Out on the TPT: A Halloween Night Ride Adventure

Last Friday, as Halloween night swept in with wet and windy weather, I joined a group of adventurous cyclists for a unique night ride along the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) in Doncaster. The event, organised by Mark Morgan, a British Cycling Community Ride Leader, was a “there and back” journey from Anchorage Lane to Pastures Lodge in Mexborough, promising not just exercise but a dose of Halloween spirit.

The evening began at the recreation ground on Anchorage Lane, where trick-or-treaters were making their way along Anchorage Lane and cyclists appeared out of the darkness, their torches blazing, to join me at the meeting point. After brief introductions and a group photocall, we set off along the Trail towards Sprotbrough, braving the elements and into the unknown.

The group started with ten cyclists, but a sharp rainstorm just ten minutes into the ride whittled the number down to eight. Fortunately, the rain was short-lived, leaving behind a beautiful night-time vista. The ride became a sensory experience – limited visibility meant the arch of light in front of us from our bike lights was crucial, and the sounds and smells of the Trail were heightened. Damp vegetation, the hoot of an owl, the gentle flow of the River Don and the giant pillars of Conisbrough Viaduct all added to the atmosphere.

Halloween touches were everywhere: Mark’s mask and bike light cover, a couple walking with a glowing pumpkin, and the eerie Cadeby Tunnel – unused for nearly 50 years and rumoured to be a hotspot for paranormal activity. The tunnel was a perfect stop on a Halloween ride, where every echo seemed to whisper ghost stories.

At Pastures Lodge, the group paused for refreshments before the return journey and I was delighted to sample a pint of “Phantasm,” a Halloween-themed brew from Acorn Brewery in Barnsley. We took our drinks outside, sharing stories and reflecting on the joys of night cycling and why we’d braved the weather: the joy of group cycling, social interaction, and the motivation to get outdoors even when conditions were less than ideal.

Cycling at night is a different beast to daytime cycling – familiar routes feel new and adventurous, and equipment like bike and head torches become essential.

The ride was mainly flat with a few short hills, and the camaraderie was palpable. Riders pointed out hazards, supported each other, and expressed gratitude to Mark for organising this and other rides. For some, like Malc, a long distance lorry driver, these rides are the main form of exercise and provide the flexibility for him to get out between long distant hauls. The benefits go beyond fitness though, cycling offers mental well-being, social connection, and the simple pleasure of a sandwich or pint along the way.

As we made our way back, riders peeled off as they reached the nearest point of the route to their home, until we were left with four of us who retired to the nearby McDonalds for a warming hot chocolate and a well deserved meal for the leader before I said my farewells and returned to the car to make my way home, reflecting on a memorable and very enjoyable ride of adventure, community, and seasonal spookiness.

Thanks to Mark for organising and for his encouragement along the ride, and to Malc, Dave. Dicky. Steve, Jeff and Adrian for their company, stories, and good humour throughout the evening.  Nights like these remind me that cycling is more than just the miles travelled – it’s  about shared experiences, laughter, and the sense of adventure that comes from exploring together, whatever the time of day and whatever the weather!

Mark often arranges rides through the British Cycling Let’s Ride portal and his Cycling Trails to Cafes Facebook page and had another one planned on Sunday, riding the Solar System Trail in York.   Check out his facebook page and the Let’s Ride website for details of rides near you.

Robert
Date: 7th November, 2025