbibing the nectar of life and excellent Linda's home made mince pies, who unaminously won the prize for best festive decoration , not that her Christmas goodies swayed our vote! A quick change of plan led us going to Spot in the Wood for lively converstion about the topics of the day. Many thanks for your past year's support in the group and looking forward to another stimulating year ahead with our bike group.
Next ride , Friday 4th January 2019
Have a very happy Christmas and New Year
Best wishes,
Geoff
Friday 16th November 2018
On a grey dank morning five members met at the War Memorial, which was looking splendid with all the wreaths placed around it.
There was some concern and laughter when Linda-the leader for the day- arrived with her cycling helmet on back to front!!!. As she obviously didn't know whether she was coming or going, was she a suitable person to lead this morning's ride!!!!
Trusting her forward planning, we took off up past the cricket ground and along the ridge to the Beulieu Road. Crossing the road we then entered Denny Wood and after a bit of a climb reached a cycle path. After a meander through Parkhill Inclosure we returned to Lyndhurst via Beechan Lane. Finally, after some pavement cycling the wrong way up Gosport Lane we finished at Linda's for coffee and teacake.
Total distance 5 miles and no wrong turns despite Linda's helmet issues.
Thanks Linda for a great report , GA.
Friday 2nd November 2018
5 of us assembled at Ken's house in absolutely brilliant weather, no wind , blue skies and off we went down local tracks , rail station, Brockenhurst Park , Roydon Wood 'cross the Lymington river , then passed a farm (marvelling at the amazing amount of junk in the farm yard , and the pigs) and suddenly we popped out at Roundhill camp site . Thank goodness Ken was guiding us , we had no idea where we were up to that time. Then we got to the interesting part , an interesting cruise around Parkhill Enclosure , I slept in the sun while our navigators decided the route and home to Ken's for cake and coffee , what a great ride , 14 miles , 340 metres of ascent, thanks Ken and for the use of your son's bike . GA
Friday 19th October 2018
Last Friday was a gloriously sunny ride enjoyed by only 4 of us. We rode from the landward end of Hengistbury Head through to Poole with brunch at the jazz cafe and an ice cream stop on the way back.
KG.
Friday 21st September 2018
John R, and myself had a very enjoyable cycle up to Mary's house for tea and cake and swapping some anecodotes , fine ride back - the wind blew us all the way ! Thanks Mary for your excellent hospitality ,
GA
Friday 7th September 2018
Cliffhanger ! well that's what it felt like as 4 of us negotiated perilous paths and crumbling cliff edges to navigate our way from the Needles Eye Cafe westwards towards Avon beach, where the distant mirage of the Noisy Lobster cafe across swathes of sand was enough to turn us around and head back to the Cliff Hanger Cafe for refreshment and then onwards by road or cliff path to our cars where we bid each adieu , while one of us swam and partook of tea and sausage roll at the cafe . Thanks for a great ride - inspiration for the next leg to Mudeford and beyond , GA
Friday 17 August
Six of us, John, Kay, George, David, Brian and Roger, met at Boltons Bench and had a relaxed and friendly ride through Busketts Wood and Deerleap with slight variations on the usual routes to the Wildlife Cafe. Refreshments and toasted goodies before return, with riders peeling off to look after dog care and the like until Brian finished up at Boltons Bench alone. This worked out well for everybody. Not a hard ride or a long one but energetic enough and good company. JR
Friday 6th July 2018
Four of us - Ken, George, Kay and Richard had a excellent but hot ride starting from the car park in Sway. We rode through Set Thorns Inclosure and picked up the old railway line to Wooton Bridge. From there we went through Wooton Coppice Inclosure, across the A35 and through Homesley Inclosure to pick up the old railway line south to Holmsley station for a very social break.
We then picked up a narrow path that went under the A35 and we then climbed steadily on a narrow path to pick up the cycle track in Wilverley Inclosure. We splashed through Avon Water back into Wooton Coppice Inclosure and from there back to the start taking a different route through Set Thorns. The ride wasn’t particularly long at 20 km, but we did do 220 m of ascent.
