Breeze to the Ladies' Pond - Billie Fleming Tribute

This is a tribute ride to Billie Fleming, who died last year aged 100 and in 1938 set a world record, never broken, for the most miles cycled in a year by a woman. She was also a naturist and supporter of the Women's League of Health and Beauty. This is Ride Like Billie Scotland Weekend so if you can, please wear something Scottish! We are going for a swim at the Ladies' Pond on Hampstead Heath, where you do have to wear a swimsuit. This is wild swimming at its best, in a natural pond with reeds and ducks in the middle of London. There are changing rooms, toilets and a sunbathing lawn. Bring minimal valuables. Depending on the forecast (a decision will be taken the preceding Friday) we'll either bring a picnic or have lunch at the Stables Cafe at Kenwood House, a short walk away. Although slow because of the junctions, the ride is challenging, with some steep hills and a bit of traffic, so you need to be a confident rider. With stony tracks on the Heath, a hybrid bike is the best choice. We travel through a cross-section of London's residential, commercial and cultural life including the Georgian houses of Old Hampstead, and the Welsh Harp reservoir on the return. If you don't want to cycle back you can take the train from Gospel Oak or Hampstead Heath to Harrow & Wealdstone, making the ride 11 miles instead of 22.