Ride Reports 2021
By Paul and others. Photos on this page are copyright © by ECC club members unless otherwise specified. Please send reports and photos to webmaster@edmontoncycleclub.org.
The club is currently arranging ad hoc rides at short notice. Participants are invited to send in reports of any such ride.
May June July August September October November December Merit points
Saturday 24th April: Shenley Park and Aldenham Country Park
Lunch at Aldenham Country Park
Photo: Geoff
Eight of us set off from Ferny Hill on a lovely sunny morning and made our way via quiet country lanes to Shenly Park. We stopped here for a catch up and chat but decided against coffee as the queue for the café was so long. At this point we split into two groups with Maz leading a smaller group home and the rest of us continuing on to Aldenham Country Park for a lunch stop. We cycled back past the Ice Cream Farm in Galley Lane. Leader Geoff, Riders Cathy C, Maz, Bridget, Jeff, Marion, Sarah, Bill.
Sunday 2nd May: Codicote and Tewin
Nine members met Beggars Hollow, setting off just after 9:30am. We rode up Coopers Lane, Shepherds Way and the A1000 where we were passed by a peleton of mods on 1960's scooters all belting out 1960's exhaust fumes. Rain started just as we were contemplating a coffee stop in Welwyn Garden City, then stopped shortly afterwards. We continued through Ayot St Peter, past a bluebell wood in full bloom then through a ford to Codicote and on to Spokes Cycle Cafe, where among other delights we enjoyed banana bread and barmbrack. Setting off again we crossed a Toad Migratory Route, then through Woolmer Green to Tewin for a short break on the village green before returning through WGC and the reverse of our outward route. Overall distance 45 miles. Leader Peter M, riders Pat, Sue, Geoff, Jeff, Sarah, Tim, Marion, backstop Peter H
Sunday 9th May: Roydon
Swan and Cygnets at Roydon Marina. Photo: Angie
Lunchtime. Photo: Geoff
Nine of us met at Beggars Hollow on a bright sunny morning. The warm weather had taken us by surprise and most of us had to strip off a few layers before setting off. We made our way through the old golf course and headed north towards Roydon via Chesunt Park, Hoddesdon and Rye Meads. Shortly before Rye Meads Tim's front wheel suffered a spectacular blowout and in spite of all our considerable efforts none of us succeeded in removing the tyre from what looked like a non-standard rim. Eventually we reluctantly accepted defeat and left Tim waiting to be collected by his very understanding wife. On arriving at Roydon Marina we found the café open for takeaways so decided to make that our lunch stop rather than Dobbs Weir as originally planned. After a pleasant hour or so in the sun we made our way back through Lee Valley Park with an ice cream stop at Fishers Green. Leader Geoff, riders Cathy, Angie, Bill, Pat, Paul L, Peter M, Tim, backstop Stephen.
Sunday 23rd May: Battersea Park
South Bank. The wall on the right has been dedicated to
victims of Covid19. Photo: Trevor
Buckingham Palace. Photo: Jeff
We met at Edmonton Leisure Centre under dull skies and a forecast of later rain. Undeterred, we set off along the tortuous CS1 towards the City, with rain finally arriving as we reached Holborn. But fortunately it was only a shower, and cleared up as we passed along the Embankment cycle track, then past Parliament Square and up to Buckingham Palace. A stop here for a photo opportunity, then across Hyde Park, down through Kensington and over the Albert Bridge to Battersea Park. Here we lapped the park in search of working loos before a lunch stop at the park café. After lunch we passed the new US Embassy in Vauxhall (Anyone else think it looks like an egg box?) and dodged the pedestrians around the South Bank. Finally as another prolonged shower set in we retraced our route to Edmonton, with several riders peeling off as we got close their homes. 32 miles, Leader Peter M, riders Paul B, Hayley, Trevor, Stephen, Geoff, Cathy, Paul L, Jeff, Karl, Marion, Peter H, backstops Sarah, Jayne. An honourable mention to Pat who made it to the start but had to withdraw due to mechanical problems.
Sunday 6th June: Wheathampstead
Seven of us set off from the bottom of Ferny Hill hoping to miss the rain which was forecast for the afternoon. This was not to be and after about 10 minutes we had to make an impromptu stop to don our wet weather gear. We pressed on regardless through Shenley and London Colney towards our destination and within half an hour the rain had ceased. After another stop to remove our wet weather clothing we continued via some quiet country lanes to our destination of Wheathampstead. Here we sat on a Green by the river and enjoyed lunch purchased from the local bakery. The weather remained good and we enjoyed a pleasant cycle home passing by Sandridge, Colney Heath and Potters Bar. Leader Geoff, riders Cathy, Bridget, Marion, Pat, Sarah, backstop Peter M.
