Shame that the last 15 miles were in the
pouring rain! Then when I thought I could not get any more soaked, a double decker bus passing a puddle, added insult to injury. But otherwise a lovely ride following the River Thames, then the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Thanks to Susie for leading us, and Stephanie and Chris for assisting.
Route
We met at Dinton, up Sandford Lane and over to Charvil. Then to Sonning where we joined the Thames path all the way to The Oracle Shopping Centre.
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| Sonning Lock. Skies looking a bit worrying, but still dry |
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| Arriving at Sonning Lock |
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| The Hollyhocks at Sonning Lock almost over now |
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| The group just coming through The Oracle |
Now onto new territory for most of us, as we crossed the road and continued on the canal path. Some interesting gardens which back on to the Canal now, which I had planned to photograph on the way back.... but it was raining so hard I didnt bother.
However a bit further along, and we crossed a few bridges and locks.
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| Never seen anything quite like this before. |
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| A dog walker kindly offered to use my camera for this one |
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| Nice old wooden boat |
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| The Kennet and Avon splits here and there are many barges moored along this section of backwater to the left. |
Now we continued as far as The Cunning Man pub, and left the towe path to the left joining Mill Road. All Cycle route 4 .We followed close the M4 for a short section and finally our destination of The Fox and Hounds at Sheffield Bottom. They dont do home made cakes, but had bought some in since we had booked ahead.
Now just as started our return journey, the heavens opened and in to time we were drenched.
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| Carole with jacket hood up under her cycle helmet, as we met a Dutchman coming through with panniers. |
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| Almost back into Reading and regrouped under a bit of shelter. No point hanging about, so we set off again in the rain |
Back the same route as far as the Watersports Centre, then followed Route 4 through Thames Valley Business park, and out to the A4, crossing at M&S. Then through Woodford Park and back to Dinton.
Must do it again with better weather!
