Off Road Adventure

This is a Community Ride not a Guided Ride.

This train-assisted ride takes us to the wilds of Hertfordshire for an off road adventure. It is not suitable for road bikes. Hybrids, mountain bikes and gravel bikes are welcome.

We'll assemble outside Watford Junction station. Trains from Harrow & Wealdstone, Headstone Lane or Hatch End allow step-free travel northbound. You'll have to carry your bike up stairs if you use the latter two for the return journey.

The route heads to the Abbey Way at Waterfields Park before heading on to Otterspool Lane. We then use the traffic free Crab Lane to follow the River Colne to Walting Street. Crab Lane is an unpaved bridleway. It is very rideable in dry weather but can be a different prospect after heavy or persistent rain. The surface can be bumpy or loose and the path can be narrow and overgrown. A challenging but enjoyable stretch.

After a short section of Watling Street, the route turns on to Beningfield Lane, which is similar to Crab Lane. We then take Watery Lane {another bridleway) to London Colney. We'll stop for coffee at Simmons. Next, is a ride through Napsbury Park to reach the cycle path on the North Orbital Road. We pick up another bridleway to Park Street before joining the Abbey Way to return to Watford.

Riders need to be confident riding on narrow, unpaved surfaces.

Speed 7-8mph. 600ft climbing.

Ensure that your bike is in good condition and that you can deal with punctures or mechanical issues. Use this guide: https://lcc.org.uk/advice/bike-safety-check/. Have a plan for how you will get home if your bike becomes unrideable or you are unable to continue. Bring a spare innertube, a pump and tools to fix a puncture. Dress appropriately for the conditions. Bring a drink and snack (or money to purchase).

Before signing up for this ride, ensure that you are able to cope with the distance, speed and amount of climbing for this route. The time for the ride is a best estimate by the Organiser. Sometimes this can be affected by factors such as the weather, mechanical issues, the queue at the cafe, etc.

The time for the ride is a best estimate by the Ride Leader. Sometimes this can be affected by factors such as the weather, mechanical issues, the queue at the cafe, etc. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so, if anyone is struggling, we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary.