7th August 2025: Burton Manor

By my count, the total was 17 gathered at Alison’s this week and nobody in civvies. Fiona was without Elwyn, who was at home with a bad back, she had braved 13 miles to get to Alison’s. I had a route that was unusually flat for me, in fact, pan flat, as it was more in the tradition of a classic CER ride, with plenty of pathways, tow paths and ‘rights of way’. 

However, my route wasn’t without its risks, besides riding with the Chuckle Brothers that is,  as we would have to survive the radiation threat, stray bullets, sheep and waterlogged decking boards-Lol, more about that later-Lol. There was a stiff south westerly, that was only going to get stronger, which required a bit of wind whispering - Lol.

 

My destination would therefore be, Burton Manor cafe.

I had a full compliment of mod+ riders starting with Kev (such a nice man) - Shane ( the groups lunch time entertainer & clown, more on that later) Chris ( just made it in time again) & the Chuckle Brothers of course. We set off right out of Alison’s and got into a nice steady rhythm with the wind behind us, which for some seemed to be a bit pacey. Allan (CB 1) asked if I’d had spinach for breakfast because he was struggling to keep up- come on, it was flat, with the wind, of course it’s quick- to be expected that ‘the mugger ’ would complain- Lol. It wasn’t long before we were in Waverton and watching the ominous dark cloud forming to our left, which a mile or so later  started to drizzle. We pulled into Meadow Lea for a con flab on the weather. However, within a minute of stopping I then made the unilateral decision to get going again, as I needed to be back by 3pm and I reckoned there was a hint of blue sky coming- Lol.

Only 2 minutes later we stopped for rain jackets, because I was with a bunch of tarts-Lol. 

We were now in the very wet village of Guildon Sutton, which meant we were catching more water from the road than the sky, as they seemed to have had a deluge.

No sooner out of the village we enter Picton Lane, which was closed and a few hundred mtrs later we found out why ( flooded, a burst water main, we were clearly doomed to get wet - Lol). We were able to get by and only a mile or so further, I stopped to take my jacket off, only to realise I had lost everybody and turned back. Apparently they were having a tea party or something, I never did find out what the reason was.

Now tackling our biggest climbs of the day (2 or 3 bridges over the motorway around Cheshire Oaks-Lol).

Anyway, time to turn into the wind and therefore left at Little Stanney in order to head along the 2 miles of cycle path,  in order to get to Dunkirk Lane, where I point out Fox’s Tea Rooms, just a hundred mtrs closer to Costco. Now we can settle into some nice lanes, which provided pretty good protection against the wind, almost unnoticeable in fact. It wasn’t long before we were passing the nuclear processing plant, where you get that warm fuzzy feeling all over and strangely always need to pee within a few mtrs of passing it (our first risk of the day- Lol)

 

We crack on, or I did, trying to encourage the pace, but some were decidedly jaded it seemed. Strangely it was Mr ‘Just in time’ who was having difficulty. The young blood couldn’t keep up with the old guys quote; “just an off day” Then he blamed a game of football the night before- just don’t make youngsters like they used to, football, I ask you-Lol, Lol.

Shortly after rallying the troops on another regroup, Allan took to the front on one of his classic short spurts and I seized my opportunity to deliberately stick close to his back wheel in order to keep him on the front-Lol. We were now only a mile or so from our lunch destination, which meant Steve came to the front as is his way, clearly he could sense the cafe was close- Lol. Just as we arrived Chris passed me in an effort to beat Steve to the front of the queue-Lol.

Although we set up camp outside, we ended up inside, due to the annoying wasps, although not before the hilarity started after I got the Spanish Inquisition from CB1 when I told everybody about Nick, a contestant on the TV show ‘Destination X’. He has the proud claim of being the first person to have run a marathon in every!!country, in the world!( hard to believe, I know hence, why I was telling the story) However CB1 knew better, virtually calling me a liar (I was reiterating a stated fact on a TV show- come on!) 

This prompted a few slagging comments and more than a few laughs, after CB 1 insisted on looking it up on the internet- Lol.

