31st July 2025: New Brighton

 There was a low turnout  today for the MOD+ group which left Chris and myself to take on the Wirral. As we had both cycled in we already had a few miles under our belts and decided to try for a ton ride.

We selected a previous ‘Clive’ route which saw us venture through Thornton Hough, heading NW - into a 15mph gusting 25+ headwind (thought I’d put that in for the Wind Wisperer) lol. With Chris tucked in behind we powered our way forward to reach the Moels Beachhead. Expecting to be battered by the unforgiving tempest. To our surprise, it was serene calmness as we effortlessly headed East across the top of the Wirral. Well at least it was effortless for Chris.lol.

The plan was to thread our way to the Ferry Cafe for lunch. However, at this point the Garmin had a pesky dose of the navigation gremlins and we spent a good hour making a couple of detours, including a hawthorne bush I fell into whilst trying to squint at my Garmin. After Chris had stopped laughing we moved on through Central Park and eventually found the Ferry. The pub that is!

At this point Chris looked little disappointed and pointed out that the other group may be having fish and chips at the Seaside Cafe in New Brighton.  I couldn’t disappoint the lad, as he’d been my wingman all morning. So off we set to NB.

On arrival there was no sign of the other group but as Chris was salivating over the fish special - we both tucked into a portion each. Well we had another 60 and 50 miles to go respectively, we needed the calories.

We then headed South along the Mersey where a camping trailer crossed our path without a car attached to it. The owner was very apologetic as he arrived breathless from a steep side road.(see photo).

On we cycled, wind behind us now through the Birkenhead docks and back through Eastham before turning West again towards Ness. We detoured to Netts for a brew before setting off back into Wales and down the Dee path to cross the river at Saltney. We then skirted Kinnerton down Stringers Lane and into Rossett.  Marford hill was the last climb of the day as we headed down into Holt/Farndon crossing the A583 to Weitreins Lane and on to Tilston.

 Chris and I parted ways at Carden Park as he was making his way back to Chester for his 100.

 A great days riding with good company, I’d just wish he’d slow down a bit.

Chris - ‘ You can be my Wingman any day’

SP

31st July 2025: Ness to Hoylake

 After some gentle persuasion from ST and DH, I plotted a route starting and ending in Ness. For reasons unknown, we had a strong turnout from the Mod riders this week—ST, DH, TC, GW, Keith, and Roy (joined by his partner, Carmen). Shane arrived with young Chris, who turned out to be the only fast riders in the group

We set off at a lively pace from Ness, heading through Burton and onto Willaston, where we turned down Mill Lane—an intriguing route featuring several historic buildings and an old windmill, sadly now without its sails.

From there, we continued towards Raby and Thornton Hough. Roy pointed out that the Wheatsheaf in Raby is known for serving up a solid meal, popular with local bikers.

We passed through Thornton Hough, then on to Brimstage and towards the Lever Causeway. Dave H began to worry we’d be forced onto the old Roman road through Landican, but I reassured him we’d be staying on the Lever cycle path toward Prenton Mount Road.

As we approached Burrell Road, I warned everyone—especially Trevor—to stay in a higher gear, as the left turn brings some sharp climbs. The houses along this stretch are massive, with many still featuring old servant entrances.

Down Waterpark Road, we entered the Woodchurch Estate. Dave commented that it reminded him of Beirut—though whether that was about the architecture or atmosphere is still up for debate. One house did feature a striking mural of Tranmere Rovers players, including (we think) Johnny King. DH later Googled it during lunch to confirm.

We continued on to Greasby, then on through Saughall Massie. This quaint village has a house dating back to 1539, the time of Henry VIII. Entering Garden Hey Road, we moved onto Carr Lane, where Dave noticed a sign restricting traffic. Being a local, I assured him bikes were welcome, and we continued over the Meols railway line toward Hoylake Promenade.

At this point, the wind picked up considerably, testing everyone’s strength. Roy mentioned that Chris Boardman had recently purchased the old Hoylake Lifeboat Station—but he wasn’t in when we passed, so no chance to say hello!

Our lunch stop was Barbetta’s Café, a first for many of us. Thanks to Trevor’s top-notch navigation, we parked the bikes safely in the back garden. The café was a pleasant surprise—great menu, reasonably priced, with a mouthwatering selection of homemade pies and hearty meals.

GW, however, repeated his classic mistake and ordered chips. Few were eaten, despite them being excellent.

We rolled on, climbing Frankby Hill—one of DH’s favourite areas on the Wirral and a welcome diversion from the usual Wirral Way. Riding towards Irby, we veered right past Pensby School and then on to Heswall Dales. I commented to ST that a million pounds might just get you a modest house in this area.

From there, we took Oldfield Road through Heswall and down to Gayton. I believe Mike McCartney (Paul’s brother) lives nearby. Passing the historic Gayton Gates, we cycled along Boathouse Lane. DH seemed briefly disoriented, but I reassured him he was in good hands—after all, I’ve looked after GW before!

We then cruised into Neston and back to Ness Gardens. Final mileage: 36.7 miles, and for once, ST—no rain!😁😁

Ray

See route map and/or gpx file download