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Spokes Winter Season - there are no pre-planned rides or ride leaders - Members usually meet up every Sunday (10am) at Radyr Weir for a ride to be decided by the participants.  

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Spokes Winter Season - there are no pre-planned rides or ride leaders - Members usually meet up every Sunday (10am) at Radyr Weir for a ride to be decided by the participants.  

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Please note that if poor weather is forecast for the Sunday, the ride may be moved to the Saturday, so please check the Members' Notice Board for updates

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Scroll down for details of the Spokes 2024 & 2025 Spring/Summer Ride programmes (or click the pop-out top right to see in full screen) 

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Scroll down for details of the Spokes 2024 & 2025 Spring/Summer Ride programmes (or click the pop-out top right to see in full screen) 

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Sunday 30th March: Nelson Loop

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Distance: Approx. 40 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Caerphilly, Abertridwr, Senghenydd, Nelson, Quakers Yard, coffee in Pontypridd.

A medium ride with some hills.  A sort of gentle first seasons ride.

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate

Ride Leader/Contact: Calum Taylor

Assistant Ride Leader: Judith Fox

1st – 8th April: Majorca

email circulated to members

Please contact Glen Dermody for further information

Sunday 6th April: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

Sunday 13th April: Golden Valley - Gospel Pass

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am Road parking near the Skirrid Inn. NP7 8DH

Distance: Approx. 37 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Anti-clockwise Golden Valley and Gospel Pass from Skirrid Inn Coffee at the Bulls’ Head and/or Llanthony Priory, decide on the day. Lunch stop in Hay. Or you might take a picnic just in case. Be careful not to take the Raglan road at the Abergavenny roundabout.

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate/Strenuous Two 12% climbs, total climb 2,500 ft.

Ride Leader/Contact: Roger Bradshaw

Assistant Ride Leader: Karl Hitchings

Sunday 20th April: Newbridge - Brynmawr - Pontypool

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am Newbridge Railway Station NP11 5FH [Free parking]

Distance: Approx. 35 miles

Route Description/GPX download:  Start at Newbridge train station (free parking available). From Newbridge, there’s a steep climb to Swffryd, followed by a more gradual ascent to Brynmawr. We have options for a lunch or coffee stop at either Blaenavon or Brynmawr. From Brynmawr, it’s all downhill back. We’ll take a break to see the Guardian of the Valleys at Six Bells—one of the most impressive art pieces in Wales, in my opinion—before a short ride back to the start.

Garmin Connect

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate - mostly tarmacked bike paths - suitable all bikes.

Ride Leader/Contact: Sian Jones

Assistant Ride Leader: Jayne Moore, Nigel Price

Saturday (not Sunday) 26th April: Tredunnock to Redwick - Ride and Social [CANCELLED]

Also on Saturday 26th April: Audax Transporter 100

This is an Audax Event. Please see https://www.audax.uk/event-details/calendar/13348-transporter_100 and  https://www.audax.uk/choose-a-ride/calendar-events/. Details of how to register can also be found here https://www.audax.uk/login?returnUrl=/choose-a-ride/event-entry?eventId=13348 . There is ample parking at the start and a room has been booked for refreshments at the end of the ride.

Please contact Lucas Brown for further information

Sunday 27th April: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

[PLEASE NOTE SATURDAY AUDAX RIDE OPTION ABOVE!]

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

Sunday 4th May: Ogmore

Start Time/Location: Llandaf North bridge 10.00 prompt

Distance: Approx. 50 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Vale - out via Welsh St D & Colwinston. Coffee Ogmore. Back Llantwit & Llanmaes. All tarmac. https://www.komoot.com/tour/2035534433?ref=aso&share_token=aLCGAfZlC7uydWwCZ0gpt2oXO333b4SwdWmlM2TlWAiijsxIDN

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate

Ride Leader/Contact: Dave Miller

Assistant Ride Leader: Stephen Kite

Sunday 11th May: Gower

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am. Gowerton Car Park, Gorwydd Road, Gowerton, SA4 3AG. https://g.co/kgs/Ruo1SXs.  No toilets.   Ride is 35 miles approx, 5 hours.

Distance: Approx. 35 miles

Route Description/GPX download:

Gowerton, Penclawdd – Crofty – Llanridian – Woebley Castle, Cheriton, Llanmadoc,  Kennoxton – Llanrhidian – Cilibian – Parc Le Breos - Parkmill – Pennard – Kittle – Bishopston – Caswell - Mumbles – Blackpill - Cycleway back to Gowerton.

Stop for lunch at the Gower Inn at Parkmill.  Menu and request for meal choices to follow.

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate with some steep climbs and descents. 1 mile section of track that is not suitable for posh road bikes. I would recommend a tourer or gravel bike.

Ride Leader/Contact: Rachel Jones

Assistant Ride Leader: Graham Davies

Saturday 17th May: Pontsticill Reservoir loop, Heads of Valleys

CANCELLED due to disruption to train timetable and rail replacement bus service operating that day

SUNDAY 18th May: To Nepal for lunch and back

Start Time/Location: 9.30 am from St Fagans cricket club crossroads (or park at John’s house (31 St fagans Drive, CF5 6EF) and leave 9.25

Distance: Approx. 75km 47 miles

Route Description/GPX download: To Blackmill via City and Pencoed.  Return via Bridgend and Treoes.  6 hours’ish. Lunch at the Nepalese cafe in Blackmill where bacon butties will be banned!

