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- Two Wheels, Infinite Adventures: Discovering London's Cycling Scene
London, a city buzzing with energy, offers more than just iconic landmarks and bustling streets. It's a haven for cyclists of all levels, from casual riders to seasoned pros. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride through a royal park or a challenging long-distance adventure, London's cycling scene has something for everyone. Exploring Royal Landscapes: Richmond Park and Windsor Great Park For those seeking a tranquil escape from the city's hustle, cycling in Richmond Park  is a must. This vast green space provides a stunning backdrop for any ride. With its rolling hills and serene deer herds, it's easy to forget you're in the heart of London. Planning your route? Try searching for " richmond park bike route " or " cycling route richmond park " for various options. The " richmond park cycling route " offers a blend of challenging climbs and scenic descents. If you’re looking for a slightly different royal experience, consider a trip to cycle Windsor Great Park , which offers its own majestic views and tranquil pathways. The Thrill of the Long Ride: London to Brighton and Beyond For those with a taste for adventure, the iconic London to Brighton bike ride distance  is a rite of passage. Covering approximately 54 miles, this popular route offers a fantastic challenge and a real sense of accomplishment. If you're looking for a detailed itinerary, search for " bike ride from london to brighton " or " brighton to london bike ride route ". Why Join a Bike Club? Social Connection:  Meet like-minded individuals and make new friends. Skill Development:  Learn from experienced cyclists and improve your technique. Motivation and Support:  Stay motivated and achieve your cycling goals. Safety in Numbers:  Enjoy the safety and camaraderie of group rides. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, London's cycling scene has something to offer everyone. So, grab your bike, explore the city, and join the vibrant community of London cyclists!  Join London Clarion Cycle Club today! Richmomd Park Deer January 2025 London Clarion Cycling Club Ride
- Uncover London's Historic Gems on Two Wheels: A Cycling Adventure Through the City's Timeless Landmarks!
London, a city rich in history and culture, offers a fantastic backdrop for cycling enthusiasts. Picture yourself pedaling past iconic landmarks while soaking in the stories of this vibrant metropolis. There is no better way to explore the city than on two wheels, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and get close to the remarkable sites that define London. Ready for an adventure? Let's explore some of London’s historic gems! Why Cycling in London is a Unique Experience Cycling in London provides a fresh view that walking or driving can't match. You can weave through traffic, cut across charming parks, and stop whenever something piques your curiosity—all at your own pace. With over 2,000 miles of cycling routes and dedicated bike lanes, London is becoming increasingly accommodating for cyclists. Additionally, studies show that cycling can burn approximately 400-600 calories per hour , making it a great choice for fitness enthusiasts. So grab your helmet and water bottle. We're setting out to discover the city! Start at the Iconic Tower of London Your cycling adventure begins at the Tower of London , a UNESCO World Heritage site standing strong since the 11th century. Its imposing walls whisper tales of royalty and intrigue, setting the perfect stage for your journey. As you circle the Tower, consider stopping by to see the Crown Jewels . This collection of royal regalia includes jewels worth an estimated £20 million , showcasing the splendor of British royalty. It's worth the detour for a close-up view of history. Gliding Along the Thames River After leaving the Tower, hop on your bike and glide along the River Thames . The Thames Path presents striking views of London's renowned landmarks. Stop at the Tower Bridge , a Victorian engineering marvel completed in 1894. The panoramic views from this bridge will leave you breathless, so be sure to capture those snapshots. As you pedal onward, take a moment to admire Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre , which brings the rich art scene of the Renaissance to life. Venturing to St. Paul’s Cathedral Next, cycle towards St. Paul’s Cathedral , an architectural masterpiece designed by Sir Christopher Wren. The magnificent dome has overlooked London for over 300 years . Park your bike nearby and appreciate the intricate façade. The interior is just as stunning, adorned with beautiful mosaics. If you're up for a challenge, climb to the Golden Gallery for sweeping views of London that are truly rewarding. Pedal Through the Historic Borough Market Once you’ve enjoyed the sights, it's time to refuel! Borough Market , one of London’s oldest food markets, is just a short ride away and is perfect for tasting the city’s culinary diversity. Dig into freshly prepared street food, artisan pastries, and locally sourced produce. Try to visit on a weekday to dodge the long weekend lines. You just might catch a glimpse of chefs offering samples from their stalls—a great way to engage with the local culture. Exploring the Royal Parks After a delicious meal, pedal over to London’s Royal Parks . Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are ideal for cycling, featuring wide paths surrounded by lush greenery. Keep an eye out for the Serpentine , a lovely lake often frequented by swans. In spring, the parks burst into color, showcasing beautiful flowers and vibrant trees. It's a refreshing experience cycling through these scenic areas that have been enjoyed by royals for centuries. Concluding Your Journey at Buckingham Palace No cycling tour of London would be complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace , the official residence of the monarch. Riding up The Mall toward the palace allows you to appreciate its grandeur. If your timing is right, park your bike and watch the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, a display of British traditions that should not be missed. Cycling Through London's Treasures Cycling through London offers a hands-on way to encounter the city’s historic gems. Each stop reveals layers of stories and traditions that have formed this iconic metropolis. By choosing to explore on two wheels, you not only get exercise but also experience London in a way that’s unique and personal. So pack your bags, grab a bike, and embark on this unforgettable journey. Whether you're a local or a visitor, every ride through this amazing city will fill you with rich history and a connection to its vibrant spirit. Happy cycling!
