21st May 2026: Whitchurch

 It was good to see Neil back in the saddle at Alison’s. Dave Matthews was still making progress with his health but was here to talk cars not risk riding yet. With some moderate riders not available this week it looked like just Ray the cruise adviser and me. Then guess who popped up last minute?  So it was that Dave Pipe joined us with the Black Bear in Whitchurch as our destination. It was a lovely warm day with a gentle breeze as we headed for Bunbury via Newton and Beeston. We the twiddled along familiar lanes with a less common diversion by way of Haughton. Ray was generally ahead, (but waiting at junctions) leaving Dave and me to have an unpressured chat as we made relaxed progress. On the road to Wrenbury we took a right turn and weaved our way on very quiet roads to Marbury. A road closure on the route to Black Park had me heading more directly to Whitchurch instead. The terrain in this area is quite hummocky, so we were ready for our lunch stop at The Black Bear. Ray thought we were locked out of the back entrance, so started shouting orders to a guy in the back yard to get a key, who protested that he wasn’t an employee! He opened an unlocked door for us anyway. There was plenty of room and shade inside, and the food and service bob on. Our conversation was wide ranging with well-informed input from Ray. It is a credit to our members in these times of polarised politics that we respect each other enough to avoid unwanted arguments at lunchtimes.

Our route back was to be more direct as it was going to be hot, and I had Steve Tan to pick up at early closing Alison’s, also, my son’s car needed picking up from a Frodsham garage. Th e climb up to Wiswall is quite hard work on a full stomach, but a fine view across Cheshire is our reward. We drift downhill watching for potholes and heaped hot gravel before crossing the Llangollen Canal at Steer Bridge. The A49 is crossed at Bickley and we are still on narrow, peaceful sun-baked lanes up to the edge of the Cholmondeley Castle estate. The climb over Harthill is never easy if you are old, heavy and without electricity, but satisfying to crest and then bomb down straight to Tattenhall. Steve was sat waiting on a wall, and later drove the Berlingo with our bikes in from Frodsham to Runcorn while I drove my son’s car back from the garage; the air con now worked, just in time for the bakery oven days ahead. About thirty-seven soporific sunny miles covered. 

DH

15th February 2024: Whitchurch (mod)

I had cycled down to Alison's with a couple of ideas for rides either to the Bhurtpore at Aston or the Black Bear at Whitchurch. I was convinced that Dave H would go for the former but he surprised me by suggesting the Black Bear. So Whitchurch it was.

There were ten members out for what would be a partially wet ride. Six of us formed the moderate group and I led out Andy B, Dave H, David M, George and Ray. We headed into the wind towards Whitchurch via Chowley Oak, Carden and Tilston and after passing through Threapwood and Tallarn Green we had to negotiate a couple of roadworks. After clearing these we crossed a couple of 'A' roads and passed through the village of Hamner. We were delighted to see that the Hanmer Arms was now open again. This has often been a favourite eating place for us and I'm sure it won't be long before we visit it again. It was too early for us to call there today so we carried on, climbing out of the village and heading for the Ellesmere – Whitchurch road. It's a busy and fast road but wide enough for vehicles to give us a wide berth.

We followed the main road to the outskirts of Whitchurch and crossed the A41 roundabout with ease before turning towards the town centre. The church soon came into view which was a good beacon for us as the Black Bear was right across the road from it. Despite being quite busy we were given a warm welcome and after parking our bikes at the back were soon sitting down to a hot meal, fish & chips being the choice for four of us.

The return should have been easy with the wind now behind us but as we got back onto our bikes the promised rain was starting and it would be with us for most of the way. We left Whitchurch passing the old hospital before turning up past through the golf club. Not the easiest of climbs, especially straight after lunch, so we stopped at the top for a rest and took the opportunity for a photo. While the roads on the way out had been pretty good we were now on some very muddy roads as we headed through Wirswall, Marbury and Bickley and by the time we we arrived at the back of Cholmondley Castle there were six bikes in need of a good wash.

