Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => The Knowledge => Camping It Up => Topic started by: RichForrest on 25 January, 2016, 11:19:14 am

Title: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: RichForrest on 25 January, 2016, 11:19:14 am
Putting this up here a bit early as I've booked the rally field at Watlington for my 50th in 2yrs time!
Thought I'd get in early as the site gets busy  ;D

Rich
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: cycleman on 25 January, 2016, 11:27:15 am
if i can still cycle i will come  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Canardly on 25 January, 2016, 11:28:43 am
But of course.  :-D
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 25 January, 2016, 11:44:36 am
I'll check my diary. Hmmm, a bit of a problem getting an advance train ticket at the moment...  :D
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Butterfly on 25 January, 2016, 01:53:07 pm
Brill! We'd love to come if we can.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: clarion on 25 January, 2016, 02:09:49 pm
Maybe.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Vince on 25 January, 2016, 02:32:29 pm
Today I would love to come. However, I have trouble planning 2 months ahead let alone 2 years. Please can you bump this in January 2018?
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Wobbly John on 25 January, 2016, 02:39:25 pm
...and again in May 2018.  ;)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Speshact on 25 January, 2016, 02:40:54 pm
The whole of June? Quite a party!
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Kim on 25 January, 2016, 04:52:39 pm
The whole of June? Quite a party!

The linked event is more specific: 2018-06-07 - 2018-06-10
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Basil on 25 January, 2016, 04:54:41 pm
Assuming I've not died.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Polar Bear on 25 January, 2016, 05:08:53 pm
We'd be delighted subject to the usual caveats that more than two years of life might throw into the mix.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: antokelly on 25 January, 2016, 05:10:13 pm
That's what you call forward planning .
i'de be on for that Rich if i get another touring bike by then.
i really enjoyed the fellclub  meet few years back.
is watlington far from your place.
put me on the  wishlist.

anto.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: mzjo on 08 February, 2016, 08:42:36 pm
Blimey I could be retired, the kids could have left home and be working, I could go and see my daughter in Oxford. My wife would never agree; still two years to collect brownie points, negotiate diplomatically etc. That is a very tempting thought (although it might take me the intervening two years just to cycle from Limoges to Oxford  ??? )
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: CrinklyLion on 08 February, 2016, 09:00:34 pm
According to my formerly-beloved's online calendar, that's a no-Cubs weekend for me.  Mind, at this point I can't work out if that makes me more or less likely to be able to attend!
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Steph on 26 March, 2016, 09:19:18 am
Will do my best. I will be 60 in 2018, in May, so...
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: TimO on 14 May, 2016, 07:29:07 pm
Theoretically yes, it's probably enough time for me to dig out my camping equipment !

You could also go for a "last year in my 40's" party, next year. :)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Pancho on 14 May, 2016, 07:59:01 pm
In all honesty, I can't commit that far ahead. But, as of now, the only possible clash would be cricket (I don't think dates are out for 2018 Tests yet). Put me down as a tentative. Thanks for the long notice - 2 years should give me time to get my legs up to scratch.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: rogerzilla on 02 June, 2016, 10:05:05 pm
We were there this week.  It was rather wet but I can report that the site stayed well-drained despite the floods on the roads all around; the soil is very chalky.  Unfortunately we had to cut the trip short because there's no way to dry damp towels (the site at Bletchingdon has a tumble dryer and an indoor games barn, which iare both godsends if you're in a tent for days of rain).
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Blodwyn Pig on 10 November, 2017, 10:25:36 pm
Just noticed this, still on!! ? be that in Sussex, might be a yes.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: RichForrest on 11 November, 2017, 01:35:03 am
Yes, still on.
Just south of the M40 on the Chiltern Ridge.
Will post more in Jan  :)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: JBB on 12 November, 2017, 04:39:14 pm
Yes, still on.
Just south of the M40 on the Chiltern Ridge.
Will post more in Jan  :)

Looks like I might be joining you - I'll leave others to decide if this is good or not!
Julia
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Polar Bear on 12 November, 2017, 05:05:18 pm
I put this in the diary when the thread first started and to date nothing is clashing.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Polar Bear on 28 March, 2018, 04:19:35 pm
if i can still cycle i will come  :thumbsup:

Now that cycleman is electrified I guess that he'll be there.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: cycleman on 28 March, 2018, 08:57:37 pm
Yes I am planning to attend  :)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Wowbagger on 29 March, 2018, 01:45:27 pm
I may be there - it's the weekend before I bugger off to Pembrokeshire for a  fortnight. Could be good walking practice.