- The Benefits of Cycling to Work in London: How to Make Your Commute More Enjoyable
Cycling to work in London may seem daunting at first, but the benefits far outweigh any potential challenges. Not only is it a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, but it can also save you time and money in the long run. In this blog post, we will explore the various benefits of cycling to work in London and provide some tips on how to make your commute more enjoyable. One of the biggest benefits of cycling to work in London is the health benefits it provides. Cycling is a great form of cardiovascular exercise that can help improve your overall fitness levels and reduce your risk of developing health conditions such as heart disease and obesity. Additionally, cycling can help improve your mental health by reducing stress and anxiety levels, as well as boosting your mood and energy levels. Another major benefit of cycling to work in London is the cost savings it can provide. With the rising cost of public transportation and the increasing price of petrol, cycling is a much more affordable option for getting to and from work. Not to mention, you won't have to worry about parking fees or congestion charges, saving you even more money in the long run. Cycling to work in London can also save you time, especially during peak rush hours when traffic congestion is at its worst. With a bike, you can easily navigate through traffic and avoid getting stuck in gridlock, allowing you to arrive at work faster and more efficiently. Plus, cycling can help you avoid delays caused by train or bus cancellations, ensuring that you arrive at work on time every day. To make your commute more enjoyable, there are a few tips you can follow. First, make sure you have the proper gear, including a helmet, lights, and reflective clothing to ensure your safety on the road. Plan your route in advance and try to find quieter, more scenic paths to make your commute more enjoyable. Take breaks when needed and stay hydrated to keep your energy levels up throughout your ride. Overall, cycling to work in London has numerous benefits that make it a worthwhile and enjoyable option for commuting. Not only does it provide a great way to stay active and healthy, but it can also save you time and money in the long run. By following the tips mentioned above, you can make your commute more enjoyable and start reaping the benefits of cycling to work in London today.
- Is cycling in London dangerous?
In the bustling metropolis of London, the debate on cycling safety continues to loom large. As cyclists pedal through the streets, navigating their way amidst the iconic double-decker buses and black cabs, concerns about safety are ever-present. But just how dangerous is cycling in this vibrant city? Challenges on London's Roads London, like many other major cities, has its fair share of challenges for cyclists. The city's intricate road network, coupled with heavy traffic congestion, can create a daunting environment for those on two wheels. Cyclists often find themselves sharing the road with motor vehicles, leading to potential conflicts and safety hazards. Safety Measures in Place Despite the challenges, London has been proactive in implementing safety measures to protect cyclists. The city boasts an extensive network of cycle lanes, marked routes, and designated cycling paths aimed at enhancing safety. Additionally, initiatives such as awareness campaigns and cycling education programs seek to promote safer cycling practices among Londoners. Statistics Speak Understanding the reality of cycling safety in London requires a look at the numbers. According to recent statistics, the city has seen a gradual decline in cycling accidents over the years. This positive trend can be attributed to improved infrastructure, increased awareness, and collaborative efforts to enhance road safety for all users. Navigating the Urban Jungle For cyclists in London, caution is key. By adhering to traffic rules, wearing appropriate safety gear, and remaining vigilant on the road, cyclists can mitigate the risks associated with urban cycling. Moreover, staying informed about the latest safety regulations and seeking out cycling-friendly routes can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable biking experience in the city. The Verdict So, is cycling in London dangerous? While the city presents its unique set of challenges for cyclists, concerted efforts to improve infrastructure and promote road safety have significantly enhanced the cycling experience. By adopting a cautious approach, staying informed, and embracing the cycling culture of the city, cyclists can ride confidently on London's streets, enjoying the sights and sounds of this vibrant metropolis. In conclusion, cycling in London may have its risks, but with the right mindset and necessary precautions, cyclists can pedal through the city streets with confidence and enthusiasm.
