At WATBike there is no such thing as bad weather – we run guided rides across the North East and beyond all year round. This might mean wearing more layers, using brighter lights, fitting different tyres or sticking to the region’s network of sheltered tracks and waggonways, but we don’t let a bit of rain put us off!
We go out every Wednesday evening and Sunday day time, from a number of locations and travel various distances – anything from 15 miles to 50. We do all the planning and map reading, which gives people the chance to explore places that they may not feel confident to go by themselves, and our friendly guides are always on hand to help. We have a minibus and bike trailer for the longer rides.
Whether a sunny summer’s day or a dark winter’s night, cycling is very social when in a mixed group rolling at a sensible pace, with the chance to chat, enjoy scenery and allow the week’s woes to be exercised away.
We always include either a café or pub stop along the way which, as well as the chance to get to know people, also gives the opportunity to sample some great cakes – and after running guided rides for over three years, we do know some good spots!
And there is an added bonus to the work that we do: all money raised from the rides goes towards funding WATBus – a charity providing community transport to adult and children’s groups in the North East.
A monthly schedule of rides is available here , or contact Colin Hall for further details on 01670 522999, email colin.watbus@yahoo.co.uk.
by Colin Hall