Photo by TC

David left us just before we reached Bickerton and Andy left soon afterwards to make their own way home. The rain had eased off by this time as I led the rest of the group over Harthill and back down into Tattenhall. It was certainly a ride of two halves with dry conditions in the morning and rain and mud in the afternoon. Despite the weather a pleasant 36 miles riden in very mild weather for the middle of February.

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TC

 

3rd February 2022: Whitchurch (mod)

Another decent turnout at Rose Farm this morning on a day that promised to be dry, relatively warm and with light winds. The fast lads were off probably somewhere far away and at great speed, which left myself Fiona, Elwyn, Neil, George, Mike and Dave H to form the moderates.  I had two suggestions: either a route to Marbury or one to Whitchurch, both a little over 40 miles.  

Photo by EJ

Whitchurch was most popular, and so we set off towards Clutton and then Tattenhall.  To the surprise of some, we climbed all the way up to Harthill (Fiona had asked for a hill climb to warm her up), and then No Mans Heath and another climb up to Malpas.  This section included “road closed” signs and several traffic lights but we pressed on regardless. From Malpas we simply followed the B road to Grindley Brook and then the A41 to reach the centre of Whitchurch.  The short stretch on the A41 is busy and not pleasant, and an alternative route following the Llangollen Canal into town is much better in the drier months.

We hadn’t decided where to eat in Whitchurch, but the first place we approached was the Black Bear so Dave suggested this and we all agreed. This has been a favourite in the past and it didn’t disappoint.  We were accommodated on a couple of tables and the food arrived quickly, so it was soon time to leave.

I had led the morning route from memory, but turned on the satnav just to make sure of the return. I kept getting a message on the screen over the map saying I wasn’t connected to the internet, something I’d never had before.  We stopped in Marbury for me to correct this, but my iPhone then began launching apps and changing the screen at random. (Has anyone else ever had this?).  Switching the phone off, we continued relying on my memory.   This was not ideal as we missed a turn, and not heeding Neil’s warnings, we ended up crossing the A49 at Bickley and had to make our way back via Cholmondley, where Neil left us to head direct for home.  We soon picked up the intended route through Chorley and Bickley. Around Spurstow, a café stop was suggested and so we called into Tilley’s, where hot drinks and some cakes were consumed. Fortified we made quick progress towards Beeston, then the Shady Oak and into Tarporley.  Soon we were back at our starting point.

I had been a wonderful day’s weather that at times felt like Spring, with some bursts of warm sunshine.  Maybe this encouraged us to take our first afternoon café stop since winter descended.  Our unexpected detour had added about four or five miles onto our journey, and we completed a total of 48 miles, again the highest “mod” mileage since September I think. And for those who asked, I recorded 2,417 feet ascended.  I know it’s unlikely, but it would be nice to have some more ‘Spring-like’ days before Spring actually arrives.

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SHa

PS. I learn that Nantwich recorded the country's highest temperature on the day of our ride at 13 degrees.

21st November 2019: Whitchurch (mod)

It was an excellent turnout at Alison’s Kitchen of mods and briskers.  DaveH not having his maps, requested suggestions. It was quickly agreed we would go to the Black Bear in Whitchurch following a route DaveM and myself conjured up some time ago on a previous visit. Jim, DaveM and SteveH were out for morning rides as ten of us set off (Mikes D&G, SteveT, Fiona, Neil, Trevor, Bob, George, DaveH and electric Peter). Neil had raised concerns about mud on the road towards Clutton. As it had recently been dry, I decided to take the risk.

With Trevor leading we were soon in Tilston. With no one volunteering to try the stocks, we quickly made our way onto Threapwood following the CTC Spring 50 route. Only one incident so far, we had the rare experience of local hedge trimmers sweeping up their messes. Whilst DaveH was thanking them, those behind nearly piled into him on a muddy surface as he forgot to advise he was stopping.

Onto Hanmere area and whilst making our way to Bronington, we encountered the epi-centre of muddy roads where we stopped, allowing Bob, Fiona and Neil to remove the accumulating mud from their mudguards. I was accused of trying to emulate Clive A. Where were those stocks?

