Richmond Park Leg Burner via Hammersmith Bridge

A ride to Richmond Park using the recently reopened (to pedestrians and cyclists only) Hammersmith Bridge. We will go for a lap around Richmond Park which will involve a leg-burning hill. Apart from that challenge, the pace of the day is steady and the rest of the route is mostly flat, but you need to be confident riding in traffic.

We start off going up Old Oak Lane in the direction of Wormwood Scrubs, zig-zagging through mostly quiet roads of Shepherds Bush through Ravenscourt Park until we reach the Thames and Hammersmith Bridge. Cycling through a traffic-free bridge is quite an experience and we should take advantage while we can. We get to Richmond Park via Roehampton Gate and take the clockwise direction, stopping half way through at the café in Pembridge Lodge for a break, and also to enjoy the beautiful views. We leave the park through Sheen Gate in the direction of Mortlake, where we take a slight detour to visit the peculiar tomb of Sir Richard Burton (the explorer, not the actor!), a Grade II mausoleum made of marble and stone in the shape of a tent at St Mary Magdalen Church. We carry on via Acton, taking the cycling path along the A40 and back via Harlesden.

Helmets aren't compulsory but highly advisable. Please wear a mask if entering a busy indoor space like a toilet or coffee shop, unless you are exempt.

Places are limited and sometimes get booked up with a waiting list. If you develop Covid-19 symptoms or have been told to self-isolate before the ride, or can't make it for any other reason, please ensure to cancel your space so someone else can join. Only riders who booked themselves on the ride will be allowed to join.

Unless the weather takes a nasty turn making it unsafe or unpleasant to cycle, this ride will go ahead even if it rains. Dress for the weather and bring a rain coat just in case.