19th May 2022 : Dunham Massey (brisk)

John W and I rode out today from Chester via Christleton and Waverton en route to Utkinton. Due to an incident on the M56, the lanes were busy with diverting cars and vans joining us!! Arriving at Rose Farm were several riders, so a good turnout of the moderate group expected. Tea and tea cake consumed only the two of us to ride today as Clive and Ray on holiday.

Leaving the café, we head down the hill and round Jims's corner taking care as this junction has serious potholes to navigate safely. Our route is out to Cotebrook and Little Budworth and out to Whitegate. We pass our distinguished club secretary Dave along with Steve getting bikes ready to catch up with the moderate group. I assume they were caught up with the M56 disruption.

Our destination today is the Vine pub at Dunham Massey, At Winnington passing over the overbridge over the river Weaver, the road is blocked to vehicles so we can enjoy a gentle pump-up Soot Hill without the revving of engines waiting behind. At the top of the hill, we ride on Hough Lane taking us out to Antrobus and Appleton Thorn. The downhill descent to Grappenhall is slowed as this road is blocked due to re-tarmacking the surface but we were allowed through passing over the grass verge. Into Grappenhall and riding the cobbles, we arrive at the very decorated town of Lymm. The jubilee flags looking splendid in the sunshine. There are still Koi fish in the Dam to look at making this town very picturesque and worth a visit. However, we pass through after a photo call and continue to our lunch destination the Vine. 

The pub has only just re-opened after lockdown and there were not many empty seats indoors. Several cyclists were enjoying the sun in the garden, but John and I select a little snug behind the bar to enjoy our lunch. Our departure from lunch takes us through Bowden and its moon surface roads and manic car drivers to Ashley and past Tatton Park. The route is relatively flat and with the light wind and sunshine the ride has only been spoilt by road surface.

We pass through Davenham and head along London Rd to Winsford. We pass through Winsford and take the route back to Tarporley via Darnall and Eaton.

If riders wanted a circular ride to and from Rose farm at the crossroad in Tarporley taking the right turn and heading through the town will take you back but we continue along Birch Heath Rd to Brassey Green Huxley and back to Chester.

I can recommend this route for a reasonable ride through our Cheshire countryside lanes but in places a full suspension bike would be a benefit but consider these are not the only cankers on our roads everywhere.

A round trip of 64 miles to and from Rose Farm but John and I cycled out so clocked up 84 and 92 miles respectively. 

Thanks to John for another good ride and company.

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5th December 2019 : Dunham Massey (brisk)

Meeting at Delamere Station café was today a festive location with more Christmas trees than bikes in the car park. All that was missing were the elves, but with a good turnout of mam(w)il’s in splendid colours, we managed a reasonable substitute for a short while.

The brisk riders today were minus Clive, but a couple of routes were proposed, but with a wet and windy pm in prospect, a shorter ride was agreed and the Vine at Dunham Massey was our lunch destination. Finding our bikes amongst the Christmas trees, the brisk group today consisted of John W, Ken, Ray, Elwyn and myself.

Leaving the café, we head towards Hatchmere on probably the roughest tarmac surface in Cheshire and turning right at the cross roads for the B5153 and Crowton. It’s a fast descent from Norley and the pace is maintained to Acton Bridge before crossing over the blue bridge then the uphill via Willow Green Lane aka a very mucky lane!! With a tail wind and a reasonable pace, we arrive at Lymm and join the A road to Warburton where we head towards Dunham Massey.

We’ve arrived at the Vine at 11:58 and by the time our bikes were secured to the garden furniture, the doors were open and we were inside to be greeted to an open fire in full fury. A pint of Sam Smiths golden beer at £2.00 and a delicious lunch of pie and seasonal veg was very welcome. Our route out covered 25 miles, but the return was only 20 to Hatchmere and as it was now starting to drizzle, and we were keen to get started.

Riding along the track adjacent to Dunham Massey Hall, the car park was very busy with cars probably due to the big Christmas light switch-on which had signs boasting a sell-out. Passing the Swan with Two Nicks, then crossing the A56 and stopping for a photo shoot under the M56 bridge at the John Wesley monument. Reading in Wikipedia later, one of his quotes was “Though I am always in haste, I am never in a hurry” but today we are, so off again up Booth Bank and with the recent rain and hedge trimming, another mucky road. Passing High Legh garden centre, it is a different day to the recent Special Ride which started from here.

