Cycling World September 2017

Cycling

September 2017| 1 ESTABLISHED 1979

WORLD

PILATES FOR CYCLISTS CYCLE ROUTES IN THE PEAK DISTRICT FOCUS ON PORTUGAL

SEPTEMBER 2017- £5.50

05 9 770143 023990

2 | Cycling World

CUBE LITENING SERIES

September 2017| 3

WINNING WITH TECHNOLOGY

LITENING C:68 SL

CUBEBIKESUK

GROUPSET SHIMANO DURA ACE DI2

WHEELSET FULCRUM RACING 44 AERO

SIZE 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62

WEIGHT 15.65 lbs

CUBEBIKESUK

CUBEBIKESUK

The fantastic new Kudos K16 & Secret Electric Bikes.

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Ideal transport to get you down to the local village, get back up the hill and not lose your favourite pitch. The K16 is light (only 15kgs), folds in less than ten seconds, easily stowed on a rear rack or in a garage, has a long range (30-50 miles) and will easily carry a 90kg rider up the steepest of hills. A perfect partner to any motorhome.

Fold Me.

The Kudos K16 (16” wheels)

Ride Me.

Love Me.

Stow Me.

£695 inc.VAT

The Secret model has 20” wheels, six-speed Revoshift gears, mudguards and lights.

It’s the choice if you want to explore that little further.

BLACK

BLACK

LIME GREEN

PINK

WHITE

The Kudos Secret (20” wheels)

£795 inc.VAT

WHITE

LIME GREEN

Kudos Kudos Headquarters Unit 4, St. Augustine’s Business Park, Estuary Way, Swalecliffe, Kent CT5 2QJ Tel. 01227 792792 www.kudoscycles.com

CYCLES

. o m a l A & h t l a e t S s o Kud ture of sport E-Biking.

September 2017| 5

The fu

The development of E-Bikes is evolving such that the appearance and ride is getting ever closer to non assisted road and sport bikes. The Stealth and Alamo bikes are ideal for the rider who needs some assistance up hills but wishes to retain a fast sport cycling experience.

Stealth

Alamo Alamo

SPECIFICATIONS • 700C x 28 tyres • 6061-T6 aluminium frame • Shimano Acera 8-speed derailleur, 46 tooth chain ring • Speed (rotational) power sensor • Black Shimano ‘V’ rim brakes, Tektro cut-outs • Brushless Bafang 36v x 250 watt rear hub motor • Samsung in-frame lithium 36v x 11.6Ah battery, lockable • Charger with UK plug • LCD display with 6 assistance levels, speedo and odometer

£995 inc. VAT With an 11.6 concealed b Ah semilow rolling reattery, tyres and th sistance anticipation e rider will in that the power on th put some E-Bike shoue flat, this fifty mile ‘pluld have a Includes mu s’ range. kickstand, L dguards, display withCD assistance le six off throttle vels, set legal reflectand all Lightweigh ors. t at only 19.2kg.

• 6kmh set off throttle • Wheel, front and rear reflectors • Range 30 - 50 miles, dependent upon rider input and terrain • Weight 19.2kgs • Colour scheme - Alamo: Khaki colour with khaki tyres, contrasting colour keyed graphics • Colour scheme - Stealth: Grey colour with khaki tyres, contrasting colour keyed graphics

Kudos Kudos Headquarters Unit 4, St. Augustine’s Business Park, Estuary Way, Swalecliffe, Kent CT5 2QJ Tel. 01227 792792 www.kudoscycles.com

CYCLES

6 | Cycling World

WITH DURANO DOUBLE DEFENCE Get ultimate puncture protection with cut resistant SnakeSkin sidewalls. The ultimate match for any road.

September 2017| 7

September 2017

ED's LETTER September 2017: Revolutions

B

abylonians made promises to their gods at the start of each year that they would return borrowed objects and pay their debts. Good to get these out the way to make space for some cycling resolutions. I’m sure many will scrawl down what must be a cycling mantra: “ride more often.”

This year I am trying to widen my resolution remit beyond cycling: “I resolve to look after myself better.” By this I mean spending more time doing the things that give me pleasure and living a healthier life. The things that give me pleasure… um… like riding my bike, cycling with the family, seeing good friends (who are mainly cyclists), reading more (normally books about cycling). A healthier life… more exercise (cycling) and stretching because of too much time spent either sitting in the saddle or at the computer editing a cycling magazine. There’s no getting away from it: I am immersed in a life of cycling.

Having admitted this I can get down to specifics.

“Cycle in a new European destination.” Has to be Sardinia as the Giro d’Italia visits for the first time too. “Try a new UK ride.” I’ll go for the Dulux Trade London Revolution, two days discovering the history and beauty around the city I was born in. “Do more family cycling holidays.” We’re ideally placed to ride to Dover and take the bikes across to the north of France. “See a new event.” Ghent 6 Days, as my club is planning a coach trip over. Looks like 2017 is shaping up nicely.

And like good Babylonians we must return all the bikes we have borrowed for review. It will free up some office space.

CONTENTS

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SEPTEMBER 2017 REGULARS 14

Editor’s Pick

18

Tech Latest

21

Training and Nutrition

40

Healthy Cycling: Pilates for Cyclists

38

Bike Maintenance

41

Cycling Accomodation

EVENTS 10

Seashell Trust Sportive

FEATURES 22

How To Prepare For An Endurance Event

28

Can a bike ride change your life?

34

How to avoid injuries while cycling

92

Peak District Cycle Routes

UK CYCLING 62

Shropshire

68

Essex

71

Cumbria

75

South Downs

78

Birmingham

40

CYCLING ABROAD 82

Portugal

88

Tenerife

82

September 2017| 9

PUBLISHED BY Cycling World Limited Myrtle Oast

10

Kemsdale Road, Fostall

22

Faversham, Kent

PRODUCTION Editor Suzanna Hayes-Goldfinch editorial@cyclingworldmagazine.com Graphic Designer Stephen Twohill design@cplmedia.net

ME13 9JL Tel: 01227 750153 Publisher Colin Woolley colin@cyclingworldmag.co.uk

DISTRIBUTED BY COMAG Tavistock Road, West Drayton Middlesex UB7 7QE

ADVERTISING Sales Manager Simon White simon@cyclingworldmagazine.com Sales Executive Ryan Graves ryan@cplmedia.net Sales Executive Tom Thorman tom@cplmedia.net

CONTRIBUTORS

62

Kate Sparks, Dan Ellmore, Martin Bailey, Keith Jepson, Nick Rushton, Aslak Fyhri, Hanne Beate Sundfør, Eddie Kehoe, James Crossley, Norma Barry, Liam Hughes, Jamie Lloyd, Catherine Thompson, Will Johnson, Charlie Rose, Theo Bromfield, Will Addison, Lana Redgewell, James Pope, Helen Cutting, Peter Richardson, Liz Pullin, Lucy Galvin, Brian Palmer, Huw Parsons,

Cycling World

Sales Executive Nichole Davison nicole@cyclingworldmagazine.com

FRONT COVER DETAILS:

Design Pics Inc/REX/Shutterstock

@CyclingWorlduk

@CyclingWorld_uk

www.cyclingworldmag.co.uk

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Although every effort is made to ensure the content of features in Cycling World is accurate and correct, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors, manufacturers or advertisers.

No guarantees can be made upon the safe return of any unsolicited copy of photographic images. Thepublisher reserves the right to alter or amend any submitted material that is printed in Cycling World. All material in Cycling World is the copyright of the publisher and any reproduction of said material would require written permission from the publisher. ©Cycling World Limited 2015 ISSN: 0143-0238

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SEASHELL TRUST SPORTIVE Sunday 17th September 2017

E

ntries are open for the Seashell Trust Sportive, one of the most popular and picturesque multi-ability charity bike events on the calendar. It was also voted one of the UK’s top sportives for women by British Cycling’s Breeze initiative.

From recreational cyclists to serious Sunday sportive riders, the Peak District event attracted close to 200 participants in 2016 and now the organisers, the Seashell Trust, are hoping for a record year in 2017.

Taking place on September 17th and starting from the Seashell Trust HQ on Stanley Road in Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire, the event begins at 7.30am and runs until the last rider passes the finish line.

Taking in some of the most spectacular scenery around the Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire countryside, riders can choose from an epic leg-busting 170km ride with over 11,000ft of climbing; a shorter 100km challenge; or an ‘Espresso’ 70km route, perfect for sportive first-timers.

Seashell Trust counts members of the GB Para Cycling team amongst its supporters, including Jody Cundy OBE, Neil Fachie MBE, Lora Fachie MBE and Craig MacLean MBE. “Seashell Trust really stands out as a charity,” said Jody Cundy at a recent event at the Manchester Velodrome.

“You only have to spend half a day with the children and the staff who look after them to understand how important fundraising is.”

September 2017| 11 And with feed stations on all three routes providing gels, energy bars, hot and cold drinks and toilet facilities, the routes are marshaled throughout.

Seashell Trust, established in 1823 and whose patron is HM The Queen, is a charity tirelessly dedicated to providing a creative, happy and secure environment for children and adults with complex and severe learning disabilities, which include little or no language abilities.

The sportive itself is organised by a volunteer committee made up of dedicated fundraising cyclists, covering everything from route creation to signage and marshaling on the day.

Every penny from the sportive will go to supporting the Seashell Trust’s work with profoundly and multiply disabled children.

Seashell Trust head of fundraising, Dominic Tinner, said: “Whichever their chosen route, we promise riders will be treated to fabulous views of Cheshire and Derbyshire while raising money for a brilliant cause.

“Riders can either come along and ride knowing that their entry fee is going to a very worthwhile cause or even go one step further and use the sponsorship form on our microsite to help raise even more money to buy specialist bicycles so that our students get the chance to experience the thrill of cycling.”

Riders can enter online at www.seashelltrustsportive.org. uk. Entry fees start from £30 for the 70k Espresso route and £35 for both the 100km and 170km routes. Riders can go one pedal stroke further and get friends, family and colleagues to sponsor them to raise even more money.

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N O T H G I R B O T LONDON

D A O R F OF E D I R E K BEurIope’s biggest charity t n e v e e k i b n i a t mouEn10 ANNIVERSARY SPECTACULAR

JOIN TH

TH

mber 2017

3 Septe road Saturday 2 ff bo l2 k/ u g. or f. bh

Proud Partner of BHF Cycling Events

Proud Sponsor of BHF Cycling Events

©British Heart Foundation, registered Charity in England & Wales (225971) and in Scotland (SC039426)

September 2017| 13 South East Coast Off-Road Bike Ride

London to Brighton Off-Road Bike Ride

Sunday 13 August

Saturday 23 September

Our brand new off-road bike ride. Starting and finishing in Seaford, it’s a perfect introduction to mountain bike events, but with an optional technical section that means there’s plenty to entertain the experienced off-road rider. At 35 miles it’s one of our shortest off-road events, but the coastal views mean it is without doubt the most beautiful.

Europe’s biggest charity mountain bike event.

It’s also the event’s 10th birthday and we’re busy planning all kinds of fun things around it.

Target audience: less experienced off-road cyclists/ mountain bike beginners and mountain bike enthusiasts who live in the local area and are looking for an enjoyable day out.

London to Paris Bike Ride Saturday 2 – 4 September

Our version of this famous event. We are the only charity to organise this event themselves and as a result, all of the money goes directly to our research, instead of paying contributions to any tour operators. With so much competition on the market, the main reason people do this event is to raise money for and support the fight against heart disease.

As a result we have 3 streams of target audience: Keen cyclists People with/likely to have a connection to the cause and looking for a way to support/raise money for us Office workers – looking for a challenge they can take on together.

Target audience: mountain bike enthusiasts, but with it being such a big event it does appeal to a wider audience of people looking to try something new.

Manchester to Blackpool Night Ride Saturday 6-7 October

A unique opportunity to cycle through the night and finish under the world-famous Blackpool illuminations, which are left on especially for the occasion.

Target audience – cyclists form the north.

Editor’s Pick

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Clothing and Accessories

Ekoï Reverso: Reversable Vest £111.75 A French brand producing a reversible vest (also available as jacket) with both black and fluorescent green wear. For use in temperature range 8-18 °C, it provides good protection against cold and rain. It is 86% Polyester and 14% Spandex, making it comfortable, waterproof and breathable. Both jacket and vest have side pockets and come in sizes S-XXXL.

www.ekoi.com

Copper 88: Compression Top £39.99 This compression top uses 88% embedded copper to aid muscle relief as reportedly it transports oxygen through the bloodstream to affected areas. Being embedded it remains after washing.

It is certainly lightweight and comfortable, and features antibacterial and anti-odour qualities, as well as protecting against UV rays and providing fast wicking.

Available as joint supports, as well as women’s and men’s gloves, socks, short and long sleeve shirts, and undershorts. Products range in price from £12.99 to £39.99.

www.copper88-uk.co.uk

Giro Synthe Helmet £134.97 Researchers have proven that a cool head helps to keep muscle fatigue at bay, ensuring you can go further and faster for longer. That’s why the Giro Synthe Helmet is a must-have purchase, especially if you are intending on entering any sportives this season. The helmet contains a total of 19 vents, while being situated slightly off the head for optimum air flow. Comfortable, stable and available in lots of different colours, this helmet has been made with cooling in mind.

www.ribblecycles.co.uk

September 2017| 15

Hiplok DX £69.99 Hiplok are well-known for their stylish and reliable locks. The DX follows the mould: it is a wearable D-lock that fits belts and bag straps and weighs only 1250 grams.

Though a slim profile (14mm hardened steel shackle), it still offers maximum security with a Gold Sold Secure rating.

It offers a decent shackle area of 15cm with 8.5cm internal area and dual locking tabs. Additional features include coded key replacement and a waterproof key seal.

Available in black, red and orange.

www.hiplok.com

Sunwise Sunglasses Wellington £69.99 With lens type Chromafusion® 2.0 this eyewear protects against low to high sun glare with light-reacting photochromic lenses of 1-3 sun rating. We have used comfortably from early in the morning until dusk. Good all round protection with panoramic lenses, antifog technology and a water-repellent feature.

They are comfortable as made of lightweight polycarbonate with a flexible rubber nose pad and sleeves. Have proved to be robust and impact resistant. Available in black, white and pink.

sunwise.co.uk

Scicon: Race Rain Bag £95 Don’t let the name limit you, we have used this for sportives and general riding. It has several compartments which are all specifically labelled to place items of clothing you need for a ride. Thus it has space for your shoes and covers, warmers (arm and leg), gloves, helmet, jersey and jacket. No more fumbling around in the rucksack! You can even personalize it with your name and flag..

uk.sciconbags.com

Tech Latest

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Cycling World’s Technology Editor and Gadget Guru Martin Bailey features the latest cycling technology

1

Puncture Finder

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Price: £9.99

Available from: puncturefinder.co.uk Traditionally, the best way to locate a puncture is a bowl of soapy water and patience, but when a puncture strikes on a trip, it can be a problem. The puncture finder is a simple invention which uses polystyrene balls encased in a clear container with a lattice base. Hold the unit against your inflated inner tube and move it around until the balls start to move with the airflow. A small but useful inclusion in your saddle bag.

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Hiplok FX Price: £19.99 Available from: Hiplok.com

For those times when you are travelling light but may still need to secure your bike for a short period, the Hiplok FX fits the bill. It’s a pocket-sized retractable combination lock, similar to a roll-up tape measure. The 1m braided steel cable is pulled out of the main body, around your bike and then locks back into the side of the unit. An integral clip allows you to attach it to a belt or bag and it even includes a reflector to make you that little bit more visible. It’s not designed as a long-term secure lock, but great if you’re nipping into a shop for two minutes and want to secure your ride.

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Martin Bailey is the author of The Useful Book of Gadgets, Gizmos & Apps, available to buy on Amazon

September 2017| 17

www.theusefulbookofgadgets.com

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3

Polar M460 GPS Bike Computer Price: £199.50

Available from: polar.co.uk Finnish fitness company Polar have released an update to the popular M450. The M460 includes a GPS and barometer, smart notifications for calls/texts, advanced power metrics for TrainingPeaks, as well as integration to Strava Segments. Connect it to the Polar H10 heart rate monitor to get live data which also syncs to the Polar Flow app, website and Apple Health. Connecting/ disconnecting it to your bike is easy, simply rotate it 90 degrees within its connecting bracket, and it also comes with an LED front light built in. It’s more evolution than revolution, so existing users will only want to upgrade if one of the new features is a necessity, but for new users it’s one of the best bike computers you can buy.

CROWDFUNDING CORNER Wink Bar Price: $179

Available from: Indiegogo.com

The Wink bar is a replacement smart handlebar which combines 225 lumen headlights, turn-by-turn GPS navigation and anti-theft functionality. Sync it with your smartphone via Bluetooth and the separate rider-facing lights will flash according to the direction you need to take. Wink will let you know if your bike is moved without your knowledge, sound a 91-decibel alarm and allow you to track its location via GPS. The in-built battery is good for around three weeks. It’s available in flat and urban styles and in two colours.

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MADE FOR ADVENTURE Swiss quality scooters for all the family that last a lifetime.

All you need is leg power and an occasional rain jacket.

SWISS DESIGN & ENGINEERING

0333 320 1030 MICRO-SCOOTERS.CO.UK

September 2017| 19

Training and Nutrition

FUELLING YOUR RIDES

By Tim Ramsden. Tim is an Association of British Cycling Coaches (ABCC) Level 3 Coach and owner of www.blackcatcyclecoaching.com

L

ast time I talked about training for a longer event on limited time. But the best training in the world won’t get you through if you neglect to fuel your engine – and we aren’t talking about e-bikes here!

Liquid food – sip your energy drink once every 20:00 or so, throughout the ride. If possible have two bottles – one energy, one water. Take a sachet of energy food with you so that you can mix up a bottle.

I started riding back in the 1970s, and one of the first things you experienced on rides over a couple of hours was that awful feeling when you run out of energy!

Known as the “bonk” or the “hunger knock”, I have very vivid memories of a ride in the Yorkshire Dales where I experienced this so badly I thought I would never see my family again….

Gels – for when it gets tough. Just before a long climb/ when you feel you are running out/ for emergencies. Also – save for the later part of the ride, when your body may well not tolerate solid food.

Back then there was still a “big miles” culture, and experienced cyclists had learnt from bitter experience that if you didn’t eat, you would spend most of the ride (a) dreaming of 1970s confectionery bars, and (b) going very slowly. A significant proportion of your energy “spend” on a ride is fuelled by glycogen (fat provides the other fuel) – provided by carbohydrate. The glycogen stores are finite – you have enough for around 90:00 straight riding at a brisk pace. On a long ride, even if you are riding sedately, all it takes is for a headwind or a few hills to start tapping into this limited resource – and once it’s gone, it’s time to call your mum and dad… like I had to, all those years ago!

Elite level cycle racing is a testing ground for new innovations that eventually trickle down to us, and nutrition is no exception. A decade on from my misadventures in Otley, it was possible to fuel hard training rides on a glucose polymer solution alone: no need to stuff chocolate bars in the wool (and becoming –popular lycra) jersey pockets. The success of this liquid fuel eventually led to the booming sports nutrition market we see today. Indeed, the problem now may be not that there isn’t enough to fuel you, but that there is too much choice!

So – a brief strategy for long (3.5 hours upwards) training rides, because if you don’t try the fuel out in training then you may experience what is euphemistically referred to as “gastro-intestinal distress” in the event itself.

Solid food – energy bars, small carb-rich snacks like bread/rice cake etc. Eat the solid food in the first part of the ride – not all at once, half an energy bar every half hour.

Next time – pre-event nutrition and some tips for on the day…

20 | Cycling World

How To Prepare For An Endurance Event Written by Jamie Lloyd, Health and Fitness Coach Ok so you want to ride for longer?

Well most of us do, but very few of us think about the basics when preparing for an endurance event. We need to mentally and physically prepare ourselves and consider some of these tips before trying to rack up more miles.

September 2017| 21

G 1

et a bike fit. I’m sure you know what it’s like riding a bike for hours with a sore bum, crocked neck and tight arms. Before dispensing any training/nutritional advice, the first thing I’d suggest is to get a bike fit. These cost around £100 and are available at many cycle shops, where staff use computer imaging and their biomechanics skills and personal expertise to mould your steed around your body shape. If you’re going to be sat on it for three or four hours, or more, I suggest you go get one done as you need to be in an ergonomic, efficient and comfortable position. Otherwise you’ll be heading down a one-way street of pain and heading to your osteopath or physio for some back and neck treatment.

4

Eat straight after training. Eat within the first 30 minutes to refuel your body. This is the most effective and important nutrition process you need to follow. This will maximise recovery, refuel the tank and ultimately support the adaptation process. Research has shown that if you eat straight after training you’re less likely to overeat later on in the day. If you’re training twice a day or more this process is essential to make the most of the second session and recovery!

2

Let’s face it, there’s no way to prepare for a long endurance event without spending a serious amount of time in the saddle. So being comfortable is really important!

Think about your fuel. To really be prepared for any endurance event and, in particular, cycling, you need to make the most of your internal reserves. These are glycogen (carbohydrate) in the muscles and liver, glucose in the blood stream, triglycerides (fats) stored in the muscles and that all-important biggest store of fuel: body fat.