 

Now inside and tucking into our various choices, the frivolity prevailed, with some completely vacant on the jokes. Yes, you guessed it, the Chuckle Brothers of course.

Our ring master for the day was Shane, who I thought was going to bust a rib at one point. Both he and I found it particularly funny when a women in the far corner started to admire her newly purchased retractable tape measure, as she was extending it across the cafe. It was clearly a very pretty tape measure, with nice big numbers. Perhaps she was checking all the numbers were there- Lol.

Just as the laughter was dying down and Chris swiped my chocolate cake, the Chuckle Brothers woke up, wondering what all the laughter was about-Lol. CB 2 had an excuse as he had his back to the women, but CB 1 was facing directly at her and didn’t see a thing-Lol. Anyway, it was time to halt the fun and frolics and get underway.

We turned left out of the cafe and immediately turn left down Station Road towards what I call The Wash. However, no sooner had we turned when I heard the chatter box shout from the back, where he was all day BTW, he claimed he was helping Chris- Lol. Anyway he demanded we stop and admire a small pond in the woods.

Ok, it was a very old pond, but did we need to stop- Lol. Turned out to be 8 or 900 years old can you believe, Allan didn’t of course, but there was no internet in the woods, so he remained a disbeliever, despite the photographic evidence below- Lol, Lol.

After what must have been our tenth stop on this adventure, we finally get going again and through the first kissing gate on to what I think is NT land, I believe. Where the sheep lurk, ready to pounce on the unwary cyclists and where the occasional ricochet might be heard off the military range (our second and third risk-Lol.)

However, before the range, we had to negotiate a hundred Mtrs of chattering decking boards, which actually keep the wheels above the waterline and yet another risk, on occasions- Lol.

 

After a few more scenic miles and a brief passage through the industrial backwater of Deeside and past the Toyota plant beyond, we reach the Greenway on route to the river Dee towpath. Time for a nice 5 mile blast, due to a cross tailwind, but alas, only Shane was interested. So, after a few regroups, on every bridge, we eventually get to Chester and we say goodbye to Chris, as he headed home. 

 

After a few more decking boards, along the river front, we reach the race course.

Kev then lead the way onto the cobbles under the Roman wall and on to the corniche-Lol ( slipping back into my Middle East days) All back together again we cruise along the river front and up the hill, beside the Boat House pub. However, not everybody got the memo-Lol. For some reason, both Kev and I end up outside the Bike Factory, ready to cross the road, but everybody else ended up there in dribs and drabs. We eventually regroup and head down the hill and up through Huntington.

I turn left for Saighton, with Kev in tow and the others dragging their heels again-Lol. 

Did I mention I needed to get back for 3pm hence, I kept pushing the pace on all day. It was now just past 2:40pm and 6 miles to go, so I was not about to ease up. However, I got carried away by Bruera and realised I had lost Kev and the others. I turned back on Platts Lane and see Kev come into sight. It turns out the 3 remaining amigo’s decided to carry on into Holt as that was where Steve left his car. Shaun followed suit because he was obviously feeling the pace and needed to trim a mile or 2 off the route and go directly home and of course CB1 wouldn’t leave his brother- Lol,Lol,Lol.

 

Now Kev and I had got rid of the deadwood - Lol, we could push on and I might still make my deadline. Kev, bless him ( what a nice man) urged me to push on and leave him, which I thanked him for and off I went, except I didn’t- Lol. He caught me up within a couple of hundred mtrs. I didn’t have the legs, somewhat embarrassingly. 

So there was nothing for it but to jump on his wheel and take advantage of a tow for the last 4 miles into Tattenhall (how nice, you can come again Kev- such a nice man-Lol)

We said our goodbyes at Alison’s with 15.6mph and 46 miles on the clock. I got home after 50 miles and bang on 3pm, just as Paula was getting in the car- perfect, like the rest of the day to be fair.

 

Despite the rain and lack of hills, I really enjoyed the route.

The company was exceptional, with everybody taking some stick-Lol.

It was a great cafe stop for more than one reason -Lol.

Thoroughly enjoyable day.

 

Till next time ladies-Lol

 

Neil, 

aka The Wind Whisperer.

