This ride actually took place six weeks ago, but already it felt like autumn was around the corner. First though the familiar streets of West London, then in Hanwell a detour, back onto the canal. At times this branch of the Grand Union is lined with huge factories, legacies from when the water was a lifeline and goods were shipped all over the place using this narrow stretch of water. Or the housing estates that have cropped up in their place - sometimes on their place. It's like riding through a tunnel.
At other points the canal widens out and dozens of boats are moored, bobbing up and down ever so slightly. Traveling by canal, whether boat or bike, is a slow (there are numerous annoying gates, to prevent motorbikes from tearing up the paths I suppose) yet satisfying way to travel.
Uxbridge is your standard edge city but with a tube station that must be one of the most striking on the system. It is a favourite for the nicest station visited on the travels. The final award is still up for grabs.
Even six weeks ago the days were getting shorter, and it was lights on over the few suburban miles to West Ruislip.
