Date: Tuesday 23rd August 2011
Route: WP, Clearbrook, Plym Valley Track, Cann Woods, Plym Valley Track, Clearbrook, HQ.
Riders: Alex, Nick, Julian, Greg, James, Gidon, Keith & Colin.
Depart WP: 19:45
Arrive HQ: 22:00
Distance: 18 miles
Weather: Murky/threatening, but ultimately dry

This week’s report kindly contributed (mostly) by the Forestry Commission website:

On the east side of Plymouth lies Cann Woods (also known locally as Plym Forest) in the valley of the stunning River Plym. Entering the wood you can cycle whilst taking in the views and wildlife of this beautiful valley (unless you’re on a night mission from Yelverton, in which case you’ll be focused intently on the circle of light directly in front!).

For the cyclist, Cann Woods provides opportunities for cycling along varied terrain in a woodland environment (Including gut-wrenching bomb holes, slippery roots, and the spooky, twisting turns of the ‘Blair Witch’ Trail)!

Covering an area of some 230 hectares the woods are a prominent feature of the surrounding landscape and are an excellent example of forest management with areas of both coniferous plantation (Caution, sharp! Just ask James...) and broad-leaved woodland. The wide rides serve as tracks for cyclists and walkers alike and also provide access to the heart of the wood for forestry vehicles. It is also possible to access a medium distance Sustrans cycle route and neighbouring National Trust land.

Access By bike: Follow the Clearbrook-Marsh Mills Sustrans route (from WP, via ‘Shoulder-Breaker Bridge’), and enter Forestry Commission woods at Plymbridge. Be sure to keep your wits about you and your eye on the bike in front, case of sudden and unannounced Julian braking! Please note that cycling is not permitted on the Blue Walk (Did we....? Whoops!?).

Interesting Facts:
Cann Woods is recorded as far back as the 15th century when it was part of the Manor of Boringdon. The nearby Iron Age fort of Boringdon Camp is believed to date from 350BC to 150BC. Its name comes from the Saxon 'Burth Y Don' meaning the entrenched place on the hill (How did they get ‘Cann’ from that?!).

Footnote:
Having mentioned to Colin at work that I had been up to Cann last weekend and found some interesting trails to ride, I found myself nominated route planner come Tuesday. The pressure was on to show the fellas a good time, and we set off from WP with me hoping I could find said tracks again in the dark! I did find them, and I think a good time was had by all. Back in good time for the pub too…

Reporter: Alex

Prseident's Footnote: Cann Woods, a good place to go when it's cold and wet I always thought, but being taken there with a proper guide makes all the difference. Still hate that long slog home though.