So, which of these fuel tanks is most responsible for keeping you riding? Well, it won’t be a lack of fats, lactic acid overload or a lack of oxygen that makes you get off the bike. Instead, running out of muscle glycogen, low liver glycogen or low blood glucose levels is what will stop you in your tracks. One or all three of these will cause the infamous ‘bonk’, ‘wall’ or ‘the knock’. So, I suggest eating before you get hungry and loading up a few days before an event.

3

Increase your carbohydrate intake. To elongate your endurance, you need to make sure that you have one or two days before long rides where you ensure that carbohydrate foods are eaten every three hours, with plenty of water consumed with each meal. This carboloading helps you stock up with muscle glycogen, but only if you ride very easy on these days. Carbo-loading but hammering short, sharp rides because you feel good does not maximise glycogen.

The goal is to eat enough to support training without picking up excess weight; matching what you eat to your riding and timing your food intake correctly. So, load up on homemade healthy flapjacks, raw energy balls, complex carbs like sweet potatoes, rice and noodles.

Serve them with a load of veg and high-quality proteins like fish and chicken to optimise your recovery. Health foods are fruits, vegetables and nuts.

4

Load up before training. If you’ve had a meal within three hours of the start of a training session you don’t need to eat any more. If it’s been longer than three hours, have a simple carbohydrate snack within one hour of the start like nuts or apricots. For intense training sessions like HIIT, it’s imperative you start fully fuelled. Following this rule will make sure that you are firing on all cylinders and start training in the best shape possible. This simple rule also makes sure you don’t overeat before training, which will make you feel bloated and impair your ability to train properly because you’re too full!

Even starting with your glycogen stores stocked up does not guarantee you going all the way! The morning of the ride you should get an early feed of carbs, protein and fat around two to three hours before your event. Eat too close, say an hour before, and you’ll reduce rather than increase your endurance. So, either get up early or drink a carb-loaded drink as you leave the house to start riding.

22 | Cycling World

5

Load up before training. If you’ve had a meal within three hours of the start of a training session you don’t need to eat any more. If it’s been longer than three hours, have a simple carbohydrate snack within one hour of the start like nuts or apricots. For intense training sessions like HIIT, it’s imperative you start fully fuelled. Following this rule will make sure that you are firing on all cylinders and start training in the best shape possible. This simple rule also makes sure you don’t overeat before training, which will make you feel bloated and impair your ability to train properly because you’re too full!

Even starting with your glycogen stores stocked up does not guarantee you going all the way! The morning of the ride you should get an early feed of carbs, protein and fat around two to three hours before your event. Eat too close, say an hour before, and you’ll reduce rather than increase your endurance. So, either get up early or drink a carb-loaded drink as you leave the house to start riding.

6

Eat the correct portions. A plate of food should be onethird energy foods, one-third health foods and one-third function foods. Eat breakfast like a king and you’ll feel charged for the day! A good brekkie is avocado, salmon and scrambled egg. Lunch could include some carbs, proteins and fats and supper can be a lighter meal.

7

On your bike nutrition. On long bike rides, aim for 60g per hour of carbohydrate. So take some nuts, carb gels and peanut butter flapjacks with you. This is about starting the recovery process on the bike. Think of it as grazing on the bike where eating becomes a habit before you hit the wall. During training, you can mix it up with carb drinks and gels. Two or three energy gels will be the equivalent of 60g of carbohydrates, depending on their size.

Aim for 200 to 400 calories in liquid or solid form but try them out in training first before your event, so that you know you like them and that they sit well on your stomach. If you are confident that your carb levels are high, you can start a ride fasted, but you need to feed the soul religiously every 20 minutes or you will burn out. Aim for around 60g of carbohydrates per hour during the ride as an estimate.

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Your diet. Your overall diet should contain 5-8g/kg body weight of carbohydrates, 1.5-2g/kg body weight of protein and 1-2g/kg body weight good fats. If you follow rules 1-4 you shouldn’t be too far off these targets.

They’re proven to support training, enhance recovery and help you get faster.

September 2017| 23

Supplements

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As a trainer, I get asked all the time what supplements to take before and during an event. Well there’s a huge choice. But from experience, what works for me is amino acids loaded with carbs before and during an event and a good quality protein drink afterwards.

Amino acids are needed for the production of growth hormones and building up muscle (anabolic), as well as energy production. Take them as part of a protein supplement. Around 500-3000mg depending on body size.

Branched-chain amino acids are the building blocks and fuel of muscles, and they make up 70 percent of muscle proteins and are increasingly broken down during intense exercise.

Fuel up: At least 1.2g/kg protein body weight. That will mean around four servings daily and consider using protein shakes after training. I take Maximuscle Lean range which is designed to support lean muscle goals and focus on lean training. This is great as it’s loaded with l’carnitine which helps burn fat for energy. It comes with a great caffeine boost too, so when you are hitting the hills it gives you a great mental boost of energy.

If you’re riding for over four or five hours, caffeine is something you definitely want to look at to avoid that fatigue element. Caffeine is purely there to trick your brain into thinking you’re not as tired as you actually are.

In summary, you should listen to your body and don’t

wait until you are hungry, or it’s too late! I personally have done many sportives and even with 15 miles to go not taken on any carbs thinking I’m nearly there, and then hit the wall and depleted at the very end. Lesson learnt: eat before it’s too late! Also think about what nutrients your body might be missing. Your body will tell you.

Training To really get the most from your event body, start base building in the weeks, or rather months leading up to it, with regular riding to make your body fitter and better at using its fat stores. Fit riders use higher amounts of fats and are more efficient at stretching out carbohydrate reserves. Use this simple reminder about what makes you fitter: ABC. That is, Aerobic or base building riding four to six hours a week; Breakfast-less rides for up to two hours to make your body fat-burning savvy; and Consistency. If you are doing an overnight challenge, even try waking up at one or two o’clock in the night and doing a night-time ride on your turbo trainer at home to get used to riding with sleep deprivation.

Keep to Consistent riding, which will give you improved endurance and better use of fats. Once you start to increase your longest ride, the challenge is to set a bigger goal every few weeks, by taking yourself to different routes, steeper hills and different climates which will test you mentally. Buddy up with someone similar and even fitter than you who can help push and motivate you to go further. Remember, stay tight so you can encourage each other.

24 | Cycling World

Apply for European Licence for MTB Guides UK CYCLING BODIES LAUNCH EUROPE-WIDE ASSOCIATION OF MOUNTAIN BIKE GUIDES Mountain-Bike Instructors Award Scheme) are pleased to announce the launch of a new qualification in Mountain Bike Leadership, under the banner of the Association of British Mountain-bike Guides (ABMG).

Setting high standards for the entry criteria, this new accrediting body, which has officially joined the European Organisation of Mountain Bike InstructorGuides (EO-MTBInG), supports mountain biking leaders in the UK by adding more credibility and authority to the leaders’ training and assessment process. Please contact for further details

September 2017| 25 As for my training, I tend to go out and do a long ride on the weekend, say two or three hours, and do some bike intervals in the week. For example, twenty sets of one minute hills with two minutes easy riding, or I might do an indoor cycling class to do some anaerobic interval training. Then the third or fourth session could be an hour and a half easy ride on the watt bike. But I always add in some strength training, so a typical session could look like:

Hexi deadlifts x 8 Four pull-ups x 5 sets

Some of the biggest events I’ve done are 1.) Dragon Ride – 186 miles in a day 2.) London to Paris in 24 hours 3.) Wales in a day North to South 190 miles.

4.) Nightrider 100k overnight ride in London 5.) Ride London 100 mile London to Surrey

Sled Drags 100kg load 20 Kettlebell swings x 4 sets with 45 seconds rest Toe to bar x 5 reps Seated Russian twists x 16 V sits x 16 Do this whole thing three times with 45 secs rest in between.

Finisher: Burpees x 10 Ski erg 150m Stair master 150m Give yourself a 45-second rest after each exercise and do the whole thing four times, The weeks leading up to an event I try to eat clean to get my weight down and stay focused. So, a week before I might only do a light 45-minute cycle for four of the days before and rest on the other days. After the event, I tend to book a massage, have lots of magnesium baths and eat high quality proteins and carbs. I rest for two days, then follow it up with light cycling or conditioning again with just 30-45 minutes of work to keep the blood flowing.

This year I will be going to attempt The Alpine Challenge – a three-day cycling event.

26 | Cycling World

Can a bike ride change your life?

Written by Jo Goodall

Images from Deloitte Ride Across Britain

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f you had to pick one moment, one event, one experience in your life that you would describe as “life-changing”, what would it be? For me, that’s easy – Deloitte Ride Across Britain. In 2016, I joined more than 600 others and cycled 969 miles from Lands’ End to John O’Groats in just nine days – and I had only bought a bike six months before.

I remember the day I received the email congratulating me that I had been given a ballot place in the ride. I had about a week or so to confirm my place, but there was no hesitation; I was in, despite the fact I had never ridden or owned a road bike, had little understanding of cleats and had never changed a tyre in my life. Was I mad?

Probably.

a brush with the pavement! To begin with, my weekends consisted of laps around Regents Park to build up my confidence and comfort on the bike. It was a safe place to spend a decent time in the saddle but not get caught up in the chaos that is London traffic.

I was really starting to love the training and I entered my first sportive at the end of March – a 45-mile event on a very cold and miserable Sunday morning. It was my first test of riding in a group and on busy roads but I thoroughly enjoyed it, and my peanut butter and jam sandwiches afterwards!

This really was going to be the ultimate test of mind and body but that was the exact reason I took up the challenge. I love challenges, exploration and adventure – Deloitte Ride Across Britain has all three. I love pushing myself to see how far I can go and then pushing a bit more. After completing the London Marathon in 2014, I was looking for the next test and Deloitte Ride Across Britain seemed to fit perfectly.

My training started in early March and to begin with I was a real case of “all the gear and no idea”. The first trip out with the cleats was a classic; slowing for the traffic lights and realising my feet were clipped in and not coming out – that wasn’t the last time my left side had

The Dulux Trade London Revolution ride in May was the perfect test of my progress; a two-day, 185-mile ride around London. I was incredibly nervous as it was much further than I had ridden before. However, it was truly incredible and a tiny glimmer into what the whole Deloitte Ride Across Britain experience would be like later in the year. Once I had completed that, and with four months to go, I finally started to call myself a cyclist.

Over the summer months, I had to start doing longer rides back-to-back to build up the stamina needed for nine days in the saddle. Unfortunately, my work took me away from home for most of the week, so I had to spend an awful lot of time on a spin bike in the week and then devote my weekends to rides. One weekend was spent cycling the 127 miles around Lake Geneva in a day. I really learnt the lesson of good nutrition and hydration on this ride; it was brutal but provided a welcome break from the streets of London.

September 2017| 27

The summer also brought some of my low moments on the bike. Accidents and injuries, including getting caught up in some tramlines at twenty-five miles an hour!

As September edged nearer I was getting more excited and more nervous by the day. My brilliant mother, who was chief cheerleader and all-round support crew, drove me to Lands’ End where I spent the first night in a tent with the rain pouring down and howling winds, thinking to myself, “What on earth am I doing?!” However, come the morning the rain had cleared and we were ready for an early start. Destination: Okehampton in Devon.

I expected the ride to be tough, especially Devon and Cornwall due to the hills and rolling countryside. Nothing could have prepared me for those hills, but I’m from Yorkshire, and we’re tough up there, so I just gritted my teeth and churned the pedals. That feeling of making it to the first base camp was just incredible – that was really when I started to believe it was possible.

The ride was so well organised that any fears of getting lost or not having enough to eat or having to pedal through some unknown injury were put to rest straight away. The Deloitte Ride Across Britain team and support crew made the ride so special. All I had to do for nine days was eat, sleep, ride, repeat. My every need was catered for, even before I realised it!

Everyone has a low point and tough day on the ride.

Mine came on day four, which is ironic as it is the one that everyone looks forward to as it is the flattest day of the ride! It was dreadful; I couldn’t think of anything I would like to be doing less than riding that bike. Every mile was painful, mentally more than physically, and that was maddening. I knew my legs could do it, but could my head? The pit stops couldn’t come quick enough and as I rolled in to each one, tears in my eyes, I was greeted with cheers and applause and hugs from the crew. “You’ve got this, you can do this!” were the words of wisdom that Threshold CEO, Julian Mack (known affectionately by everyone as Mack) told me as he put his arm around me.

And I did do it, all the way to John O’Groats, 969 miles and nine days after pushing down that first pedal at Lands’ End.

In 2015, I cycled the grand total of zero miles. In 2016, I completed Deloitte Ride Across Britain and then carried on cycling through Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand, bringing my total to over 3,500 miles. I believe this is proof that if you really want to do something, you really can. Taking part in Deloitte Ride Across Britain has been one of the best experiences of my life and that is why I would describe it as my “life-changing” moment.

28 | Cycling World

Healthy Cycling Pilates for Cyclists

By Lynne Robinson, founder of Body Control Pilates and co-author of The Pilates Bible and Pilates for Life (Kyle Cathie) www.bodycontrolpilates.com

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lthough great for cardiovascular exercise, cycling can take a heavy toll on your body. The hunched position held for sustained periods of time, along with the repetitive leg action, can result in muscle imbalances and potential joint problems.

Pilates can help by improving your posture, making your breathing more efficient and improving your core stability – exactly why many elite teams and athletes use it to reduce the risk of injury and improve performance.

The importance of a stable core is widely recognised.

Cyclists share a common problem with most athletes in that they rely too heavily on their superficial ‘mobilising’ muscles and under-use their deep, stabilising muscles – an imbalance that can lead to problems. Pilates is about more than core stability though; it is used to train the mind and body and improve focus and movement skills.

Precision of movement is key. It’s not what you do but how you do it; working smarter rather than harder, thus conserving valuable energy for the race.

I have chosen four exercises to help keep you cycling for longer and improve your performance, but always keep the following fundamentals (ABC’s) in mind when exercising:

Alignment: The seated position adopted when cycling can compromise your spinal alignment, particularly when riding performance road and mountain bikes. We need to undo the damage by unravelling your spine and teaching you good alignment. Always elongate your spine, sit, stand, walk, ride tall. Good posture means maintaining the natural curves of your spine and keeping your pelvis in its mid-neutral position.

Breathing: To improve your oxygen intake we must work on your breathing efficiency. Ensure your spine is lengthened, then breathe in wide and full to your lower ribcage and breathe out, fully allowing the ribs to close. Pay attention to the timing of the breath with the movements.

Centering: Pilates teaches you how to work from a stable centre. To locate your core muscles, breathe in, breathe out, then gently squeeze your back passage drawing those pelvic floor muscles back to front, then up inside (guys, imagine you are lifting your bits). Breathe normally before releasing fully. When doing Pilates use these muscles as when you need to control your movements and alignment.

Always check with your doctor before starting an exercise programme.

September 2017| 29

Bridge with marching feet

Cyclists tend to have dominant quadriceps but weak gluteals.

This exercise works the gluteals and the variation works on your ankles.

Lie on your back, knees bent, feet hip-width apart and parallel. Have a towel folded flat under your head if it’s more comfortable but don’t let it alter the angle of your neck.

Use your core appropriately to control your alignment and movement.

Breathe in wide.

Breathe out as you lift your bottom up from the mat, raising your spine in one movement until you end up in a long diagonal line.

Breathe in and hold the position.

Breathe out and lower the spine in one piece.

Repeat up to ten times.

Variation Follow Action points 1 and 2 above. Then, 3. Breathe in as you lift the heel of the right foot, simultaneously lifting the left toes.

4. Breathe out as you roll through the feet to bring the heels of the left foot up and lift the toes of the right foot. Repeat this action a few times, breathing before lowering both feet and then bringing the spine back down in one piece.

Watchpoints Whilst your feet march, ensure your pelvis remains still and stable. Direct your ankles forwards to avoid your feet rolling in or out.

Arm openings

Whilst your feet march, ensure your pelvis remains still and stable.

Direct your ankles forwards to avoid your feet rolling in or out.

Lie on your left side with a pillow under your head. Bend both knees so that your hips and knees are bent to a right angle, stacked over each other. Lengthen both arms out in front of your body at shoulder height.

Use your core appropriately to control your alignment and movement.

Breathe in as you raise the top arm towards the ceiling.

Simultaneously roll your head and neck.

Breathe out as you rotate your head and upper spine to the right and let your arm open with you. The pelvis remains still.

Breathe in as you turn your head, spine and arm back to above your shoulder.

Breathe out as you return to the starting position.

Repeat up to five times on each side.

Watchpoints Ensure shoulder remains above shoulder, hip above hip, knee above knee and foot above foot.

Avoid arching in your back or shortening the waist.

30 | Cycling World

Spreading kindness by bicycle ‘Be kind to your mind and body’. That’s one of the messages Breathing Space, Scotland’s mental health phone service, is promoting through their ‘52 Weeks of Kindness’ campaign.

Tony McLaren, National Coordinator of Breathing Space, is a keen cyclist and has been promoting the benefits of physical exercise on mental wellbeing for many years.

“Most people find it easy to be kind to others but struggle being kind to themselves. I can’t think of a better way to be kind to yourself than to get on your bicycle and explore the beautiful Scottish countryside.

Running used to be my primary sport but I’ve got into cycling over the last few years as it’s much kinder to my joints! It’s such a great way to maintain good mental wellbeing – fresh air, exercise, companionship.”

Tony is just back from a 250 mile cycle from Seville to Lisbon where he has been raising awareness for Alzheimer’s Scotland and Breathing Space.

“We were cycling in high temperatures so it was quite a challenging five days. Ahead of the cycle we were raising awareness of the emotional support Breathing Space is able to offer to anyone in Scotland. Alzheimer’s Scotland is another organisation close to my heart so it made sense to combine my love of cycling with raising awareness for both of these great causes”.

Tony also teamed up with the Samaritans a few years ago to tour Scotland with a 600 mile cycle during Mental Health Awareness Week.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to reach parts of Scotland which you don’t get to visit so often to promote the mental wellbeing message. Cycling is such a great way to meet people and gives you a fantastic lift both physically and mentally. “ If you’d like to find out more about Breathing Space’s 52 Weeks of Kindness campaign visit

www.breathingspace.scot.

Tony (right) taking a break during his Mental Health Awareness Week cycle

September 2017| 31

Star

This works the upper back and shoulders and lengthens the hip flexors which can become dominant with cycling.

It also works on the gluteals.

Lie on your front, legs straight, slightly wider than hip-width and turned out from the hips. Reach both arms above your head, slightly wider than shoulder-width and resting on the mat, palms facing down.

Use your core appropriately to control your alignment and movement.

Breathe in, then as you breathe out, lift your head and chest slightly off the mat to extend your upper spine.

Breathe in, lengthening your lifted spine.

Breathe out and raise one arm and the opposite leg slightly off the mat.

Breathe in as you lower your arm and leg back down to the mat.

Repeat up to ten times, alternating arms and legs.

Watchpoints Maintain a stable and still pelvis and spine throughout.Keep your head lifted away from the mat and the chest open.

Single leg kick

This will lengthen out your thighs whilst working on your upper back muscles.

Lie on your front with your legs straight and inner thighs connected together in parallel. Bend your elbows, making a fist with one hand and clasping it with the other hand. Your spine should be lengthened and extended off the mat. Your gaze should be forwards.

Use your core appropriately to control your alignment and movement.

Breathe in.

Breathe out as you briskly kick the right heel towards the centre of your right buttock, toe softly pointed. Pulse twice, breathing ‘out, out’.

Straighten and stretch out your leg, returning it to the mat, simultaneously kick your left foot to your left buttock. Again pulse twice, breathing ‘out, out’.

Repeat up to five times.

Watchpoints Direct your foot to the midline of your buttock. When switching legs, do so approximately halfway through the full range of movement of the legs.

32 | Cycling World

How to avoid injuries while cycling

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ycling is a great way to get fit or to challenge yourself, and for some people it is a way to ease the stresses of commuting to and from work.

Whilst cycling is identified as a low-impact form of exercise, there is still the potential for injury if you don’t take the time to prepare yourself physically and make sure that your bike is set up correctly.

In the second instalment of Össur Webshop’s in-depth look at cycling injuries, Michael Core takes you through some of the preventative measures at your disposal so you can stay safe while enjoying being out and about on your bicycle.

Training When you are just starting out in cycling you need to take things slowly – don’t jump on your bike and expect to ride 30 miles straight away. You will get the best out of your ride if you gradually build up both your training and distance covered.

Firstly, figure out what your goal is. Do you want to simply get fit, or do you want to ride long distances in a good time? Adapt your training to fit with your objectives to achieve the best results.

Start off training on good roads and onthe flat. Once your fitness improves, take on a hill or two. When you feel comfortable tackling hills, increase your distance and vary your rides to incorporate a variety of terrain, including short, steep hills and gradual, unrelenting climbs. If you are training for long distance riding, take it slow and steady at first. Keep building up the distance and include some speed work so that you can improve your times over the distance covered.

Once you have reached a level of fitness, you can build your training programme around three elements – intensity, frequency and duration. Add interval training to increase the intensity of your ride and your overall strength will improve. Train more often and over longer distances and your fitness and technique will evolve.

Strength, speed and endurance Another set of three points that are important to becoming a successful cyclist are strength, speed and endurance.

Strength is about being able to pedal in the face of resistance. Headwinds, crosswinds and hills all need strength to overcome them.

Speed relies upon turning those pedals over as fast as you can. If you are racing, you’ll need to work on your speed to get your RPM up, for short steep hill climbs and for the finish. Combine speed with strength training and you will increase your overall power.

