Last night I packed up all my gear (picture below) - it has been quite an investment over time, so I need to get some use from it.
I left on time with my first stop being Hassocks station, for a train ride to Chichester where I properly begin day 1 of riding. Like all good adventures, it started with a bit of a blip... Train delays and worries of overcrowding (how to get my bike on!) and thoughts that I should have gone with my original plan of cycling, at least to Hove. However, the weather was a bit wet and grey, and I am not in any great rush.
Finally, I got a train into Brighton, then rode a couple of miles to Hove before boarding the Chichester train - all good in the end!
Nice route from Chichester to Portsmouth - a bit of gravel, cycle paths and roads. Just after Portsmouth the cycle path was blocked (construction work), which resulted in a detour, but finally found my way back to the route. Cycling through parts of Southampton were a bit grotty but then it started to get a bit more scenic as I hit the outskirts of the New Forest.
I got to the campsite but couldn't resist a pint of cool Peroni at the local pub before heading to my pitch.
No problems with the tent and cooking on my little stove - barbecued pulled pork, rice, coffee and a protein bar. The campsite is very peaceful, only one other couple on other side, and lots of sheep to keep me company.
Going to hit the sack soon, as I expect it will be an early start - longer ride tomorrow with plenty of climbing. Let's hope I sleep well!
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