Fickleshole GPX Route
Level: Blue - Moderate
Any bike | GPX Route | Traffic-free | Cycle paths & trails | Some hills | 23 miles | 4 to 5 hours
Ride
More of a workout than other Blue rides. this route links some remarkable hidden greenways from the Addington Hills, Selsdon Woods and Fickleshole hamlet. Taking in a wide variety of trail surfaces and a few hills, it is an excellent opportunity to learn/practice some basic bike riding skills.
Any questions? have a look at our FAQ's or Contact us
Ride Description
The route climbs to the top of Crystal Palace for great views over kent before plunging through the woods past the old Surrey canal reservoirs at South Norwood. Hopping from park to park, we make our way to Addington Heights and the viewing point over the ‘Croy-hatten’ skyline. Back into the woodland trails to the Harry Potteresque sounding hamlet of Fickleshole where the 16th Century White Bear Pub is a recommended feed stop.
Returning to Crystal Palace along a thread of woodland, popping out at Bedlam to follow the River Beck, past Elmer’s End (who WAS Elmer?) before climbing back up to Crystal Palace past the infamous dinosaurs and the forlorn Sphinx.
Start and End Points
Crystal Palace Station
Ride Details
- Distance: 36km | 22 miles
- Climb: 500m | 1650 ft
- Percentage off-road: 60%
- Trail surface: Natural |Gravel |Woodland Single Track
- Duration: 4 - 5 hours.
- Distance: 23 miles.
- Estimated average speed: 6/8 mph.
- Trails: 60% off-road with sections of natural trail combined with compact gravel and cycle paths and quiet roads.
- Technical Grade: Blue – well at the redder end of the blue grade – still a relaxed ride taken at an easy pace, with loads of opportunity to practise MTB/off-road riding skills.
Places to eat
11.5 miles: The White Bear
12.5 miles Franks Café, Unit 2, Vulcan Way CR0 9UG
Is this ride for me?
Ideal for riders with some off-road experience and reasonable fitness
Is my bike OK for this ride?
You can do this on a hybrid bike however it's more fun when ridden on an MTB or other Gravel/CX bike.