2007
This page is an archived listing of Cycle Cardiff events in 2007.
January 2007
7 January
Sully ride. Cliff path, St Mary's Well Bay, Sully cafe or pub, Cosmeston, and back. This ride might encompass a Victorian dump, WW2 Concrete Gun Bunkers (one decorated by ravers?), a nature reserve, etc. Wrap up warm! Moderate: 24 km (16 miles). Ride report
8 January
Bike maintenance session. 7 p.m., Mediapoint, Chapter Arts. Ideas for keeping your bike in good condition. There will be a quick meeting (no more than 30 minutes) at the start.
14 January
Pentyrch loop. Out via Llandaff and Fairwater. Back to Bute Park via Tongwynlais and Taff Trail. Pub stop in Pentyrch. There's a steep uphill, and later a steep downhill through a tree corridor, so bike lights or fluorescents may be a good idea. Wrap up warm. Moderate: approximately 25 km (15 miles). Ride report
21 January
Introduction to mountain biking. Meet at 10.15–10.30 in Bute Park, the usual spot. Otherwise, at Castle Coch around 11.30. The route is the Rhumney Valley Ridge Way, towards Rudry and back to Castle Coch. Moderate : 10 km(6 miles) from Castle Coch. Suspension not necessary, just sturdy tyres. Bring lights just in case. Ride report
28 January
Llanerch Vineyard ride. Llanerch Vineyard is actually closed. Nevertheless, there will be a ride on this date following roughly the same route. There will also be a coffee/lunch stop somewhere else. Hard: 32 km (20 miles). Ride report
Please read our rides policy.
February 2007
4 February
Taff Trail leisurely ride. Meet 10.15–10.30 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Along the Taff Trail as far as Tongwynlais. This ride is suitable for new cyclists. Easy: 15 km (9 miles). Ride report
5 February
Monthly meeting / Safety and security session. 7 p.m., the Meeting Room, Chapter Arts. This meeting will include two short talks from South Wales Police officers. PC Gerard Morgan will be talking about the bobbies on bikes. PC Malcolm Thomson will be talking about crime prevention. There will also be a 'Show and Tell' discussion, so come prepared to share ideas and information on gadgets or techniques you use. Meeting report
11 February
Cancelled due to bad weather.
18 February
To the Barrage. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Leisurely indirect ride looking at the new cycle routes developing around Cardiff bay, on the way to a cup of tea at the barrage. Alastair will give a brief technical look at the barrage. Easy: 15 km (9 miles).Ride report
Please read our rides policy.
March 2007
4 March
To Caerphilly. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Up the Taff Trail past Tongwynlais along the lower (easy) route and on to Caerphilly along a branch of the National Cycle Network. It's a fairly flat, mostly traffic-free route and will be lined with millions of bluebells by March. At Caerphilly Castle in time for lunch. Moderate. Ride report
5 March
Monthly meeting / Bike Week planning. 7 p.m., the Meeting Room, Chapter Arts, Canton. This meeting will focus on making detailed plans for Bike Week 2007, which runs 16-24 June. Come along with your ideas so that we can ensure that we make the most of this opportunity to promote cycling in Cardiff. Meeting report
11 March
North Cardiff Treasure Hunt. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Form a team and answer the questions about the places. There will be a rough suggested route, but you can do it how you please. Be aware that this ride will be unguided. Moderate. Ride report
18 March
Draethen Loop Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Heading east along the coast road towards Wentloog, we'll then head inland towards Draethen and then back into Cardiff from the North. Hard: 48 km (30 miles). Ride report
Please read our rides policy.
April 2007
1 April
Taff Trail leisurely ride. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Along the Taff Trail as far as Tongwynlais. This ride is suitable for new cyclists. Easy: 15 km (9 miles).
2 April
Monthly meeting / Sustrans presentation. 7 p.m., the Meeting Room, Chapter Arts, Canton. Vinny Mott from Sustrans has kindly agreed to tell us about their ongoing projects, including the ranger programme, and to give us information on developments in the pipeline, such as the Connect2 project for an Ely Bridge. Meeting report.
9 April (Easter Monday)
A medieval Easter. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. This leisurely ride will head down to Penarth for lunch and then on to Cosmeston medieval village where there's an event scheduled for Easter weekend. We'll stop off for a bit to see what's going on (Adults £3.50, Children £2.00). Note that this will involved riding on roads. Moderate: 25 km (15 miles) Ride report.
