- Starts: Tuesday 9 June 2026 7:15 pm and ends: 10:00 pm
- Ride leader/Event organiser: Phil Beed
- Supported by: Clive Dakin
- Category: Other events
- Terrain: B - Very hilly
- Duration: ev - Evening
- Estimated moving average speed: 10-11mph (16-18kph Easy+)
- Ascent: 2,108ft / 640m
At: Stowford Manor Farm
Wingfield
Trowbridge
BA14 9LH
More details and map
Contact us about this event
Send an email to leader: Phil Beed.
Send an email to supporter: Clive Dakin.
Send an email to both Phil Beed and Clive Dakin.
Map
Solsbury Hill – Evening Ride
“Solsbury Hill was written shortly after Peter left Genesis. He was inspired to write it after meditating at Little Solsbury Hill in Somerset”
The site of an Iron Age Hill Fort, Solsbury Hill is to the North East of Bath and has commanding views over the city.
On last years Mendips trip we stopped at the location during one of our rides. As Stowford Manor is reasonably close by I thought it would be even better to pay an evening visit so we can see the City Lights. I can’t promise an Eagle flying out of the Night, but who knows?
The Plan:
Sunset on Tues 9th June is 21:16hr
The ride to Solsbury Hill is approx. 17Km from the campsite, so leaving about 7.15pm should get us there for 8:15pm.
I’ll take my camping stoves and cook some frankfurter hot dogs (with onions, ketchup, etc.) Bring your own beer or soft drinks.
We’ll wait to see the city lights come on, and then head home. Expect to get back to the campsite around 10pm-10.30pm
Route out:
There are two options both the same distance. Road route easier cycling, but hillier and with traffic. Following the Canal is slower going but flatter and traffic free.
My preference is the canal route providing we have not had rain prior to the ride.
The final 2Km is all up hill – no surprise really, and the last 300m Solsbury Lane going up to the fort is particularly steep.
Route back:
We’ll take a road route back via Bradford on Avon, you will need lights.
For anyone wanting to come by car I recall there were a small number of parking places at the top of Solsbury Lane. A better option might be to park in Batheaston and take one of the various footpaths to the top of the hill.
In addition to beer and bike lights I suggest bringing a warm jacket, a hat and leg warmers as it will get colder after sunset.
If you want to join the ride please let me know.
I’ll be asking £2 per person towards the frankfurters & can also do vegetarian if required.
Any questions please ask.
Bookings for this ride/event
This ride/event is unlimited and booking is not required. You're welcome to turn up on the day. Please come back to this page before joining in case we have to cancel or postpone.