Rather saddened by re-reading Pancho's post upthread.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Regulator on 29 March, 2018, 01:49:59 pm
I may be able to do part of this if you'll have me Mr Forrest....
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: andrewc on 03 April, 2018, 09:34:34 am
Just booked Thursday & Friday off work, so should be down for this.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Canardly on 03 April, 2018, 09:59:47 am
Will probably have to be the Friday evening onwards for me. Having work done in house that week.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: RichForrest on 03 April, 2018, 10:31:43 am
Been thinking about updating this, just not got a round tuit!

Planning to have some wood delivered and have a fire as per previous camps.
Nothing exciting planned for the daytimes, you can decide to do what you want. Whether that be visit the village, walk a bit of the ridgeway, cycle further afield or just sit in the field and chill out.
Sat night barbecue set up where people can bring their own food to cook (fire cooking also available) if wanted.
We will have a gazebo for other picnic type food (salad etc). If you want to bring bring something along to add to the table and share it you'd be most welcome.

I will contact the site to confirm fees but I think it's as below

C&CC Members
Adult (16 years +) £6.50
Children 5-15 yrs inc. £3
Children under 5 yrs  £1.50

Non-Members
Adult (16 years +) £8
Children 5-15 yrs inc.  £4
Children under 5 yrs  £2

Visitors: £1 adult/50p child per day.
Gazebos/party tents: £3 per night
Car Parking: £2 per day, non campers (ie those wishing to park for day to go walking/cycling)


Rich
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: andrewc on 22 April, 2018, 09:39:51 pm
Train tickets to Oxford booked.  :-)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: JBB on 25 April, 2018, 03:00:35 pm
Just need to find a round tuit and fit my new brakes. Just need to decide if it's one long day or two shorter ones to get there.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Steph on 08 May, 2018, 07:32:23 pm
Looking at this one and thinking that I shall spread myself over a few days. It would be nice to chill in my tent for a few and I haven't camped since August. Looking forward. I may have a couple of friends along.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Steph on 08 May, 2018, 07:55:25 pm
Just looked at the Oxford Tube fares for the run up to Lewknor, and as I had my own 60th on Friday I am now classified as a 'Senior' with reduced fares. Yay!
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: bikepacker on 09 May, 2018, 03:03:36 pm
That's what you call forward planning .
i'de be on for that Rich if i get another touring bike by then.
i really enjoyed the fellclub  meet few years back.
is watlington far from your place.
put me on the  wishlist.

anto.

I have been trying to get anto to come over for this by giving him a couple of options where I meet up with him. So far he has not said he would come over from Ireland. Some of you try and help persuade him.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Canardly on 09 May, 2018, 08:35:06 pm
Anto it is a very nice location.

there will be beer

friends old and new

Some old people like Rich.

and food

and silliness

and conversation

and bonfires

and red kites

and more food

and star gazing

riding recuments downhill, and occasionaly  being able to turn them.

and more beer

and possibly some cycling through rather attractive villages and ancient pathways.

You should come, you would enjoy yourself.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Polar Bear on 09 May, 2018, 09:23:09 pm
Anto it is a very nice location.

there will be beer

friends old and new

Some old people like Rich Canardly.

and food

and silliness

and conversation

and bonfires

and red kites

and more food

and star gazing

riding recuments downhill, and occasionaly  being able to turn them.

and more beer

and possibly some cycling through rather attractive villages and ancient pathways.

You should come, you would enjoy yourself.