I look forward to seeing you all in September
Best wishes Ken
Friday 15th June 2018
What a pleasant 10 mile ride we had through the local broad leaf woods around Ken's home and Rhinefield House, but what was the name of the streams we crossed? Highland Water? Fletcher's Water ? further investigation needed - we were just too impatient to get cycling ! Certainly the notorious Black water stream was crossed (thankfully dry) and some beautiful leafy deciduous woods were cycled through and to cap it all a delightful snack of cake and tea and coffee at Ken's house - life doesn't get much better than this ! Thanks Ken for leading and the excellent hospitality, GA
Friday 1st June 2018
3 of us ventured across the Solent on the Chalk Extreme Trail (Bicycle Island Route map on sale at Yarmouth Harbour Office) to Thorley and onwards to Chessell Pottery cafe for a refreshment stop before venturing up to Brook Down where we were rewarded with fine views of the thick sea mist blowing across the Down in dramatic veils, adding an eerie atmosphere to the bronze age burial mounds. Heading ever westwards , we encountered one spectral golfer in the thick mist, was he playing golf or looking for his lost ball ? A speedy descent followed down to Freshwater causeway and onto Kay's house for tasty toasties. A quick discussion resulted in the decision to push ever westwards on the Yarmouth cycle route towards Alum Bay, past the impressive Farringford House, former home of Tennyson. Running out of puff and time we headed back towards Yarmouth , what a sight the Yarmouth classic boat rally was , and Lymington. Total distance 19.8 miles, 21.8 miles if you include the ferry trip! E bikes performed well, thanks to my compatriots for an enjoyable ride. GA
Friday 18th May 2018
5 of us assembled at the Bench for a brilliant ride in sparkling sunshine along our much loved route along the A35 into Busketts Wood where we met Kay and her new e bike which looked just the business , welcome back Kay. The ride continued into the camp site and along the tracks to Deerleap and the Wildlife Centre for toasties and coffee , which we enjoyed outside in the wonderful sun - and the usual lively discussions and anecdotes, before setting off on a slightly different route for home. Thanks a lot for leading this ride John and a big welcome to our new member David we hope you enjoyed your first ride with us.
Friday 4th May 2018
8 of us assembled for another delightful ride from Hengistbury Head to Sandbanks and back along the promenade , as usual in beautiful weather , blue skies, blue seas and light breeze and wonderful views of the white cliffs of the Needles and Old Harry and of the many cafes, and bodies of various states of undress grilling in the strong sun from shades of winter white to pickled red and Mediterranean brown. The location and distance of Ladies conveniences were also carefully noted by one of our number, which gave rise to our group concern over this rather strange fascination and penchant, but we're sure she will get over it in time.
The Jazz Cafe spoilt us as usual with delicious egg benedict the lovely rich hollandaise sauce a treat.
Parking was made for free in the roads off Borne Road which is worth noting.Thanks to all for a great little ride. GA
Friday 20th April
George lead an enjoyable ride from Janesmoor Pond along WW2 roads , under the A31 and into Furzey Gardens where we ignored all the signs about being a peaceful , quiet place of contemplation and engaged in raucous and lively conversation , banter and craic over coffee and biscuits, as far as I can recall the topic of conversation could have been about cycling dates , but I could have been wrong! Lovely sunny weather as well . Thanks for a great little ride and lively company and putting up with me as a hopeless diary PA. Cheers Geoff
Friday 6th April 2018
George, Ken and myself had an invigorating ride from the Bench south to Roundhill Campsite ,and onto Beaulieu airfield where Ken left us to make an appointment at home . George and I pedalled on to the Turf Cutters pub at East Boldre where we had a good natter about all things outdoors before heading home on a slight diversion through Moon Hills and back the same way to the Bench . Distance 18.9 miles , a great ride really enjoyed. GA
Friday 23rd March 2018
Only four of us attended the ride yesterday, Carole George, John Jenkins and me. Even so at last spring seems to have arrived in the New Forest & the ride & weather was enjoyed by all.
Total ride was 10.8miles from Boultons Bench to Emery Down, on to Milliford Bridge cycling on the road. We then cycled via the forest tracks to Acres Down.
From Acres Down we cycled to Minstead & then up to Fursey Gardens, where fellow cycling member Linda made us all lovely coffee & tea cakes.
After refreshments we all made are way home.RD
GA : this ride replaced the cancelled ride on Friday 16th March due lack of numbers, thanks for your report and leading Richard.
