Very popular with the cycle clubs, the ring road is rarely without a road cyclist. Cyclists ranging from the Sunday stoller variety through to the Tour de France wannabies frequent this Royal Park.
The roads are nicely sealed and, dependent on time and/or day, rather void of cars. There are several herds of deer (all protected by the crown) who will run freely through-out the park. Hill-wise, there are a few small descents/ascents but nothing too strenuous and the park is beautiful.
We prefer counter-clockwise as this seems to be a little more challenging. It does mean that you don't have to stop at the roundabouts in each corner or stop fro the cars lining up to enter the various car parks positioned on the outside of the ring road. Most cyclists will complete 2-4 laps.
 There is a 20mph speed limit, which the Police enforce. They are targetting speeding cyclists with warnings, fines and potential court orders for dangerous/reckless cycling! Personally, I think it a real shame they aren't so stringent about car drivers racing through the park or stopping in the middle of the road to look at the deer (do they this it's a safari park or something?).
This is a well known and used cycle ride, where cyclists nod at each other and many will cruise alongside for a chat! The park also closes it's gates to cars in the Winter around 4pm making it ideal for a late ride as there are no cars around - remember your lights though and beware the free-running stags and deer. |
The Club