FTFY.    :demon:
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Canardly on 09 May, 2018, 09:25:53 pm
Says retired pensioner ^^^^^ :smug:
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Polar Bear on 09 May, 2018, 09:28:52 pm
EARLY retired old man.   :D
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Steph on 10 May, 2018, 12:36:34 am
Well, I am looking at the Oxford Tube website and I now qualify for a senior fare!
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Jaded on 10 May, 2018, 12:43:51 am
The whole of June? Quite a party!

The linked event is more specific: 2018-06-07 - 2018-06-10

Was interested apart from being in Ironbridge.  :(
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Oxford_Guy on 15 May, 2018, 05:09:00 pm
I've only just twigged that this is in Watlington, which is close to Oxford (about 16 miles or so). Which is where I live (if you hadn't already guessed...). The missus has previously expressed an interested in doing a not too ambitious "warm-up" ride that weekend for the BHF London to Brighton ride* we're doing the following weekend (yes I know it's not exactly an audax, but we're a bit out of our usual shape, though did at least manage Oxford to Birmingham, loaded, over 2 days last Bank Holiday), so perhaps I can convince her to conflate that with this, though may just have to be a day visit (probably Saturday), as we have quite a lot on at the moment, though we do like camping.

As a relatively new YACFer, don't think I've ever actually met any of you in person, apart from possibly a few of the more local usual suspects (e.g.  chriscross1966, he of the many outrageously-customised Bromptons, if he's going), so am not sure if a random visitation from myself and the missus would be welcome or not? Also, what to expect?

My current steeds are a Hewitt Cheviot SE and a Brompton M6R-X, both dark green - would probably travel to Watlington on the former.

* See: https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=107670.0
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Kim on 15 May, 2018, 05:40:07 pm
Yes, do come and say hello!

Expect a rally field full of friendly randoms (some of whom have bikes), who don't recognise you but who don't know everyone else, either.  There are going to be people who know RichForrest from various places, not just YACF.  I'm predicting it'll be like a less formal(!) version of clarion and Butterfly's wedding, which is to say bikes and tents of all shapes and sizes, certainly BEER, likely CAKE, possibly FIRE, children running around, red kites circling, BBQ, loitering within tent when it rains, that sort of thing.  There will probably be groups wandering off elsewhere for walks, bike rides, pubs, cafes, soft play, emergency visits to outdoor shops, etc. over the course of the weekend.

Probably safe to assume that you're going to have a conversation or two about whether your name's actually 'Guy', after that time we were all shocked to discover that essexian was called Ian and came from Essex...  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: cycleman on 15 May, 2018, 06:53:14 pm
Yes come and meet us   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: andrewc on 15 May, 2018, 07:27:19 pm
If you are planning to camp, bring earplugs.... ;)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 May, 2018, 08:17:04 pm
And bring your frying pan!
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Oxford_Guy on 15 May, 2018, 11:21:54 pm
Probably safe to assume that you're going to have a conversation or two about whether your name's actually 'Guy', after that time we were all shocked to discover that essexian was called Ian and came from Essex...  :facepalm:

It's not 'Guy' :-)

I'm also not originally from Oxford, but I have lived here for 22 years, which probably counts.

It all sounds very pleasant, would probably be most fun if we're able to camp overnight, but may not be feasible for us.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Oxford_Guy on 15 May, 2018, 11:24:27 pm
And bring your frying pan!

I will do if I've managed to procure one to my exacting requirements by then :-)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June (7th - 11th)
Post by: RichForrest on 16 May, 2018, 01:39:16 pm
So am not sure if a random visitation from myself and the missus would be welcome or not? Also, what to expect?


Yes, come along, All are welcome  :)
Hopefully will be as Kim says above.
There will be people from here some from the ALC and some family also.

