By the way, does anyone know of any other similar rides locally?
Eureka Cyclists Cafe organise an anniversary ride each year, one mile per year of existence. So this year, seeing as it's the 81st anniversary of the cafe, it's an 81 mile ride across Cheshire. There are also shorter options.
Sunday 29th August - Start at the Cafe at two Mills.
81 miles : Start at 9:00 with lunch at Holt
50 miles : Start at 9:30 with lunch at Holt
33 miles : Start at 10:00 lunch at the finish, the Eureka Cafe
http://www.eurekacyclistscafe.co.uk/
Cost of entry is usually just a few quid. Last year that included hot lunch at Holt (beans on toast, tea and fruit cake), energy drink from SIS and a goody bag at the end.
You won't find a better value organised ride, though there usually are no road signs or marshals. The route is usually made available in advance and I just program it into my Garmin bike computer. If you turn up, just tag along with another group.