WHEN: +iCal
Sat 31st August 2024 06:00 - 22:00 Sun 1st September 2024WHERE:
Bristol Temple Meads Station Approach Bristol, BS1 6QF| Validation: BRM |
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| Award Distance: 600 |
Total Distance: 609km |
| Duration: 40h0 |
Speeds: 15-30kph |
| Climb: 8016m |
AAA: 8 Platinum Grimpeur |
Enquiries
BRIEF:
Steaming On! 600 is an excursion to the heart of GWR’s Engine Yard then back across the West Country including the chance to say hi to Isambard Kingdom Brunel himself, may be more than once!
New for 2024 is Steaming On! 600. Visiting Steam at GWR’s Swindon Works, passing Bishops Lydiard Station on the West Somerset Railway, following old railways and current, using some old rail trails and crossing the Tamar with views of the Royal Albert Bridge. And a few brush ins with Isambard Kingdom Brunel himself…
Description:
Begin by departing through Brunel’s original station before making your way to the Bristol & Bath Railway Path (the beginning of the National Cycle Network) for a traffic free exit of the city. Climb atop the Cotswolds and head east to Swindon and the old Engine Yard’s of the Great Western Railway for the first control at Steam.
Exit through the GWR village and head south passing Avebury as you cross North Wilts AONB and into the Vale of Pewsey to then head west, tracking the route of the GWR Cornish Riviera Express to Frome. Then a gradual ascent to the southern edge of the Mendip Hills before descending through Wells, passing its cathedral and onto the Somerset Levels. Over the Quantocks to Bishops Lydeard then south of Exmoor to Barnstaple. Follow the Tarka Trail to Okehampton then the Granite Way to Lydford for your sleep stop.
Steaming on into day 2 cross the Tamar at Horsebridge into Cornwall. Then from Luckett take on the full Kit Hill climb to its summit for some cracking views before back down heading to Saltash; under the bridges before crossing the Tamar once more with views of The Royal Albert Bridge. Join the Plym Valley Railway Trail and head to Yelverton. Then up and over Dartmoor to Exeter. Cross the Blackdown Hills back into Somerset. Over the Mendips you go before back to the Arrivée in Bristol.
Details:
- Airbeds and blankets provided at the sleep stop.
- Food and drink provided at the sleep stop.
- If you want to use a drop bag keep it small; drop off at mine on Friday night or I can take a small number from the start on my bike trailer, collection will be from mine once I’m back from the sleep stop.
- Postal finish – stamped envelope provided.
- A short section of canal path in Swindon, the Tamar Trail and The Granite Way are unmetalled but a good consolidated surface.
Like or loath* it? Let others know.
*Whilst I like to think I can affect the weather alas that is beyond my control...What others think.
Brilliant weekends riding
Excellent routing across varied terrain, and as always some history to explore along the way. A shame it was dark on the leg from Barnstaple to Lydford as I reckon it’s gorgeous in daylight, motivation for next time to ride faster! The sleep control was just the ticket, and felt very thoughtfully laid out. My mattress deflated during my nap but I swapped it for a spare.
Beautiful, with challenging climbing
Another fabulous 600 from master-organiser Will. Beautiful, varied route across at least five counties, railway infrastructure galore (including a slightly-creepy Brunel statue perfect for selfies), and a very welcome sleep control with spot-on food, comfortable LEL-sourced beds and fairy lights to guide the way! Be warned – this has some very challenging climbing (and descending), particularly on the second day – I was not hanging around at the controls and had just 90 minutes in hand at the end. A shame that the wonderful Tarka trail was (for me) during the night section, however with such a good route there will always be good stuff hidden in the dark!
Bookings aren't available; either I haven't opened entry yet or if after 29/08/24 then they have closed.
You are attending this event.
The following ride details are currently: CONFIRMED - all details have been updated. You will be notified by email of any last minute changes made here.
- Please flick through the following tabs fully and make any preparations before the event.
- Route files & links will be found under the 'Route' tab.
- The event/route specific information will be finalised usually the Monday before the event and you will get an email reminder 3 days prior from bookings-noreply@pedalution.co.uk - add it to your address book to save any disappointment.
- Should you be unable to attend the event I have enabled cancellation from 'My Bookings'. This will aid me in keeping controls informed as to how many to expect and also reduce wastage when printing the brevet cards. Remember there is no option to refund or transfer if you are unable to attend.
- You will receive your brevet card at the start. Should you start the ride and be unable to finish my phone number is within; please drop me a text with your full name to let me know you won't be finishing so volunteers and myself aren't waiting around longer than necessary at controls and the finish.
- Please use 'Enquires' link above for any queries.
New to audax? Have a look at Audax UK's About for an overview & FAQs for commonly asked questions.
- Until the route is finalised the interactive map above will give you an idea of where you are going.
- It is advisable to study the route notes prior to the event for further details; especially if you are just using a GPX breadcrumb trail to navigate. These are also the 'cuesheet' within the RWGPS route; zoom the map to your desired level, click on a cue and it will focus the map at that cue.