Rich
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Butterfly on 16 May, 2018, 01:59:14 pm
And bring your frying pan!
or even better, don't bring a frying pan but look to see what everyone else is using and see what suits you.  :)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Wowbagger on 20 May, 2018, 08:11:50 pm
Given that I have now booked a load of B & Bs for my Pembrokeshire weekend, clearly I will have to take my new Alpkit Jaran tent and sleep in it (and see if anyone wants to buy it... ;) )
Title: Re: Rich's 50th birthday camping weekend. Watlington June 7th - 11th 2018.
Post by: RichForrest on 20 May, 2018, 08:49:51 pm
 :thumbsup:
Won't be me though as we have just brought another tent (for car camping) and we have no room for more!  ;D ;D
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: JBB on 23 May, 2018, 11:51:30 pm
Well I now have fully functioning brakes! However I would like it if some of you could cast an eye over my proposed route -  cycle.travel/map/journey/53372 and let me know if my route to the NE of Newbury looks OK as it's an area I don't know.
Thanks
Julia
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: thing1 on 24 May, 2018, 08:47:03 am
Unless you specifically need to go through them, most routings I know would avoid Newbury and Andover town centers.

Whitchurch / Kingsclere / Pangbourne would be the canonical AUK routing. Strava heatmap based routing suggests it too https://www.strava.com/routes/13406854 - that does encourage a gratuitous climb out of Pangbourne just to drop back down to the campsite. There is a fairly obvious riverside routing up through Goring instead, but my quick experiment (https://www.strava.com/routes/13406860) suggests that actually gives more net climbing (and distance). Although avoiding that one brutal hill. Depends on how much gear you're lugging, and your gears :)


Thing2 and I are also keen to attend! We still have some things we need to juggle, and trying to figure out if we can squeeze in a cheeky 200km on the Saturday. (Was going to be Gospel pass, but a perm would be simpler)

Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: JBB on 24 May, 2018, 02:45:31 pm
Unless you specifically need to go through them, most routings I know would avoid Newbury and Andover town centers.

Whitchurch / Kingsclere / Pangbourne would be the canonical AUK routing. Strava heatmap based routing suggests it too https://www.strava.com/routes/13406854 - that does encourage a gratuitous climb out of Pangbourne just to drop back down to the campsite. There is a fairly obvious riverside routing up through Goring instead, but my quick experiment (https://www.strava.com/routes/13406860) suggests that actually gives more net climbing (and distance). Although avoiding that one brutal hill. Depends on how much gear you're lugging, and your gears :)


Thing2 and I are also keen to attend! We still have some things we need to juggle, and trying to figure out if we can squeeze in a cheeky 200km on the Saturday. (Was going to be Gospel pass, but a perm would be simpler)



I know Andover so can avoid the busy bits but it does mean I can pick up some shopping. If it isn't necessary I've got a bypass route sorted as I've ridden most of the lanes in the area! Again I used to work in Newbury so can always avoid but may split the trip into 2 and will need somewhere to camp.... decisions, decisions!
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: nikki on 24 May, 2018, 06:18:21 pm
I know Andover so can avoid the busy bits but it does mean I can pick up some shopping.

There's the little Co-op in Watlington too, if that helps avoid lugging stuff from further afield...
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: JBB on 24 May, 2018, 11:48:00 pm
I know Andover so can avoid the busy bits but it does mean I can pick up some shopping.

There's the little Co-op in Watlington too, if that helps avoid lugging stuff from further afield...

Thanks Nikki, most helpful. Are you thinking of going?
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: nikki on 25 May, 2018, 07:37:40 am
It's currently looking reasonably likely  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Canardly on 02 June, 2018, 02:08:54 pm
Might have to miss this after all due to builder being unable to start monday. The work will now probably run into the week end.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: andrewc on 02 June, 2018, 04:11:52 pm
That's a shame Bob  :(   
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Steph on 02 June, 2018, 09:41:04 pm
My plan to come early has fallen foul of having to work in Glasgow on Thursday, getting home very late that evening. I have just printed off my Oxford Tube ticket to Lewknor, though. Tuesday will be packing day,
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: bikepacker on 04 June, 2018, 01:50:16 pm
I shall be getting to campsite Friday afternoon but need to leave on Sunday morning.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Steph on 04 June, 2018, 09:10:30 pm
For those who haven't seen my post on FB, I tore the front of my shin off today. If I come on Friday, it would mean returning on Monday morning, or possibly Sunday afternoon. I have a ticket for the Oxford Tube to/from Lewknor, and would have been bringing the bike, but the medics say it is not a good idea.

