What route would you take for this journey...

[dodd82]

I commute from Loughton (Essex) to Broxbourne (Herts), leaving at about 7am.

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en...d2k&biw=908&bih=577&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wl

I leave Loughton through Epping Forest, up Goldings Hill and then down Woodridden Hill - follow the A121 to Waltham Cross and then along the High Street.

When it's light enough, I get on the canal path from the A121 instead of going through the high street.

I'm not a particularly fast cyclist and my bike is just a basic hybrid, though I am sure I'll be seduced into upgrading soon.

I just wondered if anyone here would take a different route?

Some of the A121 is national speed limit, but it's wide and most drivers are accommodating. Woodridden Hill on the way home is tough - steep and narrow, with no 'get out' until the top of the hill.

Apologies if this is a silly question unless you know the area, but was just interested!

 

[Venod]

Don't know the area at all, but I do like maps, Th B194 from Waltham Abbey to Lower Nazing looks a more interesting ride, but not knowing the area/road conditions I could be completely wrong.

 

[dodd82]

Don't know the area at all, but I do like maps, Th B194 from Waltham Abbey to Lower Nazing looks a more interesting ride, but not knowing the area/road conditions I could be completely wrong.

Interesting is the word!

It's called the Crooked Mile and is a bit of an accident hotspot. I sometimes ride down there but particularly through the winter, I tend to avoid it.

 

[mr_cellophane]

I drive that way some mornings when the M25 is busy between J28 & J27. I go up to Crown Hill and Horseshoe Hill. Much nicer route, especially for cycling.

 

[dodd82]

I drive that way some mornings when the M25 is busy between J28 & J27. I go up to Crown Hill and Horseshoe Hill. Much nicer route, especially for cycling.

I had wondered about that, but two concerns:

1. Horseshoe Hill can be quite narrow, can't it? If it's hilly then it's probably the same difficulty I face with Woodridden Hill?

2. The right turn onto the Epping Road - presumably difficult to achieve on a bike in rush hour?

What would be your thoughts?

Thanks!

 

[HLaB]

I dont know the area but I'd probably start by looking at Cyclestreets.

 

[dodd82]

I dont know the area but I'd probably start by looking at Cyclestreets.

Very kind, thanks.

Interesting route it takes - Avey Lane is narrow, and though 30mph, some idiots drive around the hidden bends like suicidal maniacs!