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate Mainly quiet roads and cycle tracks. About 800m climbing

Ride Leader/Contact: John Griffiths

Assistant Ride Leader: Martin Watson

23rd – 25th May: Elan Valley

email circulated to members

Please contact Lucas Brown for further information

Sunday 25th May: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

28th May - 1st June: Gower and Swansea Cycling Festival

This is a CTC Swansea Event

Please see their Facebook Page for further information https://www.facebook.com/groups/150286928380218

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Sunday 1st June: Chepstow to Slimbridge

Start Time/Location: Ride starts adjacent to southbound layby parking area on A466, 200 yards from M48 junction 2 (Chepstow first turn off). Meet at 9:15 am for  briefing and 9:30 am prompt start. Distance 55 miles (approx 6 to 7 hours). Two cafe stops but best to bring some food.

Distance: Approx. 55 miles

Route Description/GPX download:

Chepstow to Slimbridge via Sharpness across the first Severn Bridge. Return via Thornbury.

Chepstow to Slimbridge · Ride with GPS

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate Generally gentle undulations with three significant climbs. Mostly quiet country lanes. Includes a mile on slightly bumpy canal towpath.

Ride Leader/Contact: Chris Metcalfe

Assistant Ride Leader: Steve Sims

7th – 8th June: Herefordshire – Worcestershire

email circulated to members

Please contact Calum Taylor for further information

Sunday 8th June: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

Sunday 15th June: Fontygary/Porthkerry Loop

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Distance: Approx. 35 miles

Route Description/GPX download: We head out to Fontygary via Peterston, Five Mile Lane and Llancarfan, and after a lunch stop by the sea in Fontygary, we return to Radyr Weir via Barry, Wenvoe and Ely.  https://www.komoot.com/tour/2189319763?share_token=aj0P5nu1fL8BKRGyAg7mAHEmz7OR89dj77UV9yJzZ4DOcmEjWB&ref=wtd

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate Generally undulating with a couple of more significant climbs. 1600 ft of climbing

Ride Leader/Contact: Mel Pruchnie

Assistant Ride Leader: Nest Evans

Sunday 22nd June: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

Sunday 22nd June: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

Sunday 29th June: Monmouth - Ross on Wye - Wye Valley Loop

Start Time/Location: Arrive at 09:15 to be ready for 09:30 start at Monmouth Cattle Market car park OS ref SO505125 Map Explorer OL14. £1.40 for the day. Pay using machine or Paybyphone app.

From Cardiff turn off A40 immediately after Monmouth tunnel.

Toilets at top end of Cattle Market car park near old bridge.

Distance: 80 km/50 miles - about 7.5 hrs.

Route Description/GPX download: Monmouth, along Wye Valley below Symonds Yat, Goodrich, Ross-on-Wye, Fownhope, Holme Lacy, Ballingham, Hoarwithy, Goodrich Castle, Monmouth.

Route generally goes on eastern side of River Wye on outward leg and western side on return.

Two stops – Lucksall Caravan park at halfway point for breakfast rolls and cakes – orders to be taken at start – details nearer the time.

Tea/ice cream stop at Goodrich Castle.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/369183293

Ride Category/TerrainModerate/Strenuous Approx 940 meters (3,000 ft) climbing.  Suitable for all bikes. Mainly lanes. About 6 km (3.5 miles) of gravel, stone and dirt track to be covered in both directions – it was fine on a normal road bike during the recce.:

Ride Leader/Contact: Steve Sims

Assistant Ride Leader: Patrick Kelly

5th – 6th July: Wiltshire - Chippenham - Salisbury return

Please contact Chris Metcalfe and Lawrence Conway for further information

Sunday 6th July: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

Sunday 13th July: Clevedon from Aust

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Aust.  Participants can either park near the old Severn bridge, allowing half an hour to cycle to Aust village or park in Aust village itself.  We will meet outside The Boar’s Head for a 10.00 am start, but please don’t park in the pub car park as we are not patrons all day.

Distance: Approx. 50 miles

Route Description/GPX download: We will be cycling along coastal paths, and through Avonmouth industrial site, to the Victorian town of Clevedon for lunch and then via Portishead harbour on the way back to Aust.

Ride Category/Terrain: Mostly cycle paths

Ride Leader/Contact: Karl Hutchings

Assistant Ride Leader: Jackie Thomas

Sunday 20th July: Abergavenny - Raglan - Skirrid Loop

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am Oasis Snack Bar near Abergavenny Bus Station Long Stay Car Park Toilets - NP7 5HF - Sunday parking charge £1.30

Distance: Approx. 32 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Head east from Abergavenny - Llanddewi Rhydderch - Great Oak - Main coffee/brunch stop at Raglan Garden Centre - Llantilio Crosseny - White Castle - break for self-carried snack - continue loop to north and west to Llanvihangel Crucorney - possible short drink stop at Skirrid Inn - back south to Abergavenny via Penyclawdd  https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/261073767

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate:  lane riding - suitable all bikes - some slightly rougher green lanes - steady climb out of Abergavenny - also a steady climb up to White Castle

Ride Leader/Contact: Stephen Kite kites@cardiff.ac.uk

Assistant Ride Leader: Roger Bradshaw

Sunday 27th July: Earth Water and Sky - around the Vale of Glamorgan

Start Time/Location: Meet at 9.30 beside Hailey Park opposite Ysgol Glantaf, by Llandaff North river bridge. Plenty of parking in Radyr Court Road.