Friday 2nd March 2018
Planned 20 mile ride to East Boldre and back , totally cancelled due snow and ice - first time ever ! Not even possible to cycle 1 mile let alone 20 due 4 inches of level snow and icy roads. Car travel to the Bench problematic. GA
Friday 16th February
6 of us had a marvellous ride in beautiful weather from Lymington along the sea wall to Keyhaven and onwards to Milford on Sea, turning around at the ice cream kiosk on the cliff tops , then back to the Needles Eye for refreshment. Bit of a carnival atmosphere as school holiday families enjoyed the Mediterranean weather , we cycled back through Keyhaven, along the ancient Salt / Smugglers road to Lymington Yacht Haven , admiring prolific flocks of marsh birds in the reserves. Thanks Ken for leading this brilliant ride , total distance 15 miles, GA
Friday 2nd February 2018
5 of us turned out for a nice long ride of 19.4 miles from the Bench to Denny Wood , Balmer Lawn and a pleasant refreshment break at the Terrace Café Brockenhurst , then onwards to Rhinefield , Park Ground and back to the Bench . Many thanks to Richard and Carol for leading this excellent ride.
Friday 5th January 2018
5 of us a good ride of 10.4 miles looping around the northwest corner of the Forest with a break at the Red Shoot Inn , Linwood. The tracks were pretty muddy , so hard going at times , beginning and ending at Cadman's Pool . Thanks to George for guiding us around this remote and beautiful part of the Forest. Geoff .
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Friday 15th December
5 riders had a good ride the route was towards Ashurst then past the lodge into Deerleap Inclosure then stopping at the Otter and Owl Park for refreshments. We then returned by a similar route.A distance of 10.5 miles and John R decorated his bike with christmas lights.
Friday 1st December
A good turnout of 5 people , we enjoyed the ride from Stoneymarsh car park , along the railway line to Stockbridge where we had an excellent coffee break in a local café and then return by the minor road to Horsebridge and back along the track to Stoneymarsh , a distance of about 10 miles. The temperature of 4 degrees and a fresh north wind guaranteed some rosy cheeks and frosty fingers !
Best regards,
Geoff
Friday 17th November
A good turnout of 9 people assembled at Ken's for a local ride through Bolderford Bridge, Poundhill Inclosure and Rhinefield where we split into 2 groups , one group returning to Ken's to make coffee , the 2nd group detouring back through Poundhill and back to North Weirs , an area I hadn't explored before so thanks to Richard and Carole who lead this detour. Coffee and cakes at Ken's ended a superb ride , thank you Ken and welcome to our new member , John Jenkins.
Friday 3rd November 2017
5 of us set out from the Bench , through Pike's Hill. Emery Down , Furzey under the A31 underpass then left turn along the official track to Stoney Cross and onwards to the Royal Oak at Fritham for refreshment where we waited until 12 for the pub to open, when unbeknown to us the side door was open ! Excellent coffees and chat about OO gauge model railways with some stunning photos followed by a leisurely ride back to the Bench for 1300, distance about 15 miles. Thick autumnal mist followed by bright sun meant we all enjoyed the ride. GA
Friday 20 October 2017
A visit to the Wildlife Park by six of us. John R led this ride. The group decided on a shortish trip and we went down the cycle motorway beside the A35 toward Ashurst, off onto a large circuit of Busketts Lawn Enclosure, through the Ashurst campsite and on to the Wildlife Park via Longdown Enclosure. Fortified with coffee and teacakes (and bacon and sausage rolls) we made our way back to Buskettes Lawn Enclosure via Ashurst Lodge and then decided to have a longer ride reversing our earlier route back to Lyndhurst. Total distance a fraction under 15 miles. Voted most enjoyable ride.
