Every summer, as the season starts to slip away, TWR takes on a classic long ride. Normally, we head south to Brighton, but this year we decided to shake things up. Destination: Southend-on-Sea – a seaside town with the perfect mix of challenge, fun, and tradition.

As always with a TWR public ride, plenty of planning went in behind the scenes. We wanted every rider, no matter their level, to feel supported and come away with a sense of achievement. To make it happen, we split the riders into groups based on pace and experience – each with its own ride leader.

The Roll Out 🚦

The day started bright and early at Lee Valley Park, Stratford.

• Group One rolled out first at 8:45 am, led by AJ. This is the group he loves – newer riders looking to grow in confidence. With his coaching and ride leader background, AJ has a way of bringing out the best in them.

Groups Two and Three gathered shortly after, led by Sam and me. After Sam’s trademark ride briefing (always worth a listen), we set off at around 9:10 am. Within minutes, the faster group naturally pulled ahead while the steady-paced crew settled into a smooth rhythm.

The country roads of Essex soon opened up ahead of us – rolling fields, quiet lanes, and the feeling that the seaside was pulling us closer with every turn of the pedals.

On the Road 🌳

Not long into the ride, we caught up with the fast group, who were stalled by a puncture. For a short, glorious moment, my steady group took the lead. I tried my hardest to hold off Sam and riders like Ray, but let’s just say it was only a matter of time before they came flying past us again!

As Sam wisely predicted, our group became the natural safety net for anyone who realised the fast pace was a little too spicy. Shout out to Olu and Tony – honestly, they looked like they’d just stepped out of a sauna in full kit – for digging deep with the fast group before wisely sliding back to join us once the speedsters came flying past.

The Beast: Old Church Hill ⛰️

Every great ride needs a climb that tests the legs and the lungs – and for us, that was Old Church Hill.

• 1.2km long
• 82m elevation gain
• Average gradient 6.9%
• A brutal max gradient of 22%

We first tackled this hill back in 2021, and let’s be honest – it broke many of us. Back then, walking was the only option for some. But this time, history was rewritten. One by one, the steady group pushed, pulled, and grinded their way up – smashing our records and proving how far we’ve all come.

It wasn’t just a climb. It was a moment of achievement. A reminder of why we ride

The Final Push & Seaside Finish 🌊

After conquering Old Church Hill and a final, smaller climb, the road tilted down towards Southend. The excitement built with every mile. By 12:30–1:00 pm, the steady group rolled into town, greeted by the first group and the fast group.

For some riders, it was their first long-distance ride. For others, it was about setting new personal bests or just enjoying the journey. The sense of achievement was written on everyone’s faces.

And of course, no seaside ride is complete without the tradition of fish and chips by the beach. (We won’t mention the quality this time – let’s just say, new recommendations are welcome for next year! 🍟🐟).

And finally, a big shout out to those who had the strength and determination to ride back – love that level of grit and commitment. 💪

Reflections 🙌

Huge respect goes out to every rider who joined us – you made this ride what it was. Whether you led a group, supported a friend, or just pushed yourself to finish, the energy you brought kept the wheels turning.

Special thanks to Sam and AJ, who put so much into supporting the ride. These trips aren’t just about cycling – they’re about community, growth, and shared memories.

Here’s to the next one. Brighton? Southend again? Or somewhere new? Wherever the road takes us, TWR will be there, Together We Ride.