Gravel/MTB ride to Savernake Forest, Marlborough

Welcome to our first British Cycling Lets Ride gravel/mountain bike ride by the Swindon Lets Ride team. We hope they become a regular feature on our rides calendar. Led by fully qualified British Cycling Off Road Leaders, this is a social group ride, aiming for a steady paced ride, where the emphasis is on social enjoyment as opposed to setting Starva records. Other more challenging Lets Ride events are available in Swindon.

We will set off from the Sun Inn at Coate Water, following the National Cycle Route 45 through the water park, crossing the motorway via the ‘curly whurly’ bridge, rising up to Chiseldon to pick up the old railway line to Marlborough. After another short incline, we will enter Savernake Forest and cycle the length od the Grand Avenue, before looping around Charcoal Burners Road and other minor rights of ways, returning to Grand Avenue. The return to Swindon will be via the railway line path.

There are no planned refreshments stops at this time, other than the option of a debrief at the Sun Inn on our return. Riders are requested to bring their own drinks and basic refreshments, as we will be having regular stops along the way.

Please arrive at the Sun Inn in time for the group to leave at 09:00hrs.

We welcome anyone to join us and ride with us, whether this is your first time or someone who has participated on previous rides. We will never leave anyone behind. All we ask is that new riders arrive approximately 10 minutes before scheduled start time.

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. 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.