Endurance relies upon aerobic capacity and efficiency so you can keep going even when fatigue is setting in. If you can combine strength and endurance, you’ll be able to sustain a high workload over time. Add a long gradual hill climb to your training to improve your strength and endurance.

Don’t get stuck in a training rut. Changing up your training schedule will make you a stronger cyclist in the long run.

If you don’t feel as though you are making the most of your training time, consider finding a cycling coach who

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Listen to and look after your body Small aches can quickly turn into big pains if you don’t listen to your body. While you want to challenge yourself, it is never a good idea to try and ride through persistent pain. This is especially true for knee pain. Knowing when to stop, or back off the pace goes a long way to preventing cycling injuries. If you experience persistent pain that does not improve with a break from cycling, always consult a medical professional.

Make sure that you are building adequate rest days into your training regime. If you are over-training you’ll almost certainly feel tired, physically and mentally, and you won’t enjoy your time out on the road. And if you are feeling unwell, haven’t had enough sleep or just aren’t up for a heavy training session, take a break. Time out will allow your body to heal and will improve the quality of your training.

As with any exercise, hydration is key. Lack of fluids will see you tire more rapidly, and leave you susceptible to injury. Take sufficient water with you to keep hydrated for your whole ride and your body will thank you.

can design a programme of training to meet your needs and monitor your performance. Good professional advice will go a long way to reducing the potential for injury.

Understanding your gears The gears on your bike are used to help you maintain a consistent and comfortable pedalling speed, regardless as to whether you are on the flat or climbing a hill. You can think of the gears like a car – you need to start off in a low gear before acceleration and you need your bike in a low gear when you are climbing a steep hill. High gears are for high speed, when you are putting in the most effort.

Gears are all about the best efficiency for you and the bike in combination, so using the right gear is important to your cycling technique and for avoiding injury.

Warm up and cool down Everyone knows that a good warm-up is important before any exercise, but how many of us actually do it? Try and allow some time in your ride plan to stretch your whole body. It is not just your major leg muscles that are doing the work; you need to take care of your knees, back, shoulders and core. Yoga and Pilates exercises are often considered good ways in which to prepare your body for a hard training session.

The same applies to stretches after your ride. Sometimes you’ll just want to collapse on the sofa after a challenging ride but resist the temptation and take the time to stretch and relax those hard-working muscles. The better your cool down, the better you will feel the next time you jump on your bike.

A healthy body needs a healthy diet. Make sure that you are eating plenty of fruit and vegetables to combat muscle fatigue and consequently injury.

Getting your bike right As cycling is a repetitive form of exercise that involves sitting for long periods, it is vital that you are riding on the right size frame and that your bike is set up in a way that suits your body. Incorrect set-up means that you are repeating the actions that can lead to injury with every turn of the pedal.

Because everyone is built differently, there is no golden rule for bike set-up. The three main parts of the bike to consider are the contact points - the handlebars, saddle and pedals. Check that your handlebars are the right distance apart for your body size. If the handlebars are too wide you can experience pain or numbness in your wrists. If your handlebars are too far forward, you’ll be reaching too far and find yourself in an uncomfortable position.

Saddle choice is important, you’ll be sitting on it for long periods of time. Try a few different types to find the right one for you. Once you’ve got the right saddle you need to consider the height and tilt of the saddle as well as its position in relation to the handlebars to avoid straining when you reach forward.

Pedal height can be affected by your saddle placement, the crank length and, of course, the dimensions of your body. Incorrect set-up will impact your comfort and performance, and can lead to knee injury.

Bike set-up is complex and so it is probably worth investing in an expert assessment and fitting at a bike shop to ensure you get it right from the start.

34 | Cycling World

D N

BY MA K E C D BA AR L PU PO

LONDON TO PARIS 2018

18-22 JULY

Spend 4 days cycling over 300 miles between 2 cities.

Then celebrate by watching the finish of the iconic Tour de France on the Champ Elysees.

AT THE MOMENT, FOR EVERY YOUNG PERSON WE SUPPORT, THERE’S ANOTHER WE CAN’T. Join #TeamTeenageCancer so that together, we can reach more young people with cancer.

Quote CYCLINGWORLD to receive £25 registration discount.

GET INVOLVED: challenges@teenagecancertrust.org 020 7612 0370 teenagecancertrust.org/london2paris Teenage Cancer Trust is a registered charity: 1062559 (England & Wales); SC039757 (Scotland)

September 2017| 35

Route planning Before you head out on your bike, think about where you are going and make sure that you are prepared for the conditions.

If you are wanting to get from A to B, the quickest way might not always be the safest way. Check for routes with dedicated bike lanes or with options to ride through a park or on a bike trail to avoid traffic. When you are out on a training ride, make sure that you consider the fatigue factor on the way back and plan your route accordingly.

Think about the weather. Cycling can be tricky in wet conditions, leading to falls and injury. If temperatures are high, you’ll need to take on more fluids and perhaps schedule some stops. When you are riding in the winter, remember that it gets dark quickly and you don’t want to get caught out in poor visibility.

Wearing high-visibility clothing and accessories is always a good idea, whatever the weather. Have reflectors on your jacket and helmet and wear reflective ankle straps.

Make sure that your lights are working, front and back.

Always check your bike before you leave to make sure that everything is in good working order. Fix problems when they come up instead of riding with faulty equipment. A regular schedule of maintenance will ensur that your bike performs better, keeps you safe and lasts longer.

Don’t be tempted to listen to music while you ride. Having those beats pumping might seem a good motivator but you need to be fully aware of your environment to avoid accidents when you cycle.

Just in case of problems, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to get back. Charge up your phone and take it with you and ensure that you have a well-stocked repair kit – it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially if you are out there alone.

Cycling is a great way to get fit and get out in fresh air.

If you take care of your body and take care of your bike you’ll be well on your way to injury-free cycling.

36 | Cycling World

Stay, Explore, Enjoy * * * * * * *

Caravan holiday homes and woodland lodges available for short stays Touring and Camping pitches available for single night stays Family sized glamping pods available for all the family to enjoy Shower blocks, washing facilities and wifi throughout the site Located on National Cycle Network- Route 7 Access onto 50 miles of off road trails throughout the Atholl Estates Routes for all abilities and ages

Blair Castle Caravan Park, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH18 5SR www.blaircastlecaravanpark.co.uk 01796 481 263 cycle ad 2017 A5 .indd 1

03/05/2017 13:00

Orchard Camping more than just a campsite!

Orchard camping is a small family run campsite ideally situated at the edge of the Pennines.

Based in Penistone, South Yorkshire we are surrounded by beautiful scenery, fantastic bike routes and a range of walks.

We offer camping for approximately six pitches, but can extend to accommodate more for larger parties and special occasions.

Ideal location for Tour de Yorkshire 2017 and 2015 third stage routes.

In walking distance from Tour de Yorkshire final stage through Penistone ending at Fox Valley Stocksbridge.

Also 6 miles from Your de France Route English leg through Holmfirth and finishing in Sheffield For bookings and more information: Call 01226 762889 or 07966 721068 or email: bookings@orchard-camping.co.uk

Just 15 minutes from Glasgow, Whitelee windfarm offers a host of opportunities for walking, cycling and other activities– all in the unique setting of the UK’s largest windfarm.

Our purpose-built mountain biking trails offer over 4km of singletrack trails, set within a restored quarry close to Whitelee Visitor Centre. Packed with exciting features, these family-friendly facilities offer blue and red-graded trails, skills loop, pump track and picnic area with wet weather shelters.

Admission to the MTB trails and visitor centre are completely free so come and make a day of it!

whiteleemtb@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/whitelee-pursuits

Cycling Accomodation

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inding accommodation for your cycling journey is not always an easy task. You want to stop somewhere that you can safely lock up your bike, take a hot shower and tend to your aches and pains, without feeling as though you are being judged for your mud-splattered clothing or tired demeanour.

Independent Hostels UK think they can solve all your cycling accommodation issues with their guide to the very best hostels on offer.

Have you ever arrived at your accommodation after a day on your bike and felt your muddy presence is not so welcome in the chintzy B&B? Do you really want to carry a tent, sleeping bag and cooking equipment when cycle touring? And where in the world is there a safe dry place to leave your bike over night?

September 2017| 37

If you like the idea of getting in from a day in the saddle to find a hot shower, a drying room for your clothes and a lockable bike store, you may want to take some tips from the Independent Hostels network.

The Independent Hostel network stretches from Lands End to John O’Groats, taking in the best of Wales, the Peak District, the Lakes and the Highlands. There are independent hostels in every UK National Park and most are very well set up for the cyclist. There are now more independent hostels than youth hostels, and by mixing and matching the two networks you can cycle most of the major cycle trails without resorting to a tent or B&B. Created by

THE CENTRE

Award-winning Cafe and Heritage centre serving hot & cold beverages and light lunches.

Hire A Hymer is a family-run business offering campervans for hire throughout the Midlands and Milton Keynes. We offer a comfortable, cost-effective and high quality motorhome hire service to make your adventure once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Flying Horse

Boughton Lees • Ashford • KENT TN25 4HH

Free high-speed WIFI. Indoor & outdoor seating.

• Unique village green location • Traditional local Ales & Ciders • Restaurant - relaxed dining

As seen on the Women’s Cycle Tour Stage 1 THE CENTRE

Station Raad, Pulham St Mary, Norfolk IP2 4QT Tel: 01379 676660 www.pennoyers.org.uk

• Well maintained family garden • Private Function Room Explore your surroundings and discover the wonders of the nature on your journey and tell your friends and family a story about your wonderful travels throughout Europe.

Hire A Hymer, Springfield Business Park, Moorend Road, Potterspury, Northamptonshire, NN12 7QG Tel: 01908 543491 • e-mail: help@hireahymer.com

Restaurant bookings call: 01233 620914

38 | Cycling World

Holiday Inn Winchester offers a warm welcome to all cyclists Located on the edge of the South Downs and only 2 miles from the historic city of Winchester, the 4 star Holiday Inn Winchester is a great base for cyclists. bike storage, 141 air conditioned bedrooms, award winning restaurant and outdoor including two electric car charging points , there really is nowhere better to stay.

Bike Hire is also available at the hotel.

WINCHESTER

01962 670700 www.hiwinchester.co.uk

September 2017| 39

editor Sam Dalley, the guide began as a few photocopied sheets of hostel addresses that she collected during her travels in the early 90s. She embarked on a number of trips with her local cycling club, and so spent a lot of time researching youth hostel accommodation. She discovered a handful of independently run hostels which provided bunks and self-catering kitchens but had no connection to the YHA. In 1993, the photocopied sheets became a guidebook listing 20 independent hostels, and the Independent Hostel Guide has been published annually ever since, growing in size each year.

The Independent Hostels network now contains 370 hostels, all independently owned and most providing accommodation that is ideal for cyclists.

Cycling Essentials Of the 370 hostels in the network, two-thirds have a bike/equipment shed and over 60 percent of these are

secure locked sheds. Two-thirds of independent hostels advertise a drying room where you can leave wet and dirty clothes and equipment to dry overnight. Some have hose-down areas as well, so your bike can be spick and span ready for the next day’s adventure. The network includes specialist cyclist hostels such as Dale’s Bike Centre in the Yorkshire Dales, Slochd Mhor Lodge in the Cairngorms and Wayfarers Hostel in Penrith, which have on-site bike workshops to help you on your way.

Others, like Comrie Croft in Perthshire, have bike hire or can offer mountain bike tours in the local countryside.

Blakebeck Farm Camping Barn, on the C2C cycle route in Mungrisedale, has a special cyclist package. Being a camping barn, there is normally a requirement to bring your own bedding and food with you, but for cyclists, the welcoming hosts have offered a package of bedding and a hearty home-made breakfast to see you on the way in the morning. With a pub serving evening meals and local ales a flat mile down the road, what more could you ask for?

Cefn-Du Holiday C O T T A G E S

Heart of the Yorkshire Dales Whether you want a cup of tea and a cheese scone after a long walk or a fun filled day out for the whole family, Berry’s has it all.

Located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, 4 miles from Leyburn on the A684 towards Aysgarth, Berry’s Farmshop and Café offers a wide selection of homemade cakes and meals using only the finest locally sourced ingredients. We are open 7 days a week serving breakfast through to afternoon tea and new to 2017, we are opening until 7pm throughout the summer months!

We welcome one and all, from single dog walkers to walking or cycling parties. Berry’s is the perfect place to start or finish your day with a team of friendly staff on hand to give you a warm Yorkshire welcome.

We are located on the A684 between West Witton and Aysgarth Tel: 01969 663377 www.berrysfarmshop.com

The Olive Garden A hidden gem in Provence, surrounded by lavender fields and cherry trees, The Olive Garden is your home away from home in cycling paradise.

Nestled in the hilltop villages of the Mont Ventoux, ride directly from the house to the foot of the mountain and make your ascent.

CEFN DU FARM is pronounced (KEVIN DEE) is a working farm is with in a short distance from the village of Crymych, set in the base of the Preseli Hills and a short drive from the glorious Pembrokeshire coast with its famous coastal walks.

We offer a second to none bike concierge service including: • • • • • • •

Top spec bike rentals or assistance with details on how to bring your own.

On site bike mechanics.

Secure storage.

Bike guiding and sag wagon services.

Airport or TGV station transfers.

Massage and yoga.

Concierge services for exploring the area because perhaps not everyone wants to cycle!

The house is within easy walking distance of the local village of Caromb, for all local amenities and of course, that fresh morning croissant. With 4 bedrooms, 2 large double and 2 twin (4 single beds) 3 bathrooms and a fully enclosed private garden and pool, outdoor BBQ and table tennis table, all your cycling holiday requirements for being comfortable and having fun can be met.

Contact Audrey Jakobsen audreyjakobsen@sfr.fr • www.provenceseasons.com (00 33) (0)4 90 22 17 72 • (UK mobile) 07909 545583

Cefn Du is ideally suited to those who wish a quiet and relaxing holiday with the Shetland ponies or to explore the lovely countryside by car, bike or walking.

CEFN DU, Llanfyrnach, Crymych, Pembrokeshire, Wales SA35 0DQ Tel: 01239 831530 email: info@cefnduholidaycottages.co.uk

40 | Cycling World

WWW.PANDAEBIKES.COM

YOUR BIKE IS WAITING TO BE TRANSFORMED ELECTRIFY WITH

MOTOR

BATTERY

CONTROL

Panda eBikes are the technical experts when it comes to eBikes in the UK. Whether you’re interested in a complete eBike, a conversion kit, or a replacement controller system for an existing eBike, give us a call: 0115 888 2270

Alternatively check out our website: www.pandaebikes.com or drop an email to: sales@pandaebikes.com

September 2017| 41

Situated on some of the UK’s most popular long-distance routes, independent hostels can be the perfect stop-over, with around three-quarters providing bedding so you don’t have to carry a sleeping bag. Breakfast is available in around 50 percent of the accommodation, to set you up for your next day’s pedalling. While hostels are generally self-catering, some do serve evening meals and provide packed lunches for those who would prefer not to cook for themselves.

Many hostels have embraced the Green Tourism award and have used this as a platform to make their hostels bike-friendly. Some hostels, like Thorney How in Cumbria, now have electric bike charging.

Family cycling groups will find hostels particularly accommodating, as many have family rooms and the self-catering options make family breaks very affordable.

However, hostels and bunkhouses are also great for nonfamily groups. Share a bunkroom with other members of your group or spend a bit more on a private room. Hostel accommodation is particularly good if you are travelling alone, as the communal areas of a hostel are ideal areas to make new friends. You will find yourself talking about your day over the washing-up or discussing new routes and challenges in the games room. Hostel owners tend to be very knowledgeable about the area where they live and work, and often they share your love of getting out on a bike and will be happy to pass on their knowledge and wisdom to ensure you get the best out of the area and your holiday.

THE B E D

OLD MILL &

B R E A K F A S T

The Old Mill is a licensed bed and FANCY A CYCLE? plore

us & ex Stay with e Wolds the Yorkshir

breakfast situated on the Yorkshire Wolds surrounded by open fields and rolling countryside. We have 8 en suite luxury bedrooms, cosy residents lounge, fully licensed bar and restaurant. Evening meals are available to our guests Monday Friday, and pack lunches can be provided on request daily. We have heated lockable secure storage for all bicycles on site.

“Big Skies Bike Rides”- eight OS mapped circular bike rides on quiet roads and country lanes in the yorkshire wolds - immediately surrounding the Bed and Breakfast.

Visit the www.visithullandeastyorkshire.com/cycling site to find out more.

Tel: 01377 267284 • E: enquiries@old-mill-b-and-b.co.uk www.old-mill-b-and-b.co.uk

Online Help The Independent Hostel Guide website (www.independenthostels.co.uk) enables cyclists to search for hostels by distance from any town or location along a route. They are able to filter by a plethora of useful search terms such as bike store, drying room, private/family rooms or the availability of local meals and a pub. The guidebook has all these details too, with pages of colour photos, but a little extra time pouring over maps is required.

Currently the IHUK website has a detailed list of hostels on the C2C and the Lon Las Cymru routes, making planning these trips even easier. Keep an eye out for similar pages for LEJOG and other popular long distance trails, as these will be added soon.

42 | Cycling World

We are a family run hotel located off of the A32; close to Fareham, Gosport and the ferry to Portsmouth.

Our accommodation consists of twelve bedrooms, singles, doubles and family rooms.

NEW!

Our bar and dining area are open seven days a week to hotel guests and non-residents. The bar is open all day and offers a good selection of lagers, ales and alcohol beverages along with freshly ground coffee and soft drinks.

Home cooked food is served daily.

Seven colour coded products

The eCare Range

Got an eBike? Then you need to maintain it with specifically designed products. With nearly 80 years’ experience in the Bike Market, Weldtite have launched a brand new range of products formulated solely with eBikes in mind.

Visit your local IBD for details.

The Manor Room serves breakfast daily and can also be hired out throughout the day for meetings, luncheons or private dinner parties.

Cycling in the area A flat terrain and a good network of cycle tracks and lanes makes it easy to cycle in Gosport. There are interesting places to visit including 6 miles of accessible coastline stretching from Gosport Town Centre to Lee on the Solent, where you can relax and enjoy the best views of Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent and the Isle of Wight.

The ferry from Portsmouth carries bicycles and leads straight to the Town Centre and rail inks or hovercraft to the Isle of Wight.

Made in the UK

weldtite.co.uk ecare-products.co.uk

Tailored Maintenance for Electric Bikes

Queen Elizabeth Country Park (QECP) just 16 miles away up the A3 in Hampshire consists of three fully way-marked off-road mountain bike trails, including plenty of natural trails to explore in the area. Three cycle tracks use the rights of way network and some public roads.

Or take a ride up to Portsdown Hill and take in the spectacular views across the Solent. Or head towards the South Downs National Park; landscapes covering 1,600km² of breath-taking views, hidden gems and quintessentially English scenery.

How about booking a taster or full training session at the Velodrome in Calshot, just one hours drive westbound; it is the only indoor banked velodrome in the South of England

Brewers Lane, Bridgemary, Gosport, PO13 0JY T: 01329 232 946 E:info@bridgemarymanor.co.uk

September 2017| 43

n lo th a ri T e c n ta is D rd a d n Bala Sta r 2017 Sunday 3rd Septembe

ncor ora ng t e

ro ean

ali er for t e

Welcome to the market town of Bala.

The home of the Bala Standard Distance Triathlon. Located in North Wales, Bala is situated in South Snowdonia on the shores of Llyn Tegid the largest fresh water lake in Wales. Llyn Tegid is 4 miles (6.4k) long and 0.75 miles (1.3k) wide. The lake was formed during the ice age and is an ecologically important site both nationally and internationally. t is owned and managed by the Snowdonia ational ar Authority who have been e tremely co operative in organisation of this event.

WatsON vents in conjunction with Wrecsam Tri Club will be organising the Bala Standard Distance riathlon. So come and join us for the last big race of the season in the UK, Bala Standard draws hundreds of triathlete s year on year having staged the Welsh Championships and twice a World regular uropean

uali er as well as a

uali er.

1500m 0pen Water Swim in Llyn Tegid.

Cycle 39km on CLOSED ROADS. Run 10km on CLOSED ROADS.

Entries for the Bala Standard Distance Triathlon our now open.

To enter go to www.wats�on�events.com

ro ean C am ionsi s

44 | Cycling World

Accomodation in Provence Since our first season in 2009 we have accommodated numerous cyclists who I have envied for their passion for the sport. However in 2015 one guest in particular led to a challenge for me to cycle up Mont Ventoux

by September 2016. Buying a modest road bike from Decathlon, ( I last rode when I was a teenager) I started training in March and after about a month I began to enjoy my gradual progress and equally the stunning scenery that we are surrounded by. Although we have hiked regularly there is something different being alone on the bike taking in the stunning views. By June I made my first assault on Mont Ventoux from Sault. In August I rode from home passing through the lavender fields to Sault and again to the summit a round trip of 105 kilometres with 2450 metres of climbing. In September I joined some guests to make the harder assents from Malaucene and the famous Bedoin, the chosen route of the Tour de France. The beauty of our area is that you are so well located to head south into the Luberon, north to Ventoux and the Gorge de la Nesque, west towards St Remy and in the east the Monts du Vaucluse. There is something for all levels of fitness from the vélo route stretching 37 kilomètres along the Calavon valley to Mont Ventoux at 1918 metres.

