1st August 2024: Foulk Stapleford (mod)

There was a reasonable turnout at the Gladstone despite some not being available for various reasons. As far as the mod group were concerned, Dave Matthews had a car to pick up from a garage, Dave Pipe relished a lone challenge of the Welsh hills with electrical assistance and Jim was riding home where he  had workmen arriving. Then there were two little piggies left: Andy Barber and myself. I had had a strenuous day attacking my back garden in the heat, followed by losing sleep because of the dog being unsettled by the overnight thunder. I was too knackered for a day in the hills. So it was that we decide on Walk Mill as a lunch destination

Dave Matthews threaded us through Queensferry, and then we cycled down the side of the Dee to Chester racecourse. Dave was first to take his leave, later followed by Jim as we split off for Christleton at Piper’s Ash. Andy then suggested an off-piste route that he had been introduced to by Clive. I had been interested in this possible exploration before, but not being local had not got around to it. I was glad we made the effort, but since Andy and Clive’s last visit the path through Hockenhull Platts has become a jungle in parts. If you fancy trying this route it is a very attractive diversion through a nature reserve but take a machete. It is situated on a continuation of Plough Lane where cars must turn left for Cotton Hall and Stamford Mill, but pedestrians and cyclists can carry straight on. The River Gowy section is crossed by three old, cobbled packhorse bridges. It is part of the Baker Way which links Chester and Delamere railway stations and is named after Jack Baker a former footpaths officer for Cheshire. Stung by nettles and bloodied by thorny bramble, we eventually reached Walk Mill. It was a relaxed lunch with friendly, efficient service and decent grub. Our conversation was wide ranging and included  discussing cycling in France in the Luberon Valley and up Mont Ventoux. Andy’s experience was extensive compared to my own forays on hired hybrids. We returned via Waverton and Christleton  before reaching the river  below Grosvenor Park. The Groves were filled with people enjoying the sunny holiday weather, licking ice cream and taking boat trips. We crossed the river  at Saltney and skirted the airport before heading up to Hawarden by way of Rake Lane. We finished up back at the Gladstone café with coffee and a sweet. A shortish but very enjoyable ride in interesting company. 

Photo by DH

DH