- Every effort is made to identify road closures before the event and provide alternatives where necessary; however I can not account for any emergency closures that are required.
- A variety of surfaces may be encountered, some may be as smooth as a baby's bum, others potholed nightmares, or somewhere in between; if any unmetalled sections are used this will be noted in the Event Info above and now visible as 'unpaved' within RWGPS.
- I do my utmost to select low traffic routes but there may be times busier sections are required.
- Mudguards aren't mandatory but if you can fit them why wouldn't you?
- I would always recommend a set of lights as you never know what could happen.
- Similarly consider carrying 2 space blankets; they cost nothing, are tiny, and can keep you and an other warm should the unfortunate happen.
EXTRA DETAILS:
As you are probably aware the state of the roads in the UK has deteriorated drastically over recent years so pay attention at all times for potholes. I have included 'Cautionary POI/WP' on the RWGPS route where the road surface is exceptionally poor and are further exasberated by the route location (descent, narrow lanes etc).
The main advisory points to note are:
- @226km | (after Milverton) !!Poor surface - debris ahead!!
- @252km | (Oldways End) !!Poor surface - debris ahead!!
- @405km | (Tamerton to River Tavy) !!Poor surface - debris ahead!!
Shared paths are used in several places. Treat other users as the more vulnerable at all times. Some of these shared paths have short sections of unmetalled but well consolidated surfaces (better than some roads). Some have gates and/or barriers.
Addition sections between each control are available in the RWGPS Event and as links in the RWGPS Route.
Route Files:
CSV route notes - these can be edited in any spreadsheet software.
PDF route notes - a version with maps is available in linked RWGPS route (no account necessary to use the official PDF - use 'More v') or the event.
GPX with control waypoints - if re-uploading to an online planner please make private so as not to confuse others in the future - use this tool to split at waypoints and/or simplify.
RWGPS Links:
RWGPS Event - at least a free account needed but you will get full premium features, including offline maps & voice nav for the app, regardless of your subscription level. To sync to your device (Wahoo, Garmin Edge) you need to join this first.
RWGPS Route - no account needed but you will lack a few advanced features such as early turn warnings.
See the RWGPS App for my tips to use your phone for navigation and maximising battery life.
Troubleshooting:
- Can't copy the RWGPS route to your account? I have disabled this so should any changes be necessary there is the one correct version.
- I do not provide technical services for your device having never used anything other than the RWGPS app.
- Can't add it to Garmin Connect? It isn't an activity. Transfer it to your Garmin via USB.
- Can't send to your device? Join the RWGPS event.
EXTRA DETAILS:
- DEPART - I shall be there from 05:30. Toilets are found in the station subway, there is a water refill point here too. Leave your bike with me and ask a member of staff to let you through the gates. There is a Greggs as you leave the station estate in Temple Quarter that is open from 06:00 if you need a quick bite.
- You are going to be late - TEXT ME ON 07866981103 or I'll head off at 06:15 - being a BRM event you have until 07:00 to start.
- ARRIVE - It will be a 'postal finish' in such that you MUST obtain your proof of passage at the station; I shall not be there. The information desk is open 09:00-21:30 where they have a stamp, ask them to put a time in your card & a squiggle. Should you arrive outside those times (or if staff have popped out for a bit) there is an ATM in Brunel's Old Station (which you pass through as you depart). You will also be provided with a stamped envelop with my address on, make sure your card is completed fully, including your address and squiggle on the back, and pop in the post box that is located by the platform gates on the wall to the right; alternatively if you are collecting a drop bag just bring to mine.
Start:
Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the depart time to collect your brevet card.
Bristol Temple Meads - opens new tab for map. Station Approach, Bristol, Bristol, City of, BS1 6QF
Access:
- Bike - Centrally located and easily accessed.
- Car -
Bristol Temple Meads is within Bristol's Clean Air Zone (CAZ) so unless you have an exempt vehicle you will need to pay the charge; check here. Drop off is available outside the station.
Directions from the main routes in:
- Train - It is at Bristol Temple Meads so I'll let you figure that one out...
Parking: Car Park -
Long stay available at Temple Meads or cheaper at Bristol Parkway.
- Temple Meads
- Bristol Parkway
- - cycling directions from Bristol Parkway
Food & Drink: No refreshments. **Will check station facility opening times. Unless specified otherwise above.
Accommodation:
Finish:
As above. - opens new tab for map & a few details.