After cycling 2800 kilometres it’s fair to say I’m now pretty hooked on the sport and will be restarting my training in March for further challenges and Ventoux attempts, maybe even the ‘Les Cingles’, which involves climbing all three routes in 24 hours. As well as the improved fitness, the pleasure I have had from seeing the scenery and how it changes through the seasons is immeasurable .

One trend we have noticed among our guests is the number of cycling widows! Due to our location within walking distance of the village the non cyclist can easily fill their day exploring locally or just lazing with a good book poolside!

Our gite accommodation is for adults only, catering for 2 to 6 people whilst our family house with it’s private pool can also cater for six including children. We have secure cycle storage, cleaning and maintenance equipment, maps etc and can arrange excellent cycle hire for reasonable cost.

For further information look at our website and remember all guests booking from Cycling world magazine receive a 10% discount.

September 2017| 45

Since our first season in 2009 we have accommodated numerous cyclists who I have envied for their passion for the sport. However in 2015 one guest in particular led to a challenge for me to cycle up Mont Ventoux

by September 2016. Buying a modest road bike from Decathlon, ( I last rode when I was a teenager) I started training in March and after about a month I began to enjoy my gradual progress and equally the stunning scenery that we are surrounded by. Although we have hiked regularly there is something different being alone on the bike taking in the stunning views. By June I made my first assault on Mont Ventoux from Sault. In August I rode from home passing through the lavender fields to Sault and again to the summit a round trip of 105 kilometres with 2450 metres of climbing. In September I joined some guests to make the harder assents from Malaucene and the famous Bedoin, the chosen route of the Tour de France. The beauty of our area is that you are so well located to head south into the Luberon, north to Ventoux and the Gorge de la Nesque, west towards St Remy and in the east the Monts du Vaucluse. There is something for all levels of fitness from the vélo route stretching 37 kilomètres along the Calavon valley to Mont Ventoux at 1918 metres.

After cycling 2800 kilometres it’s fair to say I’m now pretty hooked on the sport and will be restarting my training in March for further challenges and Ventoux attempts, maybe even the ‘Les Cingles’, which involves climbing all three routes in 24 hours. As well as the improved fitness, the pleasure I have had from seeing the scenery and how it changes through the seasons is immeasurable .

One trend we have noticed among our guests is the number of cycling widows! Due to our location within walking distance of the village the non cyclist can easily fill their day exploring locally or just lazing with a good book poolside!

Our gite accommodation is for adults only, catering for 2 to 6 people whilst our family house with it’s private pool can also cater for six including children. We have secure cycle storage, cleaning and maintenance equipment, maps etc and can arrange excellent cycle hire for reasonable cost.

46 | Cycling World

Exclusive • Creative • Fun

ELECTRIC BIKES

Ride with us!

Wattitud bikes offer something different within the electric bike market Designed in Belgium by Christophe Demeyer, these electric bikes come with Shimano gear sets, Samsung batteries and 8 fun motors. We offer a 2-year warranty* and an excellent level of aftersales support from our UK team.

Wattitud bikes offer something different within the electric bike market. They combine unique styling, eye-catching designs and a fun riding experience. The Wattitud bikes come in a range of styles including city shoppers, mountain bikes, folding bikes and the highly distinctive retro-styled ‘cruiser’ models. Our comprehensive range has been hand-crafted to the highest quality to ensure you have the ride of your life!

As the UK’s sole importer, you will only find Wattitud bikes at selected retail outlets, ensuring you receive the best service when purchasing your bicycle. Purchasing an e-bike is a major investment, so we want you to feel happy and satisfied with your choice.

CUSTOMISED ELECTRIC BIKES FOR INDIVIDUALS

www.wattitud.co.uk

Contact Louise Bushell on 07702 610006 • Email orders to sales@wattitud.co.uk *2 year warranty excludes the battery which comes with 12 months. Wattitud UK is a trading name of Now Motor Retailing. All Prices include VAT. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the offer details are accurate and up to date. We reserves the right to change offers at any time. Prices correct at time of going to print.

September 2017| 47

BBBCYCLING.COM

BRIGHTENS YOUR DAY HAVING A FLAT TIRE PAUL HELDERMAN, Commuter and racer of elite crits

For every cyclist a flat tire out on the road is the worst nightmare. For me it definitely is. The only thing that matters when I have a flat is getting back on my bike as soon as possible. Luckily the EasyRoad minipump covers my back at all times. The extractable hose makes it possible to connect it easily to every valve system. And the unique screw-on TwistHead pumphead fits tight with Presta, Schrader and Dunlop valves. Thanks to the anodized aluminum the Easyroad really brightens my day when having a flat tire.

FOR THE FULL STORY, CHECK: BBBCYCLING.COM/ACCESSORIES/PUMPS/BMP-49

DISTRIBUTED IN THE UK BY:

EASYROAD BMP-49

48 | Cycling World

Bike Maintenance Replace Your Crankset

Before replacing your crankset you’ll need to have the specialist tools

First remove the chain.

This is an old Italian crankset. Use hex keys to remove the nuts on the centre of the crankset

You may need to use an extractor, though normally not with modern parts

1

2

Hand tighten the new bottom bracket

Grease the thread to aid the new fitting

3

4

Before inserting the second arm, check the finger is loosened

5

Put the second arm on the axle at 180° opposition

6

September 2017| 49

Use a BB (Bottom Bracket) tool, a specific tool for each make.

You work on both sides

After removing the bottom bracket clean the thread. The old grease is often hard

7

8

Oil the crankset axle and insert into the bottom bracket

Use the specific BB tool to tighten the bottom bracket

9

10

Put the specific nut on the axle of the bottom bracket and tighten with the specific tool

11

Tighten the finger at the two nuts

12

50 | Cycling World

Consider this your invitation to come and explore everything on offer in this unique and vibrant region. . . . .

. . . . . and discover Newark and Sherwood for yourself.

You’ll wonder what took you so long!

Matt Cronshaw Cycling Minster

P

acked with fascinating history, thrilling outdoor adventure and stunning architecture, Newark and Sherwood has something for every visitor.

The beautiful market town of Newark is at the heart of the Nottinghamshire countryside and is situated where the Great North Road, or Roman Fosse Way and the River Trent join together, overlooked by the 12th century castle. Characterised by its rich heritage, historical buildings and bustling markets, and nationally recognised as an antiques destination, it combines places to visit with parks, open spaces and an excellent selection of independent shops, cafes and restaurants.

Whether you choose to explore leisurely on foot or by bike, Newark will charm and surprise you. Around the town centre you will discover an array of listed buildings, its charming riverside and one of the largest cobbled squares in England. There is also the UK’s only National Civil War Centre, Newark having been at the centre of events during the English Civil War.

Many other attractions can be found just a few miles away. These include Sherwood Forest, steeped in the history of the legendary Robin Hood, Southwell Minster with its impressive 12th century ‘pepperpot’ towers and Archbishop’s Palace, and the nearby Racecourse. There is also Newark Air Museum which houses over 40 aircraft and many aviation artefacts, The Holocaust Museum at Laxton and Rufford Abbey and Country Park with its woodland, wildlife and lakeside walks.The district is truly an area offering something for everyone, whether you visit for a few hours or an overnight stay.

In September the region is proud to be included in stage 4 of the OVO Tour of Britain Race. This will start in Blidworth and finish in Newark where cyclists will be sure to receive the warmest of welcomes as they cross the finish line.

Come and explore everything on offer in this unique and vibrant region and discover Newark and Sherwood for yourself. For more information. visit: www.visitnewarkandsherwood.co.uk

ACCOMODATION

September 2017| 51

HOTELS

{_______________________________ BED AND BREAKFAST _______________________________ }

Kelham Kelham House Country Manor Hotel 3 Star (AA)

Wellow The Maypole

Main Street, Kelham, Newark, Notts NG21 9QA 01636 705266 Please call for rates

Newark Road, Wellow, NG22 0EA 0333 12131776 Doubles from £80

Newark Beaumond Cross Hotel

Laxton The Goat House at Ivy Cottage

London Road, Newark, Notts NG24 1TN 01636 703670 Please call for rates

Main Street, Laxton, NG22 0NU 01777 871 254

Best Western Deincourt 3 Star (Quality in Tourism)

Cross Hill, Laxton, NG22 0SX 01777 871586

The Lions 55 London Road, Newark, Notts NG24 1RZ 01636 643880 / 07970 930150 Double from £90 Newark Lodge Guest House 5 Star (Quality in Tourism) 5 Bullpit Road, Balderton, Newark, Notts, NG24 3PT 01636 703999 Single from £59, Double from £79 Nicholson House 4 Star (Quality in Tourism)

The Dovecote Inn

40 London Road, Newark, Notts NG24 1TF 01636 602100/113 Please call for rates The Grange Hotel 3 Star (AA) 3 Star (Quality in Tourism) 73 London Road, Newark, Notts NG24 1RZ 01636 703399 Rooms from £80 Millgate House Hotel 53 Millgate, Newark Notts NG24 4TU 01636 704445 Rooms from £80 Premier Inn Budget Hotel Lincoln Road, Newark, Notts NG24 2DB 0871 527 8784 Please call for rates

3 London Road, Newark, Notts, NG24 1RZ 01636 610933 Double from £60

Newark Acers Serviced Accommodation 4 Star (Quality in Tourism) 150 London Road, Balderton, Newark, Notts NG24 3BN 01636 610357 Single from £40, Double from £60

Wisteria House 3 Star (Quality in Tourism) 71 Harcourt Street, Newark, Notts, NG24 1RG 01636 706333 Single from £40, Double from £60

Bridge House Bed and Breakfast 5 Star (Quality in Tourism)

Southwell Georgian House

4 London Road, New Balderton, Newark, Notts, NG24 3BN 01636 674663 Single from £60, Double from £80

56 King Street, Southwell, Notts, NG25 0EN 01636 812000 Rooms from £50

Compton House 4 Star (AA)

Porphyry House

117 Baldertongate, Newark, Notts NG24 1RY 01636 708670 Single from £75, Double from £95

66 Easthorpe, Southwell, NG25 0HZ 07585 750706 Single from £55, Double from £68

The Georgian Townhouse 5 Star (Quality in Tourism)

The Saracen’s Head Hotel

119 Baldertongate, Newark Notts, NG24 1RY 01636 605343 Single from £75, Double from £90

Market Place, Southwell, Notts NG25 0HE 01636 812701 Doubles from £85

Solent Motor Homes proudly presents

the Roller Team A-Class Pegaso! 

Manual from £61,819  Automatic from £63,819 

 with 5-year Roller Team Warranty   Plus 10-year Body Warranty!  Featuring

 Supersize garage  Reversing Camera  Alloy Wheels  ... and More! 

ROLLER TEAM

www.solentmotorhomes.co.uk 5 Upton Road, Poole, Dorset BH17 7AA

Tel: 01202 801705

sales@solentmotorhomes.co.uk

52 | Cycling World

N ew fo ev rm e at nt

East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH)

GREAT T YARMOUTH YARMOUTH H

FRAMINGHAM GH PIGOT PIGO

HOPTON HOPTO HOP TO T ON

R TON

3 days • Over 200 miles • Across 3 counties WEST WEST WATTLING W WA ATTLING ATTLIN

FRAMLINGHAM FRAMLING GHAM

Friday 29th September – Sunday 1st October Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire

IGHBook your place now by calling 01953 666767 or visit www.each.org.uk/rideforlife Registered Charity Number: 1069284

Sponsored by:

September 2017| 53 www.aldeburghbasecamp.co.uk • Email: admin@aldeburghbasecamp.co.uk • Tel: 01728 453433 BRAND NEW LUXURY GLAMPING UNITS FOR 2017

Our location perfectly positioned in the heart of the countryside, right beside the sea, Aldeburgh BASECAMP. Where our thoughtfully designed self-contained glamping accommodation is awaiting your arrival. Fully equipped with everything you need including cutlery, crockery, cooking utensils, quality bedding and fluffy towels.It is the ideal base for exploring the picturesque Suffolk coastline on your bikes.

Hire * Motorhome with Amber Motorhomes 5 Inclusive of UK Insurance

Luxury Motorhome Rental

2-6

Berth and various models and layouts

available

Thinking of trying something different for your holiday this year?

Bike racks included making this the perfect way to explore the country on a cycling holiday

Prices from* £70 per day (minimum 4 day hire)

www.ambermotorhomes.co.uk • Email: hire@amberleisure.com • Tel: 01582 393480

annandale distillery

- A Spirit Reb n

Visit Dumfries & Galloway’s most ambitious tourism story and discover a spirit reborn.

ELEVENSES LUNCHES served from noon AFTERNOON TEA served from 2.00pm

AFTERNOON TEA FOR 2 served with tea/co ee

£16.95 GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE GIFT SHOP SELLING BRANDED MERCHANDISE NATIONAL CATEGORY WINNER

CLASSIC DISTILLERY TOURS - £8.50 run on the hour 10.00am - 4.00pm 7 days a week RESTORATION TOUR AND TECHNICAL TOUR ALSO AVAILABLE TOUR BY DISTILLERY OWNER, PROFESSOR DAVID THOMSON (by special arrangement) NOW AVAIBLE IN 50cl BOTTLES AT 46% ABV

CASKS FOR SALE: Unpeated: £2100, Peated: £2300

Perfect for drinking on its own or mixing

Terms and conditions apply

also available in 20cl and 5cl bottles at 63.5% abv

Price List for Limited 2014 Production available on request

www.rascalltliquor.com NOW AVAILABLE IN 50cl BOTTLES A

With our designated cycle parking we are a favourite stop off for cyclists and on many specialist Cycle Holiday schedules, hence why we have decided an Annandale Distillery cycle top is called for!

The latest addition to our branded clothing range is extremely lightweight and breathable, it’s designed with comfort in mind - fast wicking control keeps skin cool and comfortable. In terms of safety the full zip performance top protects against UV rays and has ultra-reflective elements to enhance the rider’s visibility to traffic. (£47.95, available in sizes S-XXL)

OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY 9AM - 5PM, SUNDAY 1 0AM - 5PM

North eld, Annan, Dumfriesshire DG12 5LL 01461 207817 l www.annandaledistillery.com

54 | Cycling World

W

hether you are new to cycling or a seasoned veteran, you are sure to find everything you need at our Milton Keynes store, along with great service and expertise to help you get the most out of your bike. Our shop has over 160 bikes on display and the team can rapidly order for you any one of the thousands of bikes and accessories available online.

No matter your riding style we’ll match you to your perfect bike.

To ensure you have the best experience, if you find something for less in another store, we’ll match the price.

Our Price Match Guarantee is as simple as lifting a £5000+ carbon bike, just bring us a printout of the competitor’s offer and proof that the product is in stock and we’ll take it

from there. Not only that, if you buy something from us and then find it cheaper, we’ll refund the difference (as long as it’s within 7 days of purchase).

Our workshop is available for all your servicing needs and our shop is open 7 days a week, find us at Xscape Milton Keynes, 602 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3XS or visit our website: www.evanscycles.com/store/miltonkeynes

September 2017| 55

Five Ways To Secure Your Bike

I

t’s estimated that around 500,000 bikes are stolen in the UK every year. Incredibly that’s one nearly every minute. Here are some simple steps from specialist cycle insurance company, cycleplan, to limit the risk of you being the next victim of bike theft.

1 Think about where you leave it Bicycle thieves are more often than not opportunistic – they see a bike without a lock and just grab it. So always lock your bike where you leave it, even if it’s still in your eyesight as it only takes seconds to steal. Don’t leave your bike in an isolated spot. Ideally it should be left in a place which is well-lit with plenty of passers-by.

And as stupid as it may sound, always lock your bicycle to an immovable object. As well as locking your bike when you are out and about, be sure to lock it when you are at home. And be aware when you come back from a ride. It’s very easy to simply prop your bike against a wall while you pop inside to get a drink or answer the phone. This makes your bike easy pickings and it’s not unknown for thieves to take bikes from driveways and gardens so make sure you always lock it up in a secure garage or shed.

2 Invest in the best lock Invest in the best lock you can afford. What’s the point of spending £1000 on a bicycle only to secure it with a cheap lock? It doesn’t make sense. When purchasing a lock, ensure you get a rated Sold Secure lock dependent on your bicycle value. This will ensure that any specialist cycle insurance you take out is valid. And remember to lock both the frame and the wheel and take any small accessories with you.

3 Take photographs and record the bike’s details As soon as you’ve purchased your new bike, take a photograph and keep somewhere safe a record of the frame serial number, make, colour, model and any distinguishing features. This information will be of vital help to the police in recovering your bike or in the case of having to make an insurance claim, will make the process quick and easy. It’s also advisable to keep proof

of ownership in the form of an original sales purchase, till receipt or other evidence which clearly demonstrates ownership, showing date, price paid and details of purchase.

4 Register your bike Registering your bike can help deter thieves, assist the police in identifying a stolen bike and ultimately aid the return of the bike back to you. There are several companies offering bicycle identification and registration and it’s free to register.

5 Specialist cycle insurance If all the above fails and you unfortunately have your bike stolen, if you’ve taken out specialist cycle insurance with a company like cycleplan you will have peace of mind that your bike will be replaced and you’ll be back on the saddle in no time.

56 | Cycling World

The European Nature Trust (TENT) supports and funds initiatives which preserve and restore wild habitats in Europe. It is the urgent task of our generation to find innovative ways to both protect our last remaining wildernesses, and also to actively repair the damage already done to natural systems.

44 Welbeck Street, London W1G 8DY Registered Charity: 1091283 • T: +44 (0) 20 7486 0800

TENT’s Transylvanian Ride 2017 - Last Call!

T

he European Nature Trust’s (TENT) Transylvanian Ride 2017 is a cycling adventure through the alpine meadows and ancient forests of Europe’s wildest secret. Romania is quickly becoming a global hotspot for travellers, offering stunning scenery, excellent food and wine, fascinating culture and diverse natural history.

Traditional ways of living still persist and the country boasts an extraordinary backdrop of wild lands – pristine, ancient forests teeming with life – including the final major stronghold for wolves, bear and lynx in Europe.

The ride is a tour specially designed to take in the best the country has to offer – cultural hotspots, ancient forests and even a bear sanctuary. The evenings will make the most of phenomenal local wine and food at some of the best rural lodges in Romania.

You can experience all this while raising funds to protect one of Europe’s last great wildernesses with The European Nature Trust.

The final few places are still available for this September’s ride. Please get in touch if you would like to learn more or book your place.

More information: A 4-day cycling challenge, in aid of TENT, covering 205 kilometres from Bran, in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, to Zabola, the historic seat of one of Transylvania’s noble Szekler families, including a stay at the summer residence of HRH Prince of Wales.

Dates: 17 – 22nd September 2017 Support vehicle, guides and all food and drink included

£995 per person, plus flights

September 2017| 57 Duo of quintessential Cotswold destinations

Traditional 16th Century Country Village Inn Since changing hands in November 2016 – The Horse & Groom has been sympathetically refurbished to reflect its original character. The restoration has maintained a traditional country feel throughout, yet added a tasteful touch of elegance to this stunning 16th Century Inn. The bedrooms have been updated and their bathrooms modernised.

Cotswold Kitchen & Inn

The combination of historic features with modern furnishings, décor and comfort offers the best of both worlds in this picturesque corner of the North Cotswolds.

The Inn is located in the conservation village of Upper Oddington which, surrounded by tranquil English countryside, makes it the ideal destination for any occasion – a romantic getaway, a special meal, a light lunch or just a drink!

Surrounded by picturesque villages, quiet country lanes and footpaths the area is ideal for cycling and walking. Although not for the faint hearted cyclist a popular full day route shown to the right covers many of the popular stops including where ‘refreshments’ are available.

Shorter routes are abundant for those looking for a more leisurely cycle in the countryside.

Horse & Groom, Upper Oddington, Near Stow-on-the-Wold, GL560XH Tel. 01451 830584 - Email. info@horseandgroomoddington.com Web. www.horseandgroomoddington.com

Historic Cotswold Market Town Hotel The award winning 34 bedroom Redesdale Arms Hotel sits at the gateway to the Cotswolds in the High Street of the historic town of Moreton-in-Marsh.

Conveniently situated and within walking distance of a mainline railway station with direct links to London and only a short car ride to Stow-on-the-Wold, Broadway, Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden and many more local tourist attractions.

The Cotswolds is an area of outstanding beauty recognized for lush green landscapes, quaint villages and attractions.

As with the Horse & Groom in Oddington, Moreton is surrounded by quiet country lanes and footpaths.

It is also possible to ride or walk between the two while avoiding most of the main roads.

Both locations offer facilities for securing bikes over night and are popular choices for walkers and cyclists both booking directly as well as through one of the many self guided tour operators in the area.

Redesdale Arms, High Street, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL560AW Tel. 01608 650308 - Email. info@redesdalearms.com Web. www.redesdalearms.com

Redesdale Arms HOTEL | RESTAURANT | BAR

58 | Cycling World

Cycling in the UK This issue we are exploring a whole range of different cycling locations in the UK. From the city-based Birmingham in the Midlands, to the opposite ends of the country The Lake District in the north and Essex in the South with also a feature on the County of Shropshire just for good measure!

September 2017| 59

60 | Cycling World

Shropshire

Sometimes it takes someone else to remind you of the joys to be had right on your doorstep.

Andy Dawson rediscovers a road a little closer to home…

S

ometimes new cycling routes are closer than you think. That intriguing local area you’ve been planning to explore and never do. The valley and hills you see on a regular train commute. A landscape you pass through during a longer ride and don’t have time to investigate.