- Exploring the Origins: Clarion Cycling Clubs and the Cycle Touring Club.
Cycling has been a popular activity for decades, with various clubs and organizations dedicated to promoting the sport and fostering a sense of community among cyclists. In this blog post, we delve into the origins and histories of two prominent cycling clubs – the Clarion Cycling Clubs and the Cycle Touring Club. By comparing their backgrounds, we aim to highlight the unique features and contributions of each club to the cycling world. The Clarion Cycling Clubs The Clarion Cycling Clubs trace their roots back to the late 19th century when the Clarion movement first emerged in England. Founded on socialist principles, the Clarion Clubs aimed to promote cycling as a means of social change and solidarity among working-class individuals. The clubs organized group rides, social events, and educational activities to empower cyclists and advocate for social reform. The Cycle Touring Club On the other hand, the Cycle Touring Club, now known as Cycling UK, has a rich history dating back to 1878. Originally founded as the Bicycle Touring Club, it aimed to promote cycling as a leisure activity and a mode of transport. The club focused on organizing tours, providing cycling resources, and advocating for improved cycling infrastructure. A Comparative Analysis As we compare the histories of the Clarion Cycling Clubs and the Cycle Touring Club, several key differences and similarities emerge. While both clubs were formed in the late 19th century and share a passion for cycling, their underlying philosophies and objectives set them apart. Philosophical Differences: The Clarion Cycling Clubs were deeply rooted in socialist ideals, using cycling as a tool for promoting social equality and solidarity.In contrast, the Cycle Touring Club (Cycling UK) focused more on the leisure and recreational aspects of cycling, emphasizing its benefits for health, wellness, and enjoyment. Organizational Focus: The Clarion Clubs organized rides and events with a strong emphasis on social and political engagement, aiming to unite working-class cyclists and advocate for change.Cycling UK (formerly the Cycle Touring Club) primarily focused on promoting cycling as a recreational activity, offering resources for touring, campaigning for cyclists' rights, and facilitating cycling holidays. Impact and Legacy: The Clarion Cycling Clubs left a lasting legacy in the history of cycling by fostering a sense of community and activism among cyclists, paving the way for advocacy groups focused on social change. Cycling UK, with its emphasis on touring and leisure cycling, played a significant role in popularizing cycling as a recreational pursuit and advocating for cyclists' rights and safety. In conclusion, both the Clarion Cycling Clubs and the Cycle Touring Club have played important roles in shaping the landscape of cycling culture and advocacy. While their paths diverged in terms of philosophy and focus, they share a common passion for cycling and a commitment to promoting the sport in their own unique ways. Cycling enthusiasts and historians alike can appreciate the diverse histories and contributions of these two iconic cycling clubs, each contributing in its own way to the vibrant tapestry of cycling culture. In this comparative analysis, we hope to shed light on the rich heritage and evolution of cycling clubs, showcasing the enduring impact of organizations like the Clarion Cycling Clubs and the Cycle Touring Club on the world of cycling. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a newcomer to the world of biking, the histories of these clubs offer fascinating insights into the past, present, and future of cycling as a beloved sport and mode of transportation. Let's pedal on, honoring the legacies of these pioneering clubs and embracing the spirit of camaraderie and adventure that cycling embodies.
- Uncovering the Hidden Links: The Suffragette Movement and the Clarion Cycling Club.