15 April
Castle Coch – high route. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Along the Taff Trail towards Caerphilly, then branch off before looping back down into the forests above the Castle. We will then head for the recently reopened cafe in the Castle which serves delicious home made foods, before returning to Cardiff. Hard: 32 km (19 miles). Ride report
22 April
Ely Bridge Demo. If you want to cycle to the demo in company, meet at the slightly earlier time of 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. We will cycle to Cogan Railway Station car park to join the demonstrators for an 11 a.m. start. Alternatively, go straight there. This demo is organized by Friends of the Earth and will involve cycling across the Cogan Spur bridge. See details on our forum here.
29 April
To Hensol Forest. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. After Leckwith and Dinas Powys, we'll be mostly on country lanes, getting gradually narrower and quieter, until we end up near Hensol Forest. We'll eventually stop in Peterstone-super-Ely for refreshments before the final drag back to Cardiff. Expect a few busy roads on the way out (especially near Leckwith) and the odd hill. Hard: 40 km (24 miles). Ride report
Please read our rides policy.
May 2007
7 May (Bank Holiday Monday)
Taff Trail Picnic Ride. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. At Castell Coch, we'll take the high route over, then carry on towards Pontypridd before heading back on the low route. We'll picnic near the river. Bring your own food and drink. Leisurely pace. Be aware though that the Taff Trail will be busy. Moderate: approx. 30 km (18 miles).
8 May (Tuesday)
Monthly meeting. 7 p.m., the Meeting Room, Chapter Arts, Canton. Note that this meeting has been rearranged for Tuesday to avoid the Bank Holiday. This meeting will include: a full update on Bike Week events, including Wheel to Reel: Cardiff Bicycle Film Week; a review of Cycle Cardiff rides and a discussion on how to improve them in future; a report on the council's cycling strategy. As usual, the meeting will be followed by a drink in the Chapter Bar. Agenda
13 May
Ely Trail Toddle. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. If you think the Taff is particularly beautiful in May, take a ride on the Ely trail. Much work over the winter building the trail, it should be well worth getting up for. Cafe stop at the Museum of Welsh Life (free entry) Easy pace(Kingfisher and Grebe spotting time needed) Moderate: 25 km (15 miles). Contact: Alastair Rayment 029 20692529.
20 May
Llanerch Vineyard. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. A second visit to this beautiful place which now has a fully functioning cafe/restaurant and is very bike friendly. Through St Fagans, Peterstone-super-Ely, then up to Groes Faen, and the beautiful village of Miskin before arriving at Llanerch Vineyard for well earned refreshments. Hard: 40 km (24 miles). Ride report
27 May (Spring Bank Holiday weekend)
Llantwit Major Beach. Meet 10.45–11.00 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. An early summer trip to the seaside through the vale. We'll stop off at the beach to sunbathe, wander, and have a cyclist's lunch – lots of options. Then back via Llantrithyd. A longish ride. Hard: 60 km (36 miles).
Please read our rides policy.
June 2007
3 June
Coed Hills Rural Art Space. Meet at 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of Sophia Gardens footbridge. This eco arts centre near St Hilary in the Vale of Glamorgan is a living community based in 180 acres of stunning landscape. There is a beautiful forest sculpture trail worth exploring – and we will be able to have tea/coffee and a home-baked cake. The ride is mostly on fairly quiet roads, apart from a short stretch on the A48. Some hills to climb – but well worth it! Hard: 48 km (30 miles) Ride report
4 June
Monthly meeting / Bike Week final planning. 7 p.m., the Meeting Room, Chapter Arts, Canton. This meeting will focus on the planned events for Bike Week, event promotion, and the distribution of leaflets and other literature. We will also discuss the calendar of events after Bike Week, including rides and meetings July–September. The meeting will be followed by drinks in Chapter Bar.
9 June (Saturday)
Fête of the Earth. Cycle Cardiff will have an information stall at this event in The Hayes 11.00–16.00. The purpose of our stall will be to publicize our activities and to promote the benefits of cycling to the general public. Report
10 June
Hamadryad Park and Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve. Meet at 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. We will cycle on the Taff Trail shared pavement for most of this route and on reaching Cardiff Bay use quiet roads, which makes this ideal for novice cyclists. The ride will finish at Riverside Market approximately an hour later where we can lock our bikes and purchase tea/coffee and relax in the Nos Da Hotel (adjacent to Riverside Market). Easy: 8 km (5 miles)
Riverside Food Market. Cycle Cardiff will have an information stall at the regular Sunday market 10.00–13.00. The purpose of our stall will be to publicize our activities and to promote the benefits of cycling to the general public. Report
Bike Week 2007: 16–24 June
Cycle Cardiff was very active in organizing and promoting Bike Week events for 2007. All in all it was resounding success. You can read all about the events that took place by clicking here.
