Summer Bank Holiday (August 30)

We've not had a train assisted ride for around five years. So I surveyed one whilst recently visiting my sister. Which is what I'll do again if nobody turns up!

The start will be Winchfield station with an hourly service (xx30 from Surbiton, journey time 45mins).  The 0830 would be ideal but at least one rider wants to ride from home! The station has no facilities but within ten miles there is least one coffee shop and two garden centres. Conkers GC (SU677523) is the furthest away but on the planned route.

Optional attractions include King John's Castle (c. 1210) at Odiham, Greywell tunnel (Europe's largest bat colony) and Calleva amphitheatre (c. 70AD). For ford fans there's one near Calleva.

I'm thinking picnic at Silchester rec (next to pub); there are only three more on route. We'll finish in Hook where there's a small cafe (Hartletts closes 1500) and/or toilets in Tesco next to station.

The total length is just over 30 miles. The high point is 360 feet but it doesn't feel flat!