Ride type:
Guided Ride
Ride suitability:
Local Rides Challenging
Ride title:
Kenton to Harefield
Start Postcode:
HA3 8AX
Elevation:
GPX reference:
Introduce your route:
New riders are especially welcome. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.
Kind of roads you'll be riding:
We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this route. There are three hills with the steepest featuring a 10% gradient. The uphill allows you two sections of downhill where your bike will reach 25-30mph if you don't brake; only go as fast as your skills allow especially as one downhill has a pedestrian crossing near the bottom. The route does have sections of main road with fast moving traffic. This is a great route for practicing those gear changes.
Stops on the way:
We stop for drinks and snacks at one of the excellent cafés in Harefield. Alternatively you could bring a picnic to have on the village green.
What to bring:
Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving yourself time to remedy any issues such as brake adjustments and repairing punctures. Bring a spare inner tube of the correct size and valve type for your bike, the tools to repair a puncture, a bike lock, water and a snack. It is advised that you bring money for the café or unexpected circumstances such as taking the train home. Please be mindful that not everywhere takes cash payment.
Consider the duration of the ride, the time of day you will be riding and the weather forecast. Dress appropriately ensuring no loose clothing or long laces that could get entangled in bike parts.
Route description:
This is the ride for you if you like short hills or want to practice (bicycle) gear changes. Starting at Kenton Recreation Ground we pass through Harrow Recreation Ground and then on to Harefield passing close to Ruislip Lido. The return takes us via South Oxhey, Hatch End and Harrow Recreation Ground before arriving back in Kenton Recreation Ground.
You could request joining the ride in Harrow Recreation Ground 15 minutes after the start time.
Starting point description:
We will meet at the pump track in Kenton Recreation Ground. Arrive at least 10 minutes before the published start time to allow for introductions, bike checks and any briefing; this ensures a prompt departure at the stated time. The pump track is one hundred metres into the park from the car park which is at the end of Carlton Avenue. There is parking on local streets though do look for any parking restrictions.The nearest stations are Kenton (Bakerloo/Lioness) and Northwick Park (Metropolitan). Neither has step-free access. Postcode HA3 8AX. what3words ///fleet.jeeps.sends
Ride distance (miles):
20
Riding time (minutes):
150
Ride level (Easygoing, Steady, Challenging):
Steady
Overall duration (minutes):
200
Ride Leader notes
Pulling in on Breakspear Road North at one of the house drives you could warn people that the climb up into Harefield is steep.
On the return at the end of Batchworth Lane you do a right onto Sandy Lane then a left where people will split up, so stop before the right turn to brief people. You could post a rider on the left hand turn as people will miss it unless you slow the pace and keep together.