I live and work in Shropshire and know how brilliant the county is to ride in. With hardly any motorway miles and no substantial cities this is a truly rural county, and a pleasure to ride around for the last ten years. So it was a surprise recently to find myself on undiscovered lanes, entering villages from unfamiliar side roads and discovering castles I never knew existed.

It takes someone else to uncover what you’ve missed and that’s exactly what I got when I went to visit Wheely Wonderful Cycling at their Petchfield farm base near Ludlow. Kay and Chris Dartnell set up their holiday company 23 years ago and know the Shropshire, Herefordshire, Welsh borderlands intimately. “We picked this area after a lot of research into suitable cycling countryside and we believe it offers the best cycling,” says Chris.

“We’ve prepared a set of maps pointing out all the good local roads for cycling avoiding the main highways and difficult climbs.” Chris and Kay were just gearing up for the start of their cycling year and found time to point

September 2017| 61 Rehenimil ipsum asperenimi, ut endae consequodiae consendam, qui aut poraepe rchilit empossus plignatuscit ipsapita dem id quissum audam nonsequos vento blaut erundit, ut idionectur aute idigendestia santorem as ex et hit quae ped quae et qui con esciet expligenis ditio volupti ipitas ipide del im ata none cum voluptatet lam que volorro vitatat.

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Logo: Linocut by Drusilla Cole

62 | Cycling World

Country house comfort in the heart of the Shropshire Hills

Designed with cyclists and walkers in mind, Bank House offers perfect comfort and fabulous hospitality in the centre of Bishop’s Castle. The town is home to two breweries, great places to eat and festivals all year round - a great destination after a day riding the Long Mynd Burway.

• Perfect fo r grou

ps of 10 to 14 • Secure st orage for bi kes & washi ng area • Parking on site • Scrummy brea

kfasts and ca ke • Five spac ious bedroo m s w ith fabulous ensuite show ers • Studio sp ace for yoga , pilates and massage • Catering options and packed lunch availa ble

photo credit: Elizabeth Sillars

photo credit: Liz Colebrook/ Beaumont Bicycle of Bishop’s Castle

photo credit: Ian Weatherhogg

photo credit: Charles Trotter

Bank House B&B 4 High Street, Bishop’s Castle, Shropshire, SY9 5BQ • Tel: 01588 630026 or mobile: 07712 010525 www.bishopscastlebedandbreakfast.co.uk @BankHouseBnB Bank House B&B

hurch tre on oliday o ages phone e mail info

5 mobile churchstre onco ages.co.uk Welcome to Goosefoot Barn Holiday Cottages Self Catering Cottages near Ludlow South Shropshire Goosefoot Barn is nestled in a secluded valley in beautiful Corvedale. With attractive views down the valley and the imposing Clee Hill on the horizon there is nothing to disturb the peace and tranquility.

A holiday at Goosefoot Barn Cottages will ideally suit anyone with the need or desire to get away from it all.

hurch tre on oliday o a es offer three beautiful, fully e uipped self catering co ages, immaculately clean to ensure a rela ing and en oyable stay in the beautiful outh hropshire ills. With the li le e tra s provided for you to make the holiday en oyable and stress free leaving you rela ed and refreshed.

Four delightful cottages to rent which have been converted from stone and timber barns and furnished and decorated to the highest standards.

Munslow Cottage is wheelchair friendly with rooms on one level and a wet room.

Dogs are welcome by prior arrangement and there are some great places to cycle and enjoy stunning views.

Goosefoot Barn Cottages, Corfton, Craven Arms, Shropshire. SY7 9LB Tel: 01584 861326 • E. info@goosefootbarn.co.uk

September 2017| 63

me to the start of one of their favourite local rides - The Quietest Cycle Tour under the Sun. This is a 36 mile round trip from Petchfield that can be done as a 2 day tour for holiday makers. It promises a gentle introduction to the area with a clever rout that takes you past the mountains rather than up them. I set off on my hybrid bike to see how it worked. your bike with interesting titles.

Bucknell came next with more eating spots; they are the last food opportunities before the stretch to Clun. Once past Bucknell the road starts very gently rising and the landscape begins to change. The hills to either side of

64 | Cycling World

The Cotswolds is a Cycling Sensation

www.cotswolds.com/cycling

See the Tour of Britain in The Cotswolds

Enjoy The Cotswolds by bike at any time

This September, The Cotswolds will be alive with colour as the Tour of Britain races past honey coloured stone towns and stunning countryside as it completes stage seven from Hemel Hempstead to Cheltenham.

The Cotswolds is perfect for cyclists as there are bridleways and quiet country lanes galore. As we are known for our rolling hills, you’ll struggle to avoid a few uphill stretches but at least most are relatively short and gentle. Your efforts will have earned you a freewheel downhill afterwards and a guilt free drink and meal in one of the wonderful Cotswold inns which are so thoughtfully scattered along your route!

The race takes in the wonderful Cotswold market towns of Charlbury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Moreton-in-Marsh and Winchcombe before tackling the SKODA King of the Mountains climb on Cleeve Hill. Each of these beautiful towns have a special character and feel but every one of them is worth a visit.

After racing through the market towns of the Cotswolds the race finishes in Regency Cheltenham on the iconic Promenade. It’s not difficult to imagine the excited crowds lining the streets and as it’s the first time that Cheltenham will have hosted the OVO Energy Tour of Britain, they are bound to be out in full force. Please join us in the Cotswolds to cheer the Tour of Britain riders along.

Many local events around the whole route are planned including a sportive from Cirencester the day after the race (10th September), many cycling festivities in Winchcombe as well as a vintage bike ride from Stow to Bourton on the Water.

If you want company on your cycling break then within the Cotswolds there are several companies offering guided or self-guided cycling tours and holidays. If you travel with someone who doesn’t love cycling as much as you do then there’s even one with electric bikes!

You can also just pick up a bike in the local town you are staying in to explore the town and countryside. With Bainton Bikes, you can collect a bike from many Cotswold towns and drop it at another. If you prefer to do your own thing there are a number of downloadable cycle rides on www.cotswolds.com/cycling or just buy a map and plan your own route.

Visit www.cotswolds.com for a wide choice of accommodation and places to visit.

Check out www.cotswolds.com/tourofbritain for the latest events taking place as well as our great cycling competition to come and stay in the Cotswolds seeing stage 7 as a VIP Guest.

September 2017| 65 the road get higher and slightly wilder and the farming becomes almost exclusively sheep based. This is the really clever part of the route where you pass in between the hills, still on a very gentle road.

It also becomes very quiet. I know I’ve said it already, but here I learn a new meaning for quiet. Distant sounds of streams flowing, of Red Kite birds calling and your tyres rolling over the road are all you can hear.

You go further and further into this high landscape not really believing how easy it is. Along the way you pass through the wonderfully named New Invention hamlet with steep road options to left and right and a simple side road to continue your flat progress through the magical valley.

Inevitably, right at the end, there is a short, steep ascent out and then a long drop into Clun with good views of the surrounding countryside. Clun is a substantial village with a castle, shops, pubs and a tea room by the historic packhorse bridge over the Clun River where you can also picnic by the side of the water.

Clun is the furthest west on the tour and you turn back from here to take much wider roads through Clunton and Purslow. Here again the route picks its way between the hillsides, now covered with conifers, and then turns right

to leave the Clun valley and head back over to the Teme.

This was new ground for me and very quickly I was at Hopton which is a tiny hamlet with a large castle keep in a field nearby. The strategic need for a castle seems to have got lost in time and some people suspect it was more for show than actual defensive duties. The local community recently fund-raised to finance the opening up of the monument so you can now visit it fully.

From here the route dropped to Bedstone and then on to Leintwardine via back roads, re-entering the village from the top and dropping down to the bridge and picnic area.

Further lanes thread you back past fields and streams to the start point.

This short ride (36miles) was an excellent introduction to a special part of the country. Even if you think you know an area, taking someone else’s cycling routes can re introduce a whole landscape from a fresh perspective.

Wheely Wonderful maps have many more routes and can even be joined together to plan a truly ambitious grand tour of the Welsh Marches.

66 | Cycling World

Essex

Let’s just park the myth that Essex is all like TOWIE.

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ornwall has its world-class surf, Cumbria its great lakes and Yorkshire its magnificent dales, but Essex has recently unfortunately been pigeonholed as offeringlittle more than tanning salons, nail bars and nightclubs.

However, the sight of the Women’s Tour and Tour De France pelotons sweeping majestically through the county in front of huge crowds did much to show the world there is another side to Essex - especially from a cycling perspective. It is the home of world class riders such as Mark Cavendish, Laura Trott, Alex Dowsett and Ian Stannard and in 2012, Hadleigh, near Southend-onSea, provided the stunning backdrop for the Olympic mountain bike course. Not only that, where Essex borders London, you’ll fi nd the Lee Valley VeloPark, which boasts the Olympic velodrome and BMX track among other firstclass facilities.

For all but the most masochistic or dedicated King of the Mountains aspirants, Essex is also, almost exclusively flat.

Although things get “a bit lumpy around Saffron Walden” as Dowsett recently told a journalist. This means that you can ride a large section of the 3rd stage of this year’s Tour De France without all the suffering normally associated with ‘La Grande Boucle’. The route passes through picture-postcard perfect villages, such as Finchingfield as it down the quieter roads towards Epping.

Of course, you are not compelled to ride ‘full gas’, as the professionals say. For those who want to amble along at their own pace and soak in beautiful scenery, then Essex is the perfect place to pedal. There are mile upon mile of cycle paths and scenic country lanes winding through

a county that is remarkably more than 70% rural. You’ll pass clapper-boarded and thatched cottages, windmills and duck ponds - and all this less than an hour from central London.

There is a multitude of opportunities to swing off the roads and lanes and enjoy the sights around the parks and gardens of Essex’s country houses. Great Notley Country Park covers over 100 acres and has bucolic views across open farmland. Epping was home to the royal hunting forest frequented during Tudor times by Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. Away from the TDF route, there’s even more to explore and Visit Essex has designed five circular routes for cyclists to enjoy. Each one takes in some of the county’s most beautiful countryside, charming villages and mustsee landmarks. You can choose from a shorter ride to a challenging, full day in the saddle as you explore the entire route. The five maps also give valuable tips on the best places to eat, drink and stay overnight, so you can make a weekend of it. You can download each one in PDF format from www.visitessex.com/cycle Each route takes a theme, offering you a choice of meandering through the county’s fascinating history, taking-in the views and discovering the locations that inspired great artists like Constable and Munnings, experiencing Essex’s penchant for designer retail therapy and first class hospitality, exploring Britain’s newest city, Chelmsford, and the nearby riverside town of Maldon - home of the world-famous sea salt and Oyster Festival.

For history buffs Saffron Walden, Thaxted, Henham and Clavering in the north of the county are an absolute delight. Following the route themed ‘Medieval markets, mazes and Morris dancing’, you gently roam through

September 2017| 67

some of the most beautiful countryside in this part of the country. There are plenty of opportunities to stop wherever the fancy takes you. A must is to visit the eyecatching, historic town of Thaxted, and the glorious English Heritage Audley End House and Gardens (don’t miss the miniature railway there too). The ancient market town of Saffron Walden is also a must-see, as it boasts a rich heritage of ancient buildings, plus attractions such as the Fry Art Gallery and town museum. Well worth pedalling to for a fun, if somewhat mind-boggling diversion out of the saddle, lose yourself in the Victorian hedge maze in Bridge End Gardens or trace the unique and mysterious turf maze on the Common, the largest example of its type in the world and one of only eight surviving turf mazes in England.

For those who love to shop, Braintree is the place to head to and fill your panniers! Freeport Designer Village is the place to bag a bargain, while handmade jewellery, ceramics and original artworks are just waiting to be snapped up at Blake House Craft Centre. Follow the Flitch Way to Great Dunmow and revel in the sleepy atmosphere of this charming, prosperous market town famed for its Flitch Trials. Dating back to the time of Chaucer, who mentioned the Dunmow Flitch in the Wife Of Bath’s Tale, a side of bacon, or flitch, is awarded once every four years to a married couple who can satisfy the judge and jury that in ‘twelvemonth and a day’, they have ‘not wisht themselves unmarried again’. Keen photographers and artists will find a rich array of subject matter as they cycle around the wonderfully-named Coggeshall, Finchingfield and Hedingham. Finchingfield is often described as the ‘most photographed village in England’ and has won many awards for its traditional picturesque setting. The centre of Coggeshall comprises of nearly 300 listed buildings, many of which are timber framed and date back as far as the 14th century.

A short ride away from Colchester (Britain’s oldest recorded town) is Constable Country. The sublime, gently rolling rural landscape featuring the iconic Dedham church and Flatford Mill, immortalised by Constable in the 19th century remain largely unchanged. Just outside Dedham’s village centre is the Munnings Collection.

Sited in Sir Alfred Munnings’ former home is a wonderful display of some of the celebrated artist’s finest studies

of equestrian and rural life. Chelmsford is known as the birthplace of radio, and is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city surrounded by picturesque villages each with their own charm and history. Stop to talk to the animals and reveal your inner Dr Doolittle at Tropical Wings Zoo and Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park before getting back on your bike and heading to Maldon. On higher ground there are majestic views across the Blackwater Estuary and on the town’s quayside you’ll be greeted by the sight of some of the graceful and majestic Thames Sailing Barges.

These five suggested routes provide the perfect opportunity to explore much of Essex with shorter alternatives incorporated into each suggestion. You can pick up a chosen route at any point and follow it in either direction. The maps also provide essential information on places of interest and attractions to visit along the way together with accommodation and places to eat.

However, the verdant landscape of Essex - dappled with gently winding rivers and lit by constantly changing East Anglian skies, miles of country lanes, hidden byways, bridleways and public footpaths - will surely inspire you to go your own way in Essex.

68 | Cycling World

STRATHMORE H O T E L S

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR SOMEWHERE NEW TO CYCLE THIS SUMMER? Then why not book your stay with Strathmore Hotels? Our hotels stretch from the beautiful countryside of Harrogate all the way up to the Scottish Hills of Nethy Bridge.

CYCLE YOUR WAY THROUGH CUMBRIA...

Stay at the Cumbria Grand Hotel set in 20 acres of grounds and pick from a number of beautiful cycling routes available in the stunning Lake District. After a hard day of cycling relax and unwind in the comfort of our beautiful Seaview restaurant or take full advantage of the indoor games room.

YOU CAN ENJOY • Overnight accommodation with a 3 course evening meal and at high fibre breakfast Packed lunch for your day ahead • Free storage facilities and drying room for • any kit you may need the next day!

• We’ll even provide you with some free golakes guides for cycling within the local area ALL THIS FOR ONLY

• £65pppn Sun-Thu • £69pppn Fri-Sat Cumbria Grand Hotel Lindale Road, Grange-over-Sands Cumbria, LA11 6EN 015395 32331 salescumbria@strathmorehotels.com

EXPLORE THE SPEYSIDE WAY BY BIKE NEAR NETHY BRIDGE...

You’ll be able to explore the north of Scotland by bike when staying at our charming Nethybridge Hotel. This hotel is a first class base for sightseeing in the north of Scotland and has an abundance of local wildlife and local activities to enjoy.

YOU CAN ENJOY • Overnight accommodation with a 3 course evening meal and a high fibre breakfast Packed lunch for your day ahead • • Free storage facilities and drying room for any kit you may need the next day!

ALL THIS FOR ONLY

• £65pppn Sun-Thu • £69pppn Fri-Sat Nethybridge Hotel Nethy Bridge (Nr. Aviemore) Inverness-Shire, PH25 3DP 01479 821203 salesnethybridge@strathmorehotels.com

Travelling in a group of 10 or more? Let us know for a special discounted rate.

STRATHMORE’S TOP TIPS

• Be sure to bring your camera, you’ll see some stunning views and a picture speaks a thousand words!

• Interested in wildlife? Make sure you bring some binoculars to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife.

• Prepare for all types of weather, last thing you need is to be caught out by the forever changing British weather.

Visit our website to see all the hotels within our Strathmore Hotel Group

www.strathmorehotels.com

Subject to availability and exclusion dates. Prices quoted are based on two adults sharing a Classic Twin or Double Room

EXCLUSIVE 10% OFF ABOVE RATES WHEN QUOTING “CYCLING WORLD”

September 2017| 69

Cumbria and the Lake District

By Richard Barrett for Cicerone Publications Route Distance Climb Grade Time OS maps CafĂŠs/pubs Start and finish

Maximum gradient Major climbs

A

fter a few miles to get warmed up, there are two big climbs that come in rapid succession and two lesser climbs after the turn for home making this route a must for those wanting to put their climbing ability to the test.

Leave Ambleside and head west on the A593 towards Coniston. Shortly after crossing Skelwith Bridge, turn right towards Elterwater. At the bottom of the hill, turn left towards Little Langdale. After a gentle climb up through Little Langdale village, there is a pleasant descent past Little Langdale Tarn.

Keep left at the cattle grid. Once past the Grade II listed Fell Foot Farm, which was one of the sixteen farms that Beatrix Potter left to the National Trust the road starts to climb (during the depression of the 1930s, Beatrix Potter encouraged her tenants to offer B&B and those at Fell Foot Farm, which she left to the National Trust, still do.) It is fairly easy to start with, but once past Hollin Crag, where the full extent of Wrynose Pass becomes visible for the first time, the gradient increases and never eases until the summit.

Once past Three Shires Stone at the summit, the initial part of the descent is steep and twisting and needs care, but the long run out through Wrynose Bottom is pure pleasure. Cross the packhorse bridge that spans the River

Over the Wrynose and Hardknott passes from Ambleside 68km (42 miles) 1580m Long/challenging 6–7hrs 90, 96 Ambleside, Little Langdale, Boot, Eskdale Green,Broughton Mills, Torver, Coniston Ambleside (NY 377 045) 30% Wrynose Pass: 2.9km, 280m, 25%; Hardknott Pass: 1.8km, 180m, 30%

Duddon at Cockley Beck and set out up Hardknott Pass. It is neither a long climb, nor a high climb. And nowhere does it reach the lung bursting gradients that are experienced when climbing it from the Eskdale side.

However, a quick look at an Ordnance Survey map shows seven gradient markers clustered in less than 500m half way up. It is this stretch that makes many riders consider it to be the hardest ascent in the Lake District, especially the straight 30 per cent ramp near the beginning. Here, any lack of commitment means stalling and then walking until the gradient eases and it is possible to get going again. After that there are several hairpins where, unless there are any vehicles, it is possible to minimise the gradient by going wide.

There are three parts to the descent with two steeper sections that need care sandwiching a more benign middle section. Not that it matters much when going downhill. Other than for a short ascent at Dalegarth, the road through Eskdale is also gently downhill, giving some marvellous riding through Boot and all the way to the T junction near the King George IV Inn on the outskirts of Eskdale Green.

70 | Cycling World

'Narnia' 4* Gold Award Holiday Cottage The perfect base to explore Shropshire's Meres, Mosses and Canals by bike, with over 25 miles of unmarked country lanes on the doorstep.

Super King Size Bed | Double Ended Bath | Romantic Log Burner | BBQ Area | Equestrian Facilities Online booking available at www.ses-equine.co.uk

Pedal your way to Narnia

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et amidst the beautiful and quiet country lanes of the picturesque Shropshire countryside, ‘Narnia’ is the perfect retreat for those looking to rest weary legs, or combine pedal power with horse power.

Following a life changing heart attack, Chantal Siddle, paused her International eventing to run Siddle Equine Services and create this unique holiday cottage. As a runner, Chantal appreciates the needs of those looking to get out on the open roads on a more sedate mode of transport and therefore welcomes cyclists, walkers, runners and riders or those just looking for a quiet romantic retreat.

With more than 25 miles of unmarked country lanes to ride around and abundance of unspoilt walk ways and canals, Narnia is a quaint bolt hole for those looking for a few quite days of nature and tranquillity. Tucked away in Northwood, this country cottage offers a superlative location to visit local areas of interest such as the Meres and Mosses of Shropshire including birding favourite Whixall Moss, the West Midlands Shooting Centre, climbing and much more.

The Shropshire Tourism Board 4 Star Gold Awarded cottage offers understated luxury in a quaint country cottage. Sleeping two in a master suite featuring a super king size bed, and a further two on a fabulously comfortable sofa bed, Narnia acts as a home away from home with double ended bath and a romantic wood burner for those cold winter nights or Barbeque for Summer dinning.

September 2017| 71

Turn left towards Broughton and a long climb up and over Birker Fell. This is not a single peak as its name suggests, but a high moor with numerous crags rising above the undulating terrain. Once in Ulpha, turn left up the Duddon Valley towards Seathwaite and enjoy a couple of easy kilometres to Hall Dunnerdale. Once across the River Duddon, turn right towards Broughton Mills and climb up and over the Dunnerdale Fells. It is a short sharp ascent with gradients on the lower section through Far Kiln Bank reaching into the low teens. But once over the top there is the well-earned reward of another long descent. After crossing the River Lickle, turn left towards Torver and climb up and over the lower slopes to Broughton Moor to reach the A593.

Turn left and ride through Torver to Coniston, enjoying the views out across Coniston Water. You could ride all the way back to Ambleside on the main road, but a quieter option is to turn right towards Hawkshead in the centre of the village and follow the B5285 around the head of Coniston Water and up Hawkshead Hill to the aptly named High Cross. Turn left towards Ambleside and ride through Barnsgates to meet the B5286 at Pull Woods. Turn left and enjoy the last few miles down to meet the A593 at Clappersgate. Turn right to return to Ambleside.

