Crystal Palace via Coombe Wood Gardens

This leisurely Sunday morning ride takes us through parks, a golf course and along quiet roads, eventually arriving at Crystal Palace park where we hope to meet up with West London Breeze who will be arriving there on their adventurous South London Safari ride about lunchtime. The timings therefore are somewhat fluid as although for us it is only a hop, skip and jump to Crystal Palace, for WLB it is quite a long way from Ealing! We will spend some time in the park, where there is the choice of sustenance from the street food market or the regular cafe. You might prefer to bring a picnic.
The outward route takes us to the delightful Coombe Wood Garden, where we will be able to wander around the garden and pick up a quick coffee. Although it is not far,. It isn't all easy-peasy, as there is a certain amount of undulation in the route and you will need to use your gears. This, combined with the potentially tricky off-road element of the terrain, some difficult junctions to negotiate, and a couple of short distances on busy roads, means it is not really a ride suitable for beginners. There is cycle parking within the grounds. You should bring a lock as we may leave the bikes unattended while we visit the gardens. We will continue the ride through Lloyd Park, Shirley Oaks, and skirting round South Norwood Country park before arriving at our lunch stop at Crystal Palace via South Norwood lakes.
We will return by a more direct route via Penge and and the ride will finish at Kent House station.
Please ensure you are dressed appropriately for the weather conditions and that your bike is in good working order. This ride is NOT suitable for road bikes.
Please make sure your details on your profile are up-to-date, in particular that we have a phone number for you. If you don’t have a mobile put your home number in the mobile phone box.
Any problems call Jacqui Turner 07456840924.