See route map and/or gpx file download

7th August 2025: Whitchurch

 There was a healthy turnout at Alison’s. It was good to see Mold Andy again, but he needed to return home after coffee. Dave Matthews had also made the effort but had a repair to complete on his old car. Jim was joining us as far as his daughter’s new secret abode not far from Tilston; apparently Sophie had a nightmare vision of the moderate group turning up demanding cups of Morrison’s strong tea and devouring her jammy dodgers. The group consisted of Steve Tan, Mike Gilbert, Fiona and me. Fiona had left Elwyn at home flat on his back and unfit for cycling.

The steady climb up to Bolesworth Castle was a chance to have chat and catch-up with Jim. My route took us to Brown Knoll , around Bickerton Hill and past Cholmondeley Castle. There was a long, premature queue of mainly expensive motorhomes at Cholmondeley waiting for DevaFest to open. Fiona just managed to avoid clouting a wandering child, but we didn’t get held up. Beyond the A49 it became a little busy for a rural lane, so we headed off for Gaunton’s Bank, Marbury and Black Park on small, scenic little lanes. Mike and Steve are useful lieutenants when trying to negotiate off-piste twist and turns. The Black Bear was friendly, and everyone seemed happy with their food; having said that my selection of a mushroom risotto was underwhelming. I was reminded of Ray Stigter and me having chilli con carne at The Black Lion in Ellesmere many moons ago and thinking that it was a Vesta ready meal. Fast forward a dozen years or so and, my Black Bull ‘Vesta’ Risotto and a cuppa cost me £22 plus tip

Our return had us climbing to Wirswall with a fine view across Cheshire - see below

After crossing the Llangollen Canal at Steer Bridge we crossed the A49 and took a very quiet route through Heatherson Green which Mike enjoyed. Fiona informed us that Elwyn had managed a four-mile walk, which was good news. We arrived on our familiar steady climb past Egerton Green having by-passed the festival entrance at Cholmondeley. Dave Matthew’s well-known ‘secret lane’ took us to Gallantry Bank and then we swooped down to Peckforton and Beeston on that lane with the views, studded with lovely cottages on the side of the escarpment. We enjoyed coffee and cake at the outside café. We had welcome shade, as it was warm and sunny; the only damp we had experienced all day was some fine rain when approaching Whitchurch at lunchtime. Steve had gone well, but later informed me that he had been out of breath at the top of the odd climb, with Fiona conducting a one-way conversation with him unable to reply; still, he will be back with the heart-tuner soon, and is hoping to eventually be more Ferrari than Haas. At Tattenhall Mike, and Fiona in particular, had more miles to cover. I would have liked to offer Fiona a lift, but Steve had to feed a cat, and without my bike rack, three bikes and three riders in the Berlingo requires a lot of wheels being removed and is only worth it in an emergency. We covered thirty-seven easy-ish miles, more for Mike and sixty or so for Fiona. The company was very enjoyable, and Fiona added a welcome spice to the familiar stew.

See route map and/or gpx file download

7th August 2025 : Wrenbury

A decent weather day was in prospect as I cycled through Christleton towards Alison's cafe in Tattenhall. I next found I had a wasp in my helmet which resulted in a very painful sting just at my hairline. Boy, did it sting! and was painful all day. I stopped at the pharmacy in Waverton to buy anti-histamine tablets.

Arriving later than planned at Alison's cafe, the outside area was full-to-busting with CER riders. Ivan arrived at about 1030 and so with Nick, we had a trio for my 50+miler circling Nantwich with lunch near Wrenbury (not at the Bhurtpore!)

We were soon on our way out and through Tarporley and Eaton bound for Church Minshull. We were bowling along quite nicely although the southerly winds were quite strong. We now had to ride around the western ring road of Crewe passing the road sign for the Bentley Motor Works curiously twinned with a Recycling sign! This is Ivan's territory, so he expertly guided us around and out via Wistaton to Willaston. We take the footbridge over the Shavington Bypass to head briefly towards Wynbunbury before arcing back via a couple of new lanes to Ivan, to enter Nantwich via the park.

