Today’s ride, aptly named The Wirral Rover, took us across a mix of old favourites and new discoveries on the Wirral Peninsula. After a bit of persuasion, both Clive and Alan agreed that the route was well worth exploring.
Although several regulars couldn’t make it, we still had a solid group of
seven riders. I set off at a decent pace—only to realise a little later that
I’d left a few behind, possibly still deep in conversation! Once regrouped, we
headed towards Hooton and Eastham, picking up speed as we warmed up.
From Eastham, we joined the old
Lever railway track, a route that Alan proudly reminded us he
was the first to introduce to the Chester Easy Riders.
I tried to sprinkle in a bit of local Wirral history along the way—did you
know that Chariots of Fire
was filmed at Bebington
Oval Sports Centre? From there, we continued towards Storeton
and Oxton. I had hoped these roads might be new territory, but Alan, Clive, and
young Chris had all been there before.
Determined to uncover fresh ground, we pressed on through Upton Village and Greasby, where Alan
finally admitted the route was new to him—success at last!
Riding along the Hoylake front, we stopped for lunch at Barbetta Café. Clive
and Alan looked a little unsure at first, but any doubts vanished once the food
arrived. The range and quality were excellent—Keith especially enjoyed his Brie
and chips, and young Chris somehow managed to polish off his own plate of chips
and a handmade
sausage roll as well as Keith's chips, which were left behind (well done,
Chris!).
After lunch, the skies darkened, and Andy was keen to get back before
nightfall. We picked up the pace along the Hoylake promenade, turning inland
past Leasowe Lighthouse.
From there, we followed the Birkett
River path, where Alan suggested a quick photo stop—naturally,
we obliged.
Our route continued along the Bidston
Golf Club path towards Bidston, then onto the Ford cycle path.
Finally, we looped back via Woodchurch
Estate, Landican
Lane, and Heswall,
before finishing through Neston
and Ness.
In total, we covered around 46
miles—a strong ride with great company, good food, and plenty
of laughs along the way.
Big thanks to
everyone who joined: Alan, Clive, Keith x2, Toby (our new
rider), Andy, and of course, young Chris.😁😁😁
RB
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