 | 2017 Easter Rally and AGM13th. - 17th. April 2017Bishops Green Farm |  |
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The 2017 Easter Rally took place at Bishops Green Farm caravan site, on the Hampshire / Berkshire border, south east of Newbury. Bishops Green lies just south of Greenham Common, which was a cold war U.S. air force base, but has now (largely) been returned to use as a common, and open to the public for outdoor activities. The area is surrounded by lovely countryside and beautiful villages with typical Hampshire architecture. There is a network of delightful small roads linking the many villages and small towns. You will never be far away from a café or pub. The campsite is 4 miles from Highclere Castle, where Downton Abbey was set.
The campsite is a sheltered and secluded meadowland park offering very clean and well maintained facilities, including a new toilet block with a disabled / family room. There are woodland and riverside walks to be enjoyed around the farm, along with a well-stocked fishing lake. There is a small community shop 5 minutes walk from the campsite. The Royal Oak pub located 1.5 miles to the south in Ecchinswell, has a good reputation.
Local Youth Hostel
The nearest Youth Hostel is in Streatley-on-Thames but is 19 miles from the campsite.
B&B Accommodation
The Visit Newbury website has details of local hotels, guest houses and B&Bs.
Rides and Route Sheets
A choice of three rides of different lengths was offered each day, all heading in the same general direction. Participants were free to interpret the routes as they wish, riding on their own and seeing who they meet up with or forming a small ad hoc group.
Rides visited the beautiful villages and small towns in North Hampshire, West Berkshire and Wiltshire.
If you missed the rally and would like to use the ride information and route sheets you can find them here: Routes page
Mountain Biking and Walking
There are many good mountain bike routes in the area. There are also many excellent countryside walks. Ask the events coordinator for details.
What to do if you want to take a break from cycling?
There are many places to visit should the weather turn inclement including Highclere Castle and Gardens, Sandham Memorial Chapel, Whitchurch Silk Mill, and Milestones museum in Basingstoke.
Map showing location of Bishops Green Farm