The ride started with grander ambitions to reach Ruislip Lido, but was shortened to fit the available daylight. A sizeable majority assembled before 10 at Bushy Park, for a bonus ride to 11s, catching the sight of Mogden Sewage Works on the way to the Stables Cafe at Osterley Park. Of fourteen at 11s, a lucky thirteen joined the ride.
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| Very stable geniuses |
The ride itself was assembled from a multitude of lockdown rides done by myself and Tony Hopkins during Covid, seeking out usually interesting and sometimes impassable new routes. It's surprising how much green space you can find in London if you go looking. There was plenty of green, and a bit of 'blue' (if you call canal water blue). We crossed the canal three times - work that one out! - and three rivers (Yeading Brook and Rivers Pinn & Crane). Southall, Yeading and Hillingdon were the backdrop, and suddenly we were at the top secret Battle of Britain Bunker at Uxbridge for a few photos and perhaps a bit of time for reflection about earlier generations, ahead of Remembrance Sunday.
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| Top secret |
After lunch at the Good Yarn, it was a pretty simple route back to Sipson and along the north of Heathrow before heading down through Hounslow Heath and Crane Park on the way to tea at Bushy Park. Thanks to everyone for your good company, and many photos, to Tony, Diane and David W for variously co-leading or back marking, and to Tony for inspiration for many bits of the route. Next summer, all being well, we'll attempt to make the next step northwards to Ruislip Lido.
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