‘Everesting’ – repeatedly climbing the same hill until 8848m of ascent has been achieved – is an increasingly popular cycling challenge. Doing it on the gradients of Hardknott Pass would be punishing as you would need to climb Hardknott Pass 30 times from west to east or 50 times east to west to complete an ‘Everest’.However, it would be very appropriate: the passenger in the first car to cross both the Hardknott and Wrynose passes in 1923 was Andrew ‘Sandy’ Irvine (1902–1922), who was last seen alive making for the summit of Everest with George Mallory on 8 June the following year. The driver was the wealthy motoring fanatic Dick Summers who Irvine had first met at Shrewsbury School. At the time Summers was courting Irvine’s sister, Elizabeth, who he eventually married in 1925, while the 21-year-old Sandy was having an affair with Summers’ 25-year-old step mother. Neither was said to be happy about the other’s relationship, which may have created a tense atmosphere for the other passengers in the opentopped Vauxhall 3098, the Keswick rock climber and photographer, George Abraham, and his two young daughters.

72 | Cycling World

bicycle ad landscape.indd 1

23/06/2017 16:30:56

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ome and see the world’s largest collection of British road transport! Discover the heart of Britain’s transport industry, the people behind the technology and the innovation that made Coventry an industrial powerhouse for over 120 years.

From the Rover Safety bicycle to the fastest car in the world, a trip to Coventry Transport Museum will take you on a journey through a history of design and innovation.

Explore 12 stunning new galleries and uncover the role that Coventry played in the design and manufacture of transport through the ages. With a great central

Thrust SSC Landspeed record 4D simulator, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Now fully reopen after a £9 million redevelopment, this stunning museum is the largest in the UK, and completely FREE to enter!

location, car parking at the rear of the museum by prior arrangement and a fantastic onsite café and gift shop, groups will find the museum a perfect day out.

Delve into a world of manufacture, design and social history and experience record breaking speed on the

September 2017| 73

The South Downs Way New Boy on Fat Boy does charity 100 miler

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o after a few beers with old mates over New Year’s, I was persuaded to sign up to do the British Heart Foundation charity 100 miler along the South Downs Way.

up the miles each weekend and jumping out for pit stops at the local cafe, Windy Corner, to enjoy a sandwich and a coffee. By the end I managed a 77 mile, 9 hour-ride including breaks and at that point I felt I had it in me.

My friends are seasoned endurance pros who have previously competed in Iron Man events: The North Pole Marathon, Marathon des Sables; you get the picture. The longest cycle I’d ever done was the London to Brighton with my cousin back when I could jump on a bike, do 50 miles and not notice it the next day. That was quite a few years ago, well over thirty years in fact.

Two months before the event our team got together and cycled to Check Point 1 and back, a total of 40 miles and that was really an eye opener. Training on the local paths and hills is one thing but to actually sample part of the actual event route certainly helped focus my mind on how tough this would be and I immediately stopped drinking - fear is a great motivator!

The question was - could I do this?

I struggled to keep up with my chums and really didn’t take the right food with me. My water bottle with a flip lid was almost impossible to use on the move, due to the rough terrain. It also became very obvious that if I was to finish then I’d need to go at my own pace. 4 hours 45 minutes was a respectable time for 40 miles, but there was no way that I could keep that pace up on the day and so it was very useful to take onboard those lessons a few months before. Thinking the hare and the fat tortoise with these guys.

Was I fit enough, did I have it in me to complete an event like this?

The answer was - I needed a new bike!

Now, prior to the event, I was an occasional off roader; the most excitement was negotiating the nursery run with Stanley (my four-year-old) on the back of my 25-yearold Specialized Rockhopper. I definitely ‘needed’ a new bike. I read an article about the new genre of Mountain bike - the ‘Fat Bike’ - and knew I wanted something that would be fun to get me back out on the trails again and ideally on the beach. However, Fat Bikes and 100 mile endurance events do not typically mix, but once I’d seen some shots of the Specialized ‘Fatboy’, that was it, deposit went down with the guys at Cycles UK in Canterbury (who did me a great deal) and then the long wait for the shipment to arrive ...

I needed to get the fluids right and so decided on the dual bottle (800ml with pull top to allow drinking on the move) approach rather than a Camelpak or the like as water is surprising heavy and wouldn’t help riding comfort. I opted for one bottle with water and the other with electrolyte additive which worked very well as I’ve been caught out before on a triathlon with just taking onboard sugary drinks on a hot day - the body just seized.

Back in 2007, I walked 65 miles of the South Downs Way for Oxfam, so I already knew how hilly the route is, good preparation would be essential. I was starting with a good base fitness, but really I hadn’t cycled any distance for years, so those early weeks of training were about trying to enjoy being out on the bike again and not beating myself to the point that I really wasn’t looking forward to training.

I also tried gels and protein bars which helped at times, but certainly didn’t work for me as the only fuel source on one of my training rides I hit the wall at 45 miles and had nothing left in the tank. Getting the food right was key to completing the event and I spend quite a few rides working through various snacks and food ideas along the way and at the pit stops and eventually found bananas, beef jerky and even sausage rolls worked well at various intervals.

Training rides started along the scenic Viking Way coastal route in North Kent. Although not ideally matching the South Downs terrain, these certainly got me out in the saddle, initially on the Rockhopper, but I knew that I’d need to get some more climbs into the training fairly soon. To make it more demanding I decided that the best approach would need to be on trails and basically ended up cycling back and forth along the Crab and Winkle Way between Whitstable and Canterbury, just clocking

The big day arrived and by then I was ready, well ready to get started. I really had had enough of the training and the planning, thinking, the prep. I was ready to give it a go! With a very early morning get up, a generous application of chamois cream and a porridge pot breakfast, we got to the starting point for 5am to ensure an early start to maximise ride time. I knew I’d need as much time as possible and was aiming for 15 hours to complete the journey on the Fatboy.

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VILLAGE PUB ON LOCH AWE The bar at Kilchrenan Inn is the ideal place for a drink, whether you live in the surrounding area or are passing through by car, bike or on foot. We have a wide selection of beverages on tap, including ale from local brewers Fyne Ales and delicious cider from Thistly Cross.

Serving lunch and dinner, the kitchen at Kilchrenan Inn offers traditional British dishes, sourcing only the freshest ingredients from local suppliers throughout Argyll & Bute.

There is a roaring fire to keep our guests warm during the winter months and an outdoor seating area for basking in the sun during the summer months.

Book your table online today and come and see why we are so excited to be opening our doors again!

Kilchrenan Inn, Kilchrenan, Argyll & Bute, PA35 1HD, Scotland Tel: 01866 833 130 e-mail: info@Kilchrenaninn.co.uk Website: www.kilchrenaninn.co.uk

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nce an 18th century trading post, the Inn has been transformed and is a true gem hidden amongst the munros and lochs of rural Argyll & Bute.

Kilchrenan Inn has been the platform we have been looking for in which we can showcase the fantastic local produce that Scotland has to offer. We have created a place to savour simple, honest food with friends and family in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

We focus on ingredients from the beautiful, seasonal larder right on our doorstep.

We are first and foremost a rural pub where you can get in close to the fire and sample some of the local Scottish gin, whisky and beers we have to offer.

The Kilchrenan Inn is a 15-minute drive from Taynuilt and

a short walk to the shores of Loch Awe. We are blessed to be situated within beautiful Argyll and a short drive from Oban, the Gateway to the Isles. We are also on National Cycle route 78 which includes a stunning stretch along loch awe.

September 2017| 75 After registration and a quick safety briefing whilst in the saddle, we were raring to go and then let off the leash!

Nervous chatter was followed by laughter as almost immediately we hit a bottleneck in the path. Fortunately we were sent on our way in small groups of 50 or so riders and weren’t travelling at speed so no drama.

I have to say that the scenery was amazing with the sun starting to rise over the hills and it really felt great to be part of this fantastic event. The weather was kind also with a light breeze and not too hot to start with, although it did warm up as the day went on. Thankfully though not the 25+ degrees I’d experienced on a training ride a few weeks before.

It has to be said that the signage wasn’t the best and having to follow the small blue acorn symbols for most of the first 15 or so miles with just few BHF arrows caused a few frustrating moments, especially when a group of us took the wrong route down a very steep winding path only to be told at the bottom that the South Downs Way was back up the way we came!

At that point I dropped back from the last of my chums and was cycling on my own for most of the ride, but of course the route was busy enough to meet other riders and walkers, especially as we passed through gates along the way.

The South Downs has some very demanding hills, even for the most athletic of riders, so steep to the point where an old rambler would casually amble past you as riders zig-zagged up the slope due to the ridiculous peddle rate when in your lowest gear. My approach was to ride as much as I could, but if being overtaken by walkers or progress is just painfully slow, then I’d jump off and push. It made a nice change actually, using different muscle groups and you actually could take in the scenery rather than having your head down trying not to look how much of this hill was left to complete! I have to say though that if anyone cycled every inch of the 100 mile route then they must be super human as some of those hills were brutal even to walk up. support was critical it wasn’t jumping me at each with a smile, course the there would me finishing. a break as well as a

Ensuring I had at the 7 check points to my success and if for my partner Lorna, in the car and meeting pit stop along the way reassuring words and of food/water supplies, then have been no chance of It was important to take much for psychological as physical recharge.

Riding in with just a few miles to go in the twilight was magical. It was after 9pm and so I concerned that I’d be too late to collect my medal, so I was pushing on as hard as I could with the rabbits darting across the trail.

There was no one around and it was great to enjoy the

environment like that, especially knowing that I was so close to the finish. However, there are two monster hills at the end which make sure they sap most of what you have left, just when you think you’ve cracked it.

I arrived at the finish at 9:40pm and the organisers were still there to cheer me in, so I did get my medal! Only took me 16 hours and 20 minutes so possibly the slowest time ever, but I had finished and on a fat bike and that was all the mattered.

So, would I do it again?

Well no probably not, but I did meet a few people who come back every year and I can sort of see why.

Would I recommend it?

Absolutely, it was an incredible adventure and one I’ll never forget.

76 | Cycling World

Birmingham

An equal dose of surprise and delight in the UK’s second city.

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September 2017| 77

have to be honest, Sutton Coldfield didn’t stir my cycling imagination. The town is classed as a rather wealthy suburb to the second city, Birmingham. This modern urbanised metropolis of chaos, people and motor cars would not be an automatic choice to pedal but I what I was about to discover would surprise and delight me in equal measure. I love the fact that when you search for Sutton Coldfield on google maps, it’s labelled as The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield. How posh? I was about to find out.

The attraction wasn’t immediate, a stereotype of an area dominated with remnants of industry past and present.

However, we were away for a weekend of glamping in the Boldmere area, so my plan was to immerse myself in the surroundings and enjoy the time on two wheels (making a concerted effort to banish any preconceptions and just simply pedal).

I was greeted by some Glorious weather After a rather sweaty, fidgety night’s sleep I appeared from the canvas to be greeted by bright uninterrupted blue skies. The temperature was already well established as I departed the campsite and I made a slight detour towards the water of Powell’s Pool. Constructed in the 1700s, the dammed water was used to power a mill which was demolished in 1936. However I was distracted by a substantial grey structure set back from the road, and encased behind metallic prison-like gates. Its appearance was imposing as the early morning sun created a crescendo of shadows. I later discovered its use as a Sea Cadet drydocked training vessel called the Concrete Corvette. The building has been constructed to replicate a ship and doesn’t disappoint, a perfect choice to identify the home of the Sutton Coldfield Sea Cadets.

Our base was on the perimeter of Sutton Park close to the Powell’s Pool reservoir. I will briefl y explain, we were here for a Sea Cadet Regatta and would be camping with over 300, 12-18 year old cadets and the odd adult (Oh joy, I hear you say!). The weather predicated was positive and as we set off I still had to battle those pesky pre-conceptions, the image of a skyline dominated by smog and chimneys bellowing out the produce of industrial processes so evident and so vivid.

I was surprised to discover that Sutton Park is the largest urban park in Europe and covers 970 hectares attracting over two million visitors each year. It offers an array of attractions and the landscape is a mosaic of heathland, wetlands, marshes and seven lakes. We had arrived early evening; the sun was still happily dancing with a youthful exuberance. We pitched our palatial tent in close proximity to Powell’s Pool, the venue for the weekend’s watery fun and near the Boldmere Gate entrance to the park.

As I negotiated the cattle grid at the Boldmere Gate and pedalled into the park, the horizon was dominated by a verdant tapestry of colours and the comforting image of cattle and ponies happily grazing in their normal habitat.

I was immediately surprised by the sense of wilderness and isolation that could be found within a well-established urbanised environment. The Boldmere gate obtained its name from Boldmoor lake situated nearby on the Chester Road and provides plenty of parking for any visitor/s.

There is a well organised network of paths and tracks throughout making it an ideal location to either cycle or walk. The roads within the park have a ‘Heavily Restricted’ status with the only access contained to traffic into and out of the park any through traffic is completely blocked by the expert use of sturdy gates. The speed limit has been reduced signifi cantly over the years and currently stands at a rather meandering 5mph. This is obviously great news for cyclists and walkers who can

78 | Cycling World As I progressed further into the greenery, the road surface fluctuated between tarmac and light gravel which emanated a lovely crunch beneath my skinny, rather exposed tyres.

There are plenty of cycle routes In and around the park I had discovered from the always helpful and efficient Sustrans, that NCN 534 (also known as Plants Brook route) enters the park. The route is small, mainly off road, and follows Plants Brook from the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal near Minworth to Sutton Coldfi eld and then onto Sutton park when it eventually joins NCN 535.

enjoy the glorious surroundings without the constant threat of pollution and noise whilst significantly reducing the impact on the road surfaces. Around the edges of the woodlands are a plethora of banks and ditches created to help protect the trees from the grazing animals. The whole experience is one of peace and relaxation.

The area is rich with history, there are the preserved remains of Icknield Street (a Roman road), an ancient well and several unassuming prehistoric burnt mounds.

It began life as a Royal forest in the 9th century for the Anglo Saxon Kings of Mercia and by the early 12th century, it was a well-established deer park. In 1997, English Nature designated the park a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

I exited the park via the Streetly Gate and headed towards the city centre. My focus was the canal area in and around the ICC/NIA and Broad Street. Due to the time of day, the roads were relatively quiet and I made good progress. The surroundings changed quite significantly as I advanced, the horizon now dominated by grey drab tower blocks and urbanized gloom.

However, there was the occasional glimpse of wonder and artistic flair on an innocuous street light or building. Somehow I managed to fi nd myself safely in the heart of the commercial area of Broad Street.

The street is the dynamic heart of the city’s nightlife with a glut of bars, restaurants and entertainment venues. It’s definitely moved on since

September 2017| 79 the 1700s when it was a simple un-named country path. I noticed running along the pavement, brass stars and the names of famous brummies. This is actually a ‘Walk of Stars’ a less glitzy alternative to the ‘Hollywood Walk of Fame’ and names included are Ozzy Osbourne who was the first to be honoured in 2007, Jasper Carrott, Frank Skinner and many more. From this bustling thoroughfare it was only a short pedal ride to the seclusion and serenity of the nearby canal.

I rested in the beautiful surroundings of Cambrian Wharf, set just to the east of the NIA. I was astonished to find two people expertly tinkering with some bikes. Their base is a vibrantly decorated barge adorned with the ventures name, Cycle Chain. It’s a not-for-personal-profi t company with charitable objectives and simply refurbishes unwanted and unclaimed bikes for sale to the public. It was established in 2000 and has an ethos to work with people with visual and mental impairment and those recovering from mental health problems by providing training in bicycle maintenance and to simply promote cycling as a cheap and sustainable form of transport. The floor was dotted with a selection of tools and bikes either being stripped or lovingly refurbished, after a brief chat I left to immerse in the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal.

From the wharf the canal descends quickly from the Farmers Bridge flight of locks, which a local animatedly informed me is an exhausting exercise. As I stood on the bridge, I couldn’t fail to notice the iconic BT Tower protruding skywards. The city is slowly waking up to the fact that its network of canals is a huge environmental asset, and improvements and re-developments are happening all the time. This is in no small way thanks to the tireless work of the Birmingham Canal Navigation society, with its emphasis on restoration and promoting awareness. The towpath was a constant flow of city dwellers, the area exuding a cosmopolitan feel. There was plenty of boats moored up, obviously the occupants here to discover nearby Broad Street and the NIA. There is something special about the canals, especially if you travel along a city centre, the tranquil and calming atmosphere amidst the bustle of urban life is a reassuring breath of fresh air and provides a welcoming glimpse into the past

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Portugal Refinding its Cycling Pedigree

Jeremy Edwards discovers an untapped beauty and a re-found cycling heritage

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am hunched over my top tube and sweat is mixing with sun cream, stinging my eyes. As my breathing recovers I take a swig from a solar heated bidon and sit up to survey the climb that has just encouraged me to stop at its summit. I smile. Sprawled out in front and below is the Arrábida Natural Park. With its deep green Mediterranean vegetation and cloudless skies, it is a welcome sight for sore eyes. I am here to discover a bit of what a cycling holiday in Portugal might offer as an alternative to the tried and tested col hunting in France.

Portugal has a rich cycling heritage, the Volta a Portugal em bicicleta was first ridden in 1927 and whilst not as important as the three grand tours it always has been and remains a significant competition. My arrival in Lisbon coincides with the 9th and penultimate stage of the 78th edition of the race, which runs between Alcácer do Sal and Setúbal, covering 187.5km. At this point a Portuguese rider, Rui Vinhas representing the Portuguese team W52-FC Porto-Porto Canal, is still in contention for the GC. It is clear from crowds gathering early in Setúbal that expectations are high. These expectations are driven by memories of Jaoquim Agostinho,

September 2017| 81 Portugal’s most famous cycling son, who was champion of Portugal in six successive years and twice finished third in the Tour de France, winning on Alpe d’Huez in 1979.

More recently Rui Costa, who won the 2013 UCI Road World Championships, has inspired a new generation of cyclists. Professional cycling in Portugal is growing again, powerful Football clubs such as FC Porto have returned to sponsor a team after a 31-year hiatus.

Fernando Pedrosa of Phoinix Cycling, a small tour operator based in Setúbal has arranged for me to ride part of today’s stage, which also follows the route of the local Granfondo held annually in October. Two short rides have been planned, which will complement the timing of the stage and enable plenty of time to enjoy the company of my hosts whilst pit stopping at a couple of their favourite cafes. This is, after all, a special day, being the first time the Tour has passed through Setubal in 40 years. The first ride, in the morning will head into the Arrábida Natural Park, and will include both the category three climb at Alto das Necessidades and the coastal category two at Alto das Arrabida. The second ride, in the afternoon will head back via an alternative route to Alto das Necessidades, where we will wait for the Tour to arrive, hoping to witness an attack on the 20% gradient that appears near the end of the climb. Somehow we then have to make it back to Setúbal before the leaders arrive for what should be a sprint finish. The tour riders have a much greater distance to cover and this includes a lot of climbing; despite this I have my doubts regarding our ability to return in time.

PHOINIX CYCLING Phoinix cycling, based in Setubal south of Lisbon, are a small cycle tour operator who offer bespoke packages for those who do not wish to move base every day. Instead they are focussed on providing a personal experience with rides from a single base led by guides who have an encyclopaedic knowledge of cycling. Comprised of a group of friends with a passion for and a lifetime involvement in cycling, Phoinix want to share the best of road cycling in this undeniably pretty part of Portugal. Phoinix can provide bikes, full mechanical support and massage as well as a choice of accommodation. Whilst being lovers of cycling this group are also most definitely lovers of life and as such they are keen to share the best of the local food and drink. www.phoinix.pt

As we leave for the morning ride I am too busy enjoying the heat (36C) and the sea breeze to worry about missing the sprint finish. The ride out of town is a steady climb and quickly takes us away from the noise and traffic of the busy port. As a first time visitor to Portugal I am immediately struck by how green the hillsides are in August; the contrast between the perfect azure of the sky and the olive tones of the hillside is stunning. I am cycling with a mixed group and as such the pace is steady, given the temperature I am happy to be eased into the ride.

We break onto a narrow road that takes us deeper into the Natural Park and leads towards the day’s first climb,

82 | Cycling World

the category three at Alto das Necessidades. The climb is steady at first and there is time to enjoy the mixture of farm land, which is mostly comprised of small vineyards, olive trees and grazing sheep. As we progress the climb undulates and I find myself looking forward to the treelined sections providing shade as the heat takes its toll.

In the last 300m the gradient begins to really ramp up and I find myself out of the saddle and relieved to take the crest in order to take on some much needed water.

Thankfully the journey to Aldeia Rica, a small town on the edge of the park is flat and the pace leisurely.

We break for a drink at a cafĂŠ and I enjoy sampling the locally-baked pastries, my pastel de nata, a type of egg custard tart, is superb. A mountain bike parked in front of the cafĂŠ sparks conversation about bikes owned past and present and it is quickly apparent that the team from Phoinix have an encyclopaedic knowledge of bicycles and are keen to share stories. Fernando, who fell in love with mountain biking whilst training for fitness to further his motocross career, tells me how he started with a

converted Rossin Mistral cyclo-cross bike which he then fitted with a flat bar. Many of the tiny roads which form a maze across the Arrabida Park are unsealed gravel tracks, the local riders frequently opt to take cyclocross bikes or simply fit heavier tyres to road bikes in order to benefit from these rural lanes which complement the tarmac roads. One of our party, JoĂŁo Serralheiro, who runs a local cycle distribution business is actively involved in the development of the local cycling scene. He plans to make good use of these gravel roads as they will comprise part of the route for the spring classic that he has created and has just been added to the UCI calendar for 2017.

