London’s Water Supply
Another epic Banlk Hol ride devised and led by Werner. Theme this time was London’s water supply. Ride started 9am from London Bridge (Southwark Gateway Needle). Route a 70km (42 mile) loop initially heading west crossing the Thames over Chelsea Bridge and continuing to Shepherds Bush. Then east and a ride via Hyde Park and Soho to Clerkenwell. Next segment followed the New River north to Woodberry Down then cut across to Walthamstow Wetlands. Finally we headed south through Hackney and back to London Bridge.
Notes from Werner: 11 turned up. I brought most of them back to the Needle. Back at 16:15, well within the estimated time. First stop at the Design Museum, which looked rather quiet when we arrived. To save time (and
protest) Campden Hill was removed from the route but we lost that time by leaving some riders behind and then using modern technology to find out where they were. OTOH, Holland Park Avenue westbound was very quiet and we regained a bit of time by using the main road to the Holland Park roundabout, we could have made up even more by going around it instead of waiting for lots of
lights to switch in our favour on the cycle bypass. Unfortunately even on a quiet bank holiday our risk assessment might not have covered that.
The highlight of the day for riders had nothing to do with the topic of the ride, our timing was perfect for the Notting Hill carnival. Early enough not to get stuck in the crowds but not too early to miss participants in wonderful costumes heading for the event. And the roads we took already blocked by the friendly police for cars.
Islington mansions in Highbury New Park looked even more attractive today, the shade under the trees and the drop in temperature was much appreciated. By popular demand a second stop in Clissold Park for coffee and food and a rest under some trees.
It was a ride of two rather contrasting halves, first riding central London roads and then switching to the car-free tow-path along the Lea and paths through the marshes and between the reservoirs. Those who did the whole ride will remember a rather different ride.
Peter Goh’s Relive Video of the first half of the ride.
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