We also carried out a simple survey of cyclists. You can read the results of the survey here.
30 June
Sustrans 30th Anniversary Ride. (This is not organized by Cycle Cardiff Ride Group) Ride from Cardiff Bay to Castell Coch with Sustrans and John Grimshaw. Starts 11 a.m. at the Senedd. Please register your interest by calling 029 20650602 or email sustranscymru@sustrans.org.uk .
Please read our rides policy.
July 2007
2 July
Monthly meeting / Bike Week Review. 7 p.m., the Meeting Room, Chapter Arts, Canton. Unlike our usual meetings, this month's will be a largely social event. We'll be in the meeting room from 7–8 to review what has been a successful Bike Week. After that, we'll be in the Chapter Bar (food available until 8.15). If you're new to Cycle Cardiff, it's the ideal opportunity to come along and find out who we are and what we do in relaxed surroundings. Meeting report.
15 July
Wild Fig Deli. Meet at 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Wild Fig deli is a new cafe/shop/farm just beyond Peterstone Super Ely. You can pick your own fruit or just enjoy the coffee and food. Bring a bag or pannier for transporting goodies. The ride will involve fairly quiet roads from Cardiff and then back via St Fagan's and the Ely Trail. Moderate: 24 km (15 miles). Ride report.
22 July
Pick your own on the Taff Trail. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. A ride along the Taff Trail to Gelynis Farm where we'll be stopping to have a snack and pick fruit. Easy: 15 km (9 miles). Contact: Nick Canham tel: 20222016.
29 July
Bunch of Grapes 'Gastroride'. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. A ride along the Taff Trail as far as the very nice Bunch of Grapes in Pontypridd, where we'll stop for lunch. Hard: 35 km (21 miles). But essentially flat. Ride report
Please read our rides policy.
August 2007
5 August
Forest Farm Easy Ride. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Forest Farm is a nature reserve on the Taff Trail near Whitchurch. We will cycle on the Taff Trail for most of this, which makes this ideal for novice cyclists. There will be a stop somewhere along the ride for refreshments. Ride report.
6 August
Evening ride/social. No meeting this month. Instead we'll be meeting for a drink and a chat. Meet 6.45–7.00 p.m. on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. We'll be cycling down to The Waterguard pub down the bay. If you can't join the ride, head straight there.
12 August
Stalling Down. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Stalling Down, a hill near Cowbridge, was the site of a bloody battle between the English and Welsh. We'll be stopping at a pub in the nearby village of Aberthin, but the more strenuous can enjoy the climb to the top. Hard: 50 km (30 miles). Ride report.
19 August
Ely Trail Toddle. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Most of the trail is traffic free following the River Ely. Trail much improved in recent months, so it should be well worth getting up for. Cafe stop at the Museum of Welsh Life (free entry). Easy pace(Kingfisher and Grebe spotting time needed). Moderate: 25 km (15 miles). Ride report.
27 August (Bank Holiday Monday)
Southerndown. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Summer's end will be approaching, so a trip to the beach at Southerndown on Bank Holiday Monday will be a nice last hurrah. We'll go out via Peterstone, Cowbridge, and Ewenny, then over the common before dropping down to the beach for general beachy activities. Knotted hanky optional. Pub lunch or packed lunch—up to you. Then return late afternoon via Monk Nash and Llantwit. Properly Hard: 85 km (51 miles) —but a leisurely and lovely all-dayer. Ride report
28 August
The Flying Scotsman. Meet at Chapter Arts Centre 8.00 p.m. for film start at 8.30 p.m. According to Chapter's write-up, this film is 'the inspiring real-life story of Graeme Obree, who came from nowhere to smash the world one-hour cycling record in 1993, on a bicycle entirely of his own design – an ultra-lightweight frame fashioned out of bits of scrap metal.' If you fancy coming along earlier, some of us will be meeting at 7 p.m. to discuss plans for In Town Without My Car day on 22 September. Contact: Germaine Walsh 029 20912254 Home / 20619907 Work.