Sunday 27th June: Almost St Albans
Poppies at Tyttenhanger. Photo: Angie
Despite an uncertain weather forecast, 10 people gathered at the start, initially to set off along the familiar route of Cockfosters Road, Waggon Road and through Potters Bar. Here we joined NCR 12 trhrough Water End before heading off to Colney Heath where we admired graffiti ardists at work in the A1M underpass. At Hatfield we joined the Alban Way almost to St Albans, then turned off through Tyttenhanger to London Colney. The pub there had plenty of outside tables free, so we had a drink and some lunch before tackling Black Lion Hill and returning through South Mimms and Barnet. The weather forecast proved to be pessimistic, and we remained dry all day. Leader Peter M, Riders Pat, Bridget, Keung, Jayne, Angie, Paul L, Rosa, Marion, Backstop Stephen.
Sunday 11th July: Woodberry Wetlands
Lunch at the Wetlands café. Photo: Paul L
Eighteen of us, including several new club members, set off from Winchmore Hill for an 18 mile ride to the Woodberry Wetlands in Hackney. The route took us via Ally Pally, the two Parkland Walks, through Finsbury Park and along the New River to our destination, where we all enjoyed a nice snack overlooking the wetlands. From there we cut across to Springfield Park, crossed the River Lea and headed back via the Walthamstow Wetlands, through Edmonton and then the Firs Farm Wetlands. Leader Tim, Riders Paul L, Stephen, Reg, John, Geoff, Trevor, Maz, Bridget, Angie, Pat, Karen, Cathy, Debbie, Hayley, Lina, Backstop Peter M.
Sunday 1st August: Richmond Park
Sheltering under a railway bridge.
Photo: Geoff
This ride was rescheduled from the previous weekend due rain and an atrocious forecast, so 10 of us set off from Oakwood Underground Station praying that the conditions would remain dry. We headed towards Finchley, Golders Green, Cricklewood and Acton Park but when we weren't too far from our destination the rain arrived and we had to shelter for a while under a railway bridge. We then crossed the Thames via Chiswick Bridge and continued to Richmond Park where we had lunch at the Roehampton Gate Cafe. The heavens opened once again but luckily we had chosen benches under a large tree which kept us fairly dry. Everyone decided to complete a circuit of the park before embarking on our return journey which remained dry and took us over Putney Bridge and through Hyde Park and Regents Park on our way back to Winchmore Hill. About 50 miles, including the park loop. Leader Geoff, riders Cathy, Bridget, Marion, Sue, Sharon, Jeff, Paul, Angie, backstop Peter M.
Sunday 15th August: Shenley
The Lewis Ice Cream Farm, Barnet.
Photo: Geoff
The Orchard Café,Shenley.
Photo: Geoff
With a big turnout we set off from Trent Park in two separate groups and made our way along quiet country lanes to Shenley Park. Although the forecast was for dry weather we did get caught in a couple of downpours on route but thankfully the rain had stopped by the time the two groups reassembled at the Orchard Café for lunch. On the return journey the sun appeared so we made another stop at the Ice Cream Farm in Galley Lane. This was one of our shorter rides at just over 20 miles. Leaders Geoff and Jeff, riders Becky, Sarah, Hayley, Tim, Bridget, Reg, Peter M, Debbie, Stephen, Rosa, Lina, backstops Paul L, Angie and Maz.
Sunday 22nd August: Turn Up and Go
A small group of four riders (Tim, Peter, Stephen, Lina) turned up at Enfield Town Park at 10 o'clock. After a short discussion it was agreed that Tim would lead a 20 mile ride, taking in Chingford, Loughton, Upshire and Waltham Abbey. There were two hills which challenged the group, Nags Head Hill in Chingford and Golding's Hill in Loughton, which seemed to go on for ever. We stopped first at Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge for a historical interlude then at Southend Lakes in Upshire for a pleasant lakeside snack ( bacon sarnie for most), before wending our way homeward.
Sunday 5th September: North Weald Airfield
Tea and cakes at High Beach.
Photo: Geoff
At last some sun! Eight of us assembled at Beggars Hollow and made our way through Gunpowder Park before struggling up Avey Lane and on through High Beech. More hills as we passed by Theydon Bois and then some nice countryside as we cycled through Upshire towards North Weald Airfield. On arriving we found the "Big Red Bus" surrounded by classic cars and motor cyclists so decided to press on round the perimeter to Wings Café where we all enjoyed a hearty lunch in the warm sunshine. We returned through Coopersale and then Theydon Bois again before meeting up with another ECC group at High Beech Church for tea and cakes (huge portions!). About 40 miles by the time we had returned to Enfield. Leader Geoff, riders Cathy, Hayley, Jayne, Peter M, Sarah, backstops Jeff and Reg.
