Christmas Ride

Colin Wharton takes you on a trip from Reading, through the twinkling villages of Sonning and Shiplake

- Colin Wharton

There’s nothing like a winter bike ride to boost your spirits, and this short, circular ride combines a mixture of landscapes from the riverside of the Thames close to Reading and Sonning to the sometimes hilly country roads and lanes close to Shiplake.

From Reading Railway Station, head towards Trooper Potts Way to the north of the station, which is also next to the station car parks. Cross the A329 using the cycle sign, (signed Hills Meadow Car Park and Caversham) and cycle through Norman Place until you see a narrow path that leads to the River Thames and National Cycle Route 5. This section of the Thames Path should be suitable for cycling, but be aware of walkers and follow any diversions if there are any path closures.

1 (SU 71622 74148) At the Thames Path, keep the river on your left and follow it east. Continue until you reach a footbridge.

2 (SU 73057 73818) Cross the footbridge and continue along the Thames Path a short distance until you reach the Wokingham Waterside Centre. At this point, follow the cycle path down to Thames Valley Park Drive and follow the cycleway next to the road until you reach a roundabout.