Ride to Reach: the Camcycle 20/50

This article was published in 2008, in Newsletter 77.

On Bank Holiday Monday 5th May 2008 join our big bike rides from Cambridge into the fenland countryside. There’s a short ride (20 miles there and back) to the village of Reach, stopping for the village fair, or a longer ride through Wicken Fen to Ely. Both rides start together in Cambridge, departing promptly at 10 a.m. from outside the Fort St. George pub on Midsummer Common. They will go at a leisurely pace following National Cycle Network Route 11.

The ride takes place on the day of the historic country fair in the village of Reach at the end of Devil’s Dyke, arriving in time to witness the opening of the fair by the Mayor of Cambridge at noon.

For those wanting a longer ride (50 miles there and back), the stop at Reach will be just enough for lunch. We shall then carry on expecting to arrive in Ely in the mid-afternoon, where there will be time to enjoy the sights and more refreshment, before getting back on our bikes and returning to Cambridge by the same route. Bring bike lights. Alternatively return by train, subject to limited availability of space for bikes.

The Ride

Last year’s ride crosses Wicken Fen.
Image as described adjacent

Come prepared for stunning views of open country, wild horses near Wicken Fen and changeable weather. Bring water, snacks and money to buy food. The pace will be leisurely, with the riding time to Ely expected to be four hours each way. These rides are organised by Cambridge Cycling Campaign and are run in association with Sustrans. They are open to everyone, and everyone is welcome to bring their roadworthy bike. This includes accompanied confident child cyclists who are strong enough to ride for around 20 miles (the return distance to Reach). Both rides will be accompanied by marshals who are able to help with simple bike problems. You are of course free to ride independently at your own risk. This is a ride just for fun, there is no charge and there is no sponsorship.

Full details including timings are on our website.

Marshals needed

How many people we get depends largely on the weather! But it could be between 50 and 100, mostly doing the shorter ride to Reach and back, so we will need plenty of marshals. Would anyone who might be prepared to offer their services as a marshal please contact the Campaign? Your help will be appreciated!

Simon Nuttall