Route: 53 miles. A ramble through the Vale of Glamorgan. One coffee/lunch stop so bring additional snacks if needed.

Ride category/terrain: Moderate, all on roads, 1,000 metres of climbing.

Ride Leader/Contact: Richard Cook

Assistant Ride Leader: Lawrence Conway

24th – 29h July: Cycling UK Welsh Festival – Ruthin

email to be circulated to members

Please contact Julie Williams for further information

1st - 4th August: Porlock Weekend

See email circulated to members

Roger and Di

Sunday 3rd August: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

3rd – 10th August: Semaine Fédérale

email to be circulated to members

Please contact Roger Bradshaw for further information

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Sunday 10th August: Aberdare-Merthyr

Start Time/Location: 9.30 am at Radyr Weir.

Distance: Approx. 55 miles

Route Description/GPX download:

Steady climbing along the Lady Windsor colliery line, and up to Mountain Ash. There's one steep section but the views are worth it. First stop after 2 hours will be at Bradley's Coffee Shop, 26-27 High St, Aberdare CF44 7AA. There are plenty of outdoor areas to sit if you want to take sarnies. After the lunch stop in Aberdare, we'll be heading north to Llwyd Coed and the new cycle path that runs alongside the Heads of the Valleys road heading towards Merthyr. Possible afternoon stop at Halo Aberfan Leisure Centre. Please bring along plenty of snacks and drinks.

https://www.komoot.com/tour/2243423845?ref=avs&share_token=aU37BfN9Ti6X2aItR6iXiaAfZqoERRGeR51S85B7S2f4UwVjNi

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate. Mostly on tarmac cycle trails. 3,146 elevation. Suitable for any bike.

Ride Leader/Contact: Julie Williams

Assistant Ride Leader: Graham Davies

Sunday 17th August: Southerndown on a sunny day

Start Time/Location: 9.15 am Meet at Llandaff North Bridge (near Glantaf School) for 9.30 start.

Distance: Approx. 80km/50 miles  Time estimate inc breaks 7 hours

Route Description/GPX download:

https://www.komoot.com/tour/2497107902?share_token=aZq0KcbdHjiVqXy8shwdgl36a421f3cU4ak6GWZ8Uoctd4EIPT&ref=wtd

·         We will proceed to Cowbridge via Peterston Super Ely / Gwern y Steeple and Aberthin aiming to reach Cowbridge at 11 for a quick coffee. Exact location - individual choice !

·         11.45 depart to Llanblethian  - sharp hill alert after leaving the village and head over fields with spectacular views and approximately 2.6k of off road - road bikes need to be pushed for about 200m or so. We then head through St Brides Major and catch our first glimpses of the sea as we cruise into Southerndown .

·         Lunch stop at the Three Golden Cups Southerndown- wide food selection available and outside seating area with shade . ETA 1.15-1.30 pm

·         After lunch we head back via Broughton and part of the Wick and Llandow Rd before heading  to the quiet country lanes through Sigginstone and Llantrithyd . We exit the lanes to do  a short segment on the A48 before heading back home via Peterson Super Ely . Opportunity for a quick drink at Baffle Haus if feeling the heat

·         Lots of sun screen and water advised

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate

Ride Leader/Contact: Nest Evans

Assistant Ride Leader: Mel Pruchnie

Sunday 24th August: Tintern

Start Time/Location: Magor free carpark (NP26 3LY) to set off at 10am sharp

Distance: Approx. 36 miles

Route Description/GPX download: One big uplift, through the bat tunnel, lunch at Tintern

Ride Category/Terrain Moderate Trails, lanes, tarmac, some rough ground but not too bad. The surface up to the tunnel is better than last year. 1968 feet elevation gain

Ride Leader/Contact: Jane Karrie

Assistant Ride Leader: Karl Hitchings

Sunday 31st August: Along the tops - Senghenydd-Rhymney-Tredegar loop

Start Time/Location: 9.30 from Radyr Weir

Distance: 82km/51 miles - about 6-7 hours

Route Description/GPX download: Caerphilly, Senghenydd, Nelson, Trelewis, Graveyard Climb, Par Cwm Darran, Fochriw, Rhymney, Tredegar, up along ridge and down to Bargoed, Maesycwmmer, Caerphilly, Radyr Weir

https://www.komoot.com/tour/1745114348?share_token=aYdf8gJqX8PZwFrEqPwjnn5xcMKDiks3SB75bqqstu0lUApols&ref=wtd

Cafe stop: Parc Cwm Darran just before halfway point.

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate/Strenuous. Approx 1,150 metres (3,800 ft) climbing. Two challenging climbs. Suitable for all bikes. Mainly lanes and tarmac cycle paths.

