week 9 - Couch to 100km Challenge 2026

Lets see if we can get to Blakes Café this week!

Having smashed the 50 barrier on last weeks rearranged week 8 ride due to the inclement weather, we will again attempt to visit the legendry Blakes Café at Clanfield. We head north to Cricklade, crossing the Thames Valley to Fairford and on to the Lechlade. We will then cycle the 4 more bore (you will see why) to arrive at Blakes – the home of the cinnamon bun at 23 miles.
Having enjoyed the buns, we will start our return journey back towards more familiar territory by cycling through the pretty villages of Langford, Filkins, Southrop, Fairford, Poulton and back to the water parks for a second quick tea stop at Jennies Kitchen (45 miles). Its then back to Swindon on familiar roads to complete this weeks 55.5mile (90 km ) ride.

We welcome anyone to join and ride with us, whether this is your first time or someone who has participated on previous rides. We will never leave anyone behind. Riders who have missed previous rides / weeks are always welcome to join this weeks ride. All we ask is that new riders arrive approximately 20 minutes before scheduled start time.

** Please note that the challenge is now at week 9, where the distance is circa 90km (55.5miles) , which a approximately 4-5 hours of cycling. If you are totally new to cycling, this ride may not be the most suitable for you. Please reach out to us using the message system. We regularly host shorter rides, details of which are available via the Lets Ride web site

Please bring a bottle for your bike with your favourite thirst quencher and snacks to keep you going. For all your rides we recommend that you bring a spare inner tube that is suitable for your bike, plus a pump. We request that all riders wear a cycle helmet (compulsory for children). If your wheels are bolted on, then please bring a spanner that fits your bike’s wheel nuts. You should dress appropriately for the weather and consider bringing your mobile phone along with cash or a debit card. Some places only accept card payments these days.