The ‘Sevenoaks’ Annual Trip for Spring 2024

Crofton Beam Engines had a visit recently from the Meridian Cycling Club (www.meridiancyclingclub.co.uk). Based in Kent they decided to take themselves on a Spring adventure. This year it was to be across the country from Kent, to roughly an area around the Kennet and Avon canal.

The route was based on Sustrans route 4 adjusted so that we could stay in Premier Inn hotels at Winnersh, Newbury, Marlborough and Trowbridge. Premier Inns are used as they are cycle friendly (you can store the bike in your room).

Each day we nominate a leader whose job it is to find stops for refreshments and locate ‘places of interest’. Unfortunately the station was closed on the day we were passing through Crofton, however a polite email request to the site manager prompted an equally polite and constructive response; for a small donation we were provided with a detailed tour topped off with tea and biscuits.

David, the tour guide, was both enthusiastic and knowledgeable; prompted by numerous questions the 1 hr tour became somewhat extended! The tour was the highlight of the day and to many the whole week.

The last overnight stay was at Trowbridge before continuing to Bath/Bristol to get the return train to Paddington. Twenty four members of the club are now looking forward to their trip to The Hague – a region well versed in the skills of pumping water.