If anyone is able to run me from and to the Lewknor bus stop, that would be really appreciated. Butterfly has suggested Chinnor, but Lewknor makes logistical sense. Simple to carry tent/bag/stove etc.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Butterfly on 05 June, 2018, 08:33:50 am
For those who haven't seen my post on FB, I tore the front of my shin off today. If I come on Friday, it would mean returning on Monday morning, or possibly Sunday afternoon. I have a ticket for the Oxford Tube to/from Lewknor, and would have been bringing the bike, but the medics say it is not a good idea.

If anyone is able to run me from and to the Lewknor bus stop, that would be really appreciated. Butterfly has suggested Chinnor, but Lewknor makes logistical sense. Simple to carry tent/bag/stove etc.


We can definitely help you. We should be down in the afternoon.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Steph on 05 June, 2018, 10:14:13 am
Pain and seepage are not good. It will be best to cancel, I am afraid. Arsebollocks.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: andrewc on 05 June, 2018, 11:34:42 am
 :(   
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: RichForrest on 05 June, 2018, 02:25:54 pm
Pain and seepage are not good. It will be best to cancel, I am afraid. Arsebollocks.
Sorry to read that :( there will be a few cars there if you do change your mind and need a lift.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Steph on 05 June, 2018, 02:42:16 pm
I know, mate, but with an open wound I don't think a field is the best place for me. In bed at the moment, sitting up so that leg can be level. Painful and messy.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: cycleman on 05 June, 2018, 08:01:44 pm
Get well soon steph   :)

I am packed and ready and will arrive Thursday afternoon  .I expect apollo on Friday morning   :)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Kim on 05 June, 2018, 08:24:07 pm
I am packed and ready and will arrive Thursday afternoon  .I expect apollo on Friday morning   :)

Give me a headsup when you know which trike you're coming on.  I've got some electrickery for the electricky one, but there's no point bringing tools and stuff if it won't be there.
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: cycleman on 06 June, 2018, 06:55:04 am
Hi kim ,  I have the tracking sorted so I will be riding the electric chair   :)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Kim on 06 June, 2018, 12:09:48 pm
Hi kim ,  I have the tracking sorted so I will be riding the electric chair   :)

Goodgood.  I'll bring some tools with which to break it.  :)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: andrewc on 06 June, 2018, 12:21:50 pm
Does this mean we can all steal Cycleman's electrons to charge our phones with ?  ;)
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: Kim on 06 June, 2018, 12:33:05 pm
Does this mean we can all steal Cycleman's electrons to charge our phones with ?  ;)

That's the plan...
Title: Re: Watlington camping June 2018 (Yes that date is correct!)
Post by: andrewc on 06 June, 2018, 12:54:41 pm
I should be arriving sometime after 17:00 tomorrow. 
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: RichForrest on 06 June, 2018, 01:19:21 pm
We should be there about 1300 tomorrow until around lunchtime on Monday.
Weather looks like it's not going to be that bad, only down to around 12c overnight and only 40% chance of showers tomorrow and maybe Sunday evening.

Rich
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: JBB on 06 June, 2018, 01:46:02 pm
Hope to be there Friday lunchtime after working in the woods tomorrow morning and leaving Wiltshire about 3ish. I'll break the trip at Newbury and If I can get away early I'll miss the worst of the Friday traffic.. Still got some packing to do. Better get on!
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: RichForrest on 06 June, 2018, 01:58:40 pm
For those that haven't been there before, when you go down the site drive you fork to the right for the rally field.

