Quick: 25k, 1hr 15mins

This is a short gravel ride, that is ridable 100% every day of the year. Many small variations are possible, and the route is good in reverse. It includes some climbing and downhill, riding clockwise makes for slightly gentler climbs and faster rolling.

The route: After taking advantage of the twisty descent through rectory wood follow Sustrans 51 to the forest centre. Leave the park at Millbrook station and use the permissive path along the railway. At the road go left, over the crossing and then right on the tarmac path to Lidlington. Beyond Sheeptick End resist all the muddy fields until just before the main road a bridle path cuts towards an electricity substation.

Fork right off the gravel double track and climb the old railway incline until a bridge, which you cross after a steep bit on the left bank.

A muddy trail comes out on the main road which you cross to the dead end opposite left a bit. Just over the motorway a gate, and then another leads to the winding, rolling (and fast) double track through Hulcote wood.

Before the second gate head right down hill for another quick buzz, lift over the kissing gate and follow 51 back to the bottom of the thrift. From here it’s just quick leg burner back to the start.