Welsh Harp via Gladstone Park

An easy-going ride to the Welsh Harp reservoir and the nearby parks. This ride is suitable for beginners who are comfortable on their bikes but haven't cycled on roads much. It is a relaxed visit to see the natural beauty of the reservoir at our doorstep!

It may sound surprising that this is a relaxed ride as we need to cross major busy sections like the North Circular, but we do so through quiet roads and segregated crossings away from traffic. We will have to join one or 2 busy roads that we may have to dismount and cross on the pedestrian crossing. For that reason, this is a great opportunity for those who have started or restarted to cycle recently and haven't felt confident to ride on roads yet.

We will start from Roundwood Park crossing through Gladstone Park, and carry on to cross the North Circular using a subway and then a shared pedestrian and cycle pavement on the carriageway. Another pedestrian crossing at Blackbird Hill will lead us to the Welsh Harp where we will go around its cycle and pedestrian path. We will stop at Birchen Grove Garden Centre for a coffee and toilet break.

On our way back, we take the busiest road of this route, Bridge Road in front of Wembley Park station, taking us into quiet industrial roads of Wembley until we reach Brent River Park. From there, we safely cross the North Circular again and lead back to our starting point through Neasden Temple and Gibbons Recreational Ground.

The Welsh Harp terrain is not recommended for very skinny road tyres (especially if it had rained recently), unless you are very confident on your bike. It's mainly a flat route with the odd slope over bridges. We go at the pace of the slowest and don't leave anyone behind.

Helmets aren't compulsory but advisable. Please bring a mask to get inside the Garden Centre. Make sure that your tyres are inflated and you have a spare inner tube and all necessary tools in case of a puncture. Places are limited and tend to get booked up, normally with a waiting list. If you develop Covid-19 symptoms or have been told to self-isolate or can't make it for any other reason, please cancel your space on the website so someone else can join. Only riders who booked themselves on the ride will be allowed to join. Unless the weather takes a very nasty turn making it unsafe to cycle, this ride will go ahead even if it rains. Dress for the weather and bring a rain coat just in case.

We especially welcome newbies!