London to Ashford Greenwich:
Ride Report

London to Greenwich (not Ashford) June 6th 2025

Originally planned as a ride out to Ashford, the route was amended to be a loop back to Greenwich - an inspired decision that helped us avoid the worst of the continuing rain (the forecast featured Met Office Thunderstorm Warnings across much of the South Of England!). 

Huge thanks to the five brave souls who joined me on this little micro-adventure. The atmosphere was pleasantly reminiscent of our lockdown-era rides: a “rule of 6” group, quiet roads, and good company.

We made a quick exit from London via the Q10 Quietway, and before we knew it we were atop Eltham - though none of us managed a wheelie which was requested by the drunken revellers outside a pub! Another few very gentle climbs passed under our wheels and soon we were heading into the Kent countryside beyond Swanley. After the unavoidable (long) climb over the north kent downs from Eynsford, we were treated to riding through the private, tree-lined avenue of the St Clere Estate - peaceful, atmospheric, and dare I suggest a little gothic under the brooding and drizzling night skies.

Before reaching the Award Winning Parkside Services, we enjoyed a fast blast down a deserted London Road - one of those rare, uninterrupted stretches where you can just fly along. A quiet thrill in the middle of the night, even in the rain. 

Six turned out to be the perfect number - just right for sharing out trays of sweet treats from Plaxtol Bakery, discovered at the award-winning Parkfoot Services.

Any post-cake smugness was short-lived, though, thanks to Birling Hill - a proper lung-buster of a climb that hit hard as the sugar rush wore off. But we were rewarded at the top with a stunning dawn chorus - birds in full voice as the sky began to lighten, making the effort feel well worth it.  Spirits were high, even as a few “visitations” slowed our otherwise steady pace.

Despite the early sunrise, skirting around the edge of Culverstone Green we had some testing descents in the dark of some ’tree tunnels’, and following these the most lung busting effort of the night in my opinion - only a short little kicker but the road was so greasy you struggled to get traction! 

We cut through Dartford and Erith and joined the Thames Path to ride all the way into Greenwich - just a few fisherman and early morning joggers out and about. 

Despite some “visitation” based delays along the way, we rolled into Greenwich just as the café was beginning to open - perfect timing for a well-earned breakfast and coffee. 

Appreciations to Peter Stratton for taking on tail-end Charlie duties, even if his services were only occasionally needed.

All in all, a damp but delightful night ride, filled with camaraderie, sugar, and just enough challenge to keep things interesting.