https://goo.gl/maps/WPn3rDPCS442

If you start climbing up the hil past the Ridgeway you have gone to far.
If coming down the hill it's just past the right-hand bend on the left. Brake hard or you will miss it  ;D
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Canardly on 06 June, 2018, 02:04:18 pm
Sorry I can't be there, have a great time all!
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: JenM on 06 June, 2018, 02:25:40 pm
I'm planning to be there Sat pm until Monday.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 06 June, 2018, 02:27:34 pm
At the moment my plan is to get a train to Saunderton and walk to Watlington. Should be there around 5pm I reckon, maybe a bit earlier.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: cycleman on 06 June, 2018, 09:16:03 pm
I arrived at about 4.30 this afternoon and am lurking within tent after a nice fish and chips supper  .apollo should be here approx 2.00pm   :)

Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 07 June, 2018, 08:21:32 am
I am getting my brain into gear. Trying to think of things I haven't packed and should have done. I have:

tent
footprint
downmat & pump
cotton liner
quilt
clothes, multiples thereof
water
medication
some food
stove
fuel
pans
cutlery and crockery
electrickery
toiletries & towel
waterproof
spare shoes

I'm aiming for the 9.12 out of Prittlewell, should be into Saunderton for 11.50ish, then 10 miles to walk.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Kim on 07 June, 2018, 10:50:49 am
I am getting my brain into gear. Trying to think of things I haven't packed and should have done. I have:

tent
footprint
downmat & pump
cotton liner
quilt
clothes, multiples thereof
water
medication
some food
stove
fuel
pans
cutlery and crockery
electrickery
toiletries & towel
waterproof
spare shoes

I'm aiming for the 9.12 out of Prittlewell, should be into Saunderton for 11.50ish, then 10 miles to walk.

You appear to have forgotten your bike.   :P
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 07 June, 2018, 02:27:38 pm
Am in a pub in Radnage. Might stay here....
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Kim on 07 June, 2018, 08:08:05 pm
As barakta couldn't make it, I've cancelled the car and am using cycle touring tactics.  I've ridden to Chipping Norton, and am staying at the Club site.  Will ride to Watlington tomorrow.

Bloody hell, the pollen!
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: andrewc on 07 June, 2018, 08:31:30 pm
I had a trouble free train ride to Oxford, then followed my stored route out of town.  I’d used CycleStreets & selected the “quiet route” option. This was mostly OK, quiet back roads though little villages. Then it routed me on a short stretch of bridleway. No problem in the dry & I was feeling quite pleased with the route.  Then it led me onto a “restricted road” which started a bit rough & then became a dead straight line of waist high grass between 2 wheat fields, then a narrow lane between hedges with knee high nettles, as I was wearing shorts & sandals this did not please me. Ankle deep mud in places as well.


This came out into a lane near Watlington, where I encountered Cycleman & Apollo who led me to the Co-op where I stocked up.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 07 June, 2018, 09:13:28 pm
I walked about 7 miles, including an unintended diversion within a wood. Given that that had taken me about 4 hours, including a pub in Radnage, and the next 6 miles included no bail-out options or water refil possibilities, I took a taxi. Am now full of fish and chips and AndrewC has just passed the red wine.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: JBB on 07 June, 2018, 09:56:56 pm
Just about to shower after eating. Really nice site and lovely neighbours who plied me with tea. See you tomorrow!
Julia
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 08 June, 2018, 04:26:07 am
It would appear that some of the red kites are now so old that they steal food from people’s hands. Apollo lost his burger in this manner.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Butterfly on 08 June, 2018, 08:24:55 am
It would appear that some of the red kites are now so old that they steal food from people’s hands. Apollo lost his burger in this manner.
They were doing that last time we were there - I think it's down to the instructions not to feed them. They've got much bolder.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Kim on 09 June, 2018, 09:21:44 am
We're camping.  The wether's decent.  There was FIRE.  It's all good.

Further development on the burger theft incident: Wowbagger has been seen controlling the red kites remotely with some kind of app...
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 09 June, 2018, 12:54:24 pm
http://gentlemancyclist.org.uk/2018/06/09/watlington-weekend/
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Steph on 09 June, 2018, 05:34:29 pm
Missing this. You are all GITS. I hope it's a bloody good weekend!
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: barakta on 09 June, 2018, 08:15:08 pm
If it's any consolation, I'm missing it too. I was booked in to work sort of Fri and Mon and couldn't spare the spoons... Then Monday got cancelled but it was too late...

