Andover Cycling Festival

Former professional racer, Harry Lodge of Halo Sports is backing the first Andover Cycling Festival on 22nd July 2018, Halo Sports, in partnership with Andover Vision (activity hub for Test Valley Borough Council), Hampshire County Council, Stannah Lifts and Bulpitt Print Ltd are organising the 1 day event. This first festival will feature sportive rides but Lodge has confirmed that town centre criterium racing is planned for 2019. There are 4 rides taking place - 2 sportive rides and 2 family fun rides. Under 16s have a free entry for the family rides The event is designed to encourage children and adults into activity through cycling. Start and finish is in Andover Town Centre, where there will be a cycling village of local clubs and trade stands- both cycling and food/drink. We are also trying to create an inspirational event for exercise and a healthier lifestyle, as well as integration for the various (ethnic) communities in and around Andover, as well as showcasing the town for tourists.

Welcome to the Andover Cycling Festival All ages and abilities are welcome to the Andover Cycling Festival

Chosen for their picturesque scenery, these rides showcase the outstanding natural beauty of the Hampshire countryside surrounding Andover.

The routes meander alongside crystal clear streams amid breathtakingly pretty scenery. As we pedal through leafy lanes, the hidden gems of villages reveal their quintessentially English charm.
Breakfast is served on a peaceful, lush, village green bordered by brooks with shady trees and comfortable benches to unwind and regenerate.
Largely traffic free and lined by flower spangled grass verges, woods and countryside, there’s plenty of space for a picnic and our refreshment stops are picked for their tranquillity, safety and idyllic locations. Great places to discover the delights of nature.

Our next catered stop (but you might find a nicer one among the country pubs and cafes en route), is in a fairly remote spot by a charming old church at the edge of ancient woodland. Although the scenery is unchanged by time, here you will find excellent, state of the art coffee, teas, cold drinks and snacks, served by Rob and Karen of Xpressofix.

There’s a soft green triangle of grass, benches and plenty of space to relax while taking in the great views.

From here it’s a stunning, long, mostly downhill run, just right to roll back into town at your leisure and explore Andover.

The 5 mile ride is as much as possible off road. It threads through parks and meadows and past lakes – using some routes of the Andover Cycleway network. Chosen for its safety, as well as beauty, it includes lots of fun activities along the way. There is an off road tunnel and woodland and two play areas with swings roundabouts, sand pits and facilities for young children and their families. Stop and pic-nic while they play or enjoy the catering facilities in the park.
Under 16’s go free! Why not get them on their bikes and help make them strong and healthy for a brighter future.

There is plenty of designated parking available at Beech Hurst, on the way into Andover and close to the start of the ride. There will be comprehensive signing of all routes and parking facilities.
It’s well worth travelling to discover the unspoilt treasures of hidden Hampshire and if it’s on your doorstep it’s even easier. So why not come along with family, friends or solo, pack up a pic-nic, take advantage of our catered stops and/or of the many pubs, cafes and eateries on the way and in Andover centre and take it at your own pace. Just for a day.

Put your bike on the train (Andover station is 1 mile from the ride start) or car and explore the Hampshire countryside, a great chance to train for ride London.
We think you’ll go home de-stressed and refreshed with brilliant memories of a great day out.
Time spent well !

Start & finish The Guildhall, High Street, Andover

65 miles (105km) Cycle Sportive Ride: Start 8.30am £20
40 miles (65km) Cycle Sportive Ride: Start 9.15am £18.00
15 miles (25km) Pedalata Family Fun Ride: Start 11.30am £3 Free for Under 16’s
5 miles (8km) Pedalata Family Fun Ride: Start 12pm £3 Free for Under 16’s
CONTACT halosports@hotmail.co.uk