Underneath the M56  - John Wesley Memorial

Riding towards Great Budworth, I suggested that if the village was festive a better location for a photo opportunity but not a tree in sight! Must be filming again. Passing the mere on our left, another suggestion for a shoot was also declined and, to keep the locals happy, a gate stop opportunity taken.

From Comberbach, it was then following the usual route via Anderton and the Boat lift dropping down to Winnington. There are so many new homes built around here now it is very different area from just a couple of years ago. As mentioned in an earlier comment, from Delamere it's down hill to Crowton, so the return must be uphill and our last push up Maddocks Hill is felt.

Into Norley village and then back to Hatchmere crossroad, we continue along the roller coaster road through Delamere after parting with Elwyn riding back to the café and Ken who had parked up in the woods. John, Ray and I ride back to Chester and, as we arrive back, the wind has whipped up and were grateful to be back on local territory.

For the three Chester riders, we’ve ridden 65+ miles and an undulating 3000ft of climb at 15mph. The round trip distance returning to Delamere café is 45 miles. Although my bike had full length mudguards, I was a very spotted with mud and my overshoes thick with road slush. Bike is all very dirty – the joys of days out.

Thanks to my fellow riders for a good day out with no incidents 

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11th July 2019: Dunham Woodhouses (mod)

Secure, inexpensive parking remains a problem at this venue. Steve Tan and I found  a suitable position alongside Hatch Mere. It was good to meet Graeme face to face at last. Trevor and Graeme had other commitments on the day, so the moderate riders were Bob, Keith, Steve T, Neil and myself.

We decided to try one of Ivan's favourite, cheap beer haunts: The Vine at Dunham Woodhouses. The route towards Knutsford, via Great Budworth, was familiar, but Steve had discovered a route under the new road which avoided the usual dangerous crossing of the A556 at Holehouses. At Knutford we headed north through the Deer Park at Tatton. Another route now was possible, because of the new by-pass, and we were able to swoop through the pretty village of Rostherne and head straight for Little Bollington. We were tempted by The Swan with Two Nicks, a familiar and trustworthy venue, but continued in order to try The Vine, and perhaps catch Ivan and John.

Ivan and John were a little soggy, having arrived before opening time and catching a heavy shower. Then Clive arrived, having made a fast, late run from home. It was very pleasant to be together, and the service was indeed very friendly, as promised by Ivan. I can't vouch for the cheap ale, as I didn't think it would help my recent gallstone issues!

The return route was via the Trans Pennine Trail, and a path through long grass to Lymm centre, of which Ray Hardman would not have approved. From Lymm it was my original back route via Sworton Heath, and the lacework of tiny lanes north-west of Arley Hall. Somewhere near Cogshall Hall there was the magnificent sound of a bird that Steve identified as a Song Thrush. Keith peeled off for Runcorn near Crumleyheath Farm. We headed for Acton Bridge via Little Leigh. The double slog: up from the river, and then up to Norley, this time via Cookson Green, is not an end-of-ride challenge that Bob relishes, which I can totally empathise with. Nevertheless, we had enjoyed some lovely, quiet Cheshire lanes, pretty villages, Tatton Park, and a new lunch stop. All at an easy pace for 47 miles in good company.                                                     

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 DH

11th July 2019 : Dunham Woodhouses (brisk)

Today is a Delamere Café start and I meet John W at the Mickle Trafford end of the Greenway to ride out. Riding out via the A56 to Manley, it is a nice surprise to find Dark Ark Lane has been completely re-surfaced; a good start to our ride then along the undulations of Delamere road to Hatchmere and the station café.

The Brisk group had met up on Tuesday and enjoyed a Clive route to the Leopard pub at Nantwich, so today Nick had ridden out for a coffee before riding back home and Clive was expecting to meet up at our lunch destination The Vine at Dunham Woodhaouses. The Mod’s were also discussing this as their venue and route master and club secretary Mr Heath was map setting as John W and I set off.