Oh well, getting work done at 3am when Kim isn't here... and listening to bad music. Haven't quite bought bananas into the house tho ;)
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: andrewc on 09 June, 2018, 09:06:15 pm
Hope you are cooking all the garlic!  :-*
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Kim on 09 June, 2018, 11:49:16 pm
Someone has parked a helicopter in the far corner of the rally field. They flew in low to avoid radar and test our guy ropes...
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: andrewc on 10 June, 2018, 09:11:16 am
The Red Kites strike again!  One has just swooped down & flown off with Julia’s bright orange gilet.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 10 June, 2018, 02:47:07 pm
It also nicked her YACF buff. You avian clothing felon!

I left Watlington at about 10.30 with the intention of walking to Lewknor for the Oxford Tube to London. However, I got there so quickly, and had been informed that there was a drinking water tap at the Natural England building a little further on that I decided to carry on to Princes Risborough. I am now enjoying a salmon and rice salad at a pub in Bledlow (don’t tell him!)
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Kim on 10 June, 2018, 03:00:09 pm
The gilet has been sighted falling out of a tree into an adjacent field.  A rescue mission is being put together just as soon as someone can find some nettle-proof trousers...
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Kim on 10 June, 2018, 03:19:14 pm
The gilet has been retrieved!  It's not even covered in kite shite.
No sign of the buff (or jacks, or veggieburgers), unfortunately.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 10 June, 2018, 04:09:31 pm
Good news about the gilet!

I am on a train to West Ruislip. What a weekend of new experiences! Geocaching yesterday, West Ruislip today!

I had a terrific walk to Princes Risible but I am a bit disappointed with the paucity of wildlife. I would heartily recommend the Lions at Bledlow. Good beer and a splendid salmon salad with rice, and the approach across a wheat field with a game of cricket going on in the valley, and the sudden appearance of a steam train, was quintessentially English.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Butterfly on 10 June, 2018, 04:39:41 pm
The gilet has been retrieved!  It's not even covered in kite shite.
No sign of the buff (or jacks, or veggieburgers), unfortunately.

Great news  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 10 June, 2018, 08:11:39 pm
Home now. Just weighed my pack - 15kg! I walked over 10 miles with that today. Not entirely flat either.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: JBB on 10 June, 2018, 10:26:10 pm
The gilet has been retrieved!  It's not even covered in kite shite.
No sign of the buff (or jacks, or veggieburgers), unfortunately.
Superb work all. Obviously a smelly gilet was surplus to requirements! Very happy to pay postage or bung to charity of your choice. Legs were good today so all the way back to The New Forest. Now finishing my second pint of Palmers Copper. I recommend it....
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: nikki on 10 June, 2018, 11:13:21 pm
A fab few days - thanks to all who made it so.  :thumbsup:


No sign of the buff

They seem to have had it hung it up next to the gilet at one point...

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/27852787997_dee8ee48d8_c.jpg)


Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 11 June, 2018, 12:17:31 am
It was a lovely few days! Excellent to see everyone - I'll bring a bike to the next one, and possibly Jan as well. Although if she comes our camping will be far from light. It will be a bloody great Vango Icarus 500.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: bikepacker on 11 June, 2018, 10:35:28 am
Arrived home yesterday afternoon after a nice easy ride to Oxford and then train to Morton in Marsh. Decided to get off there to have a longer ride home as it was such a nice day.

Thanks to all there for making it a very enjoyable weekend and special thanks to Rich for organising and inviting us to his birthday bash.

