We get asked this question a lot of times. And the answer is – we don’t publish details about the route
We don’t know what the route and timing will be
- We don’t fix our plans until we test all of the routes a week before the ride. We often find unexpected problems such as road closures.
- Even then it’s usual for us to encounter problems on the day – like closures, congestion, accidents and other protests or events that were unknown to the police.
- We have alternative plans and contingencies. Ride leaders confer on the day to decide which options to take when there is a problem.
- The police have all our detailed plans including contingencies, but we do not share them elsewhere!
We want participants to be safe and avoid harassment
- Riders don’t need to know the route – they only need to know where and when to meet.
- It’s often people who only want to watch or photograph riders who want to know about the detailed routes and timings.
- As a protest we welcome positive publicity; we do co-operate with the media and responsible photographers.
- We also welcome genuine, supportive spectators sharing their photos and video.
- But we don’t want to make it any easier than it is for unwelcome photographers or troublemakers to find us en route.
- You can read more about good vs bad photography in our Photography Policy.
- Often it’s people with bad motives who make the biggest fuss about not knowing the detailed routes and timing!