From Hatchmere it was the usual route out via Crowton and Acton Bridge. Passing the Leigh Arms (once a lunch stop!!) we ride uphill to Little Leigh and Antrobus. After High Leigh we head over to Broomedge. We were passed by a breakaway sprinter on the road before the crossroads and after he had passed us, we stepped on the pedals and whizzed passed him before having to brake for the lights. He then enjoyed staying on the rear of our wheels before peeling off near Woodhouses.

We arrived at the Vine at 11:40 and the premises was shut so a couple of extra couple miles around the village ensued before arriving back for our lunch. As we were waiting for our apple crumble pudding the Mods arrived and also Clive.

In the Vine- waiting for lunch

It was good for both groups to meet up for lunch at the same venue. Clive was soon fed and watered and the three of us head back for home leaving the remainder to enjoy their first visit to this Robinsons hostelry. We head out towards passing under the canal bridge and the track which passes by another venue The Swan with Two Nicks. We follow Clive’s route out from Booth Bank and it’s a shorter ride via Sworth Heath, Appleton then to Hatton and Preston Brook.

We take the main A56 from Frodsham back to Mickle Trafford, where Clive and John head for home. A round trip distance of 64 miles was covered (Delamere route was 48miles as a circular) and the day’s weather was generally dry (arrived home dry) but we had suffered a couple of showers during our adventure today.

A good ride ride again and no incidents. Thanks to John and Clive for their company today.

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4th April 2019 : Dunham Massey (brisk)

Today's ride is the first ride of summer – freezing, frost on the ground and a forecast of wind and rain. The prospects of a day out were preferred during the winter period!

The ride today was from Delamere station café and I was joined riding out from Chester with John W. On arrival at the café, there were a few other riders and a brisk group formed consisting of Ken, Ray, Nick, John and myself. We set off on our bikes towards Hatchmere, Crowton and Acton Bridge. Crossing the Blue Bridge and heading along Willow Green Lane, we continued on rather than the uphill section which is our normal route towards Little Leigh. This diversion takes us towards Daresbury but at the end of the lane, at the junction, we ride along the aptly named Summer lane running alongside the M56. Taking the next bridge to cross the motorway and along the B5356, we cross the A49 at Stretton.

We ride through Grappenhall and pass two previous lunch stops the Rams Head and Parr Arms. There is the uncomfortable journey over the cobbles – unless you are on a Roubaix as John W went whizzing past those taking the option of a smoother pavement, thus passing the rest of the brisk group. 0ur route now takes in some new ventured lanes between Thelwall and Lymm. At the Library we join the Bridgewater canal and enjoy a photo shoot of this remarkable beginning of transport and the golden era between 1760 to 1830 before the introduction, and a big takeover of cargo which followed, to the railway revolution.

On the Bridgewater Canal

Ray had left us just before we entered Lymm but the remaining briskers take the usual route to Dunham Massey along the B5160. Our lunch stop was The Vine Inn which is an excellent Samuel Smith guest house offering ale at £2.00 a pint and a good lunch under £7.00. The web site also boasts THE best Sticky Toffee pudding so next time I’ll try it. Very popular choice for many other cyclists also.

As we are ready to leave, there is the first hint of what was promised by the BBC weather, RAIN. Setting off from the pub, we head towards the lane which crosses the river next to "The Swan with Two Nicks" then up to the main A56 crossing over and passing under the M56.

The heavens have now opened so we peddle asap to cover the remaining 20 miles back to Delamere.The route is the usual return from Dunham again crossing the Blue Bridge at Acton Bridge but this time it is up the hill!! Struggling up this hill, an unknown rider goes passed me as if on the flat closely followed by John, but he too was unable to stick to his wheel. By the time we reached the summit the said rider was well gone.

Passing over the rail bridge at Acton, we turn left and upwards to Norley and arrive Hatchmere where we say farewell to Ken and Nick. John and I ride back to Chester.

The rain has stopped now and we get home reasonably dry. A good day out and a 51 miles round trip from the café and 60+ miles for John and I.

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ID

6th September 2018 : Dunham Massey (brisk)

After riding solo for the last 6 weeks, I was looking forward to having company today. Meeting at Meadow Lea cafe on a wet and drizzly morning, there were not many riders braving the elements. There were a few out for coffee, but the group today consisted of Nick, John W, Ray and myself. No one had a route planned, so we decided to ride and head towards the blue sky direction.