Route Controls:
- @0km | DEPART: BRISTOL TEMPLE MEADS - Brunel Statue | 06:00
- @66km | CONTROL: SWINDON - Platform 1 @ Steam | 08:12-10:24
- @101km | INFO: MARDEN - see brevet
- @176km | CONTROL: WEDMORE - Village Stores | 11:52-17:44
- @292km | INFO: FREMINGTON QUAY - see brevet card
- @343km | INFO: OKEHAMPTON - Station - see brevet
- @357km | CONTROL: LYDFORD - Nicholls Hall | 17:54-05:48
- @379km | INFO: KIT HILL - see brevet
- @397km | INFO: SALTASH - imm after Brunel Statue - see brevet
- @447km | CONTROL: MORETONHAPSTEAD [free] - collect receipt | 21:04-12:08
- @506km | INFO: SMEATHARPE - see brevet
- @540km | CONTROL: LANGPORT [free] - collect receipt | 00:00-18:00
- @586km | INFO: CLAVERHAM - St Barnabas CH - see brevet
- @605km | ARRIVEE: BRISTOL TEMPLE MEADS - post box by gates | 02:10-22:00
Lydford - Nicholls Hall ZZZ:
- Dinner & Breakfast provided along with hot drinks.
- Airbeds & Blankets provided.
- Drop bags - drop off at 19 Berwick Road, BS5 6NG Friday evening. I can take a few from the start on my bike trailer (keep them small). Collection will be from mine Sunday afternoon or Monday morning.
- No showers.
This is what 'audax' is all about. Travelling between controls to collect proof of passage (PoP) to prove you have cycled the distance. The above controls are found in your brevet card, the route notes, as POIs with the route, and waypoints with the GPX. Your brevet card it to be filled out as you progress around the route. PoP is obtained in several ways. It is highly recommended you carry a pen or pencil to fill your brevet card as you go; if it is a long event numbering any receipts to correspond with the control number will save you time later, then keeping them in order is next level!
Types of control:
- CONTROL - a place or venue where you obtain PoP which can be done in several ways. You will be able to get food and/or drink, also WC will be available.
- Manned - a volunteer or venue member of staff will stamp your card providing PoP. All controls are thus unless specified as...
- Free - you must obtain PoP from that place that has a time and date, usually a receipt from a cafe, shop or ATM.
- INFO - a question found in your brevet card that is relevent to the location needs to be answered and recorded.
- CHECKPOINT - similar to a control but there may not be any facilities present.
- SECRET - now that would be telling wouldn't it!
USING YOUR PHONE & RWGPS APP:
I use the RWGPS app on my phone to navigate audax events by using spoken cues, I also use it to route check and proof my route notes. This IMHO is the best of all worlds. I don't need to look at a screen (but I can check if I want), I get clear directions when needed (you may need to get used to my shorthand which gets spoken as such), I get a warning if I'm off route, the battery lasts a lot longer than constantly using the screen; especially nowadays as phone batteries are getting bigger plus many are able to rapid charge in a short amount of time. All you need is a good case and mount for inclement weather.
- Install the app.
- Join the event.
- Go to the route.
- Send to device.
- Open app and confirm download.
- In settings (exact location varies depending on iOS or Android) to optomise for best battery use:
- Logging - adjust interval: every 10s is best for the battery, logs your ride but won't get you any KOMs; every 1s uses 10x more battery power to write data but may get you a KOM if you pedal quick.
- Navigation - Spoken alerts ON | Off-course alerts ON | others at your discretion.
- Handlebar mode ENABLED - this will keep RWGPS above any screen lock so you can recall it if needed by pressing power button or similar.
- Handlebar mode - Screen OFF for cues | Proximity Wake OFF (otherwise changes in light will turn the screen on) | Keep screen on NEVER.
- Offline mode ENABLED - when you start riding.
- Better still use flight/aeroplane mode whilst riding.
- You can adjust the text-speech settings via your phone settings; the type of voice, playback speed etc.
Most of the battery drain on a phone is from the screen. By using voice commands you eliminate this but can still view the map if needs be. The second biggest drain whilst cycling is the phone itself searching for a signal as you move between cell towers; putting the phone into flight/aeroplane mode whilst moving solves this problem; you can easily turn data back on to #tag that #CAKE at the next stop!
ANDROID:
Make sure battery optimisation is turned off otherwise Android will recognise RWGPS as an excessive battery drain and can limit its functionality. This will be particularily evident if you stop for a bit without GPS signal then continue; the app will appear to be functioning correctly but Android will limit it and data can be lost from the stop point until the app is restarted. There may be a similar feature in iOS.
- Settings >Apps.
- Find RWGPS and expand Advanced >Battery.
- If it says optomised then select and wait for all apps to load.
- Make sure the apps displayed are 'All apps', find RWGPS and select.
- Select 'Don't optimise'. Exit settings.
You have agreed to and declared that at the time of the ride...
- You have no symptoms relating to COVID-19.
- That you are not self-isolating.
- That you are not required to quarantine during the period of the event.
- That no local or other regulations prohibit you from attending this event.
- You agree that if you develop any such symptoms before the event you will not attend.
- You agree that if I develop any such symptoms immediately after the event I shall inform the organiser.
Please follow any wishes of private establishments en route. I highly recommend carrying a mask/buff/scarf etc for the simple act of covering your face if needed when indoors. Any specifics requested by controls will be noted in the control tab.
Audax UK's current policy can be found here.