Friday 6 October 2017
An old favourite beckoned. Richard organised this ride along the seafront to the Jazz Cafe at Sandbanks from Hegisbury. The parking restrictions ended on 30 September and we were able to park for free on Southbourne Coast Road and avoid the evil parking charges in the car parks. A splendid day with sunshine, quite warm, no wind - what more could you ask. Richard and Carole, George, Brian H and John R assembled and we had a great ride and a cheery stop at the Cafe. The promenade was more crowded than we have ever seen it but we managed to avoid running down other cyclists, pedestrians, errant chidren and dogs which made it morer exciting. (JR)
Friday 15th September
Another lovely ride in sunshine. The area was unfamiliar territory to most. After leaving Sway we went through Setthornes inclosure then through the campsite on to Wilverley inclosure and a long sweeping downhill cruise through the trees passing under the old railway line/Burley road and we all happily splashed through Avon water without needing to put our feet down. We then returned via Wooton Bridge, the old railway line and a different part of Setthornes inclosure and really enjoyed a long leisurely coffee stop sitting outside at the Sway Deli.
From Ken.
Friday 1st September
5 of us thoroughly enjoyed a 19.8 mile route through Denny Wood to Denny Lodge then over the railway line to Ladycross Lodge and then onwards to Moon Hill, Rans Wood, Hatchett Gate and the road to Fairweather's Nursery café Beaulieu for refreshment where we resisted Ken's request to carry bags of garden gravel back for his garden. We decided not to carry on to Bucklers Hard , noting that for another day together with the possibility of an alternative route back.The sun was with us all the way and the Forest was looking at it's best - what a day ! and thanks to all for coming.
Friday 4th August
Five of us - John W, George, Carole, Richard and Ken enjoyed an "out of Forest" ride through Royden Woods east of the Brockenhurst to Lymington road, starting and finishing at Ken's. A bit bumpy and muddy in places, this 10 mile ride was a little more effort than most of our rides, but all very enjoyable. The bike wash hose at Ken's was much appreciated as was the tea and cakes.
Hopefully see you all on the 18th. Regards, Ken
Friday 21st July
John W., Richard and Carole, and Ken turned up and off we went to Pike's Hill ,Newtown, Minstead, Furzey Gardens for coffee and chat with Linda , then to the A31 underpass to the Rufus Stone . Note, this underpass is just to the west of Furzey Gardens along a gravel track and is an important unique link to the north area of the Forest so opens up huge possibilities to use circular routes to Fritham , High Corner Inn etc from Lyndhurst. Richard and Carol returned via the underpass , John W. and myself continued via Brook, Cadnam Green , Newbridge , Winsor and home. Much interest in Richard's electric bike which he got from Bike Republic, Southampton - nice to have you with us Richard . Cheers Geoff .
Friday 7 July 2017
Lovely day, sunny and warm. We met at Bolderwood Car Park under George's care. It was downhill from there! George, John R, Roger and Carole set off and once on the forest tracks found it a slightly scary ride for the first half mile downhill in new gravel - a very dodgy surface but all went well and it was a great ride to Burley through the Forest. Abundant tea rooms: George made a good choice with The Old Farmhouse garden. Tea cakes and coffee were ideal and we were joined by Richard Dickenson who has come by car. He has had to miss a few rides to a leg problem. An electric bike is probably appearing on the horizon - maybe the first of several. We set off with a sinking heart knowing that it was mainly uphill with long sections. Those tea cakes must have been wonderful because it wasn't as bad as expected. Back at Bolderwood George and John took advantage of an ice cream van to help recover. A jolly good 11.5 miles had been had. (JR)
Friday 16 June 2017. A glorious day on Bournemouth Promenade again. Six of us met at Hengisbury Head Car Park to find that the parking charge had rocketed but so had the temperature so we got on with it. A splendid ride to the Jazz Cafe where we indulged in a variety of snacks and coffee from Eggs Benedict to Moules Marinière! A visit to Sandbanks Beach followed by another ride to The Bistro for ice cream and for some a paddle in the sea. A very easy 16 mile ride on decent surfaces and no hills - mainly a social event really (JR)
Friday 5th May 2017.
11 of us boarded the Lymington ferry for a jolly jaunt to Freshwater, unfortunately, due to a small planning oversight , this resulted in us arriving at Freshwater in about 45 minutes - what to do now ? Creative thought(initiated by the ever resourceful George) resulted in us summiting Tennyson Down after an interesting walk up the golf course, burning up much unwanted energy ! A smart descent to the road and an interesting descent down to Yarmouth and refreshment in the Pier Café followed , where various electronic stats emerged :
Saddle time : 1hour 45 mins
Distance : 12.9 mls
Av Speed : 7.3 mph
Max Speed : 32.3 mph
Max height : 551 feet
Max riding time : 2hours 45 mins.