Ride Leader/Contact: Steve Sims

Assistant Ride Leader: Alison Edwards

Saturday 6th September: Marcher Castles Way Taster Route

This Saturday taster ride has been cancelled for this year but it is intended instead to ride the whole Marcher Castle route over 4 days in July 2026, Roger Hall has kindly agreed to support the ride which is brilliant. Jane Karrie will be setting out the ride at the AGM.

Sunday 7th September: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

NB On Sunday 7 September the final stage of the 2025 Tour of Britain will start in Newport, outside the Geraint Thomas Velodrome, and finish in Cardiff.

8th – 12th September: West Wales

email to be circulated to members

Please contact Arlene Morrison for further information

Sunday 14th September: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

Sunday 21st September: Devil's Elbow via Craig Y Nos

Start Time/Location: 9.30 am, Albion cafe Cilfynydd

Distance: Distance 63 miles, 4286 ft elevation

Route Description/GPX download: Head out on cycle paths to Hirwaun, then go to  old Rhigos Rd to Glynneath,  then to Abercrave and lunch in Craig Y Nos. A long climb to Heol Senni and long climb up the Devils Elbow. Then descend to Ystradfellte , Penywaun, Llwdcoed , Mountain Ash and back to Cilfynydd. Some of the route will be on main roads and it is a Strenuous ride. Terrain is cycle paths and roads suitable for all bikes.

Garmin Connect

Ride Category/Terrain: Strenuous

Ride Leader/Contact: Dave Jenkins

Assistant Ride Leader: Steve Sims

Sunday 28th September: ad hoc ride from Radyr Weir

[route to be decided by participants]

PLEASE NOTE [UNOFFICIAL] AUDAX OPTION BELOW FOR SATURDAY 27th

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Saturday 27th September

[UNOFFICIAL] Audax Ride

Start Time/Location: 9.00 am from Tongwynlais

Beautifully scenic tour of the Glamorgan and Gwent valleys - to Trefil, the highest village in Wales at 409m above sea level. The route takes in eight major climbs totalling 2163m of ascent, so it is strenuous although you are never far from a station if you want to take the train home 😀

Lucas will be doing the ride and has offered to ride with any Spokes riders who may not have participated in Audax rides before. To join the ride there is a small charge and you must register online in advance using the following link : https://www.audax.uk/event-details/calendar/13009-trefil_travail

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30th September to 7th October: Majorca

A few members are going to Majorca again in the autumn.

Please contact Rachel Jones for further information

Please note that this is not an official Spokes event

Sunday 5th October:

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

NB The Cardiff Half Marathon will take place on Sunday 5 October

Saturday (not Sunday) 11th October: Medieval Churches of the Vale (Eastern end)

NB Ride is on Saturday rather than Sunday to avoid clashing with Church services

Start Time/Location: : 9.30am Llandaff Cathedral, we will meet on road by the main entrance. Riders may also like to join us at St Mary's Church, St Fagans, CF5 6EL at 10.00am.

Distance: Approx. 55km / 34 miles

Route Description/GPX download: This is a circular tour of the Medieval churches at the eastern villages of the Vale of Glamorgan, including St Fagans, Peterston Super Ely, Llancarfan, Porthkerry, Barry and Llandough. At each church we will share architectural and historical insights provided by Stephen and Roger, and where possible look inside each church.  Mainly on quiet back roads and cycle paths with a picnic stop at St Curig's church in Porthkerry and coffee stop in Porthkerry Country Park cafe. I hope you can join us. The route can be downloaded here: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/52697439

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate

Ride Leader/Contact: Lucas Brown

Assistant Ride Leader: Roger Bradshaw

Sunday 12th October: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

[please note main SATURDAY ride as above]

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

Sunday 19th October: Circulating the 2 peaks - Sugarloaf and Skirrid

[CANCELLED! - owing to poor weather forecast]

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am Abergavenny Bus Station car park. (Public Toilets available) Monmouth Road - NP7 5HF

Distance: Approx. 32 miles Approx. 6 hours including breaks

Route Description/GPX download: Starting from Abergavenny, North to Llanfiangel Crucorney – West towards Llanbedr – Glangrwyney – Govilon – canal path back to Abergavenny. Lunch stop half way round.

https://www.komoot.com/tour/2497107902?share_token=aZq0KcbdHjiVqXy8shwdgl36a421f3cU4ak6GWZ8Uoctd4EIPT&ref=wtd

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate

Ride Leader/Contact: Graham Davies

Assistant Ride Leader: Rachel Jones

-------------------------------------------

End of 2025 Spring/Summer Programme

-------------------------------------------

Spokes AGM

Thursday 23rd October - 19.00 to 21.00

Chapter Arts Centre

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Sunday 31st March: Llanishen Station - Caerleon Loop

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Llanishen Station [free parking]

Distance: Approx. 40 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Via Bassaleg to 14 locks for coffee, then along canal system and road into back end of Caerleon for lunch. Return via Newport on trail, past Transporter Bridge and Greggs (for the needy) and back to Cardiff via Rheins.

