Syon Park to Walton, Shepperton and Laleham

Although longer than usual, this is a largely flat and non-technical route. It is a very ‘green’ ride so should look attractive with Spring arriving especially as we ride alongside the Thames. The route also uses some fairly lengthy stretches of potentially fast, busy road though so you need to be confident riding with traffic.

Leaving Syon Park we catch our first glimpse of the Thames before using quieter roads and a short stretch of riverside to reach Twickenham and then Kingston Bridge. Here we join the river path for glorious views of Hampton Court Palace and, if we wish, the Lindt chocolate bunny picture here (!) before crossing the river and finding our way along Hurst Road to Walton on Thames where we re-cross the river.

We pass through Old Shepperton before crossing the M3 on our way to Laleham Park and Riverside where we enjoy a lovely stretch of the Thames as we make our way back to Chertsey Lock. Once there it is only a short distance to our refreshment stop at The Thames Court near Shepperton Lock. This pub is usually very busy so we will only use it for a drink/comfort stop and you should please bring your own lunch snack. With this scheduled stop at 20 miles, the route may suit riders who are wishing to build their ability to ride longer distances. We will only be riding at a steady pace though and no-one will be left behind. Our return journey brings us through Lower Sunbury and Hampton before we turn into Bushy Park in order to ride up to Teddington, Twickenham and St Margarets before returning to Syon. We should be back around 2.30pm.

To join the ride you need a bike in full working order so please check beforehand that the brakes work, the wheels spin freely and the tyres are pumped up. Dress for the weather, remembering gloves and avoiding loose garments that could catch in your chain. A helmet, some drinking water and a spare inner tube are recommended as well as your snack, cash for refreshments and a lock for your bike.