B Group Ride Report - 30th September '26.

Tim G writes :

A record number of cyclists turned out today and despite a wet start we soon enjoyed a day of fine weather and sunny spells.

I don’t remember ever passing by Ham House (C17th) on a Wednesday ride before so I thought it might make for a cultural start to today’s ride.

Ham House

Back on familiar territory we passed through Richmond Park and on through East and North Sheen, along a few less familiar roads, to cross the river at Kew.

Team TG in an orderly line.

Following the river we had a slight detour at Hammersmith (due to roadworks) then back on track to Putney Bridge for lunch at ‘The Rocket’. Prompt and efficient service always makes for an enjoyable lunch experience and this particular venue ticked all the boxes. 

...and not so orderly by the river.

A bit of a meander in the afternoon took us through Wandsworth, East Putney and Roehampton to Wimbledon Common for a bit of an off-road experience. The latter part proved a bit bumpy but nevertheless all successfully navigated. The final stretch through Richmond Park, Kingston and Teddington brought us to Bushy Park for a welcome break and tea at ‘The Pheasantry Cafe’. 

Thanks to my two subbies, Julie and Mick, who ably led the other two groups together with their back markers and everyone who made today’s ride an enjoyable success. 

A good day had by all !

..and Mick A adds :

Margaret, Jane, Ian, Arwyn, Neil, Geoff, Francis, Chris and myself left on time at 10:45. I was pleased to have reliable Francis backmarking. 

Team MA by the river.

There were no incidents apart from when I attempted to steer the team away from  Ham Gate, the hill was not that bad!  We had a pleasant lunch in the Rocket.  After lunch many of the team members filtered off as we approached Richmond Park for the second time with Broomfield Hill looming. Jane exclaimed "I thought you said there was only one hill today", Neil corrected with "he said only one this morning !"

... and finally Julie :

My group consisted of Tim C (backmarker), Pat, Anne W, Keith, Fixie, Martina, Tony, Ray and myself.

Team JB in the park.

Grant also joined with us on return journey. A very interesting route ! Some of Wimbledon Common was tricky especially after the golf club due to path erosion.

...and by the river.