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate

Ride Leader/Contact: Calum Taylor

Assistant Ride Leader: Judith Fox

Sunday 7th April: Llanwonno via Barry Sidings

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Distance: Approx. 30 miles

Route Description/GPX download: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/253985066

Cafe stop at Barry Sidings

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate Some quite steep hills. 600m climb, mainly cycle path and quiet roads

Ride Leader/Contact: Nick Dallimore

Assistant Ride Leader: Caroline Dallimore

Sunday 14th April: Llanwonno Gravel Ride

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Albion Cafe, Cilfynydd

Distance: Approx. 25 miles / 2,500 feet / approx 4hrs duration

Route Description/GPX download: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/13988457764?share_unique_id=2  Head out to Mountain Ash on cycle paths and then head to Sierra Pines to join the base of the forestry gravel climb. This is a gradual climb on gravel to Llanwonno. We will then explore the numerous forestry tracks around Llanwonno, nothing too challenging, all on gravel no rocks or roots.  We will then go to Brynffynon pub for lunch and then return to Cilfynydd via Ynysybwl and the Lady Windsor trail.

Ride Category/Terrain: Strenuous Approx. 2500 ft of climbing. Gravel. Bikes with tyres bigger than 30mm should be fine.

Ride Leader/Contact: Dave Jenkins

Assistant Ride Leader: Patrick Kelly

Sunday 21st April: Llandaff Bridge to LLantwit Major Beach Cafe

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am Llandaff North River Bridge

Distance: Approx. 37 miles

Route Description:

Via Peterstone super Ely, Tre-Dodridge, St Hilary: lunch at Beach Cafe (CASH ONLY). Return via Llanmaes, Llantrithyd, Warren Mill Farm, Gwern-y-Steeple

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate

Ride Leader/Contact: Lawrence Conway

Assistant Ride Leader: Nest Evans

17th – 24th April: Majorca

email circulated to members

Please contact Richard Cook for further information

Sunday 28th April: April: Vale circular via Penarth and Nash Point

Please note earlier start time

Start Time/Location: 09.30am at Llandaff North River Bridge OS ref ST 148786 Map 151. Street parking available in nearby roads or next to Radyr Weir about 2 miles

up the Taff Trail.

Distance: Approx. 90 km/56 miles - about 6 hrs.

Route Description/GPX download: Taff trail to Penarth, Penarth Head, Swanbridge, Dinas Powys, Wenvoe, Dyffryn, Llancarfan, St Athan, Lantwitt Major, Nash Point, St. Hilary, Peterston-super-Ely. Two stops - coffee stop in Dinas Powys. Lunch stop at Cafe Unwind in Llantwitt Major, although everyone is free to go to other cafes. https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/260112477

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate Approx 1,000 meters (3,300 ft) climbing, Suitable for all bikes. Mainly lanes and tarmac cycle paths. A few climbs, but nothing major.

Ride Leader/Contact: Steve Sims tel: 07889 685756 email: steve.sims710@gmail.com

Assistant Ride Leader: Calum Taylor

Sunday 5th May: Bwlch

Start Time/Location: 2 start options:

Start/Finish DWP 80km 10.00 start

Start/Finish Tonyrefail 50km 11.00 start

DWP offices in Treforest Ind Estate ST112858

Tonyrefail start is opposite Red Bull pub ST018882

Distance: Approx. 50/80 km as per options above

Route Description/GPX download: Out via Beddau Tonyrefail Tonypandy and Treorchy. Back via Nantymoel Blackmill and Tonyrefail. Short section on Sustrans Route 4 on gravel - ok for 28mm tyres and 25s if you’re very careful.  Greggs Treorchy for gourmet lunch.

Ride Category/Terrain: Strenuous 1200m ascent from DWP (a little less from Tonyrefail)

Ride Leader/Contact: John Griffiths

Assistant Ride Leader: Mark Docker

Sunday 12th May: Gwent Levels/Wentwood

Start Time/Location: 2 start options

Longer Ride Start/Finish: 9.30 am Llanishen Train Station, Cardiff [free parking]

Shorter Ride Start/Finish: 11.15 Jackie and Karl's house - Daycroft, Redwick NP26 3DY

Distances: 55m / 35m as per options above

Route Description/GPX download:

Llanishen Train Station to Redwick across the flats via EV1 to Jackie and Karl's for coffee stop and meet up with shorter group. Then on to Magor, Wentwood, Llantrisant, Caerleon for lunch stop at The Green Coffee Lounge. Then home via Newport (Cardiff group via Bassaleg and Redwick group via the flats/EV1). A mix of back roads and paved cycle paths with a couple of short gravel sections. GPX for longer option:

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46419800

Ride Category/Terrain: Both long and short routes Moderate.

Suit all bikes

Ride Leader/Contact: Lucas Brown

Assistant Ride Leader: Jackie Thomas (for shorter option)

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13th – 19th May: Lowestoft to Cardiff

email circulated to members

Please contact Dave Griffiths for further information

Sunday 19th May: To Heol y Cyw and beyond

Start Time/Location: 3 start options:

Start/Finish St Fagans 101km 1750m ascent 09.30 start

Start/Finish DWP 68km 1225m ascent 10.15 start

Start/Finish Tonyrefail 36km 750m ascent 11.15 start

DWP offices in Trefforest Ind Estate ST112858

Tonyrefail start is opposite Red Bull pub ST018882

Distances: As options above

Route Description/GPX download:

Full route: St Fagans, Trefforest Ind Estate, Tonyrefail,

Heol y Cyw, Brynmenyn, Blackmill, Tonyrefail and back to Cardiff. Some gravelly bits but suitable for standard 28mm tyres. Coffee and cake stop about halfway round each option

Ride Category/Terrain: Strenuous

Ride Leader/Contact: John Griffiths

Assistant Ride Leader: Mark Docker

Sunday 26th May: Cheddar GorgeStart Time/Location: 10.00 am from Yatton Station, Somerset

Distance: Approx. 40 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Yatton Station to Chew Lakes, Cheddar Gorge [down] finish on the Strawberry Line.  Refreshments at Start, Chew Lake and Cheddar Gorge.

