Cycling through the heart of Britain's camping history, I embarked on a journey that paid homage to the pioneers of outdoor exploration. From Oxford to Surrey, I traced the footsteps of Thomas Hiram Holding, the founder of the Camping and Caravanning Club (CCC), and his vision for a cycling-centric camping experience. This trip wasn't just about the miles; it was a celebration of the club's 125th anniversary and a chance to reconnect with the roots of modern camping.
The CCC's story began in 1901 when Holding, an avid camper, met Rev EC Pitt-Johnson in Oxford. Their shared passion for camping and cycling led to the formation of the Association of Cycle Campers, which later evolved into the CCC. Holding's innovation didn't stop at the club's inception; he also invented camping gear, from lightweight tents to cycle touring bags, understanding the health benefits of outdoor living.
As I pedaled along National Cycle Route 57, the e-bike I'd rented in Jericho added a modern twist to the traditional camping experience. My first stop was Bella Vista Camping in Radnage, a family-run site nestled on the Chiltern Cycleway. Here, I encountered a field dedicated to tents, a nod to the CCC's inclusive approach to camping. The site's proximity to the Crown Pub and the Old Fisherman pub provided convenient breaks, and the presence of Soay sheep and alpacas added a touch of rural charm.
Continuing east, the Phoenix Trail, part of Route 57, offered a smooth glide through the countryside. I passed by the remnants of a disused railway, now a cyclist's paradise, and imagined the days when Towersey Halt was a bustling station. Holding's early camping adventures, including a canoe trip in Ireland, inspired his belief in the power of cycle camping.
The journey took an unexpected turn as I ventured into the Thames-side towns of Marlow and Cookham, where my e-bike setup sparked curiosity. The quiet roads of Windsor Great Park provided a serene contrast to the gravel tracks of Egham. Staines and Chertsey, with their designated bike lanes, made the final stretch a breeze, culminating in a ferry crossing over the Thames at Shepperton.
At the CCC's Walton-on-Thames campsite, a stark contrast to the modern amenities I've grown accustomed to, I encountered a bygone era. The campsite, once described as a haven of homemade tents and wood fires, now caters primarily to motorhomes and caravans. However, my eco-friendly Poopaloo toilet and the sepia photographs of vintage tents added a touch of nostalgia.
Holding's The Campers Handbook, published in 1908, offered a glimpse into the past, with gender-specific attire recommendations that would be considered outdated today. Yet, the spirit of adventure and exploration remains unchanged. I embraced one of Holding's favorite activities, canoeing, at Hampton Court Paddle Sports, just a short cycle away. The experience, enhanced by an e-bike, allowed me to explore at a leisurely pace, enjoying the sights and sounds of the Thames.
As I reflected on the past 125 years of camping evolution, it became clear that while the tents and modes of transport have changed, the essence of adventure and exploration remains. The CCC's membership, now over 300,000 households strong, is a testament to the enduring appeal of camping. Despite being a minority pursuit, the joy of cycling and camping remains a powerful combination, one that Thomas Hiram Holding envisioned and continues to inspire generations of outdoor enthusiasts.
