London to Southend

Ride leader: Greg

The London to Southend-on-Sea night ride is an ideal ride for those who have been thinking of doing a night ride but are daunted by the thought of riding through the night. At only 90km, just over 50 imperial miles, the ride to Southend, the Essex Riviera, is the shortest of our night rides and also one of the flattest, with less than 700 meters of elevation. The route misses everything that could be remotely classed as a hill and is a ride really suitable for less experienced riders.

We'll run through the tranquility of East London before arriving in the Essex countryside along gently rolling lanes towards our halfway stop at Doddingshurst, where the Scouts will put on a magnificent repast of sandwiches, cakes and drinks. Suitably refreshed, we'll set off into the dawn toward wonderful Southend, with its massive pier, amusement parks and even crazy golf. We'll aim to arrive in Southend by 8am for breakfast, maybe a beer or two and to sit in the warm sun content in our achievements and to plan future adventures.

You'll be supported on the ride by a team of very able Tail End Charlies (TEC’s) who on the whole can fix the most bizarre mechanicals, so nothing to worry about as we roll through the Essex lanes chatting among ourselves and watching the countryside wake up.

Important note: Our half way stop at the scout hall is manned by volunteers who will be getting out of their warm beds to make sure we are fed and watered. So that they are not out of pocket if people cancel at the last minute or don't show up for the ride at all, we are asking for a non-refundable pre-payment of £10. For this you will get unlimited hot drinks and a sandwich (a selection will be available) and perhaps a banana or something sweet.

Whichever option you use it is essential you include your name as it appears on your registration and the ride you are registering for (e.g. Jo Bloggs, Lon-Southend). Your registration for the ride will not be complete until payment has been received.