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate

Ride Leader/Contact: Arlene Morrison

Assistant Ride Leader: Calum Taylor

Sunday 2nd June: Wye Valley Loop

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from layby on the A466 heading into Chepstow from J2 of the M48 (old Severn Bridge junction)

Distance: Approx. 30 miles

Route Description/GPX download:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/271577097

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate All on the road 2600 ft of climbing

Ride Leader/Contact: Graham Davies

Assistant Ride Leader: Karl Hitchings

Sunday 9th June: Monmouth - Ross on Wye - Wye Valley

Start Time/Location: Arrive at 09:15 to be ready for 09:30 start at Monmouth Rockfield Road free car park OS ref SO503127 Map Explorer OL14. From Cardiff turn off A40 immediately after Monmouth tunnel.  Alternative pay parking in Cattle Market car park (SO505125) about 500m away at £1.30 for the day (according to council website). Pay using machine or Paybyphone app. Toilets at top end of Cattle Market car park near old bridge.

Distance: Approx. 80km / 50 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Monmouth, along Wye Valley below Symonds Yat, Goodrich, Ross-on-Wye, Fownhope, Holme Lacy, Ballingham, Hoarwithy, Goodrich Castle, Monmouth. Route generally goes on eastern side of River Wye on outward leg and western side on return. Two stops – Lucksall Caravan park at halfway point for breakfast rolls and cakes – orders to be taken at start – details nearer the time. Tea/ice cream stop at Goodrich Castle. https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/272395448

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate Approx 900 meters (3,000 ft) climbing.  Suitable for all bikes. Mainly lanes. About 5 km (3 miles) of gravel and dirt track to be covered in both directions – it was fine on a normal road bike during the recce.

Ride Leader/Contact: Stephen Sims

tel: 07889 685756,

email: steve.sims710@gmail.com

Assistant Ride Leader: Graham Davies

Sunday 16th June: Pontypool Basin - Brynmawr

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Pontymoile Basin by the boatyard. If you follow the A4042 towards Abergavenny and at the roundabout with the sign to The Big Pit with Macdonalds , on it turn first left onto the A472 and bear left at the brown sign for the boat yard and follow the same  signs to Pontymoile basin.

Distance: Approx. 30 miles

Route Description/GPX download:
Pontymoile  Basin start by the boat yard at 10.00am
The ride goes through the villages of Llanhilleth, Six Bells ,Abertillery ,Blaina and Brynmawr for lunch where there  are numerous eatery options  in the new retail park .
From Brynmawr we cross the mountain at the head of the valley before  descending towards  Blaenavon and back to Pontypool .
Temperatures at the heads of the valleys are lower normally than in the M4 corridor , so may need extra gear .
Mobile numbers Jackie 07500 034108
Karl 07497 348296
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require more information.
Jackie and Karl

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate Approx 1500 ft climbing

Ride Leader/Contact: Jackie Thomas

Assistant Ride Leader: Karl Hitchings

Sunday 23rd June: Chepstow to Slimbridge

Start Time/Location: 9.15 am Ride starts adjacent to southbound layby parking area on A466, 200 yards from M48 junction 2 (Chepstow first turn off). Meet at 9:15 am for briefing and 9:30 am prompt start.

Distance: Approx. 55 miles (approx 6 to 7 hours). Two cafe stops but best to bring some food.

Route Description/GPX download: https://gb.mapometer.com/cycling/route_5461465.html Chepstow to Slimbridge via Sharpness across the first Severn Bridge. Return via Thornbury

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate Generally gentle undulations with three significant climbs. Mostly quiet country lanes. Includes a mile on slightly bumpy canal towpath.

Ride Leader/Contact: Chris Metcalfe 07568490547

email: cmetcalfe3@gmail.com

Assistant Ride Leader: tbc

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Sunday 30th June: Abergavenny – Raglan Loop

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am Oasis Snack Bar near Abergavenny Bus Station Long Stay Car Park Toilets

NP7 5HF -

All day parking charge £6.20

Distance: Approx. 32 miles

Route Description/GPX download:

Head east from Abergavenny - Llanddewi Rhydderch - Great Oak - Main coffee/brunch stop at Raglan Garden Centre - Llantilio Crosseny - White Castle - break for self-carried snack - continue loop to north and west to Llanvihangel Crucorney - possible short drink stop at Skirrid Inn - back south to Abergavenny via Penyclawdd

Garmin updated: 27 June 24

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/282779781

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate - lane riding - suitable all bikes - steady climb out of Abergavenny - also a steady climb up to White Castle - total elevation 3,083 feet