Returning to the saddle we head back into the park and begin the ascent towards the coast. The sun is dominant in the sky, and as I push harder the bushes and trees which line the roads are filled with cicada and their rhythmic song adds to the contrast from cycling at home.

I am cycling with a grin, in fact as we begin to traverse the coast and the gentle breeze provides some relief, that

September 2017| 83 feeling of flight or even Jean Bobet’s la volupté, (‘pleasure from a combination of speed and ease, force and grace’) begins to hit me. The ocean sparkles to my right and a smooth curving asphalt strip beckons to the fore. I have already decided that I will be returning to discover and explore more of what this area has to offer, it is so different in culture and landscape to Northern Europe.

It is worth exploring these contrasts from a saddle. The drop from the category two climb at Alto das Arrabida down to Setúbal is a heady combination of smooth dry roads and open bends which encourage you to let go and lean in. I am rapidly passed by the local riders who know these routes so well and are possibly spending less time admiring the views of the Tróia Peninsula.

Following lunch in Setúbal we head back to Alto das Necessidades to wait for the Tour to arrive. We cycle via an alternative route, this time heading back along the coastal road before heading inland up a steadily rising lane. Either side of us the combination of red rock and eucalyptus trees reminds me somewhat of Western Australia. As we climb out of the valley the views change and we are moving through a cork tree plantation, a firm reminder that we are definitely in a wine producing area.

Soon we arrive back at Alto das Necessidades, where the crowds that have already developed are mostly made up of local club riders. The atmosphere is one of bonhomie and the crowd is cheering the last of the vehicles to pass up the climb before the road is closed. Many of the lesser powered cars and mopeds are stalling on the 20% gradient and the audience delights in celebrating each failure before helping them on.

As the tour arrives a small break of about ten riders is leading the peloton by a couple of minutes. No decisive moves or attacks are made, but the atmosphere is fantastic and it is great to see that the behaviour of the crowd is respectful to the riders. The last support vehicle passes and there is a scramble as the crowd turn to their own bikes and begin to hurtle back down to ensure arrival in Setubal in time for the finish. Cycling with the group from Phoinix we get ourselves organised and after negotiating the lanes of the natural park we manage to average over 50kmh on the final 5km of sweeping downhill into town. What a way to finish a perfect day, that was capped by the sight of home favourite Rui Vinhas coming in safely to maintain his lead of over two minutes in the GC. Time is precious and for most of us, especially those with families. If we get away once a year for a cycling holiday we consider ourselves lucky, which means we must choose wisely. Whilst the Arrabida Natural Park and surrounding areas obviously does not provide the chance to take on any of those cols on your bucket list it does provide other opportunities. It is a pleasure and a change to cycle in a southern Mediterranean landscape.

The terrain offers some seriously punchy climbs and very rapid descents, all set against the stunning backdrop of olive groves, glistening ocean and unspoilt beaches.

Furthermore, the welcome is as good as or better than anywhere else is Europe and the local restaurants do not seem to know how to serve a bad meal. Anyone who loves seafood will be in heaven. Whether it’s for a cycle only holiday intended for use as a training camp or for a combination of cycling and family downtime I would highly recommend this area as an alternative to the tried and tested destinations.

ARRABIDA GRANFONDO - 2ND OCTOBER 2016 This is the second edition of the event, the first attracting over 600 riders. This is a race of just over 133km, mainly through the Arrabida natural park on closed roads and includes a summit finish at the castle in Palmelas. Interesting to note, there is also a category for those wishing to ride a vintage bike. www.arrabidagranfondo.com

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September 2017| 85

DISCOVERING OEIRAS AND ALBUFEIRA ON WHEELS VALIDITY: UNTIL 31st DECEMBER 2017

If you are passionate for cycling and never go on holiday without your bike, we have prepared a set of services that you can add to your stay.

Choose your destination, Oeiras or Albufeira and discover the charms of each region on wheels.

HOW TO BOOK Access realhotelsgroup.com, enter the booking engine and select:

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I Acess to swimming pool

[ 6 ] The best accommodation price

I Acess to gym I Indoor and outdoor parking for bicycles I Acess to bike washing area I 1 ou 2 Laundry Kits (includes washing 4 or 8 pieces of clothing) I Free Wi-fi

and add the DISCOVERING OEIRAS AND ALBUFEIRA ON WHEELS 1 or 2 days programme to your stay

HOTEL

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T_(+351) 213 199 150/151/152/153 E_reservas.lis@hoteisreal.com ALGARVE T_(+351) 289 598 010/012/053 E_reservas.alg@hoteisreal.com

Conditions: Programme subject to prior booking and the availability of the selected. Not accumulable with other offers.

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86 | Cycling World

Tenerife

Scot Whitlock discovers a showcase of intense landscapes and tempestuous seas in the canaries

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linging to the surface of the island is a prosperous, deeply ingrained layer of tourism; four million visit each year which completely eclipses the population of around 850,000. The majority of these pale intruders stay in the vibrant honey pots on the sun baked southern part of the island, like Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos. My hope was to peel back the layer of sangria’s and endless partying and discover the real untouched Tenerife.

I had read that the inland parts are supposedly a lot more peaceful, unspoiled and genuine. I was on the search for The Guanches, the native islanders. Their existence is long gone but I was hoping to unearth some relics of the past and immerse fully in the air of mystery that surrounds their memory. The Guanches were of Berber origin and developed a thriving culture on the island, including their own language, art, religion and social structure. Through colonisation, a part of this culture became integrated with Spanish culture and

September 2017| 87 even today there are holidays and festivals which can be attributed to them. They left many legacies; the island is dotted with the remnants of caves, pyramids and simple naïve engravings. The plan was to hire a bike and venture out into the volcanic wilderness and explore.

The island is in fact closer to the Sahara (only 300km) than mainland Spain (1,500km) and is the largest island in the Canary Island archipelago. The climate is close to perfect all year round, the summers are hot, with only a slight drop in temperature in the winter months and it is named rather aptly ‘The island of eternal spring’.

The majority of the population live and work in the north, where the climate is damper and greener, due in part to the prevailing winds, while the southern side is solely the domain of the islands sun seeking holiday industry with its near desert like conditions. Our base was in Callao Salvaje, just north of the heavily developed 7km long stretch of hotels and apartment complexes which encompasses Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas and Costa Adeje. There is no defi nitive border between the three resorts; in reality it’s just a single conurbation which amazingly accommodates two-thirds of the island’s holiday makers. If you want partying, this is the place to be; thankfully the lure of 24hr drinking is no longer on my ageing radar!

MY FAVOURITE TIME, BIKE TIME! I obtained my bike from Volata Sport who are based in Playa de las Americas but I conveniently arranged the hire through one of their local partners, in my case, the tourists attractions ticket purveyor (or ticket tout) situated in the main commercial area of Callao Salvaje. The service was excellent, at an agreed time the bike arrived at my hotel and arrangements were made to collect once my 4 days had expired. The machine of choice was a well maintained enthusiastically used Specialized Hardrock front suspension MTB. It was ideal for my meagre requirements.

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The Old Hall BYERS GREEN COTTAGES

Thomas Wright House

Explore Co. Durham Cycle Routes and MBT trails at Hamsterley Forest staying in rural village near Durham and Bishop Auckland .

B&B at Thomas Wright House with 8 ensuite double rooms or self catering at Old Hall Cottages(3) sleeping two or four with private hot tubs; or sleep five. Block booking for 11 welcome.

Cycle store at both locations.

Thomas Wright House serves meals every day for all, including breakfast

Phone: 01388 664716 • e-mail: enquiries@thomaswrighthouse.com www.byersgreen.com • www.thomaswrighthouse.com

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yers Green a small village in a quiet rural setting off the A688 between Durham and Bishop Auckland on the edge of the Northern Pennines provides an ideal central location to explore the attractions of the North East from hills to coast with cycle tracks, walks, and fishing on the River Wear (permits available) The wild beauty of Weardale and Teesdale, historic splendor at Raby Castle and Bowes Museum; industrial heritage at Beamish, Killhope and Shildon.

Also Keilder Water and Hadrians Wall Country in nearby Northumberland.

through traffic. All three are stone conversions No.1 sleeps 4 with a log burner and private hot tub No.2 sleeps five and overlooks The Old Hall gardens ; three pets are welcome here. These cottages are ideal for booking as a pair. Hall Farm Cottage sleeps two with private hot tub, log burner and uninterrupted views towards Durham.

We offer you self catering or bed and breakfast accommodation. Cottage guests can book breakfast at Thomas Wright House too, and enjoy other meals from 12 noon.

Find Old Hall Cottages rated 4 Star in a secluded situation on a Lane leading to the River Wear with no

Set back from the High Street opposite the Village Green is newly renovated Thomas Wright House rated 4 Star Silver, with eight ensuite rooms : four double; one twin/ double; one triple; one suite/ family room and one luxury room with private hot tub. All have tea/coffeemaking facilities, hairdryer, TV and free WiFi. Dine in our highly rated ground floor public restaurant; relax in the rear garden and sitting area looking across open countryside; or enjoy the panoramic views towards the West from the first floor bar/lounge.

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Cycle routes

The Peak District’s traffic-free cycle tracks are among the best in the country and as well as offering great family friendly Enjoying the Tissington Trail off-road cycle routes they also make good walking options.

Cycle routes

Here, we recommend some good drinking venues close The Peak District’s traffic-free cycle tracks are among the best in the country and as well as to the offering threegreat White Peak trails. family friendly off-road cycle routes they also make good walking options.

Here, we recommend some good drinking venues close to the three White Peak trails.

September 2017| 91 Route 1: The High Peak Trail

enough here at a height of over 1,000-ft! Beers are Bass, Marstons and a guest.

The 17-mile long High Peak Trail was originally conceived as a canal at the outset of the railway era but built as a railway on canal principles, with contoured sections linked by inclined planes, none steeper than the route starting at High Peak Junction near Cromford up onto the plateau at Middleton Top (also the official start of the new Pennine Bridleway). This also makes a good walk in the reverse direction starting from Middleton Top: you could head north along the canal for a mile from High Peak Junction and sample the pubs in Cromford.

Route 2: The Tissington Trail

CYC CYC CYC CYCLE ROUTES CYC

The 13-mile route from the junction with the High Peak Trail at Parsley Hay to Ashbourne was originally part of the Buxton to Ashbourne railway, built by the London & North Western Railway (LNWR) and opened in 1899. In its heyday, it carried express trains from Manchester to London and milk from Peak District farms into the capital.

Today, the traffic-free leafy trail is perfect for cyclists. Start:

Route 2: The Tissington Trail Route 2: The Tissington Route 2:Route The Tissington Trail Trail 2: The Tissington Trail

CYCLE IN CYCLE IN CYCLE IN CYCLE INFORMATION ParslIN CYCLE

Start: Parsl

Start: Parsl Starting from Parsley Hay, head south deep Start:through Parsleythe Hay Start: Finish:Parsl Ash cutting and in about 2 miles you’ll find the old Hartington Finish: Ash Finish: signal box. It’s worth consulting your map Ashbourne here before Finish: Ash Finish: Ash Cycle hire: heading off the trail either to the Waterloo Inn at Biggin, Cycle hire: Cycle hire: very close to the Trail, or to Hartington at Parsley Cyclebeyond. hire: atBiggin’s Ashbourne, andH Cycle hire: Parsley H unpretentious Waterloo Inn offers four real ales (Black at at Parsley H at Parsley Hayand at Parsley H Sheep beers, M&B Mild, and a guest) and food, Access: bu welcomes accompanied children (who may enjoy the pool Access: bu Access: bu from all par Access: buses to Ashbourne table) until 10pm.

Access: bu

The 13-mile route from the junction with the High Peak 13-mile route from the junction with the High Peak he 13-mileThe route from the junction with the High Peak The 13-mile route from the junction with the Highpart Peak Trail at Parsley Hay to Ashbourne was originally of Trail at Parsley Hay to Ashbourne was originally part of CYCLE INFORMATION : Theat High Peak Trail rail Parsley Hay to Ashbourne was originally part of Trail at Parsley Hay to Ashbourne was originally part of the Buxton to Ashbourne railway, built by the London & e long High Peak Trail was Buxton originally conceived the to Ashbourne railway, built by the London & he Buxton to Ashbourne railway, built by the London & the Buxton to Ashbourne railway, built by the London & at the outset of the North railway era Western but built as a Railway (LNWR) and opened in 1899. In from all from all par par Bus Timetab from all parts: see Peak District North Western Railway (LNWR) and opened in 1899.

In from all par canal principles, with contoured sections linked More adventurous riders will enjoy the circular detour Bus Timetab North Western (LNWR) and opened in 1899.

In inParwich, Bus Timetab Western Railway (LNWR) and opened 1899.

In to Parsley One of theNorth most Railway interesting sections of the Trail is near Busa Timetable. serviceH on charming quiet Manchester lanes to little furtherIrregular south Bus Timetab planes, none steeper than the route starting at its heyday, it carried express trains from to to Parsley H the scenic Black Rocks, just before Middleton Top, and to Parsley east. Thisfrom well-heeled village has some fine houses parking its heyday, it carried express trains Manchester to to Parsley Hay listedCar here also.H to Parsley H Junction near Cromford up onto the plateau at a walk or bus ride from the Trail into Wirksworth offers nestling under the Manchester limestone plateau, and the Sycamore ts heyday, itits carried express trains from Manchester to Car parking heyday, it carried express trains from to Car parking in Ashbourn several refreshment options.

Five minutes down the lane and milk from Peak District farmsunspoiled into Robinson’s the Car capital. parking at Parsley Hay and Inn, a pleasantly two-roomed Top (also the officialLondon start of the new Pennine Car parking in Ashbourn north of the Trail from Middleton Top is from The Rising Sun London and milk Peak District farms into capital. in Ashbourn house. Food is available andthe children welcome (there’s incapital.

Ashbourne This also(Ansells) makes good walk in the reverse in Ashbourn ondon andawhich milk from Peak into the capital. welcomes walkers andDistrict cyclists isfarms Connecting London and milk fromandleafy Peak District farms into the also a playground adjacent).

Find the road out to AlsopToday, the traffic-free trail is perfect for cyclists. open all day.

The pub serves meals at lunchtime and Connecting arting from Middleton Top: you could head en-le-Dale, another delightful lane although there’s a bit Connecting Today, traffic-free trail is perfect for cyclists.

Connecting walks: 22 in the evenings duringthe the summer, and there is aleafy beer Connecting of a climb to rejoin the trail just south of the junction with the traffic-free leafy trail isleafy perfect foris cyclists. goday, the canalgarden. for a mile from High Peak Today, theJunction traffic-free trailthe perfect for cyclists.

Set off westwards from Middleton Top and busy A515 (take care). Ashbourne is still CYseveral CL E R OU TES

UTES

Start: Cromford

Finish: Hurdlow

Cycle hire: at Middleton Top ( 275552) and Parsley Hay ( 147638) Access: Trent-Barton Bus R6.1 to the Rising Sun for Middleton Top. There are car parks at Parsley Hay, Minninglow ( 194583) and Middleton Top

Connecting walks: 4, 6 & 7

the wonderful countryside of the Peak’s limestone e the pubssoon in Cromford.

busy A515 (take care). Ashbourne Starting from Parsley Hay, head south through busy A515 (take care).

Ashbourne Starting from Parsley Hay, head south through A515 (take care).

Ashbourne Starting from Parsley head south through Route Theyou’ll Tissington busyfind A515 Trail (takebusy care).

Ashbourne is still Starting from Parsley Hay, head south through busy A515 (take care).

Ashbourne Starting from Parsley Hay, head south through miles south but on the wayseveral there the deep cutting and inHay, about 22:miles miles south but on the way there the deep cutting and in about 2 miles you’ll find miles south but on the way there the deep cutting and in about 2 miles you’ll find miles south butmiles on the waybut there’s theway quiet he deep cuttingtheand about south the there deep cutting2 miles and inyou’ll about 2It’smiles you’ll find estate village ofon Tissington with oldinHartington signal box.find worth consultestate village of Tissington with the old Hartington signal box.

It’s worth consultestate village of Tissington with the old signal box.

It’s consultestate with its appealing he old Hartington signal box.here It’s worth estate village ofbeyond Tissington with B the old Hartington Hartington signal consultbox.

It’s worth worth consultteaTissington rooms, and at Fenny ing your map before heading off the trail village of tea rooms, and beyond at Fenny B ing your map here before heading off the trail rooms, and beyond at ing your here heading off teatrail rooms, andtea at Fenny Bentley, ng your map here before heading off the trail tea rooms, andoff beyond at Fenny Fenny ing your map here before before heading off the the trail ( beyond either to map the Waterloo Inn at Biggin, very close 177495) the Trail on theBB (( either to the Waterloo Inn at Biggin, very close 177495) off the Trail on the either the Inn at Biggin, very 177495) the Trail on ( close ither to the Waterloo Inn attoBiggin, very 177495) off Trail and on off the busy A515, is ( the either to theorWaterloo Waterloo Inn close at Biggin,Biggin’s very close 177495) off the Trail on the the to the to Trail, Hartington beyond. the Coach Horses (Marston to the Trail, or to Hartington beyond.

Biggin’s the Coach and Horses (Marston to the to beyond.

Biggin’s Coach and (Marston o the Trail, or to Hartington Biggin’s the Horses (Marstons), whilst the to the Trail, Trail, or orbeyond. to Hartington Hartington beyond.

Biggin’s the Coach and Horses Horses (Marston unpretentious Waterloo Inn offers four realCoach ales andthe nearby Bentley Brook Inn, with unpretentious Waterloo Inn offers four real ales nearby Bentley Brook Inn, with unpretentious Waterloo Inn offers four real ales nearby Bentley Brook Inn, npretentious Waterloo Inn offers four alesandfour nearby Bentleynearby BrookBentley its aextensive unpretentious Waterloo InnMild, offers real ales Brook Inn, with with (Black Sheep beers, M&Breal a guest) and garden, isInn, alsowith worth look.

(Black Sheep beers, M&B Mild, and a guest) and garden, is also worth a look.

(Black Sheep beers, Mild, and aa guest) and also Black Sheep beers, Mild, andM&B a guest) and garden, worth ais (Black Sheep beers, M&B Mild, andchildren guest) andis also garden, garden, islook. also worth worth aa look. look. food, M&B and welcomes accompanied (who food, and welcomes accompanied children (who food, and welcomes accompanied children PUB INFORMATIO ood, and welcomes accompanied children (who food, and welcomes accompanied children (who (who may enjoy the pool table) until 10pm.

PUB INFORMATIO PUB INFORMATIO may enjoy the pool table) until 10pm.

PUB INFORMATION may enjoy the pool table) until 10pm.

PUB INFORMATIO may enjoy the pool table) untilpool 10pm. mayMore enjoyadventurous the table) until riders will10pm. enjoy the circuMore adventurous riders will enjoy the circuadventurous will enjoy the More adventurous riders enjoyriders the circuMore adventurous riders will enjoy the circucircular More detour on will charming quiet lanes to Parwich, lar detour on charming quiet lanes to Parwich, lar detour on charming quiet lanes to Parwich, ar detour onRoute charming quiet lanes Parwich, lar detour on charming quiet lanes to Parwich, a little further south to east.

This well-heeled 2: The Tissington Trail aa little further south east.

This well-heeled little further This well-heeled little further south Thissouth well-heeled avillage littleeast. further south east.

Thisnestling well-heeled has some fineeast. houses under the village has some fine houses nestling under the village has some fine nestling under illage has some fine houses nestling under the village hasplateau, some fine houses nestling under the limestone andhouses the Sycamore Inn, athe limestone plateau, and the Sycamore Inn, aa limestone plateau, and the Sycamore Inn, mestone plateau, and the Sycamore Inn,Sycamore a two-roomed limestone plateau, and the Inn, a pleasantly unspoiled Robinson’s pleasantly unspoiled Robinson’s two-roomed pleasantly Robinson’s two-roomed leasantly unspoiled two-roomed pleasantly unspoiled Robinson’s two-roomed house.Robinson’s Foodunspoiled is available and children welcome house.

Food is available and children welcome house.

Food is available and children ouse. Food is house. available andis Food availablewelcome and children welcome welcome (there’s also a children playground adjacent). (there’s also aa playground adjacent). (there’s also playground adjacent). here’s also a playground (there’s alsoadjacent). a playground adjacent).

Find the road out to Alsop-en-le-Dale, another Find the road out to Alsop-en-le-Dale, another Find road out Find the roaddelightful out tothe Alsop-en-le-Dale, another Find the roadalthough out to to Alsop-en-le-Dale, Alsop-en-le-Dale, another lane there’s a bit of a another climb to delightful lane although there’s a bit of a climb to Cyclists enjoying N

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miles south but on the way there’s the quiet estate village plateau opens up just before you pull up the Hopton of Tissington with its appealing tea rooms, and beyond at INFORMATION incline, formerly the country’s railway atmosphericsteepest Olde Gate unaided Inn, a National InvenFenny Bentley, 177495) off the Trail on CYCLE the busy A515, is gradient at 1:14. Beyond the with rugged outcrops of and Harboro’ Start: Parsley Hay tory entry a gleaming old range wooden the Coach and Horses (Marstons), whilst the nearby rocks you can leave the Trail atstone-flagged Longcliffe bar. and drop a mile Finish: Ashbourne tables in the Food is available Bentley Brook Inn, its extensive is also The 13-mile route from the junction withwith the High Peak garden, downhill (on a fairly quiet lane under but maybe unsuitable but children ten are confined to the beer Cycle hire: at Ashbourne, and worth a look.

