Spend a day at the sales, whilst out on your bike. Route specificly chosen to be rideworthy in potential winter conditions. Hot & cold food/drink available at all controls, just in case the day's a bit on the chilly side.
The first stage heads north from Tewkesbury along Worcestershire lanes for a breakfast stop at Rowberry's Nursery.
Then quiet rural roads through 'Shakespear's County' and early(ish) lunch at M40 services (Warwick South).
The rest of the ride is spent in the Cotswolds - so no excuse for not keeping warm. An afternoon stop at The Old Mill Cafe in Chipping Norton. after a few more undulations the final part of enjoying The Cotswolds is descending Soudley hill to Winchcombe - The ancient capital of Mercia.
The final dozen kilometers are a gentle traverse across The Severn Vale back to Tha Royal Hop Pole in Tewkesbury, where Mr. Pickwick drank too much ale. For the interested, there are some pics and write-ups concerning Charles Dickens' links with the departure/arrivee.
Instant validation available for this event, so no need for brevet return SAE.
If you use GPS - .tcx files supplied. Routesheet also supplied electronicly (MS Xls) - so no need for route-return SAE.
Or go completely electronic and use Paypal. I don't know how so much cycling entertainment can be crammed-into one ride for only a pound*
If you're riding Kings, Castles, Priests and Churches on December 2nd, you can effectively get this ride for free **
*postal entries only.
** Offset against parking discount on this ride.
Please note the ride departure is from the Gloucester Road car park at 07.00, basic start, toilets available.