Ride Leader/Contact: Stephen Kite

Assistant Ride Leader: Roger Bradshaw

2nd – 5th July: Traws Eyri

email circulated to members

Please contact Jane Karrie for further information

Sunday 7th July: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

Sunday 14th July: Parc Cwm Darran

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Distance: Approx. 40-45 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Taff trail to Parc Taff Bargoed, Graveyard climb, Parc Cwm Darran for lunch stop and return via trail to Radyr

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate with one challenging climb

Ride Leader/Contact: Howard James

Assistant Ride Leader: Rosemary Hardy

19th – 21st July: Llandovery Weekender

Saturday 20th July: Llandovery - Llandeilo Loop

Sunday 21st July: Lost Lanes Llandovery Discovery

email circulated to members

Please contact Mel Pruchnie or Nest Evans for further information

Sunday 21st July: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

25th – 30th July: Cycling UK Welsh Festival – Ruthin

email to be circulated to members

Please contact Julie Williams for further information

Sunday 28th July: Ad Hoc ride from Radyr Weir

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Radyr Weir

Route: to be decided by the participants

Sunday 4th August: Lost Lanes ride 'Welcome to the Valleys'

Start Time/Location: 10.00h from Hengoed station. Free parking in station car park. The 08.52h train from Cardiff Central via, Heath High Level, Llanishen & Lisvane will get you there by 09.30h.

Distance: Approx. 32 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Hengoed, Rhymney, Tredegar, Cefn Manmoel, Hengoed. Lunch stop in Tredegar (Cafe Europa).

Ride Category/Terrain:  Moderate  Mainly roads, about 1 mile of gravel road on Manmoel Rd., suitable for all bikes, 750 metres of ascent.

Ride Leader/Contact: Richard Cook

Assistant Ride Leader: Lawrence Conway

9th – 11th August: Porlock

Event cancelled for 2024

Sunday 11th August: Up the Tumble and round Sugar Loaf

Start Time/Location: 9.20 for 9.30 prompt departure. Llanfoist Old Railway Crossing Carpark https://www.visitmonmouthshire.com/things-to-do/llanfoist-old-railway-crossing-p1504611

Distance: Approx. 30 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Leaving Llanfoist along the old railway line we then join the road climbing the Tumble. After the summit we descend into Blaenavon. We then join the cycle route up through the industrial estate and alongside the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway line, finally descending into Brynmawr. From here we head to Llangattock and into Crickhowell for lunch. We then circumnavigate the Sugar Loaf back to Abergavenny and finishing in Llanfoist.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/295408959

Ride Category/Terrain: Challenging. Terrain - mostly quiet roads, traffic free lanes, some  grass and poor road surface in places. Touring bikes preferable, however, road bikes would manage.

Ride Leader/Contact: Rachel Jones 07932 121 221

Assistant Ride Leader: Julie Williams 07958 482 482

Sunday 18th August: Along the tops - Senghenydd –Rhymney – Tredegar loop

Start:  09:30 from Radyr Weir.

Distance: 82 km/51 miles - about 6-7 hrs.

Route/GPX download: Caerphilly, Senghenydd, Nelson, Trelewis, Graveyard

Climb, Parc Cwm Darran, Fochriw, Rhymney, Tredegar, up along ridge and down to Bargoed, Maesycwmmer, Caerphilly, Radyr Weir Cafe stop: Parc Cwm Darran just before halfway point.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/294514389

Terrain/Ride Category: Moderate/Strenuous Approx 1,150 meters (3,800 ft) climbing. Two challenging climbs. Suitable for all bikes. Mainly lanes and tarmac cycle paths.

Route Leader/Contact: Steve Sims, tel: 07889 685756,

email: steve.sims710@gmail.com

Assistant Ride Leader: Richard Cook

Sunday 25th August: Tintern

Start Time/Location: Magor free carpark (NP26 3LY) to set off at 10am sharp

Distance: Approx. 36 miles

Route Description/GPX download: One big uplift, through the bat tunnel, lunch at Tintern

Ride Category/Terrain Trails, lanes, tarmac, some rough ground but not too bad. The surface up to the tunnel is better than last year. 1968 feet elevation gain

Ride Leader/Contact: Jane Karrie

Assistant Ride Leader: Mike Mahoney

Sunday 1st September: To Nepal for lunch and back

Start Time/Location: 9.30 am from St Fagans cricket club crossroads or park at John’s house (31 St fagans Drive, CF5 6EF) and leave 9.25

Distance: Approx. 75km 47 miles

Route Description/GPX download: To Blackmill via City and Pencoed.  Return via Bridgend and Treoes.  6 hours’ish. Lunch at the Nepalese cafe in Blackmill where bacon butties will be banned!

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate Mainly quiet roads and cycle tracks. About 800m climbing

Ride Leader/Contact: John Griffiths

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7th – 8th September: Tenby

Saturday 7th September: Tenby-Angle Loop

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from North Beach Car Park - £5.00 for 24 hr

Distance: Approx. 50 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Hugging coast via Manorbier - Freshwater East for coffee. Through Stackpole to Castlemartin to West Angle Bay - lunch at Wavecrest Cafe on beach (option swim!). Return through Pembroke then cycle Route 4 back to Tenby.

