LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

DISTANCE

62 miles (98km)

GRADE

Moderate. The profile looks like a rumpled rug, but over 60-odd miles all those short ups and downs can start to take their toll. Plus, a lot of the route is exposed and can be windy.

DOWNLOAD

mapmyride.com/routes/ view/151499635

GETTING THERE

Doncaster and Retford train stations

WHERE TO STAY

We stayed at the four-star, bike-friendly Ye Olde Bell in Barnby Moor, a five-mile ride from Retford. It’s a beautiful, sprawling former coaching inn dating back to the 17th century that now boasts luxurious rooms, two restaurants, a bar and a health spa. Double B&B rooms from £129 per night. yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk

FOOD AND DRINK

For refuels during the ride we recommend Mama Giusi’s Italian coffee shop in Carolgate, Retford, for its cappuccinos and cannoli, plus there is seating outside. Café Roubaix, also in Retford, serves coffee, cakes, and fishfinger sandwiches. You can watch live cycling on TV knowing that CCTV has your bike covered in the rear courtyard.

HARWORTH AND DISTRICT CC

Club rides take place every Sunday morning, departing from the Harworth and Bircotes Sports and Social Club, hdcc.co.uk

LOCAL BIKE SHOP

Bridgegate Cycles in Retford is an Aladdin’s Cave of bikes, parts and history, all governed over by larger-than-life owner Dom Battersby. bridgegatecycles.co.uk

TOURIST INFO

experience nottinghamshire.com