The Great Lime Bicycle Blockade

The Tower of London, a majestic fortress steeped in history, where tales of kings, queens, and the occasional beheading echo through the ages. (It is little bit like one of those awful theme parks now). But lo and behold, what greets the unsuspecting visitor? A veritable army of Lime hire bicycles parked haphazardly and blocking the pavement like the carnage from a recent battle.

You are strolling along, perhaps contemplating the Crown Jewels or the infamous ravens, when suddenly you’re confronted by a wall of bright green bicycles. It is as if a flock of London pigeons has decided to roost right in the middle of the thoroughfare. Some pedestrians tried to sidestep, bob and weave, but alas, the bicycles were relentless. They stood there, resolute, like a stubborn herd of zombies (not that dissimilar to those that use them), oblivious to the fact that they were causing a minor traffic jam for those on foot. I am all for sustainable transport and the joys of cycling, but when these Lime bicycles start blocking the pavement, they transform from eco-friendly marvels into a nuisance. 

The other day, I found myself in the midst of this bicycle blockade when walking past. There I was, minding my own business, when I realised that a poor soul was struggling to get past. Ever trying to be the gentleman, I stepped in to help as best I could. This was after I politely suggested they walk around them. The person concerned was not having any of this and continued with their circumnavigation. 

With a bit of teamwork, we managed to shift a few of the offending bicycles aside. My goodness, Lime bikes are heavy! As we cleared a path, I could not help but chuckle at the absurdity of it all. Here we were, in the shadow of a thousand years of history, grappling with a modern-day conundrum. The horrid irony of it all, was that when the poor person I attempted to help continued their - stubborn - walk, they were nearly hit by a Lime bike user who mounted the pavement to park and abandon their bike in the exact spot where the others has been parked!

So, the next time you are out and about, keep an eye out for those cheeky Lime bicycles. They may just be the unexpected obstacle in your quest for historical enlightenment! 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!

On my Brompton G-Line Through Richmond Park After Dark

Picture a crisp, clear night in Richmond Park, the moon hanging high like a giant disco ball illuminating the path ahead and me, armed with my trusty Brompton G Line, ready to traverse the vast expanse ahead. What could possibly go wrong?

The last time I cycled through Richmond Park at night was either when trying to clock up some miles for the Rapha Festive 500 I did a few years back or when making the return from Box Hill. On this occasion, I had been visiting some friends towards the south of Richmond Park, and all I had to do was get across to Barnes, where there would be sanctuary and almost certainly a pot of tea waiting for me. I had the bright idea that I could just cycle through Richmond Park. It would be quiet, an adventure and surely the most efficient route.  I didn’t have my Wahoo to navigate, but I did have my phone and could use one of the map apps.

I little known fact, if you can find a pedestrian gate to Richmond Park it is usually open after dark - unless they are carrying out the deer culls - which means you can enter with your bicycle. Mine was in the form of a G-Line. As I set off, the chill in the air was enough to freeze the thoughts in my head. I pedalled along the deserted paths, feeling like one of my favourite explorers Sir Wilfred Thesiger in a vast, uncharted wilderness. The only sounds were the gentle rustle of leaves and the occasional clatter of my teeth chattering in the cold.

With no one about, I felt like the king of the park. I could cycle wherever I pleased! Of course, I did nothing of the sort. I tried to follow the directions were screamed out by my phone, which seemed louder than it had ever been. I turned it down, not wanting to draw attention to my presence just in case some crazy types, youths, drug dealers or worse still, influencers were lurking in the park as well.

As I continued my moonlit adventure, I began to question my life choices. The cold seeped through my layers - lots of tweed and lambswool - and I could practically hear my fingers begging for mercy. “Never again,” I muttered, squinting into the darkness, trying to spot the elusive deer that Richmond Park is famous for. All I could see were shadows, and I started to wonder if they were actually just figments of my imagination or perhaps the ghosts of cyclists past, warning me to turn back.

At one point, I was pretty sure that a wild dog ran across the road ahead. What was it doing there? Was it wild? Was its owner after it? I half expected to hear “Fenton!” being screamed, but thankfully, nothing.

Eventually, I made it back to another entrance/exit, shivering and slightly regretting my decision to embrace the night and take a short cut (which believe me was not)! The Brompton and I had survived, but I vowed, never again. Richmond Park after dark? A splendid idea in theory, but in practice, I’d rather stick to my warm living room and a pot of tea and just cycle on the road!

Until next time, stay safe out there people and do not cycle in Richmond Park or any park after dark!

My Orange Brompton Plans for 2026

Happy New Year! As I look ahead to 2026, I find myself filled with excitement and anticipation for the adventures that await me on my trusty Orange Brompton bicycles. Cycling has been a source of exercise and relaxation for more years than I care to mention, and I believe that the streets of London offer endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. This year, I am determined to make the most of my rides, not only by visiting interesting locations but also by delving further into the rich history that our capital has to offer.

One of my primary goals for 2026 is to embark on more rides throughout London, focusing on areas that I have yet to fully explore. The city is a treasure trove of hidden gems, from quaint neighbourhoods to iconic landmarks. I plan to map out routes that take me through lesser-known parts of the city, allowing me to experience the unique character of each area. 

In addition to exploring new locations, I want to dedicate more time to riding solo. There’s something incredibly liberating about cycling at your own pace, without the constraints of a group. It allows for spontaneous detours and the freedom to stop and appreciate the scenery (and knowing me take lots of photos)! Whether it’s a leisurely ride along the Thames or a quiet spin through parks and green stuff, I look forward to those moments of solitude where I can reflect and recharge. Riding alone also gives me the chance to truly immerse myself in the beauty of London. (There is a commonly theme here as you have perhaps guessed).

Another aspect of my plans for 2026 (that isn’t a surprise I would suspect) is to incorporate nocturnal rides into my cycling calendar. There’s a certain magic to exiting London at night, with its twinkling lights and quieter streets. I envision myself gliding through the city under the stars, taking in the sights and sounds that change dramatically after sunset once you have left the urban behind. I also plan to go on as many group night rides to the coast as I can and also embark on some with just a select few. I already have my old friend Tom - who joined me for an impromptu ride to see the Christmas lights after they had been turned off - pressing me for diary dates for 2026. 

As I embark on these adventures, I intend to carry a small notebook with me to jot down interesting facts and stories I come across during my rides (basically an excuse to carry one or more of my fountain pens with me). This way, I can remember the good parts of a ride in an analog manner - much more civilised that just using a phone. 

To make the most of my cycling experiences, I plan to join some London based cycling group on a few of their rides where I will be able to attend as and when it appeals or time permits  

I invite you to join me in celebrating the joys of cycling on a Brompton and the wonders of London and beyond. Here’s to a year filled with adventure and discovery!

Until next time, stay safe out there people and a Happy New Year!