The suffragette movement, a monumental chapter in British history, is often associated with courageous women advocating for their right to vote. What many might not know is the intriguing connection between this movement and the Clarion Cycling Club. Let's delve into this fascinating historical link that sheds light on the intersection of activism and recreation in the early 20th century. The Suffragettes' Fight for Equality The suffragette movement in London gained momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, spearheaded by bold women who demanded their place in the political landscape. Through protests, rallies, and acts of civil disobedience, these suffragettes challenged societal norms and sparked crucial conversations about gender equality and women's rights. The Clarion Cycling Club: A Hub of Progressive Ideals Amidst the fervor of the suffragette movement, the Clarion Cycling Club emerged as a community of like-minded individuals who shared a passion for cycling and progressive social change. Founded on principles of equality, social justice, and camaraderie, the club provided a platform for individuals to connect, engage in healthy activities, and champion causes close to their hearts. Clarion Cycling Clubs were open to both men and women, which was revolutionary at a time when women were often restricted from participating in such activities. A Surprising Connection One prominant suffragette who was a member of the Clarion Cycling Clubs was Sylvia Pankhurst. The Pankhurst family joined the Clarion Cycling Club in 1896. The Clarion Cycling Club was an important part of the Pankhurst family life. The girls grew up reading the Clarion newspaper, and met key figures in the socialist movement, such as Blatchford in their family home. Beyond their political work, suffragettes also cycled for pleasure and transport. Pedaling Towards Change As suffragettes pedaled through the bustling streets of London on their bicycles, they not only embraced the liberating feeling of movement but also carried with them the spirit of resilience and determination. The act of cycling symbolized empowerment, breaking free from conventional norms, and propelling towards a future of equality and justice. Remembering Their Legacy The intertwined history of the suffragette movement and the Clarion Cycling Club reminds us of the power of collective action and the importance of fostering inclusive spaces for advocacy and recreation. As we reflect on the brave individuals who fought tirelessly for equality, let us honor their legacy by continuing to champion progress and social change in our communities. In conclusion, the story of the suffragette movement and its unexpected connection to the Clarion Cycling Club serves as a poignant reminder of the diverse ways in which individuals can come together to drive meaningful change. As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, may we draw inspiration from the past and strive towards a future where activism, recreation, and unity coexist harmoniously. So, let's continue to pedal forward, honoring the courageous women who paved the way towards progress, one revolution at a time.
- Top 10 Cycling Routes in London for Scenic Views and Adventure
When it comes to cycling in London, there are countless routes to explore that offer scenic views and thrilling adventures for cyclists of all levels. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride through peaceful parks or an adrenaline-pumping journey through bustling city streets, London has something for everyone. To help you plan your next cycling adventure, we've rounded up the top 10 cycling routes in London that are sure to impress. 1. Thames Path: Follow the iconic River Thames on this scenic route that takes you past famous landmarks such as the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and Greenwich. Enjoy stunning views of the river and soak in the rich history of London as you cycle along this picturesque path. 2. Regent's Park Loop: Explore the beautiful Regent's Park on this 6-kilometer loop that offers a mix of tranquil green spaces and vibrant city life. Admire the stunning flower beds, charming fountains, and friendly wildlife as you pedal through this beloved park. 3. Richmond Park: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature at Richmond Park. This expansive park offers a variety of cycling trails that wind through lush woodlands, rolling meadows, and serene ponds, providing a peaceful retreat from urban life. 4. Lee Valley Regional Park: Discover the beauty of the Lee Valley on this scenic cycling route that takes you through picturesque countryside, charming villages, and tranquil waterways. Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the peaceful surroundings as you explore this hidden gem. 5. Canal Towpaths: Cycle along London's historic canal towpaths for a unique perspective of the city's waterways. Marvel at the charming houseboats, colorful narrowboats, and scenic bridges as you pedal along these peaceful paths that offer a break from the city's hustle and bustle. 6. Epping Forest: Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Epping Forest on this cycling route that winds through ancient woodlands, rolling hills, and tranquil ponds. Enjoy the fresh air, peaceful surroundings, and abundant wildlife as you explore this natural oasis. 7. Box Hill: Challenge yourself with a ride up Box Hill, a popular cycling destination that offers stunning views of the Surrey Hills and beyond. Test your endurance as you tackle the steep climbs and thrilling descents of this iconic hill, known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking vistas. 8. Wandle Trail: Follow the meandering River Wandle on this relaxing cycling route that takes you through charming villages, scenic parks, and historic landmarks. Enjoy the tranquil waters, lush greenery, and peaceful atmosphere of this hidden gem in South London. 9. Olympic Park Loop: Experience the legacy of the 2012 Olympics on this cycling route that takes you through the iconic Olympic Park in East London. Marvel at the striking architecture, lush parklands, and vibrant atmosphere of this world-class sporting venue as you pedal around its scenic loop. 10. The London Loop: Embark on a cycling adventure around the entire London Loop, a 240-kilometer trail that encircles the city and offers a diverse range of landscapes and attractions. From bustling urban streets to peaceful countryside paths, this epic route showcases the best of London's natural and cultural heritage. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist looking for a challenge or a casual rider seeking a leisurely ride, these top 10 cycling routes in London are sure to delight and inspire. So grab your bike, pack your essentials, and hit the road to discover the scenic views and thrilling adventures that await you in this vibrant city. You'll see many of the above rides feature as London Clarion Cycle Club rides over the next few months. Happy cycling!