Note : flying golf balls on the high trail added to the magnificent views and lovely blustery se wind.
A warm welcome to 2 new members, Dave and Richard, we hope you enjoyed the chaotic and exuberant company !
Geoff
Friday 7th April. A brilliant ride through the Forest and onto the Queen's Head Burley where we sampled some delicious carrot cake and drinks sitting out on the patio in the sun, Spring has definitely sprung! Well refreshed we pedalled on through the rather large woods (plenty of future exploring to do here) and up the hill to the Canadian War memorial . JR decided to freewheel down the road to the Portuguese Fire place and home, while the rest of us free wheeled as fast as we dare down the tracks to Annie's where one of our number suffered mechanical problems and was later collected by car. A thoroughly enjoyable ride and hopefully a taste of many more to come, thanks for all attending, Geoff
Friday 31 March. Ken Garrod organised this 'long' ride. We met at Wilverly Inclosure car park and the four of us set off for a 12 mile jaunt on a bright day. The route was an excellent one. We had mainly Forest gravelled tracks with a few stretches of tarmac, some mud and some more mud. I must say that I had only a vague idea where we were some of the time but we did visit Burley village and, importantly, the old Holmsley Station, now a first class tea rooms. Toward the end Ken offered us the choice of a route via a very steep hill which we would all walk up or a detour but an extra three miles. We chose the detour and found that he had neglected to mention a small river to ford followed by a really glutenous section of mud. The river proved interesting! Ken went first and finished up stationary in the gravel nearly up to his knees in water. John R tried another route and finished up the same, George followed and was later seen wringing his socks and trousers out. Linda studied it carefully, raced at it and flew through successfully with the biggest smile ever seen. A great day. (John R)
Friday 17 March: Geoff oprganised this short ride, about 8 miles and an enjoyable one. From the Bench we had a quick run along the cycle path toward Ashurst, a loop through the Forest to join Woodlands Road, down beside the Happy Cheese and through Forest tracks again to the Wildlife Park and - you've guessed it - tea cakes and coffee. Actually we ordered tea cakes but there was only two for seven of us so the lovely kind lady behind the counter offered us bacon butties for no extra charge. Brilliant and well stuffed with bacon. After this we set off back through the Forest and shortly after scattered for Winsor, Cadnam and Lyndhurst. (John R)
Friday 3rd March : A lone rider (me) enjoyed this ride of about 15 miles, steep long hills, Bench to Burley and back mainly on tracks, brilliant aerobic exercise !
Friday 20 January.
Just the intrepid three of George, Kay and John R. A beautiful ride though enclosures from the Lodge Heath Camp Site. Organised by George it was an excellent ride of about 5-6 miles. We came across about 5 acres of tall grass, away from the ponies, which was so white with a heavy frost that it looked like snow. (It was rather chilly!). A completely new cycling area for us, north and south of the Brockenhurst to Beaulieu road. On return to our cars we then entered the luxury of George's motor-home where he proved that his coffee and tea cakes tasted better than in the best cafe. Great idea George.
Friday 6 January
Eight of us drove with our cycles to the High Corner Inn, Linwood, for a 16 mile adventure. George organised this ride and promised us three big hills: he was right about that. We had a bitterly cold start (0 degrees) but all wore many layers and we set off into the frost with enthusiasm. It was an excellent ride mainly on forest tracks with some very minor roads. The weather soon warmed up and we did too. We had a roughly circular route through the northern New Forest and thoroughly enjoyed it. The High Corner Inn was remarkably quiet on our return (no real surprise) and we enjoyed a excellent lunch there. I suspect that a few New Year resolutions were broken as the portions were very generous. We decided that the Lyndhurst U3A Leisure Cycling Lunch Club had been born. (John R)
2016
Friday 16th December 2016
6 riders with gaily decorated bikes indulged in a bit of festive fun for a ride to the Ashurst / Church Place area before retiring to the Forage café Lyndhurst for pleasant refreshment . Kay won the prize for the best decorated bike , chosen by a young passerby, easily beating the elaborate
Click on a picture below to see it full-size with more details.