Trailmining at Parsley Hay to Ashbourne was originally part of for young children) togarden Brassington, old at Parsley Hay at the rear. an Beers arelead from the Marston’s village. Here you’ll find the splendidly atmospheric the Buxton Access: buses to Ashbourne range with a guest. Brassington’s other Olde pub, to the Ashbourne railway, built by the London & Gate Inn, a National Inventory entry with a gleaming old from all parts: see Peak District Miners Arms, is worth a visitNorth too. Western Railway (LNWR) and opened in 1899. In Bus Timetable. Irregular services range and wooden tables in the stone-flagged bar. Food Return to the Trail and continue west with to Parsley Hay listed here also. is available but children under ten are confined to the it carried express trains from Manchester to its heyday, Car parking at Parsley Hay and stunning views southwards. About 12 miles from beer garden at the rear. Beers are from the Marston’s London and milk from Peak District farms into the capital. in Ashbourne Middleton you’ll reach the junction with the range with a guest. Brassington’s other pub, the Miners Connecting walks: 22 Trail at Hay Today, (with the traffic-free leafy trail is perfect for cyclists.

Arms, is worth a visit Tissington too. Return toParsley the Trail anda cycle-hire centre andviews refreshments).

Two miles further , at Biggin continue west with stunning southwards. About 12 andreach right onthe the junction Trail is the Royal OakParsley at busy A515 (take care). Ashbourne is still several Starting Hay, head south through miles from Middletonnorth you’ll withfrom the Hurdlow.

This is the ideal spot if you’re out with st interesting sections of the Trail is Tissington Trail at Parsley Hay (with a cycle-hire centre miles south but on the way there’s the quiet the deep cutting and in about 2 miles you’ll find the family children north are welcome c Black Rocks, justrefreshments). before Middle- Two and milesasfurther and right on signal box. It’s worth consultestate village of Tissington with its appealing the oldthroughout Hartington the pub even on the This pool table inyour the cellarhere – before heading off the trail walk or busthe ride Trail from the is Trail the into Royal Oak at–Hurdlow. ising the ideal tea rooms, and beyond at Fenny Bentley, map if you’re out withand the family asthe children are are welcome catered for on menu. There outside fers severalspot refreshment options. ( either to the Waterloo Inn at Biggin, very close 177495) off the Trail on the busy A515, is Inn (Marstons), whilst the Coach a the evenwith onseating the pool in cellar if it’stable warmtoenough here es down thethroughout lane north of the Trailpub –lawns thethe Trail, or to Hartington beyond. Biggin’s theWaterloo Coach and Horses Waterloo Inn Coach – and catered for on the menu.

There are outside lawns at a height of over 1,000-ft! Beers are Bass, Waterloo Inn offers four real ales on Top is The Rising Sun (Ansells) Waterloo Inn CoachBea a unpretentious Bentley Brook Inn, withand its extensive Main Street, Biggin Fenny CY CL E ROUInn TES nearby Waterloo Coach Horses Waterloo Inn CoachBea with seating if it’s warm Marstons and a guest. mes walkers and cyclists and is Main Street, Biggin Fenny (Black Sheep beers, M&B Mild, and a guest) and garden, is also worth a look.

Main Street, Biggin Fenny Be Nr Buxton Derbyshir Mainchildren Street, Fenny Bentley, Ashbourne The pub serves meals at lunchtime Street, Biggin Fenny Be food, and welcomes accompanied (whoBiggin Main Nr Buxton Derbyshir PUB INFORMATION INFORMATION Nr Buxton CYCLE INFORMATION Derbyshir PUBSK17 INFORMATION nings during CYCLE the summer, and Derbyshire 0DQ 01335 35 may enjoy the pool table) until Nr10pm.

Buxton Derbyshire DE6 1LB Nr Buxton SK17 0DQ Derbyshir Start: Cromford The Rising Sun Miners Arms Derbyshire 01335 35 r garden.

Waterloo Inn Coach and Horses More adventurous ridersStart: will Parsley enjoy Hay the circuDerbyshire SK17 0DQ 01335 35 01298 84284 01335 26 Rise End, Middleton Miners Hill, Brassington Derbyshire SK17 0DQ 350246 Main Street, Biggin SK17 Fenny Bentley, Ashbourne 01335 35 Derbyshire 0DQ Hurdlow Finish: Ashbourne stwards Middleton Top and ceivedfrom Finish: The 13-mile routeMatlock, fromDerbyshire the junction Derbyshire withlarthe High Peak detour on charming quiet lanes to Parwich, Bentley 01298 84284 DE4 4HA Nr01298 Buxton 84284 Derbyshire DE6 1LB Cycle of hire: at Middleton derful the Peak’s Cycle hire: at84284 Ashbourne, and Bentley 01298 DE4 4LS 01629 a540222 little further south east. This well-heeled 01298 84284 Derbyshire SK17 0DQ 01335 350246 as a countryside Bentley Trail at Parsley Hay to Ashbourne was originally part of Sycamore Inn Fenny Be ( before 275552)you and Parsley at Parsley Hay Bentley Brook Inn 01629 822420 teau opens upTop just pull Bentley 01298 84284 village has some fine houses nestling under the Royal Oak Sycamore Inn Bentley Brook Inn Fenny Be Hay ( 147638) sincline, linkedformerly the Buxton to Ashbourne railway, built by the London Sycamore Inn Fenny Be buses to Ashbourne the country’s Parwich, Derbyshir Olde Gate Inn Hurdlow, Nr Buxton limestone plateau,&and the Access: Sycamore Inn, a Inn Sycamore Inn Ashbourne FennyBentley, Bentley, Ashbourne Sycamore Fenny Ashbourne Sycamore Inn Fenny Be Access: Trent-Barton Bus from all parts: see Peak District Well Street, Brassington Derbyshire SK17 9QJ Parwich, Ashbourne Derbyshir ed railway at 1:14.

Beyond Parwich, Ashbourne Derbyshire DE6 1LF rting at gradient North Western Railway (LNWR) and opened in 1899.

In pleasantly unspoiled Robinson’s two-roomed Parwich, Ashbourne Derbyshir R6.1 to the Rising Sun for Bus Timetable.

Irregular services Derbyshire DE6 1QL 01335 35 Derbyshire DE4 4HJ 01298 83288 Parwich, AshbourneDerbyshire Derbyshire DE6 1QLAshbourne 01335 350278DE6 1LF Derbyshir Parwich, tcropsatof Harboro’ rocks Middleton Top. you Therecan are Parsley Haywelcome listed here also. house.

Food is available andto children Derbyshire DE6 1QL 01335 eau 01629 express 540448 www.royaloakpub.org its heyday, it carried trains from Manchester to 01335 390212 www.bentleybrookinn.co.uk 01335 35 DE6 1QL 35 01335 390212 www.ben car parks Car parking at Parsley Hay and 1QL Derbyshire at Longcliffe and dropataParsley mile Hay, downDerbyshire DE6 01335 350278 CAMRA National Hours:(there’s Tue-Sun noon-11 also a playground adjacent).

Derbyshire DE6 1QL 01335 35 Minninglow ( 194583) nnine in Ashbourne 01335 390212 www.ben London and milk from Peak District farms into the capital.

Inventory Food: served noon-9 quiet lane but maybe unsuitable 01335 390212www.bentleybrookinn.co.uk www.ben Find the road out to Alsop-en-le-Dale, another and Middleton Top 01335 390212 Cyclists enjoying 01335 390212 www.ben Connecting walks: 22 dren) to Brassington,Today, an old lead erse the traffic-free leafy trail is perfect for cyclists. delightful lane although there’s a bit of a climb to a well-maintained Connecting walks: 4, 6 & 7 .ad Here you’ll find the splendidly cycle trail rejoin the trail just south of the junction with the Cyclists enjoying busy A515 (take care). Ashbourne is still several Starting from Parsley Hay, head south through Cyclists enjoying nction Cyclists enjoying a well-maintained miles south but on the way there’s the quiet the deep cutting and in about 2 miles you’ll find Cyclists enjoying W

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92 | Cycling World Route 3: The Manifold Track Behind the Crown Inn at Waterhouses (085503), the trackbed of the former Manifold Light Railway runs for 9 miles through a deep wooded valley. There are few distant views but the valley scenery is excellent. If you like quirky pubs do not miss the famous old Yew Tree Inn at Cauldon, (076493) before you set off. It’s incongruously sited by the cement factory close to the southern end of the trail but with an amazing interior full of all sorts of knick-knacks. Bass and Burton Bridge beers are the usual fare and there’s a family room.

d Track W

d try an l, with guest b oppunishe valley er or the s long open! on en to ildren.

O UTES d Hotel nd

Start: Waterhouses Finish: Hulme End

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ouses ( 085503), the Light Railway runs for 9 lley. There are few disis excellent. If you like ous old Yew Tree Inn at u set off. It’s incongruousose to the southern end nterior full of all sorts of idge beers are the usual E

CYCLE INFORMATION

Cycle hire: at Waterhouses (on A523) at southern end of track Access: limited bus services to Waterhouses and Hulme End: see Peak District Bus Timetable; car parks at either end of the trail Connecting walks: 3 & 25

www. shop.camra.org.uk/books/peak-district-pub-walks.html

Heading north from Waterhouses you could try an early call at the Red Lion Inn at Waterfall, with Bass, M&B Mild and a usually interesting guest ale; see Walk 25 for pub details. Other pub options en route to Hulme End involve Black Lion, Buttertonascents so either leave your bike in the quite punishing valley or be prepared for a push! However, neither the traditional Black Lionales at from Butterton does offer some interesting local nor the Royal Oak at Wetton will disappoint asquite long as you telephone ahead micros, if you’re lucky, although–it’s heavily to open! foodensure orientedthey’re and seems more interested in drivers than cyclists.

PUB INFORMATION 3: The Manifold Track O UTES Yew Tree Inn

Hours: Mon 7-11.30; Tue-Sat noon-2, 7-11.30; Sun noon-11.

Food: until 1.30 lunchtime, 7-9 evenings www.blacklioninn.co.uk N

Waterhouses e Crown InnCauldon, at Waterhouses ( 085503), the Staffordshire ST10 3EJ 01538 308348 of the former Manifold Light Railway runs for 9 Red Lion Inn ough a deep wooded valley. There e Crown InnWaterfall, at Waterhouses ( Royalare 085503), the Oak few disWaterhouses Wetton, Nr If Ashbourne Staffordshire ST10 3HZ sofbut the valley scenery is excellent. you like the former Manifold Light Railway runs Derbyshire DE6 2AF for 9 01538 308 279 310287 Hours;the Mon 8-11; Tue-Fri old 01335 bs do not miss famous Yew Tree ough a deep6.30-11; wooded valley. There are fewInn dis-at Sat noon-3, 6.30-11; Hours: Tues from 8pm (s but076493) before you issetexcellent. off.

It’s incongruous(no food); Weds–Fri Sun noon-4, 7-10.30. the valley scenery If you like noon–2:30, 7–11; Food: noon-2 (3 Sun), ybsthe cement factory close to the southern endat do not miss old Sat-Sun Yewnoon–3, Tree7–10:30.

Inn 6.30-9 the (7-8.30famous Sun).

Children in lounge only.

No food Mondays with an before amazing interior all sorts of (l but076493) you set off.fullIt’sofincongruouswww.peaklion.co.uk Manifold Hotel and Burton Bridge beers are the usual ycks. theBass cement factory end Hulmesouthern End Black Lion close to the Staffordshire Wetton Road, Butterton here’s a family room. l but with an amazing interior full of all sorts of E

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01298 84537 ST13 7SP cks. and Burton Bridge are the usual h fromBass Waterhouses you could try anbeers www.themanifoldinn.co.uk 01538 304232 the Red aLion Inn atroom.

Waterfall, with ehind here’s family

Mild and a usually interesting guest from you could kh 25 forWaterhouses pub details. Other pub try op-an the Lion at Waterfall, with e toRed Hulme EndInn involve quite punish-

CYCLE INFORMATION Start: Waterhouses Finish: Hulme End

CYCLE INFORMATION Cycle hire: at Waterhouses (on A523) at southern end Start: Waterhouses of track Finish: Hulme End Access: limited bus services Cycle hire: at Waterhouses to Waterhouses and Hulme (on A523) at southern end End: see Peak District Bus of track Timetable; car parks at either Access: end of thelimited trail bus services to Waterhouses and Hulme Connecting walks: 3 & 25 End: see Peak District Bus Timetable; car parks at either end of the trail Connecting walks: 3 & 25

The section of the route between Wetton Mill and Swainsley, although quiet, is open to vehicles, so you will need to supervise children.

At Hulme End the well-sited Manifold Hotel is a few yards from the start of the trail and does offer some interesting ales from local micros, if you’re lucky, although it’s quite heavily food oriented and seems more interested in drivers than cyclists.

CYCLESeptember R OU TES 2017| 93 CYCLE HIRE Ashbourne

October-December: by March-October: open Opening hours: 9.30-5.00 only CY CLappointment E ROUTES every day (5.30 during summer) November: open 1-11, 17-18, January: closed Manifold Valley 24-25 February-May: open weekCYCLE HIRE Bike Hire December: closed ends and school holidays Waterhouses October-December: by March-October: open Opening hours: 9.30-5.00 June-August: open every day Waterhouses Mapleton Lane, Ashbourne appointmentStaffordshire only every day (5.30 during summer) ST10 3EG September-October: Derbyshire DE6 2AA November: open Farm 1-11, 17-18, January: closed open Opening hours: 9.30-5.30 Brown End 01538 308609 Manifold Valley weekends and school 01335 343156 24-25 February-May: open holidays week(or dusk if earlier) Waterhouses Bike Hire email: cyclehire@peakdis- November-December: December: closed ends and school holidays closed Opening hours: 9.30-5.30 January: open weekends only Waterhouses Staffordshire trict.gov.uk June-August: open every day Waterhouses January-February: by Staffordshire ST10 3EG February: open 2-3, 9-24 ST10 3JR September-October: open Opening hours: 9.30-5.30 Parsley Brown End Farm 01538 308609 Hay appointment only weekends and school holidays March-October: open 01538 308313 (or dusk if earlier) Waterhouses Derbyshire SK17 ODG Staffordshire March-October: open weekNovember-December: closed 9.30-5.30 every day January: open weekends onlyBuxton, email: greensidecottage@Opening hours: January-February: by school holidays 01298 84493 ends and February: open 2-3, 9-24 ST10 3JR November: 1-11, 17-18, 24-25 zetnet.co.uk Hay appointment only March-October: open 01538 308313 email:Parsley cyclehire@peakdisNovember-December: by December: closed Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 ODG Opening hours: 9.30-6.30March-October: open weekevery day email: greensidecottage@ trict.gov.uk appointment 01298 84493 ends and school holidays only (or dusk if earlier) November: 1-11, 17-18, 24-25 zetnet.co.uk MiddletonDecember: Top closed email: cyclehire@peakdisNovember-December: by Opening hours: 9.30-5.30 Opening hours: 9.30-6.30 January-Easter: by appointtrict.gov.uk appointment only Middleton-by-Wirksworth (orment dusk ifonly earlier) (or dusk if earlier) Middleton Top Opening hours: 9.30-5.30 Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 4LS January-Easter: by appointEaster-September: open Middleton-by-Wirksworth January: closed (or dusk if earlier) ment only 01629 823204 Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 4LSFebruary: open 9-24 every day open January: closed Easter-September: Mapleton Lane, Ashbourne Derbyshire DE6 2AA 01335 343156 email: cyclehire@peakdistrict.gov.uk Ashbourne

01629 823204

February: open 9-24

The HighThe Peak Trail Middleton High Peakat Trail at Middleton

every day

94 | Cycling World

CLASSIFIED CLASSIFIED

SHOWCASE DIRECTORY Simply Cycling Slovenia SPECIALIST OUTDOOR SPECIALIST

mallorcaprivatetransfers@gmail.com

Bridlington

AWARDED TOP RATED STATUS IN ANNUAL UK HOTEL AWARDS

by LateRooms.com

w w w. r a g s h o t e l .c o. u k Get in touch:

01262 400355 / 674729 rags.bridlington@gmail.com

FABRICS & ACCESSORIES OUTDOOR FABRICS & • Water resistant and breathable fabrics ACCESSORIES

• Wind resistant microfibres • Water resistant and breathable fabrics

Texturedfleeces nylonand forthermal panniers etc.

•• Technical fabrics • Technical fleeces and thermal fabrics PVCcoated coated polyesters, window •• PVC polyesters, clearclear window fabricfabric • Extensive range of buckles, webbing and clipsrange etc.

• Extensive of buckles, and clips etc.

Cycling holidays inwebbing the beauuful, • Threads, patterns, water resistant zips un-spoilt, quiet & safe,

•• Threads, patterns, water zips Repair products and seam seal tape hidden jewel ofresistant central Europe

Mail Order •Fast Repair products and Service: seam seal tape

sLOVEina.

www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk BOOK YOUR TRANSFER NOW !!!

Pennine OutdooraLtd. Centralparadise!

Buildings, Simply cyclist's www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk Main Street, Bentham, Lancaster LA2 7HE

www.mallorcaprivatetransfers.com

Tel: 015242 Pennine Outdoor63377 Ltd. Central Buildings, Main Street, Bentham, Lancaster LA2 7HE Tel: 015242 63377

www.simplycyclingslovenia.com

CLASSIFIED SHOWCA

Sim S mallorcaprivatetransfers@gmail.com

Expect a warm welcome Beds from £15 per night

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Cottages in the besT 01422 843183 locations across Wales www.hebdenbridgehostel.co.uk

• Win

mama@hebdenbridgehostel.co.uk 01686 628200

• Tech

www.WALEScottageholidays.co.uk

• PVC

In the heart of fantastic cycling country on Route 66 and midway in the northern stages of 'Le Tour '14' ...plus more quality off-road routes than you can shake a stick at...

Hebden Bridge (5 minutes walk) has a thriving cafe and pub culture.

Comfortable, cosy, secluded, accommodation (breakfast inc.) at budget prices.

Mallorca 2017 October Cycling Camp

22 September to 30 October

Cycling World

Luxury spa hotel, experienced guides All abilities welcome From £425pp / week (twin room)

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Save 5% tion if you men ve d this a rt

Gentle cycling holidays since 1991

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Suffolk & Norfolk France, Austria, Germany, Italy & Spain

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Please call to find out more: 01449 721555

www.cyclebreaks.com

PLACES AVAILABLE FOR PRUDENTIAL RIDE 100 Martlets Hospice in Sussex has places available for the Prudential Ride London-Surrey 100 which takes place on Sunday 31July.

Starting in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the course follows a 100 mile route on closed roads through the Capital and into Surrey’s stunning countryside; before returning to finish in the Mall.

With leg testing climbs and a route made famous by the London 2012 Olympics, it’s a truly spectacular sponsored ride.

www.themartlets.org.uk Contact Clem Hunnisett events@martlets.org.uk

stuarthallcycling.co.uk or Tel: 07801 914929 114 Cycling World February 2016

• Rep

Use our bikes or bring your own

01273 718780

BOOK YOUR TRANSFER NOW !!!

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www.mallorcaprivatetransfers.com

Pennin

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Bike it to Budapest We are a family run business based near TRIATHLON Bridlington operating 5 custom built cycle Expect a warm welcome ZONE trailers catering for your transfer needs Beds from £15 percycle night

across the UK. We are proud to work with Cottages inRoses theoffering besT Way of the843183 a comfortable, 01422 locations acrossservice Wales professional transport for passengers www.hebdenbridgehostel.co.uk and their bicycles from Bridlington to mama@hebdenbridgehostel.co.uk 01686 628200 CUSTOM BIKE CUSTOM FIT Morecambe and all other destinations

www.WALEScottageholidays.co.uk including UK airports.

10published point anatomical measuring ThisOur book, for the rst time last year, after IfIn you would likeof more informauon or a quote the heart fantastic system ensures that your bikecycling will be fitted twenty years of cycling route experimentation between please contact us via email the UK and Budapest in search a themidway most stunning country on Route 66 ofand in toairlinktravel@hotmail.com your exact specifications traffic route. It follows some of Europe’s the free northern stages of2,000 'Le km Tour '14' or Tel: 01964544131 or 07778693870 major marked riverquality cycle pathsoff-road as well as some of the ...plus more routes less well know ones. The starting point is either The than you can shake a stick at... sales@triathlon-zone.com www.triathlon-zone.com Hook of Holland or Europort; campsites are included Hebden Bridge (5 minutes walk) along the route, which skirts around some of Europe’s has thriving andimportant pub culture. mostabeautiful and cafe historically places.

Comfortable, cosy, secluded, £12 including postage. accommodation (breakfast inc.) at Contact Paul direct at 01709 368425 or use the payment page on www.pennyworldcycles.co.uk budget prices.

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September 2017| 95

NONSTOP Mobility!

The new CONTACT Plus: Reaching your destination safely and comfortably.

Permitted for e-bikes up to 50 km/h.

www.conti-tyres.co.uk

CONTACT Plus

96 | Cycling World