Despite having to pull the ride day forward as we were clashing with the marathon we had another good turn out at the View tube on Saturday -with riders from Newham, south London, Elm park and as far afield as Brentwood! 20 of us set off on a very sunny day down the river Lee calling at Three mills & Cody dock.
For a change, after Bow ecology park, we crossed the bridge to London city island and navigated through the new open areas. After a quick visit to East India Dock we followed river through isle of dogs to Greenwich via the foot tunnel -here we picked up another south London cyclist then navigated the extensive diversions to the Thames path stopping for lunch at the cafe under cable cars -here we lost half the group to a local pub, football or gardening! However the rest of us continued along Thames path to Woolwich ferry -some exploring an interesting local Tor viewpoint & the site of the wreck of the Princess Alice boat on the Thames -with the loss of many lives in 1878.
Across the River back in Newham we followed river round to Gallions reach past the new Decathlon shop -offering cyclists free servicing discounts
We then picked up greenway & followed it back entering Olympic park via new ramp leading to Channelsea passage – ending with a welcome beverage at the view tube cafe!
The decision continue to the Tor & shipwreck added a few miles to ride but worth it! (thanks to riders for showing us these!)
We welcomed no mechanical problems this time and that no-one fell in the river!
Many thanks to all who assisted -esp. Arnie & Steve for back marking & Robin as ever for great photos