Alan
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Kim on 11 June, 2018, 04:34:15 pm
Home via a train from High Wycombe this morning, as I didn't feel up to riding all the way back.  Managed Watlington Hill without too much drama, so I think I just need some decent rest.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: RichForrest on 11 June, 2018, 08:03:14 pm
Brilliant, good weather and great company  8)
Really enjoyed it and it beats hiring a hall for 1 day as some do.
We got home lunchtime and are now sorting stuff out for a few days in the lakes .
Thanks to all again for making it such a good weekend  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Wowbagger on 11 June, 2018, 08:40:08 pm
(https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/35123449_2015966438722555_8326650395220770816_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&oh=4445c49c51c2762527d8a8242822f1f5&oe=5BB1E4A1)

That was my route to Princes Risible - a fraction over 10 miles, I reckon. The lunch at the Lions at Bledlow was very good, as was the ale.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Kim on 11 June, 2018, 09:23:22 pm
A few photos:

(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/richforrest_50th/2018_06_09_17_56_06.sized.jpg)
Not all lightweight campers travel by bicycle...

(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/richforrest_50th/2018_06_08_23_16_36.sized.jpg)
"DO NOT INFLATE BY FARTING"?

(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/richforrest_50th/2018_06_08_20_50_17.sized.jpg)
FIRE!

(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/richforrest_50th/2018_06_10_22_29_06.sized.jpg)
Astro-meta-photography opportunity

(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/richforrest_50th/2018_06_10_22_29_17.sized.jpg)
Fireside puns

Helicopter taking off (video's a bit crap, it's from my old MotoG):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0WRZYY8JdI
https://youtu.be/W0WRZYY8JdI
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 13 June, 2018, 09:17:57 am
Everything that has been said and more. The field was large and green, the fire was huge and firey, the helicopter was large and aubergine, the sun was hot and burnt my ankle, the food was tasty, the kites were red and cheeky, the people were fun and wheelpants were worn. Vast thanks to Rich for having a birthday and a great idea to celebrate it.
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: cycleman on 14 June, 2018, 09:16:23 pm
A very enjoyable weekends camping. Apollo enjoyed himself., the ridgeway was dry ,the Potter to thame. ,was pleasant as was the company as always.



  https://photos.app.goo.gl/dsBQG22cXVvtFRJTA
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: nikki on 15 June, 2018, 09:59:23 am
I finally got my photos uploaded:

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1735/40984012620_391993c6b7_c.jpg)

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/892/40983557950_e97739481c_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1750/28928941548_b3f36e4e6d_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1735/42084591294_692b3420c0_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1731/28928504938_d72b3b8d6f_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1744/42084308374_d9b9f4f94c_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1728/42086140014_9f41b9b460_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1738/40992187280_0466777523_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1745/27934042707_422e9162bd_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1730/41902731785_f29f1eddeb_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1735/41902783755_9eafd5531f_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1726/41902795095_06fba4a14d_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1746/27934335957_1347f41260_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1734/27934399607_7da86dca47_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1751/40992674290_bee1bb3db9_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/42085940304_192f8dd072_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1731/42086000224_bfc23c7e06_c.jpg)

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/884/40993053910_94ddc985d2_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1721/28930136698_69e258230f_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1756/42803539521_a7436f869a_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/42086328844_e2636c91b0_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1736/42803657861_c3df4a1669_c.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1739/27935024237_45ba9d54b5_c.jpg)

Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 June, 2018, 10:43:00 am
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1756/42803539521_a7436f869a_c.jpg)
I sat round the fire, I saw the helicopter land, how did I miss the time when we melted it?
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: nikki on 15 June, 2018, 10:40:45 pm
I think we're missing a jellycopter opportunity here...
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 15 June, 2018, 11:08:21 pm
Let's make one, then! If we can join all the baguettes in the Co-op together with cable ties to make a kite-poking stick, a jellycopter will be easy. In fact, I'm sure Nye's already made one!
Title: Re: Rich's 50th, Watlington camping weekend June 7th - 11th 2018
Post by: Steph on 25 June, 2018, 05:52:15 am
Let's make one, then! If we can join all the baguettes in the Co-op together with cable ties to make a kite-poking stick, a jellycopter will be easy. In fact, I'm sure Nye's already made one!
Calling Wobbly John...