Heading out towards Frodsham the rain was now heavier. The forecast was showers! How long do these predictions last?

We pass through the town getting ready with the market stalls and over the blue bridge and turn right to go via Aston. Our ride is heading out towards Budworth and High Lea and round to Dunham Massey and the Vine inn. Here I enjoy my first beer for ages and at £2.50 just right. We all have hot comfort food as we are soaked. Socks and boots off and placed on or near the hot radiators, we chat about the good weather and rides we've enjoyed this year. Getting ready to leave it is still raining, no one holding us back so we have to go.

We ride out to Dunham Massey grounds and join the track to pass over the river and the inn, Swan with Two Nicks. The rain has now stopped and patches of blue sky evident. We follow the usual route towards Great Budworth but keep a left route in error and ride round the extremes of the village and, instead of going up the hill towards High Lea, we continue towards Northwich. This plan was to divert from Acton Bridge climb but we still had to climb up to Marbury Road bank and pass the Anderton boat lift. Left at the lights and on Winnington Road before taking the "Clive route" through the flashes. This detour made our bikes super dirty.

Once out on the main road again, we pass Weaverham and on the Crowton, Kingsley road and return into Frodsham and the welcome stop of Costa Coffee, soon to be Coca Cola!! After our snack, it is along the main road and back to Meadow Lea Cafe.

A circular ride of 64+ miles at an average 16mph so a great ride. Well done Nick and glad you joined us.

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ID

5th July 2018 : Dunham Massey (brisk)

Arriving at Rose Farm café it was great to see Steve T and Mrs Lynda Heath out for a coffee. Great to see you both and very glad to see Steve so buoyant, you’ll soon be back on the bike.

Today's adventure is not about the bike and speed, it’s much to sunny for heads down and bums up so a meander around sun drenched lanes, good price lunch stop and ice cream were factored for our pleasure today.

Leaving the café were, John M, Nick, Ken, Colin and myself. We headed for Cotebrook and along Oulton Mill Lane and took the first left and right to head us in the direction of Whitegate. Heading into Hartford up Cinder Hill was our first encounter with impatient female car drivers. On overtaking us on a blind right-hand bend there was a screech of rubber as she nearly went head on with approaching motorist then gave us a blast of disgruntlement on her horn!!

Through Hartford and towards Anderton, passing the boat lift dock visited in April but not today, we continue to Comberbach and passing Antrobus Golf Club. The lanes are very quiet and we are enjoying the meander and head down to Grappenhall where we are joining the Trans-Pennine cycle route 62 which we ride until Dunham Massey. The track is very hard and dry but little use by walkers but one elderly cyclist who wanted to run us down in his haste to improve his Strava segments (ha ha).

A well earned pint (or two)

Leaving the trail, we head for the Vine Pub where we enjoy a quality pint in the luxurious garden for £2.00 a pint and BLT buns and chips to follow. Hospitality was good with the chef coming out to ensure our lunch was alright and to advise us that there were alternatives on the menu. It’s too hot to eat a meal and ride was our excuse.

We regretfully depart and go via the little track along side Dunham Masset NT Hall and over the little bridge. There was a call for refreshment stop at the "Swan with Two Nicks" but ruled off-side. Onwards then to Little Bollington and to Gt Budworth where we are stopping for ice cream. Another very popular location but plenty of staff on hand to serve. Fully refreshed we continue our ride homeward bound passing through Comberbach again and to Higher Leigh and the Weaver Bridge. 

Going off road again we saunter along side the river to the locks and have time for another photo shoot for rogue’s gallery and continue through the fields to the lane which takes us up hill towards Crowton. This is a much easier route than tackling the hill up to Acton Bridge!

The Weaver bridge 

We continue to get over Norley Hill and arrive at Hatchmere where we are spitting up. Three heading through Delamere and Nick and Ken riding back to Rose Farm. Another great day out with like minded riders for company with 75 miles covered as a round trip H-H or 55 miles to and from the cafe. Next weeks ride from Cleopatra’s – time for a summer ride to Mow Cop?

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ID

Photos by John M and Ivan D