29 August
Black Cock Inn, Caerphilly. Meet 6.30–6.45 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. We will cycle along the Taff Trail as far as Tongwynlais, past Castell Coch and up some very steep hills before reaching this renowned Gastro Pub. Enjoy the delicious food and refreshments before cycling back (downhill all the way!). Returning to Bute Park for around 9.30 p.m., but remember to bring your lights as it will be dark. Moderate: 23 km (14 miles).
Please read our rides policy.
September 2007
2 September
Wild Fig Deli–long route. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Another chance to visit this fruit farm (though the fruit picking is over for this year) and sample the cafe delights but going the long way round, via Dinas Powys to Llanerch Vineyard for a first coffee and cake stop. On mainly quiet roads, with some gentle hills. Hard: 40 km (25 miles) Contact: Sheila Johnson Tel: 029 20226958.
3 September
Monthly meeting / Show and Tell. 7 p.m., the Meeting Room, Chapter Arts, Canton. Bring along your favourite bike gadgets, tools, and tips. This is an opportunity to find out what other people do on their bikes, and a good way of getting prepared for night riding, which will soon be upon us. Contact: Germaine Walsh Tel: 029 20912254 Home / 20619907 Work.
9 September
Bike Goodies Sale at Llanishen Leisure Centre. Meet at 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Will cycle along the Taff Trail then through on roads before bargain-hunting. We'll meet for refreshments from midday onwards inside the Ty Glas Pub before riding back. Easy: 10 km (6 miles). But not traffic-free. Contact: Germaine Walsh Tel: 02920619907 Work / 20912254 Home.
16 September
Brecon Bike Bus. Meet at Cardiff Bus Station (Stand A1) to catch the bike bus at 8.55 a.m., or catch from Tongwynlais at 9.15 a.m. (£6.50 adult, £2.50 bike for day ticket). Full timetable. A stunning ride along the Taff Trail as far as Merthyr leisure centre to catch the 6.25 p.m. bus back. The route follows the Brecon canal before climbing up on forest track above Talybont reservoir the snaking around Pentwyn and Pontsticill reservoirs before descending on the old railway into Merthyr. Bring food for a picnic. Possible tea stop at Tea rooms, or ice cream by lake, but not much else between Talybont and Merthyr. Hopefully we can enjoy stunning views of the Brecon Beacons, assuming the weather holds on. Hard: 41 km (25 miles). Contact: Alastair Rayment Tel: 02920692529.
22 September (Saturday)
In Town Without My Car Day. This falls on a Saturday this year. Our plan is to organize a 'bike bus' route around the city, culminating in a ride through the city centre. It's intended to draw attention to the presence and positive influence of cyclists in the city. More details to follow. Report.
Please read our rides policy.
October 2007
1 October
Review of the Year. 7 p.m., the Meeting Room, Chapter Arts, Canton. We will look at what we have achieved in just over a year of Cycle Cardiff. We will have brief presentations on various themes—rides, events, meetings, organization, etc. Should be finished by 8.30ish, then join us for a drink at the bar. Meeting report
7 October
Treasure Hunt in Central Cardiff and Cardiff Bay. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Most of the trail is traffic free following the Taff Trail but at times cycling on roads may be a neccessity. Easy: Approx 10 km (6 miles). Contact: Germaine Walsh Tel: 029 20619907 Work / 20912254 Home.
14 October
Castell Coch. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. An easy flat ride along the Taff Trail as far as Tongwynlais, followed by a climb (or push) up to the castle for coffee and brunch at the cafe. Moderate: 18 km (11 miles). Contact: Nick Canham Tel: 029 20222016 / 07949 389550.
28 October
Sirhowy Valley Ride. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Out of Cardiff to the East as far as Risca. Soon after, we’ll join the Sirhowy Valley Trail (NCN 45—roughish surface) as far as Maesycwmmer. From Ystrad Mynach, we’ll head down to Caerphilly, then back along the Taff Trail. A mix of road and trail – mostly roads. Expect some hills. There'll be a stop en route, but bring snacks. Wrap up warm. Back by 4.30 p.m. Hard: 68 km (41 miles). Contact: Nick Canham Tel: 029 20222016 / 07949 389550.
Please read our rides policy.
