How do you do winter?
- John Heard
- Feb 16
- 3 min read
Do you sometimes find that it's a bit of a challenge - to rustle up the motivation to step outside in sub-optimal weather conditions?
We certainly do - but it is universally agreed that when you do get out for a spin it is universally fabulous.
Fact is - when you get outdoors especially in wild and beautiful places - you do your brain a favour. Fact 2 is - when you do that with a fabulous bunch of people - the joy level goes up to 11.
It's been another fabulous series of rides in beautiful places with another amazing bunch of fun-riders. So lovely to see the familiar faces of those who've been coming along for the rides for years now. Equally - to see new faces - to ride along, have a chat and hear the stories....
So We've just wrapped up another Winter Series of Social Rides. We've rolled up the trails, folded and packed away the trees for the season ... now we just wanna believe Spring is on its way. It is isnt it?
thank you all - for coming - and for making these rides so special and joyful
For the 2025 - 26 series we've had the good fortune of being able to start and finish rides at some super friendly and welcoming establishments - specially selected to maxmise your pleasure. Here is a lil recap - in reverse order.
my surrey valentine feb '26
Biggest turnout ever - kicked off at Forge 1860 (Pearsons) Cycles West London. Quite possibly the friendliest bike shop you'll ever find - as well as one of the best coffees to get your ride kick-started...
From Forge 1860 - we rolled out through Richmond Park on gravel and out into the Surrey Hills on a mix of scenic country lanes, sublime bridleways and forest trails. As it was the first sunny day we'd had after the endless rain and gloom. Everyone and their dog was out in the parks and trails - enjoying the early spring sunshine. A truly stunning late winter experience.
Epping mid-winter foret jan '26
Starting at the amazing BLOQ's cafe - alongside the Lea Valley Canal - with its super welcoming community vibes, friendly crew, most excellent coffee and innovative delicious menu. This place is quite special and one of our regular faves.
The wild and beautiful Hackney Marshes lead out of metroland and an industrial landscape early into the c. 45km loop - and on to the sweeping roller-coasting trails of Epping Forest.
chilled chiltern christmas special 13 december '25
Another super-special place - Rustybikecafe part of RecycleabikeUxbridge - played host to our Chiltern Chiller - for the start and finish of this super chilled ride out into the beautiful Chiltern Hills. Here again - everyone who came along for the ride and the whole shebang was treated to the super warm welcome, delicious coffee and pastries + Christmassy BBQ to finish with - thanks to the amazing, friendly folk at Rustybike cafe.
If you fancy joining us for more riding in beautiful places - and immersive experience on the stunning South Downs Way - check it out here.
Some call it a Southern off-road utopia.
FINALLy - thanks
Photography: @markovishjames @jon.schnapps
Trail angels: @bike.challenge @rikAllen @sarahltoms
Stay-outside-for-longer @albion.cycling
@forge1860
@rycleabikeuxbridge @rustybikecafe
@bloqsuk
@wildernesstrailbikes
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