Tried a new format for Bike week. Running 3 short rides (1 hour) rather than one longer ride. Started/finished at Burgess Park as this was where Southwark Bike Loan scheme is based. However turnout was low (6-8 riders) and all were regulars. Did not attract anyone from the Bike Loan Scheme.
But rides went well, with 6-8, mostly regular, riders. Ride 1 headed down to Surrey Quays and Canada Water using a familiar route across the Park to Glengall Rd, then along signed route via Abercorn Way to Stevenson Crescent. From there to Southwark Park Rd. Lots of people by the road waiting for the Barry Albin funeral procession (see link). Barry formed the Funeral Directors FW Albin 40 years ago and was well known and liked in Bermondsey and Rotherhithe. Last part of the ride was across Southwark Park, on to Surrey Quays Shopping Centre and round to Canada Water Library where we met up with another rider as planned. On the return trip went along Lower Rd to the Rotherhithe Tunnel roundabout and looked in at the Albin’s Memorial Garden. A big Marquee had been erected alongside in the park, presumably for the post service events. From Southwark Park returned by the outward route to Burgess Park.
Second ride was up to Peckham Rye Park via the Canal Path and Rye Lane. No time for a coffee stop on these short rides, so straight back the same route. Stopped off at the “Cycle Hub” in the small square beside Peckham Rye Station. Handy covered bike storage, a set of Brompton Lockers for hire (see http://www.bromptonbikehire.com/), and a bike repair shop.
Third ride was to London Bridge Station. Decided to use different, more direct, route rather the one on the Healthyrider web site (this route now up on that site). Before starting the route proper, nipped across to the BMX circuit to see what all the noise was about. Found the 7th round of the British Cycling BMX Series in full swing. BMXers, mostly rather young, were everywhere – not surprising as there were 635 entrants from all over the country. Then towards London Bridge via Bagshot St and Elstead St. Deviated from the published route to look at the new work for Quietway 1 at Globe St and Tabard St. On to London Bridge via Weston St. Returned mostly using the published route. So did the crossings at Bricklayers Arms, then Darwin St, back to Bagshot St and Burgess Park.
All routes at http://healthyrider.weebly.com/burgess-park-routes.html
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