2026 Cycling
Augustclick for this month's league table
Trent Lock, Sawley
Today six Embers gathered at Holme Pierrepont on a blustery, partly overcast but dry day. We began by crossing the Trent on the new cycle and pedestrian bridge and delighted Ben with a series of up and down steps. We then rejoined the usual route, off road on cycle ways and tow paths heading westwards past West Bridgeford to the café at Beeston Marina Boathouse Café for coffee. After coffee we followed the river Trent south west until we hit the Cranfleet Canal and followed that as far as the pub called the Trent Lock, just south of Long Eaton, for lunch.
After victuals we returned by a similar route except that we deviated just after Attenborough Marina heading along the Beeston canal towards the centre of Nottingham. Luckily it is vacation time so the usual crowds of students were missing. At the centre of Nottingham we turned south and rejoined our outward route at Nottingham Forest football ground. We again followed the Trent back to Holme Pierrepont for coffee and ice cream. A great day out and it stayed dry so all was well.
- Simon Over
Out with the Embers for the first time in a while. Cycled via Daves to Thurcaston for lunch with Ian 1 and Ian 2. Cool and Blustery day and nice to escape recent high temperatures.
Great to meet up with the guys, especially two who have had better times.
- Peter Wright
This week many Embers cycled miles between them.
Any place, any day
With an Amber Weather Warning for the Embers normal Thursday ride and with temperatures of 38c (100f), group ride was out. Some went early morning, some different day. Richard and I did morning ride out to Burbage Common and then home before more hot weather.
- Peter Wright
This week many Embers in small groups cycled miles in the early mornings and on different days.
Woolpack Inn, Islip
The threat of a wet day and a start far from home did not deter five Embers who met at Thrapston. We cycled south along the disused railway line across the meandering Nene until we reached Stanwick Lakes. There we paused for tea and banana break while we booked our lunch at the Woolpack Inn, back at Islip.
Our plan was to pick up the minor roads west of Stanwick Lakes, but there didn't appear to be any connection in that direction. We were compelled to retrace our outward route along the cinder track.
This week many Embers cycled miles between them.
Soar Bridge Inn, Barrow upon Soar
Ten Embers rode out today on an overcast morning with threats of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Six met at Markfield Road, Ratby car park and cycled via Groby and Newtown Linford to meet four others at Bradgate Park café. After coffee all ten of us headed to Barrow on Soar travelling past Rothley, through Quorn and across the river Soar. Lunch was taken at the Soar Bridge Inn which was recently refurbished.
Following lunch two of the group headed north with the remaining eight going south to Slash Lane. There we split up again with three continuing south towards Sileby and beyond and five going over the River Soar to Mountsorrel where Mush left. The last four headed back by Rothley, Thurcaston, Anstey, Glenfield and finally to Ratby. Despite the dire weather warnings we avoided the worst of it and had a really good ride out today.
- Simon Over
After last night's fireworks display (Thunder and Lightning) I was a bit apprehensive joining the Embers ride. Been a fair while since I cycled with everyone but the weather was good until the last 2 miles. Good to be amongst the chatter and confusion (deciding route). Enjoyable day if you like 38 miles of cycling.
- Peter Wright
This week many Embers cycled miles between them.