No longer a Swinley Forest virgin.
Destination: Martins Heron
Train: Train from Clapham Junction - Martins Heron (Reading train).
Food consumed on the train: 2 x croissants, 2 x coffees.
Riders: ‘Woody’ aka Al & Big Smurf.
Bikes: Ironhorse Elite MK III & La Pierre (Little Pete).
Distance: Unknown
Terrain: Short steep climbs, single track and purpose built trails dotted around forest.
Conditions were wet and muddy. The Expert Mountain Bike Area routes are not marked so look out for those cheeky trails and enjoy.
Weather: Cloudy, dry.
Description:
Well, the day started off badly. One guy down with a severe case of man flu and one with a flat tyre that he couldn't mend, so it was left to the core duo to save the day, turn up and put in some good riding. I should have remembered my money, but in the usual rush to get over to Clapham Junction in time for the train i somehow forgot it. Think i was too focused on my porridge and a couple of crumpets. Train journey un-eventful; two croissants and some coffee and before we knew it we were at Martins Heron. Takes about 15mins to cycle from station to the centre and you might find yourself crossing over some weird 70s style bridge.
You need to buy a permit when you get there, which will cost you £2 for the day. Woody was leader and lead me on a wild goose chase searching for a tree - a fir tree OR to be specific a fir tree (yes, they all look the same). This tree was going to lead us to the start of our ride and after some frantic searching, losing the map and heading back to the car park we eventually found the tree.
Once we had found this nearly elusive tree, Woody led the way and we were able to enjoy the Labyrinth, the Corkscrew and lots of the other muddy trails scattered about the forest. Some nice single track running down through the forest. The hills leading up to some of the routes are short but steep, in fact as we approached from one side the hill actually looked vertical.
Map:
Food: The Lookout Discovery Centre
Hot meals can be ordered up until 4.30pm. There is seating inside and outside the coffee shop. Packed with families, walkers and if you don't mind babies and small children then you will be fine. We chose a baked potato and beans instead, oh yes, and of course the obligatory cake:)))))).
Top Tips:
Check your bike the night before - rather than wake up and find you have a flat you can't mend.
Don't let your boyfriend (Woody) try to stop you coming out for a great days riding, just because he is tucked up in bed.
Don't forget your money.
Don't let go of your handlebars when getting air - unless your an extreme cyclist - the landing can hurt
Try to stay on your bike.
Don't drop your map.
Injuries: Dented ego after flying head over the bars. The bike landed upside down (see picture).
Mechanicals: None
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