- Clarion Houses and the Last Clarion House near Pendle in Lancashire.
Clarion Houses, also known as Clarion Clubhouses, originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of the Clarion movement. The Clarion Houses served as social centres and rest stops for cyclists, walkers, and other outdoor enthusiasts, promoting fellowship and socialist ideals. They provided affordable refreshments, literature, and a space for relaxation and camaraderie in rural settings. The ethos was to encourage healthy recreation and political discussion. Â Clarion Houses typically featured simple, rustic structures located in scenic countryside areas, reflecting the movement's emphasis on nature and outdoor activities. These houses often included tea rooms, reading rooms, and spaces for meetings and social gatherings. Activities at Clarion Houses ranged from cycling and hiking to lectures and discussions on socialism and social justice. There were Clarion House spread across the country including in Handforth, Liverpool, Yorkshire and a London Clarion House in what is now in Nazeing, Essex. Â Â Â The last surviving Clarion House, located near Pendle in Lancashire. Situated in the picturesque area of Newchurch-in-Pendle, this Clarion House has been in continuous operation since 1912. It remains a symbol of the movement's historical impact and serves as a living museum to the ideals and lifestyle promoted by the Clarion movement. Â The Pendle Clarion House, also known as the Nelson ILP (Independent Labour Party) Clarion House, is nestled in the heart of the Pendle countryside, offering stunning views and a tranquil environment. It continues to function as a rest stop for walkers and cyclists, much like it did over a century ago. Visitors can enjoy a pint mug of tea, browse through historical displays, and soak in the rich heritage of the Clarion movement. Â The building itself is a modest, single-story structure with a simple interior that reflects its historical roots. Inside, memorabilia and photographs adorn the walls, showcasing the history of the Clarion movement and the pivotal role played by these houses in promoting socialist values and community spirit. Â Efforts to preserve the last Clarion House are driven by dedicated volunteers and local enthusiasts who recognize its historical and cultural significance. The house is maintained by the Nelson ILP Land Society, which ensures that it remains a vibrant part of the local community and a destination for those interested in the history of socialism in Britain. Â In recent years, the Pendle Clarion House has gained recognition not only as a historical landmark but also as a cultural treasure, representing a bygone era of social activism and communal living. It continues to attract visitors from across the country and beyond, offering a unique glimpse into the past and an opportunity to connect with the enduring values of the Clarion movement. Â The Clarion Houses played a crucial role in the social and political landscape of early 20th-century Britain, fostering a sense of community and promoting socialist ideals. The last Clarion House near Pendle stands as a proud reminder of this heritage, preserving the spirit of the movement and providing a historical sanctuary for visitors. Through the efforts of dedicated volunteers and the local community, this historic site continues to inspire and educate, ensuring that the legacy of the Clarion movement lives on. Â Clarion Sunday the biggest gathering of Clarion Cyclists and Choirs is taking place on 22nd September this year. Â Here is a photograph of a recently discovered handbook from the Yorkshire Clarion House dating back to c1910.
- Theatre Production: New Clarion Play
Townsend Theatre Productions which the Observer newspaper describes as "A Company making a name for delivering, vivid politically committed theatre" is well known particularly on the left for touring and hyper-local work of the highest quality that resonates directly with specific communities and is of appeal to new audiences and participants in areas and communities where engagement in art and cultural activity is limited by geographical and economic constraints. Townsend Theatre productions is well known for their show of the classic book The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists adapted by Neil Gore from the book by Robert Tressell. Neil Gore presents a one-person version of the classic novel by Robert Tressell featuring projection, political conjuring tricks, live music and song. Recent productions have also included Yes! Yes! U.C.S.! the story of the Upper Clyde Shipbuilders (UCS), the play is a celebration of the community solidarity, collective resistance and the vital support that made the ‘Work In’ such a massive success. The Scotsman newspaper describes as "Superbly played and sung .... compassionate commemoration". In 2024 Townsend productions hope to be touring with their brand-new production Behold Ye Ramblers’ is the exciting, interactive musical drama about The Clarion Ramblers, and Clarion Cyclists and their fight to make the world a better place for all. You can support them with their crowdfunding campaign.