November 2007
5 November 2007
Pedal Power / Monthly meeting. 7 p.m., the Meeting Room, Chapter Arts, Canton. Sybil Williams will be giving a talk about Cardiff Pedal Power. If you don't know about this local charity's activities, this is a great opportunity to find out. They've also just moved into a new building. Sybil's talk will be followed by a break, then a short meeting at 8 p.m., to confirm our constitution. We plan to finish by 8.45 latest. We hope to see you there. If you can't make the meeting, meet us in the bar at 8.45 p.m.
11 November
The Star Inn, Dinas Powys ‘Gastroride’. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Heading out of the city via the Cardiff Bay Sports Village, stopping for Sunday lunch in Dinas Powys and returning via Leckwith. I’ll be booking a table, so advance notice of attendance appreciated. We will be travelling along busy roads and there will be gradual inclines on the journey home. Moderate: 28 km (16 miles). Contact: Germaine Walsh. Tel: 029 20619907 (Work) / 029 20912254 (Home).
18 November
Cardiff Bay Easy Ride. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Heading through the city centre (very quiet on a Sunday morning!), we'll follow the trails down to the Norwegian Church for brunch and to visit the Scandinavian Craft Fair. Back via the wetlands, Hamadryad Park, and a stop at the Riverside Market. Sociable and Easy: 14 km (8 miles). Contact: Nick Canham Tel: 029 20222016 / 07949 389550.
25 November
Trevithick Bridge and Treforest Links. There's a ride from Pentrebach (near Merthyr) to Treforest being organized by Rebecca Robinson of Sustrans to promote Connect2 links. Cycle Cardiff will be participating, but we'll be starting very early from Cardiff to ride to the start. If you're up for it, meet 9.00 a.m.(!) on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge, or 9.25 a.m. outside the Lewis Arms in Treforest. Lunch in Pontypridd on the way back. Hard. Contact: Nick Canham 07949 389550.
Please read our rides policy.
December 2007
2 December
The Hollybush ‘Gastroride’. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. Heading out of Cardiff along the Wentloog Levels, we'll cut northwards and inland. We'll stop in Draethen for Sunday lunch. Back via Caerphilly and the Taff Trail. Hard: 45 km (27 miles). Contact: Nick Canham Tel: 029 20222016 / 07949 389550.
3 December
Monthly meeting / DVD night. 7 p.m., the Meeting Room, Chapter Arts, Canton. Come along and watch an evening of cycling-related DVDs. There'll be a number of films including World Naked Bike Ride—the Documentary by Johnny Zapatos and narrated by Jon Snow. This won the Widescreen International Film Festival in 2006. Chris Gale will also discuss plans for a similar event in Cardiff (when the weather's warmer). Another tells the story of cycle culture and the return of the bike. There will also be some short film interludes. Join us after the films for a Christmas drink in the Chapter bar from 8.30 onwards.
4 December
A Gringo's Journey. Chapter is hosting a play called A Gringo's Journey: a dramatization of one man's travels by bicycle from the Rocky Mountains to Peru. If anyone is interested in attending with Cycle Cardiff, meet 7.30 p.m. in Chapter Bar. It starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are £5 on the door.
16 December
Christmas lunch. Meet 11.0–11.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. The focus is on the lunch, not the ride. It's short so that anyone, including families can attend. We'll head down the Taff Trail and pass around the wetlands. Ending in the Bay Area, we'll arrive at Kemi's Cafe for a Christmas lunch. No need to book— they don't take bookings anyway, so we're just going to wing it. Find your own way back/home. Easy. Contact: Nick Canham Tel: 029 20222016 / 07949 389550.
23 December
Winter Solstice Ride. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. West of Cardiff via Wenvoe to visit the prehistoric burial chambers of Tinkinswood and St Lythans. Nothing pagan planned, but we will see what happens. Stop at Horse and Jockey in Twyn-yr-Odyn. Back around 2 p.m. Hard: 30 km (18 miles). Contact: Nick Canham Tel: 029 20222016 / 07949 389550.
26 December (Boxing Day)
Boxing Day ‘Cobweb Shaker’. Meet at 10.0–10.15 at the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. We'll head off into the Vale and out via Peterstone and Llantrithid to Llantwit Major. The cafe there is open, so we'll stop at the beach for sustenance then head home via St Athan. On roads with some gentle hills. Hard: 55 km (33 miles). Contact: Sheila Johnson Tel: 07736 393583 / 029 20226958.
Please read our rides policy.