Photos by Mike G

As time was getting on and it would take about an hour for all of us to be fed and watered at the Black Bear, we headed for Whitchurch rather than divert to Whixhall Moss area as originally planned. The temperature by now had risen to a tropical 3.9 degrees C.

Lunchtime conversation covered ISharing apps/Life 360, BBC Four programmes and other issues, yes including politics as we thawed out and enjoyed the lunchtime food and drinks (Salopian Gold was excellent).

We departed Whitchurch at about quarter to two and because if any of us got a puncture, I decided on a straightish route back via Marbury, NCN 45, Harthill finishing with a lovely run down to Tattenhall. Arriving at three pm we had covered about 36 miles. It left sufficient time for those from farther afield to return in daylight and the café hoppers, a further opportunity for some light refreshments. On a positive outcome, with us all having muddy bikes it enabled us to gain greater familiarisation with our trusty steeds.

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Mike G

3rd October 2019: Whitchurch (mod)

There was a fine turnout for our first club visit to Alison's Country Kitchen. The staff were very friendly and welcoming, and we were accommodated in the back room. We had plenty of space for our bikes and no problems parking our cars for the day at the back. John Adam and his friend were welcomed. John decided to go with The Fast Lads, after I explained how slow I was going to be, whilst waving two coffee stained, disintegrating maps in my hand. I did have a complicated route to Ellesmere vaguely in mind, but Steve Tan, thankfully, had a former route to Whitchurch on his Garmin.

The moderate group consisted of Andy Barber, Mike Dodd, Fiona, Steve Tan, Mike Gilbert, Neil and myself. Our route took us toward Wrenbury via Beeston. There are many little lanes you can choose in order to drift down to Whitchurch, and Mike and I became concerned that every obvious right turn was being spurned. Steve was sticking to the route he had downloaded, and we were so far south-east of Whitchurch in the end, that we were close to Calverhall. Surely this hyper-loop gives the clue that this must have been a Clive route originally! Although, we never passed through any deep mud surrounded by Saddlebacks, so perhaps not. Neil thinks that my rear tyre is soft, but I am able to assure him that it is just the visual result of my rubber squashing weight perched on the saddle.

After thirty miles, The Black Bear provided the usual friendly and characterful environment for lunch. The Fast Lads made a surprise appearance outside, having finished their own lunch elsewhere in the town. They had just stopped to tweak their afterburners.

The return starts with a surprisingly stiff climb to Wirswall, and as we briefly stop, the view is smashing. Looking out from this quiet leafy lane across Cheshire, the moment encapsulates the essential experience of riding with Chester Easy Riders: quiet, scenic routes, and a relaxed pace in convivial company. We cross the A49 at Bickley and take on Harthill before whooshing down to Tattenhall and just beating the expected rain. Unfortunately, Alison's has stopped opening all day, so no coffee and cake. Never mind, about forty-five very enjoyable miles. Many thanks to Steve for an excellent lead.

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DH

21st March 2019: Whitchurch (mod)

Mike, Neil, Keith, George, Andy B and myself were the moderate group for the day. I had a vague plan to head for the 17^th.century Black Bear at Whitchurch, because the service and food is consistently good, and it was sure to be open. My chosen route was via Brown Knowl to No Mans Heath. In order to extend the mileage leading to lunch, we then meandered north-east of Whitchurch through Gaunton Bank, Wrenbury, Pinsley Green and alongside Black Park, before dropping into Whitchurch itself. 

Lunch was as enjoyable as expected. It was decided to ride a longer afternoon by sweeping south-west along some of our favourite Shropshire lanes. Mike and his GPS were invaluable in finding the little lane out to Alkington. Good progress was made via Platt Lane, Dobson's Bridge, Northwood, Lyneal and Colemere. We crossed the main road to Shrewsbury and were soon passing the attractive White Mere, leased to Shropshire Sailing Club by Grosvenor Estates. The mere is one of nine glacial meres in the area. It covers 65 acres, and together with two adjacent woodlands, it has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The black and white cottage at this end of the lake, on the little lane up to Lee, looks an idyllic place to live.

