Castle Wheelers
Castle Wheelers began in October 2017 when a handful of friends in Highcliffe decided to formalise their shared interest in cycling. Affiliated with Cycling UK, the club operates as a leisure and touring outfit, prioritising enjoyment over competition.
Members gather twice a week for rides that cover 20 to 30 miles, often looping back to starting points after a break for coffee and cake at local spots. These routes wind through off-road sections, New Forest tracks, and seaside stretches, making use of the area’s varied landscape.
Riders typically opt for hybrid, gravel, or electric bikes to handle the mix of surfaces, and everyone wears a helmet as standard practice. The emphasis remains on manageable paces and distances, appealing to those comfortable on two wheels but not seeking intense training sessions.
Social aspects form a core part of the club’s appeal. Annual events include a summer garden party and picnics in the New Forest, alongside a Christmas lunch and evenings combining skittles with supper.
Day trips extend the adventure further, with outings to the Isle of Wight, Durlston Castle near Swanage, Studland’s beaches, and the historic sites around Buckler’s Hard and Beaulieu.
These excursions allow members to explore beyond immediate surroundings, incorporating ferry crossings or longer paths for added variety.
The club meets at Highcliffe Castle for many starts, using the location’s car park and facilities as a convenient base before heading out.
Membership draws from locals keen on staying active in a group setting, with rides advertised in advance to ensure participants know the plan. The club’s website provides details on upcoming activities, while a Facebook page shares photos and updates from past rides, fostering a sense of community.
One notable ride involved navigating flooded paths, humorously dubbed requiring wetsuits and waders, highlighting the group’s light-hearted approach to unpredictable weather. Another event saw members participating in a sportive, showcasing their enthusiasm for organised challenges without the pressure of racing.
Beyond the rides, Castle Wheelers contributes to broader cycling initiatives in the region. A club secretary has advocated for more health-focused schemes, suggesting training for new riders to build confidence on roads.
This reflects an awareness of safety amid growing interest in cycling locally. The group’s presence at Highcliffe Castle ties into the site’s role as a community hub, where weekly rides commence, drawing on the area’s heritage and open spaces.