Two years ago I led the Bs on roughly the reverse of today's route but had not had the local knowledge to do an anti-clockwise version from Teddington until Tony led the A's north via Osterley in February. So I unashamedly plagiarised the route for today - thanks Tony!
From Teddington our progress up Church Road was abruptly, but temporarily, halted by an approaching fire engine. From there, in spite of having a group of 24, progress was uneventful and the group kept together well. North to Whitton and skirting the west of Hounslow to the the A315 we reached Thornbury Road leading up to Osterley Park. A brief pause for a comfort stop before we threaded our way through to the Grand Union canal. Mostly the towpath was in good condition though a few stretches a little slippery, more so than when I recce'd it. Ian punctured but fortunately less than half a mile before lunch so most of the group were able to continue to the pub. The Malt Shovel next to Cowley Green lock were unfazed by the numbers and had set aside a room for us. Food was good and the service prompt, so we were ready to depart in little over an hour.
The return was through Iver, Richings Green and Old Slade Lane to cut through to Colnbrook. Now back on familiar territory we reached Staines via Wraysbury and then took the river path to Laleham. Unfortunately the weather had stayed grey and cold so the original plan of tea at Shepperton Lock was abandoned in favour riding direct to Cafe Mocha in Shepperton, just over 29 miles from Teddington.
Thanks to Terry for backmarking , an invaluable role especially on the complex stretch up to Osterley.
1 comment:
Brian - thanks for a very enjoyable ride on and off roads some not so familiar to the Bs.
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