As we turn right over the canal near the marina on the edge of Ellesmere, Beech House can be glimpsed left and ahead. Thomas Telford lived and worked here when overseeing the construction of the original Ellesmere Canal, which terminated at Netherpool on the Mersey (now part of Ellesmere Port). It was hard to ignore the pull of coffee and cake at Ellesmere, but we had decided to make Holt or Farndon our only stop after lunch.

Turning left!

A Mercian and a Harry Hall

My route out was by way of the little road at the north-west end of The Mere, and then left on a pleasant lane over the former Wrexham and Whitchurch railway line, which closed in 1965. We were soon climbing out the steep dip into Penley, and heading for Holly Bush and Worthenbury. On passing Glandeg Farm, the riders in front of George and myself had already started winding up the pace for the sprint through Shocklach to Farndon. Once the gap had appeared, there was no catching them.

I don't know how Andy manages to accelerate so well on his super tank tourer, with hub gears, 55 spoke (approx!) rear wheel and humming rubber drive belt. Many of the fields on our left were totally flooded from the River Dee. The fast last five and a half miles ensured that we had plenty of time for a well-earned coffee and cake at Lewis's before their 4.30p.m. closing time.

Cars had been left in different places, and Andy and Neil were cycling home. Andy was expecting to complete 100mls. or more. George and myself were parked at The Ice Cream Farm and covered about 60mls. from start to finish. The weather had been ideal, and it had been satisfying to cover a decent mileage in lovely country.

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DH

Photos MG

20th December 2018 : Whitchurch (brisk)

Another fine day in prospect today. Ivan and I had ridden to The Vine Inn near Dunham Massey the day before to exorcise his Helsby Road accident. The weather had been very sunny and the pub was very cheap – two pints of ale for under £4!. Today Ivan had prepared a route to the Black Bear in Whitchurch.

As Steve's report indicates, there was a paucity of riders out today; maybe the rest of the club were at the shops frantically trying to find that final Christmas present. So Ivan led out John W and myself on surprising wet roads around Beeston Castle towards Peckforton village. We edge around Bunbury onwards to Brindley at a brisk pace. There is then the big loop around to Ashton via Wrenbury. Thankfully the roads are very quiet as we barrel down Sheppenhall Lane trying to avoid the potholes cunningly concealed as puddles.

Crossing the A525, we are on our way to Ightfield and thence the ups-and-downs via Ash Parva and Ash Magna. The Edgeley Road transfer is employed to enter Whitchurch and into the warm arms of The Black Bear pub. It is very busy as the car park attests, yet we get a table and settle down for a well-earned rest after 30 miles. Despite the general busyness, the drinks and hot food come quickly enough. The rest of the punters seem to be locals in various Christmas lunch parties.

On leaving the pub, we notice that there has been a shower of rain and now have wet saddles. The pub landlord offers a tea towel to dry the saddles off. Very decent of him. Conscious that darkness arrives just after 1530 around the Winter Solstice, we set off  just after 1300 up Wirswall Hill passing Hill Valley golf club. At the top, before the rapid descent to Marbury, there is a magnificent view over the Cheshire plain all the way to the Pennines. Jodrell Bank is sunlit in the far distance.

The lane down is hazardous with all the agricultural mud and debris of winter on the surface, and thankfully we exit Marbury without any mishap. The way back to the start is now predictable via Bickerton and Harthill. As we enter Tattenhall, Neil and Steve H come into view. What exquisite timing! Neil shoots home while we three shoot passed Steve and, eschewing the prospect of cake, pedal for home.

So thanks to Ivan, with 46 muddy miles covered along with our bikes well covered with Cheshire mud, this rounds off the last ride for me for the year. There is now one more scheduled ride on the 27^that a relocated venue ( see the web site)

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CA

Photo by John W