Sunday 12th September: London to Southend
Not a club ride as such, but an event organised by Bike Events. Nine members took part joining about 2000 other riders from the Olympic Velodrome to Priory Park. Enjoyable weather en route with stops at Noak Hill, S Hanningfield Country Park and other places. Some went to Neptune's fish shop on the seafront. About hour on train home. 52miles, 83 kms.
Sunday 19th September:Trinity Wharf
Also the Faraday lighthouse and Fat Boys diner. Thirteen rode there via towpath, CS3, Bow Locks to Trinity Wharf. lunch at an American diner on the river front. Return by Grand Union Canal, Victoria Park. We were very grateful to a lovely couple for helping one of us out of a dangerous situation. About 25 miles.
There was a photo stop just before Trinity Wharf, against the background of the O2, but my photo was lost when my phone died. Has anyone a photo from there we could post?
Sunday 26th September: Enfield Big Green Family Ride
From Broomfield Park N13. Nine members assisted the public parks ride for families. Thanks to Maz, Debbie, Karen, John, Hayley, Rosa, Lorry, Maria, Morna.
Sunday 3rd October: Hainault Country Park
Leader Tim, Riders Geoff, Angie, Marion, Reg, Rosa, Pat, Peter M, Backstop Jeff.
Saturday 9th October: Fish and Chips at Nazeing
At Clayton Hill.
Photo:Maz
Two pelotons left from Bush Hill Park and Bullsmore Lane to meet up in Nazeing at lunch time for fish 'n chips. Peleton 1 went on some (rather hilly) country lanes near Epping upland, while peleton took the sensible flat route by Lee Valley Park paths. Peleton 1: Leader Maz, riders Paul, Bridget, Becky, Peter M, Tim, backstop Reg. Peleton 2 Leader Debbie, riders John, Morna, Hyacinth, Peter H, backstop Rosa. Thanks to Chris who met us in Nazeing and ferried the fish 'n chips to a picnic table by Clayton Hill.
Friday 15th October: ECC Silver Jubilee
ECC Celebtates its Silber Jubilee.
Photo:Maz
About 50 members past and present came to celebrate our 25 years of cycling as Edmonton Cycle Club. Catching up with friends from far and wide, we enjoyed a splendid buffet supper with contributions from members. The centre piece was the 3 tier cycle theme cake, very tasty too. A shortish few words from Paul(!) who thanked our hosts Winchmore Hil Sports Club, food makers, music dj, original and current members for making the evening a pleasant success. Thanks to our newsletter staff, Dr bikes, marshalls, ride leaders, backstops and you peloton riders. Hope you enjoyed the evening. See you soon!
Sunday 17th October: Broxbourne Old Meadows
Peleton 1 set off from Edmonton Leiasure Centre north on the towpath to Waltham Lock, then to the bittern bird hyde for bird watching (How successful? Paul doesn't say!). Then past Park Farms, up Clayton Hill and on to The Old Retreat Cafe Broxbourne. Here we met peloton 2 just as they were finishing lunch. Our return via some muddy paths towards Cheshunt, Enfield Lock and Edmonton finish. Leader Paul, riders Marion, Debbie, Pat, John, Karen, Cathy, Stephen, backstops Rosa, Peter H.
Peleton 2 had been warned to expect some hills and Geoff didn't let them down. After successfully conquering Avey Lane they made their way to Theydon Bois where they soared up Piercing Hill before making their way through Epping Uplands and Nazeing to Broxbourne. Here they enjoyed a leisurely lunch at The Old Mill Retreat and briefly saw Paul's group who arrived just as they were about to leave. Julian and Tracy were also there on their tandem and joined them for some of the return journey. More hills on the way back as they passed through Newgate Street before tackling Darnicle Hill which just about finished everyone off. Mainly downhill from here on as they travelled back towards Goff's Oak before branching off to Cheshunt and back down the A10 cycle path to Bullsmoor Lane. A special mention to Keeley and Denise who, on only their third outing with ECC, put in a magnificent performance on a tough ride. Leader Geoff, riders Denise, Keeley, Maz, Tim, backstops Bridget and Angie.
Sunday 24th October: Hertford
Stop me and buy one?