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate with tough hills - 3,435 feet elevation. Road bike.

Ride Leader/Contact: Sybil Upton

Assistant Ride Leader: tbc

Sunday 8th September - Carew Loop

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from North Beach Car Park

Distance: Approx. 25 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Route 4 to Saundersfoot then onto Cresswell Quay then to Carew. Lunch at Carew Inn or cafes at Castle Tidal Mill. Return to Tenby via Sageston, St Florence.

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate

Ride Leader/Contact: Sybil Upton

Assistant Ride Leader: tbc

Further details: Plenty of BnB's - Air BnB's, hotels, campsites in Tenby. Plan is to go down Friday till Sunday. When I know numbers I will book Florentino Restaurant overlooking harbour for Saturday evening. For those who do not want to stay over it's possible to drive up on Saturday morning (allow 2 hrs) and return Saturday evening.

Please contact Sybil Upton for further information

Sunday 15th September: Gower

Unfortunately, we have had to change the route and the start location of the Gower ride on Sunday because the Mumbles Road is closed in the morning for the 10km Swansea Bay Run.

Start/Distance: Gowerton Car Park, Gorwydd Road, Gowerton, SA4 3AG. No toilets. Ride is 35 miles approx, 5 hours. Start 10.00 am

Route/GPX download: Gowerton, Penclawdd – Crofty – Llanridian – Woebley Castle, Cheriton, Britannia Inn, Llanmadoc, for lunch. Kennoxton – Llanrhidian – Cilibian – Parc Le Breos - Parkmill – Pennard – Kittle – Bishopston – Caswell - Mumbles – Blackpill - Cycleway back to Gowerton.

Terrain/Ride Category:  Moderate with some steep climbs and descents. 1 mile section of track that is not suitable for posh road bikes. I would recommend a tourer or gravel bike.

As mentioned in earlier post, if you are coming, and want to eat at the Britannia, please let me know what your menu choice by Thursday. Thanks very much

Ride Leaders: Rachel Jones and Graham Davies

Sunday 22nd September:

Postponed to 6th October due to bad weather

Saturday 28th September: Gwent Levels and Wetlands

Please note that the ride this weekend will be on Saturday instead of Sunday in view of the weather forecast.

Start Time/Location: 9.30 am Pentwyn Leisure Centre, Bryn Celyn Rd, CF23 7EZ. Free parking at Centre.

Distance: Approx. 45 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Gwent Levels, Wetlands coastal path, lunch Caerleon (VillageBakery), BrecMon towpath & Bassaleg back to start.

https://www.komoot.com/tour/1862046393?ref=aso&share_token=ahfbmUJ6DVAvajBEeuN55lRZjE9Bary00y5jIaOJmqxdyzQ2hO

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate. Terrain: Small amount of packed gravel, Virtually all tarmac. Level to start with two steep climbs up to lunch! Road bike suitable

Ride Leader/Contact: Dave Miller

Assistant Ride Leader: tbc

Sunday 6th October: Golden Valley - Gospel Pass

CANCELLED due to poor weather forecast

Start Time/Location: 10.00. Road parking near the Skirrid Inn. NP7 8DH.

Distance: Approx. 36 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Anti-clockwise Golden Valley and Gospel Pass from Skirrid Inn. The two coffee stops available are fairly near the start and end of the ride. Lunch stop in Hay on Wye. Be careful not to take the Raglan road at the Abergavenny roundabout.

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate / Strenuous. Two 12% climbs, total climb 2,500 ft.

Ride Leader/Contact: Roger Bradshaw

Assistant Ride Leader: Calum Taylor

Sunday 13th October: Yatton Station to Cheddar Gorge

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Yatton Station, Somerset

Distance: Approx. 40 miles

Route Description/GPX download: Yatton Station, Somerset, going to Chew Lakes, Cheddar Gorge (down), finish with Strawberry Line. Refreshments at start, Chew Lake, and Cheddar Gorge.

Ride Category/Terrain: Moderate

Ride Leader/Contact: Calum Taylor calumcameron75@outlook.com  07718974789

Assistant Ride Leader: Arlene Morrison

Saturday 19th October: Cwmbran Canal Caper

Please note that the ride this weekend will be on Saturday instead of Sunday in view of the weather forecast.

Start Time/Location: 10.00 am from Jn of field way and Maes y coed rd, Whitchurch (parking on Field Way).

Distance: Approx. 47 miles

Route Description/GPX download: East from start, pen y lan hill to Bassaleg, Pye corner and along canal towards Newport. North up canal towpath through Cwmbran to Pontypool (lunch). East to Hafodyrynys, Swffryd, Crumlin and Maesycwmmer, returning via Pandy ln to Caerphilly and home.

https://www.komoot.com/tour/1879678604?share_token=aFRgm6RBHI3wBOp2FVwLqIlp9U7Qs7pUze85HDGAMozVdY3v9F&ref=wtd

Ride Category/Terrain: Strenuously moderate  with some short steep climbs and longer shallow climbs. 850m (2800ft) climbing, tarmac throughout. Mostly minor roads and cycle tracks (some narrow). Occasional busy rds/junctions.

Ride Leader/Contact: Martin Watson

Assistant Ride Leader: Michael Hyde

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End of 2024 Spring/Summer Programme

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