Well, what a good turnout, 17 met at the Bonjourno Cafe, Hampton Hill/ We split into 2 groups with me leading the first group, with Geoff as backmarker and Simon leading the second group and Dave W back marking that group.
A straightforward route was done to Twickenham and on through Isleworth and into Syon Park. We joined the Grand Union Canal at Brentford but only to the Great West road, as my previous Friday reccie had meant my bike needed severe mud removal when I got home when I ventured further along the canal. Boston Manor Road has a newish cycle path up to Boston Manor station. At Hanwell we joined the Grand Union again briefly, then a short section of the river Brent, using the tunnel under the Uxbridge road, a brief stop for a photo of the delightful Thatched cottage near Hamwell mini Zoo.
As the weather was warm enough we all sat outside for lunch. As usual in Wetherspoons, the service was prompt and we were all soon fed and watered. And now eager to wend our way to tea, A straightforward route to Northolt station where we encounter a massive traffic jam due to road works. We were soon passed the holdup and crossing Northala fields which jas very very busy due to the good weather. Then various paths and cycle paths bought us to the Paddington arm of the Grand Union canal, which has a good, firm tarmaced surface, a few miles of this bought us to Bull's Bridge and mainly cycle paths and across Hounslow Heath, the legendary haunt of Dick Turpin, the highwayman.
Then through the lovely woods along the Crane River to tea at Kneller Park, not all stopped for tea, but a few enjoyed coffee/tea and cake, the weather had taken on a definite chill by now, and we were soon saying our goodbyes, adding extra layers for the last few miles home.
Lovely to see so many on the ride today, and 16 making it to lunch. Many thanks to all, especially to Geoff for back marking the first group, closely followed by Simon for leading a second and Dave W for back marking this group.
Tony..
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