A good CER turnout had the staff of Delamere Station cafe busy serving drinks and snacks. There were seven in the brisk group:- John, Ray, Tom, Andy, Steve, myself , plus Nick who was on his inaugural ride with this group. John W also joined us for coffee but he had to return home for Grandad duties thus leaving us once we had agreed the proposed planned route to Wybunbury.
On departing the cafe, we headed left past Blakemere then turning right to weave our way through Norley and along Bag Lane into Cuddington. Once over the A49 we followed Hodge Lane ,crossing over A556, and then skirting around Sandiway Golf course. Very soon we entered Winsford and just as quickly left it following Swanlow Lane through to Church Minshull before entering Nantwich. Here, a small navigation error resulted in a double circuit of the Crewe Road roundabout before leaving on the Newcastle road to drop into Wybunbury at exactly 12 o’clock. Perfect timing, though our progress had been aided by a steady breeze.
The Swan bar area was very busy with people queuing to order food and drink but the staff and service were very efficient and the food arrived quickly. Food prices were pretty standard with the light bites around £7.95, but the CER tipple of choice (Lime and Soda) was a bit pricey at £1.60. While we ate, Tom regaled us with tales of his latest trip to Italy, including the vertical nature of the landscape, narrow roads, and an insight into the latest Italian cycle fashion!! This apparently did not include any Aldi special buys.
Once the food was consumed, we all convened for a quick photo in front of St Chad's Church. The 15th century tower here is all that remains of the original church and the tower leans to the north - a piece of useless information I gleaned from Wikipedia!
Leaning Tower of St Chad's |
Back on the road we returned to Nantwich, via Stapeley, before following a fairly standard route back through Wettenhall, skirting Oulton Park and crossing over the A49 at Cotebrook. At this point Ray, John and Tom left to return to Chester while the rest of us headed for Delamere.
The round trip back to Delamere was 70km (43miles) which was achieved at reasonably brisk pace. However with additional return mileages Andy and Tom clocked up about 100 miles and the Chester lads 75 miles. Thanks to everyone for a great day out despite the lingering grey skies and cool conditions.
KP
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