A Serendipitous Cycle Ride

Aug 13, 2024

When the M25 was announced to be closed for the entire weekend, my initial plan to drive from Horsham to Staines-upon-Thames for a weekend getaway seemed doomed. Determined not to let the closure ruin my plans, I decided to turn this into an opportunity for an adventure on my Kinesis ATR. Thus began a delightful journey that would take me through the picturesque Downs Link, historic towns, and scenic routes, showcasing the beauty and history of the Surrey countryside.

Words by Matt Ryley

Caven O'Hara

Older Post

Newer Post

Setting Off: Horsham to Guildford

The adventure kicked off Saturday morning as I pedalled away from Horsham. My route began along the Downs Link, a former railway line converted into a cycling and walking path, leading me towards Guildford. The peacefulness of the countryside, the chirping of birds, and the occasional rustle of leaves provided a serene backdrop, making the ride both invigorating and relaxing.

Through Guildford and Beyond

Upon reaching Guildford, I transitioned from the tranquillity of the Downs Link to the bustling canal path that runs through the town. The waterside route offered picturesque views of narrow boats and historic buildings. Guildford, which has a rich history and charming architecture, was a visual treat, but I didn't linger as the journey had just begun.

Leaving Guildford, I headed cross-country to Jacobs Well and onwards to Woking. This segment of the journey was particularly inspiring, as Woking is famously associated with H.G. Wells, the author of "War of the Worlds." The thought of cycling through the very landscapes that inspired such a seminal work of science fiction added an extra layer of excitement to my ride.

Cricket in Woking and a Golden Encounter

As I pedalled through Woking, I couldn't resist stopping to watch a local cricket match. There's something quintessentially British about cricket on a summer's day, and it provided a pleasant interlude. Adding a touch of modern flair to the traditional scene was a bling gold-wrapped Range Rover parked nearby—a curious juxtaposition of the old and new.

McLaren and the M25 Diversions

I headed north out of Woking towards McLaren Park, home of the world-renowned McLaren sports cars. The sleek lines and engineering prowess of McLaren vehicles never fail to impress. Nearby, the airfield added to the sense of speed and adventure.

The next leg of the journey took me through the busiest part of my ride—navigating the M25 diversions. As traffic snarled and tempers frayed in the sweltering heat, I breezed past jam after jam, feeling a mixture of sympathy and satisfaction. My two wheels were proving far superior to four in these conditions.

Final Stretch: Ottershaw to Staines-upon-Thames

After zooming through Ottershaw and skirting the edge of Chertsey, I reached the Thames Path. This scenic riverside route provided a refreshing change, with the gentle flow of the river accompanying me all the way to my destination, Staines-upon-Thames.

Staines, renamed Staines-upon-Thames in 2012, is a town with a fascinating history. A particularly interesting fact is that linoleum (lino) was pioneered here and produced in a massive 45-acre factory until the mid-1960s. This industrial heritage contrasts with the town's present-day charm and riverside beauty.

The Return Journey

The best part of this impromptu cycling adventure was yet to come—the return journey. After a delightful weekend away, I retraced my route back to Horsham. The weather was beautiful, making the ride back as enjoyable as the ride out. The familiarity of the route allowed me to appreciate even more the stunning landscapes and charming towns I had discovered on my way to Staines.

The Return Journey

The Conclusion

What started as a potential travel headache turned into a memorable cycling adventure, filled with historical landmarks, beautiful scenery, and unexpected delights. The journey from Horsham to Staines-upon-Thames (and back) was a perfect reminder of the joys of cycling and the endless possibilities that lie just beyond the beaten path. If the M25 closure taught me anything, it’s that sometimes the best adventures are the ones you don’t plan for.

Check out Matt's ride Serendipitous Cycle Ride | Gravel Ride | Komoot

For more pictures from Matt's ride view the galleries below.

.home-carousel--image--loading::before { display: none; } .home-carousel--image--loading div { position: relative; } .home-carousel--image--loading div:not(:first-of-type) { display: block; }

.home-carousel--image--loading::before { display: none; } .home-carousel--image--loading div { position: relative; } .home-carousel--image--loading div:not(:first-of-type) { display: block; }