- Friday Night Ride to Brighton with London Clarion Cycle Club
On Friday 14th July 2023 at 11.00pm, 12 riders met at London’s Trafalgar Square to cycle to Brighton overnight. After one member’s puncture had been repaired, the ride started off at 11.25pm and followed a route along the Embankment, crossing Blackfriars Bridge, down Lambeth Road and St George’s Road, through Elephant and Castle, along the Walworth Road, up Denmark Hill and Champion Hills, along College Road through Dulwich and the A212 through Crystal Palace and along Grange Road, High Street and Gillett Road, where we had to cross a railway footbridge. After a further series of backroads, we eventually found ourselves on the London and Brighton Roads (A235) where a second puncture occurred which was caused by a lot of broken glass in the cycle lane. With that fixed, the majority of the group met up at the top of Farthing Downs, though 2 had already gone on ahead to Brighton. In and around Bletchingley we encountered flooding whilst we also changed route a couple of times to avoid dirt tracks. Eventually we decided to change our route altogether and stick to B and A roads because of the lack of traffic. Passing through Three Bridges, we dropped 1 member off at the station and continued to Pease Pottage Services, arriving at c. 5.00am where another puncture was repaired during a quite lengthy stop. Returning to the B124, another 1 peeled off to Haywards Heath, with the remaining 8 dividing at the bottom of Clayton Hill with 5 turning off along Underhill Road to climb the Beacon. After 2 peeled off in Brighton to take the train back, the remaining 6 regrouped to finish the ride together at the Palace Pier and then went for Breakfast at Seven Dials before taking their own trains home. Despite it being July, the weather wasn’t ideal; hot and humid with strong winds and some rain thrown in for good measure. However, it was excellent fun and although night time cycling had its own challenges, it was great to be able to enjoy country roads with so little traffic. We will be looking at organising more Friday overnight rides in the future.
- Exploring London's Magnificent Seven Cemeteries by Bike!
One impact of London’s rapidly expanding population in the early 1800s was that churchyards ran out of space to bury the dead. To alleviate the problem, seven private cemeteries were built outside of central London, which are now referred to as the Magnificent Seven. Twelve members of London Clarion Cycling Club met on a cool, bright late-August Sunday to visit them. Our starting point was a cafe in Bermondsey. It seemed appropriate, as not only had it originally been built as a watch house to protect the adjacent churchyard from body snatchers, but it also serves excellent coffee and pastries. From here we took a 45 mile clockwise loop around London. Although the cemeteries were all built between 1833 and 1841, they are each unique and this is very much felt in person. They have different sizes and topographies, and have varied histories. The ride was bookended by the overgrown wilds of Nunhead and Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, and we stopped by tranquil West Norwood, tidy Brompton, expansive Kensal Green, touristy gothic Highgate, and locals’ favourite, Abney Park. At each cemetery we chose one or two graves to visit, to discover some of the lives associated with them. We learned about John Wade ‘good samaritan of Deptford’, Henry Tate, Isabella Beeton, Chief Long Wolf, William and Catherine Booth, Frank Bostock, Will Crooks, and Harry Orwell. In addition to visiting the cemeteries, we also stopped by other sites of interest along the route. This included the Brixton Windmill, the Hyde Park Pet Cemetery, a historic pub which had been recently been rebuilt ‘brick-by-brick’ after developers demolished it without permission, and the Whitechapel Bell Foundry, which until its closure in 2017 had been in business for 450 years and had cast Big Ben and the Liberty Bell. We are privileged in London to have so much history at our doorstep and in London Clarion we make the most of this by having some rides in our calendar each year which focus on this aspect. I really enjoyed the good fellowship on this ride, and as we compared notes afterwards in the Anchor Tap, I thought to myself, ‘it’s good to be alive’.
- November 2023 Clarion Newsletter [National Clarion Cycling Club 1895]
The November 2023 ediiton of the Clarion the newsletter of the National Clarion Cycling Club 1895 is now available to read online for free. Read about Clarion Sunday 2023, Oldham Clarion Cycling club, Cyclists Memorial Services, The Magnificent Seven Cemetries Ride, Know your gears, Bedford Autumn meet and more.












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