Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Ride

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Tue Aug 12th 2025

Tuesday Evening 1* Ride	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This evening we'll explore some of the back routes in Wantage before continuing to Lockinge and Betterton, returning to Grove via Lains barn (12 miles). Lights recommended as the evenings are drawing in. Please let me know by text if you are planning to come. Our leisurely and sociable Tuesday evening 1* rides are designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of 10-15 miles (16-24km) at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph (13-16kph), following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way.
Riders: Adrian Herbert Carin Tranter Karen Davenport Lorna Swanton Michael Tayler Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Susan Holdroyd Tim Waite Riders = 9 Weather: Report: It was HOT! Still close to 30 degrees in the shade as we met in the car park. 8 of us set off, but one rider decided it was just too hot riding in the sun and turned back on the edge of Grove. Shortly after, we met Tim by the Mably Way roundabout, restoring our number to 8. We meandered through Stockham to Warman's Road, to take advantage of a short footpath through to Naldertown. We crossed Ham Road and descended Lock's Lane. Delightfully, it was refreshingly cool in the shade by the brook. We negotiated our way through Wantage , passing the scout hut on our way through to Springfield Road. By the time we were leaving twon on the Sustrans path it had cooled sufficiently to feel really rather pleasant (the shade helped). At Lockinge, Karen and Adrian headed home via Kingsgrove and King Alfred Way. The remaining six carried on past the stables, up the hill, then turned right for the short climb to All Soul's Chapel. We parked up and lingered awhile to enjoy the views and the peaceful atmosphere. With the sun lower in the sky and the temperature by now very pleasant, we resumed our ride, climbing steadily up to the Betterton turn, then sharp left to the top of the hill, followed by the wonderful long descent into Ardington with its panoramic views. There was a slight mix-up in Ardington when 3 of us turned right for a short tour around the village while the other 3 carried on and left back towards Wantage. After quickly checking that nothing had gone amiss on the way down, we were reunited at the cross-roads by the Christopher's Wood car park. Tim carried straight-on back to Wantage, while the remaining 5 of us climbed up the hill to the Lain's Barn cross-roads. Another fab descent on a much-improved road surface since recent repairs. And at the bottom we emerged into golden light with the sun setting across the straw-coloured fields. A beautiful end to the day, and we didn't rush the mile or so back to the A338. We returned to Grove via Keel Drive (for a change), Queen's Row and the back way into North Drive. We were the last group back, having made the most of the glorious summer's evening . A most enjoyable ride. Thanks all for your good company.
Distance: 18.99 km (11.80 mi)
All Soul's chapel and churchyard, East Lockinge, Tues 1* Aug25 Evening view over West Lockinge, Tues 1* Aug25 Sunset over the fields, returning to Grove, Tues 1* Aug25
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28328245"
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Start Locations: WMP
Wantage Market Place; OMH
Old Mill Hall, Grove

Categories: 1* - Suitable for irregular, social, beginner or family riders, pace will match the slower riders. Not hilly or long. Expect rides up to 3 hours. Gentle exercise.; 2* - Suitable for regular riders who prefer to cover some distance but at a more relaxed pace. Likely to be half-day rides. Solid exercise.; 3* - Suitable for experienced riders, may be hilly, long, quick, or any combination! Likely to be half or full-day rides. Challenging exercise.; 4* - Suitable for athletic riders who can ride safely above the 3* standard. Quick rides for the fit.; More Information