A glorious ride through sunny North Somerset lanes was the setting for the Taunton Group’s July Ride. 9 tandems and 3 solos set off from the wonderful Strawberry Line community cafe (where there are paid jobs for adults with learning disabilities) at Yatton Railway Station for a 28 mile amble along the lanes of North Somerset just west of Bristol.

We started along Cycle Route 26 along Kenn Moor with views towards Tickenham Hill.

Passing the outskirts of Clevedon, we joined part of the Avon Valley cycleway along the peaceful shady Norton’s Wood Lane, we then turned towards Walton-in-Gordano and made our way up the coast road climb to reach Portishead with beautiful views towards Wales.

After a speedy downhill we enjoyed a coffee break at the Portishead Open Air Pool cafe (community organisation) and enjoyed views of the sailing racing in the Bristol Channel.

We then made our way through Portishead via Sheepway and Portbury to climb Portbury Hill via the quiet Failand Lane. 

We had a spectacular descent down Belmont Hill (Wraxhall) then joined the Festival Way cycle path. We then approached Nailsea via quiet lanes and cycle ways to arrive at our lunch spot, The Moorend Spout.

Suitably refreshed we sped along the lanes back to Yatton. 28 miles well cycled.

As you can see from the photo, one tandem on the ground was a bit of a theme for the day (two tandems down at snail pace on sharp bends). Despite this, no injuries were sustained and we all happily made our way home in anticipation of the England football Euros 2024 game.

Duncan & Nicki with Karl & Lisa