Sunday 06/02/2022 - A Tour Of South West London Parkland

When I awoke prospects seemed dismal - heavy rain driven on by near gale force winds. But by nine the rain had stopped and by ten it was time to head for Bushy Park under a hint of sun. Surprisingly there were ten at the Pheasantry including newcomer Mike.

I made two adjustments to the published route, no Duke of Northumberland's River in case of mud and unwittingly fans heading for the Stoop. And there would be no muddy bridleway around Osterley Park.

The Grand Union Canal (Norwood Top Lock) was chosen for the photo shoot followed by history lessons at Windmill Bridge (or Three Bridges - IKB's last project), Hanway locks and Ealing hospital. 

The River Brent and The Fox Hanwell were reached around 1230; the pub was virtually empty. We dined alfresco but under cover with hearty meals for most.

One hour later we departed with the interior now packed. We didn't immediately return to the towpath instead used residential streets and Elthorne Park (or was that Rough?). At Brentford High Street Dave, Ed, Lillian, Mark and Mike cried "Enough". So just five (GFH, Pam, Ray, Simon, Tony) rode past Griffin Park (not a park!), under the M4 and into Gunnersbury Park. South of Acton Town Pam realised we were still headed east so after some discussion Tony led to Chiswick Bridge. Here I turned for the Stag Brewery and the rest continued in a southwesterly direction. From Sheen the wind was fierce across Richmond Park but I was home by 1530 (0 miles - flat battery).

Photos courtesy of Simon. And I haven't mentioned parks we passed but didn't enter!