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Come and ride with us!
CTC Cambridge welcomes new riders of all ages and abilities, who are looking for social, non-competitive cycling in the local countryside. Whether you are new to cycling, returning to it after a break or already a regular cyclist, we have a range of rides to suit different levels of experience and fitness. CTC Cambridge is a local group of Cycling UK, the national cycling charity.
Our Saturday morning social rides are a good starting point, usually covering about 40-50 km25-30 miles at a leisurely pace. Our Thursday rides are longer (approx. 95-115 km60-70 miles) and a little faster, and there are also Sunday rides at a similar pace to Thursdays but usually a little shorter (approx. 80-95 km50-60 miles).
We are a friendly club and every ride includes a café and/or lunch stop, giving an opportunity to get to know people while refuelling.
See our rides list to see what's on. Some of our rides require booking but most do not.
Most of our rides start from Brookside, just south of Cambridge City Centre. We also have rides that start from Great Shelford and from Haslingfield, just south of Cambridge. Occasionally our rides start from other places: check our rides list for details.
If you're not a member of Cycling UK you can try out up to three rides for free before joining the club.
We will ask you for your contact details (phone number/email address) either on the booking form (when booking is required), or at the start of the ride.
Why do we ask?
Providing your phone number will enable the leader to contact you with last minute changes and during the ride itself.
Providing your email address will allow the membership secretary to contact you after three rides to invite you to join.
Cycling with CTC Cambridge is an enjoyable way of keeping fit, making friends and exploring some of the country lanes, villages, cafes and pubs in the Cambridge area. Come and ride with us!
Any questions? See our FAQs, contact us, or ask the ride leader.
FAQs
What kind of bike do I need?
All types of bike in good working order are welcome, including e-bikes. We recommend mudguards to protect you and others. Make sure your tyres are pumped up.
What should I wear?
You can wear anything you feel comfortable in. While clothing designed specifically for cycling may be the most practical, it isn't essential. Layers are recommended and bring a rain jacket, in case the weather changes. Helmets are the choice of individual riders.
What should I bring?
You should bring some water, a phone, money or bank card for the café or lunch stop and for a taxi home in case of a complete breakdown, and tools to mend a puncture (puncture repair kit, spare tube, pump, and levers). If necessary, bring bike lights and/or sunscreen. Bring emergency contact details just in case and, if you are a Cycling UK member, bring your membership card. See the guidance for riders who are under the age of 18
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of the ride?
Rides usually go ahead even if it is wet, windy or cold, but occasionally it is necessary to cancel. Check the website before setting off, or contact the leader. If you have booked a place on a ride but decide not to go because of the weather, let the leader know.
What happens if I have a puncture or mechanical problem?
It is recommended that you bring tools to mend a puncture. Other members of the group will usually help fix it quickly but you should be able to do it yourself. While serious mechanical issues are rare, it may mean you have to take a train or taxi home.
What if I am slower than the rest of the group?
The leader will ensure you are not left behind and the group will wait for you at the next junction or top of a hill.
How much does it cost to join the club?
Check the Cycling UK website for latest pricing. Membership includes third-party insurance and legal advice, a bi-monthly magazine and a range of discounts at cycling and other retailers.
See our detailed riding guidelines for much more information about riding with us.
Our next rides
Please read our Guidance for riders. Booking is required for some rides.
Thursday 30th Nov: Midweek ride - southern (moderateThis ride is graded as "moderate". These rides go at a steady touring pace, averaging 19-22 kph). 12-14 mph). More, approx 55 miles/89 km) Meet at 9.30am at Haslingfield Green. Coffee is at Gamlingay, LJ's Sandwich Bar. Lunch is at St Ives, Nuts Bistro. Booking not required. Ride cancelled due to forecast for freezing fog. Leader: Sharon Jackson (07969 412967).
Saturday 2nd Dec: Saturday social booked ride (leisurelyThis ride is graded as "leisurely". These rides are suitable for anyone who can ride a bike and enjoys fairly gentle exercise. The pace usually averages 16-18 kph.10-11 mph. More, approx 25 miles/40 km) Meet at 10.00am at Brookside. Coffee is at Duxford, Cafe 19. Booking essential. Leader: Alan Ackroyd (07985 917115).
Sunday 3rd Dec: Sunday light day ride (moderateThis ride is graded as "moderate". These rides go at a steady touring pace, averaging 19-22 kph). 12-14 mph). More, approx 48 miles/77 km) Meet at 9.30am at Brookside. Coffee is at Godmanchester, Grand Piano Café. Booking not required. Leader: John Jackson (07739 923182).
Thursday 7th Dec: Midweek ride - city (moderateThis ride is graded as "moderate". These rides go at a steady touring pace, averaging 19-22 kph). 12-14 mph). More, approx 45 miles/72 km) Meet at 9.15am at Brookside. Coffee is at Gamlingay, LJ's Sandwich Bar. Booking not required. Leader: Rachel.
Thursday 7th Dec: Midweek ride - southern (moderateThis ride is graded as "moderate". These rides go at a steady touring pace, averaging 19-22 kph). 12-14 mph). More, approx 55 miles/89 km) Meet at 9.30am at Great Shelford, Square and Compasses. Coffee is at Saffron Walden, Goat and Grass. Lunch is at Thaxted, Parrishes Restaurant. Booking not required. Leader: Greg Tucker (07774 281591).
Latest ride reports
7 Oct: Ride to Cottenham ploughing match
Angela writes: Ken led the Saturday morning ride on another unusual
adventure. About 20 riders turned up at Brookside, lured by the
unseasonably warm weather and the promise of a coffee stop at the
Cottenham ploughing match... (full report)