London to Southend - 10 March (night ride)
Ride leader Ross says:
Our traditional season opening ride to Southend-on-sea is back for 2023. Like all our London start night rides, we’ll assemble at Fridays Central which is located in the shadow of Waterloo Bridge on the Southbank next to the British Film Institute.
After the usual briefing we will set off at midnight, cross the Thames and take in the amazing views as we glide along the Embankment to the Tower of London. From here we’ll either brave the cobbles as we soak up the atmosphere of the Wapping wharves, or weave our way canal side through St Kathrine’s and Tobacco Docks before we head north east, catching a glimpse of the Olympic stadium along the way. We’ll cross the A12 and the M25 on our journey into the wilds of Essex to our half way stop at the Doddinghurst scout hall. Suitably refreshed we'll head into the sunrise through the stunning Essex lanes, maybe going via Buttsbury ford if the weather is kind, crossing Hanningfield reservoir then we turn south via sleepy Battlesbridge and Rayleigh to reach the delights of the Thames Estuary, Southend-on-Sea's splendid promenade and the dash to the world famous Southend pier.
Breakfast will be at Beaches Cafe right on the beach with south facing views overlooking the pier and Estuary. There are trains back to London Fenchurch Street and London Liverpool Street.
At around 55 miles, the Southend-on-Sea ride is one of our shorter night rides, and although the terrain is rolling, there are no leg breaking hills, so it’s the perfect way to start the season or experience your first Friday Night Ride.
Important note. Our half way stop at the scout hall is manned by volunteers who will be getting out of their warm beds to make sure we are fed and watered. So they are not out of pocket if people cancel at the last minute or don't show up for the ride at all, we are asking for a non-refundable pre-payment of £8. For this you will get unlimited hot drinks and a sandwich - a selection will be available - and perhaps a banana or something sweet.
Please send your payment to either
THE FRIDAYS CYCLING CLUB (FNRTTC), sort code 30-98-97, account number 40385560 or via Paypal (but please do this as 'friends and family' to minimise charges) and send to fridaynightridetothecoast@gmail.com.
Whichever option you use it is essential you include your name as it appears on your registration and the ride you are registering for (e.g. Joe Bloggs, London-Southend). Your registration for the ride will not be complete until payment has been received.
Registration is closed.
To whet your appetite for our fist night-time adventure of 2023 check out the 2022 ride report.