South London Safari

This is a long, full day ride, covering approx. 70km/43.5 miles. There are a few challenging hills, but the steepest sections are short and are on quiet residential roads, so it’s easy to stop and walk if necessary. We will be riding at a leisurely pace with regular stops. You do need to have the stamina to keep riding all day. You also need to be confident in traffic as there are some short sections on busy roads.

After riding down from Ealing to Wandsworth Bridge, our route links up a number of parks and green spaces in South London- Tooting Bec Common, Streatham Common, Crystal Palace Park, Dulwich Park, Brockwell Park, Clapham Common and Battersea Park.

Our lunch time destination is Crystal Palace Park where we will visit the curious remains of the Great Exhibition, including the extraordinary dinosaurs https://cpdinosaurs.org/, and enjoy food from the Street Food Market https://www.crystalpalaceparkmarket.com/ or the neighbouring café https://www.brownandgreencafe.com/brownandgreenlife (or bring your own food for a picnic if you prefer.)

Our afternoon ride includes the possibility of a stop at the Brixton Windmill https://www.brixtonwindmill.org/events/brixton-windmill-open-days/ where we might be able to join a short tour, free of charge, of London’s last working windmill.

After crossing back over the river at Battersea Bridge, we will ride through Chelsea, using the cycle path through the Brompton Cemetery to reach Fulham, then back to Ealing via Hammersmith, Chiswick and Kew Bridge.

Although Covid restrictions are no longer in force, please continue to be mindful. Please do not attend if you have any Covid 19 symptoms, have tested positive, or are currently advised to self-isolate. You may wish to bring a face covering for use in enclosed public spaces.

Meet outside Ealing Town Hall from 8.30am for a prompt 8.45am departure.
We should return to Ealing by approx. 5.30pm.