Whitstable overnight summer duo ride

It seems like ages since I went on this overnight ride to Whitstable but somehow I did not actually write a blog post on it. This happens I suppose when you are busy. Well, here it is. 

On the night of Friday, 16th August, Dr John and I decided to forgo the destination of Brighton in favour of Whitstable. I have always liked Whitstable and it made a change for us both to embark upon a duo ride there, so it was agreed. 

I cycled to our meeting point near the London Eye and reached there in good time. I decided to take my Brompton Electric with me, purely as I had been enjoying it greatly. 

Dr John arrived not long after I did and at just after midnight, we were off into the night. Night rides - especially to the coast - are always lots of fun and this one was no exception.  

Not far after we headed off we stopped briefly at the always lovely Roupell Street and the surrounding area. This street is a little like a time capsule and almost like stepping back into the 19th century. 

After a few photographs we headed further east towards Greenwich. We stuck to the more traditional route to Whitstable. I found the newer version inferia as it missed lots of Greenwich, the Thames and more. 

At Greenwich we stopped for a few more photographs - definitely a thing for pretty much everyone on a Brompton. (They are a design classic)!

 

Reaching the Thames, it did look rather lovely and again I made a mental note to self to go on the Woolwich Ferry at some point in the future. 

Woolwich and Woolwich Arsenal has changed beyond all recognition in many ways. The army have long since departed and the majority of buildings that remained standing have been converted into flats. 

Reaching the outskirts of Gravesend we had a rest at one of the large bus stops and of course took some photos of the metal man that stands behind the benches. After a snack we were soon back on the road. 

At Gravesend we reached the former pub, 'The Call Boy.' This part of the route was missed on the newer one and all the worse for it in my opinion. I think that it has now become - you guessed it - flats. Still nice to see though. At the other end of Harmer Street is the large clock tower. A little like Roupell Street, Harmer Street is a conservation area and the buildings are of great interest. 

Reaching Rochester Castle, we stopped to take a photograph. The 12th century stone tower is a prominent feature and can be seen from some distance. Again, like the Woolwich Ferry, I made a mental note to pay it a visit during daylight hours. 

We stopped at the usual group ride stop, the Church of the English Martyrs, but this time we had our own food that we brought with us. Suitably refreshed we headed off again towards Faversham. 

Cycling through the night is always a joy and doing so with a good friend for company does make things even better. The time flies and that transition from night to dawn is magical. 

By the time we reached Faversham and its distinctive church tower, the sun was well and truly up and it was going to be a lovely day. The distinctive oast houses started to appear and a a feature of this part of the country. 

At Graveney Marshes and the famous left turn the views were so appealing, I felt compelled to stop, take a few photos and enjoy them. I do not think I have ever done this. 

We reached Whitstable Station and got the train back to London. Keeping awake was difficult at times but we just about managed it. Once in London we headed for an establishment where a breakfast could be bought, and both of us eat this with enthusiasm.  After this we said our goodbyes and headed off for home. 

As I type this, I am suffering a little from withdrawal symptoms. This was the last night ride to the coast for the remainder of the summer and therefore this year. I also miss the company of Dr John. Hopefully, this will be put right if we can venture out for a cycle ride together. 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!