Photo: Geoff
Seven of us set of from Beggars Hollow and made our way to Cedars Park where we met up with two more. We then headed through Hoddesdon and country lanes to Hertford. The town square was quite busy but the weather was dry and warm enough to sit outside for a lunch of various snacks and coffee. On the way back we passed by Hertingfordbury, Letty Green, Essendon and Brookmans Park (a welcome pub stop!) before weaving our separate ways home. Overall distance about 40 miles. Leader Geoff, riders Cathy, Debbie, Marion, Paul, Peter M, Rosa, backstop Stephen.
Sunday 7th November: Essendon and West End
A beautiful sunny day for early November. Three riders met at Beggars Hollow, and set off towards Bulls Cross Ride, where we were joined by a two more. We rode along Silver Street to Goffs Oak, and on up the steep hill to Newgate Street. After a short rest we continued to Tylers Causeway and Cucumber Lane to Essendon, then down West End Lant to the Candlestick pub. It was mild enough to sit outside while we enjoyed some Side Pocket for a Toad. Afterwards we returned via Kentish Lane and another hill which the leader conveniently forgot to mention until we finally made our way back down Coopers Lane Road. Leader Peter M, riders Keely, Rosa, backstop Stephen.
Sunday 21st November: Kenwood House
A chilly sunny day from Coffee Break café southbound into Haringey at Alexandra Palace, Hornsey, by Queens Wood. Up a couple of roads to final ride to Kenwood gate,11.40. A nice outdoor lunch by the café, and stroll around. A photo call before return via Sheldon Ave, Ally Pally to Coffee Break finish circa 2pm. Leader Bridget, Riders: Paul, Hayley, Marion, Rosa, Maria, John, Paul J, Rachel, Jayne, Karl, John, Geoff, Cathy, Jeff, Peter, Debbie, Tim, backstop Stephen. About 16 miles.
Sunday 28th November: Dobbs Weir
On a freezing morning 6 of us braved the cold and set off from Beggars Hollow towards Waltham Abbey. Here we met up with two more intrepid riders and made our way through Lee Valley Park to Dobbs Weir. Although it remained cold, the sun came out to brighten things up and we made good time, arriving at our destination by 11:15. Here we warmed up inside the River Palace Café and refuelled with various brunches and hot tea and coffee. The temperature seemed to rise a bit during the journey back but that may just have been due to the hills we managed to find! The route took us via Broxbourne and Flamstead End back to Enfield. Leader Geoff, riders John F, Marion, Paul L, Rachel, Stephen, backstop: Peter M
Sunday 19th December: West End Christmas Lights.
Coffee at the top of Regent Street.
Photo: Geoff
On a cold, overcast afternoon five of us were seen on our way by Paul L who we left at the Coffee Break Café. An hour and a half later, after travelling at a leisurely pace via Wood Green, Hornsey, Kentish Town and Cambden, we arrived at Portland Place and stopped at Starbucks for a welcome coffee. Here we were joined by Rachel and Paul J who owing to other commitments had brought their bikes by train to Liverpool Street. Suitably refreshed we cycled down a busy Regents Street and Oxford Street soaking up the atmosphere and admiring the lights. The return journey brought some mist and drizzle but nothing that could dampen our festive spirits. Distance about 22 miles. Leader Geoff, riders Peter, John, Rachel, Paul J, backstop Stephen.
Sunday 26 December: Boxing Day Ride
Cancelled due to weather. We may reschedule this ride for January 2022
Club Points Table for 2021
| Position | Name | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Geoff | 270 |
| 2 | Peter M | 264 |
| 3 | Paul | 254 |
| 4 | Maz | 200 |
| 5 | Bridget | 154 |
| 6 | Cathy | 140 |
| 7 | Pat | 129 |
| 8 | Stephen | 127 |
| 9 | Jeff | 126 |
| 10 | Tim | 113 |
| 11 | Marion | 98 |
| 12 | Hayley | 92 |
| 13 | Angie | 86 |
| 14 | Peter H | 80 |
| 15 | Debbie | 73 |
| 16 | Karen | 72 |
| 17 | Rosa | 64 |
| 17 | Chris | 57 |
| 19 | Les | 47 |
| 20 | Reg | 46 |
Points are awarded according to the following scheme
| Leading a ride for the first time | 10 |
| Leading a ride | 6 |
| Acting as backstop for a significant part of the ride | 5 |
| Participating in a club ride | 4 |
| Participating in part of a ride | 2 |
| Attending a planning meeting | 4 |
| Attending a social meeting | 2 |
| Bike aid/first aid on a ride | 2 |