Devised and planned by Cycling UK, King Alfred’s Way is a 350km-long ride around south-east England.

Although the historical city of Winchester is regarded as the start and finishing point for this predominantly off-road route, Reading, or more specifically my sister’s house in nearby Tilehurst, was where I rode out from one May morning in 2021.

I followed the route in the suggested clockwise direction, taking 4 leisurely days and wild camping along the way. The ride could also have been done in 3 longer days, but I was in no rush. I’d read of people riding it in 2 days, which would have just been a slog and no real fun.