I had planned to go to the "Bromac" canal side garden centre just outside Wrenbury but the web told me it was permanently closed, so we headed for Berries cafe in Wrenbury arriving via Ravensmoor and Sound with 34 miles ridden. Berries was fine (and quiet) as we sat outside in the sunshine trying to ignore the wasps! One was enough today for me!

We head out passing the Dusty Miller pub and hanging a left over the lifting canal bridge where we pass a very open "Canalside" garden centre and cafe. It turned out that the Plotaroute map has not been updated to the change of name from "Bromac" to "Canalside" and hence when I checked on the web  and by phone, I received the incorrect info!

We motor on towards No Mans Heath and take the eastern lanes bypass around Malpas to head for Tilston where Nick drops off. Ivan and I travel back via Barton to Tattenhall arriving by 1500 with 52 miles ridden. There is just the 14 miles home now, and, as we arrive back in Chester it will be 75+ for Ivan and 80+ miles for me today with Nick lagging behind at around 60+.

My sting was still hurting right up to bedtime and only went away overnight. The moral here is to carry some Cetirizine (non-sedating anti-histamine) tablets with you on your ride, along with the rest of the clobber that is!

So it's a thank you to Ivan and Nick for letting me catch them up at the top the inclines and hills today.

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

19th June 2025: Malpas (mod)

 There was a decent turnout at Alison’s as Keith and I arrived late due to traffic delays. It was expected to be the hottest day of the year so far and most of the guys were sat supping in the shade in the front garden. The potential moderates consisted of Andy Whitgreave, Dave Matthews, Andy Barber, Keith and myself. Andy W and Dave M were intending to cycle back to their respective homes. Dave M had a planned audax ride approaching, so despite his advanced age and medical constraints continues to be an admirably active enthusiast. I think that he is on his bike most days; the extremes people will go to in order to avoid the washing up!

It was a toss-up between Whitchurch and Malpas, with the nearest destination being considered in case the exceptional heat required made a short return prudent. We headed up to Bolesworth Castle and Brown Knowl. As Andy W was heading to Tilston via Duckington we decided to accompany him and forget Whitchurch. Andy turned for home at Tilston as we made a decent mileage to lunch by riding a quiet loop via Shocklach, Upper Threapwood and a new ‘first’: a gradual diagonal climb into Malpas up the appropriately named Sunnyside. We found one free table in the Little Deli enjoying our modestly priced English breakfasts and the friendly service.

We ensured our water bottles were refilled before our shorter route back on this beautiful but baking hot day. Our return was via Chorlton Lane, Horton Green and Tilston. These lanes capture the essence of Chester Easy Riders, as we cruise through the lush green countryside with only the very occasional vehicle disturbing our day-dreaming progress. It is surprising to note the number of discreet halls and lodges that we pass in a small area: usually we only get a glimpse, and often only view the end of a long drive. Newton Hall, Stretton Hall, Preston Hall, Cuddington Hall, Chorlton Hall, Chorlton Lodge, Overton Hall and Grafton Hall and so on. What sort of people live in these grand homes? How did they acquire their money? Are they part of “The Cheshire Set”? Late morning we had passed a young glamorous couple, finely dressed, riding magnificent shining chestnut horses, who politely acknowledged us with high-class accents and dazzling white smiles; were they part of the Cheshire Set? Do they only mix with their own? Perhaps they socialise at a Cheshire Hunt meet or at the Cheshire Polo Club. Do they ever slip down to Waitrose in their Bentley Bentaygas or do they have everything delivered? We completed our return to Tattenhall in brilliant sunshine by way of Barton, Coddington and Chowley. I didn’t envy Andy B with a long leg to Mold ahead in the heat, and unfortunately Alison’s was locking up, so we couldn’t easily share a last drink with him; good job he’s a certified masochist. A shortish but completely satisfying ride in glorious weather and totally relaxing company.

DH

19th June 2025: Aqueduct Marina (mod+)

 Warning!  The following content could be dangerous to your mental health- Lol.

Alison’s was the start venue today, on what was the best day of the year, with a cloudless sky, very light SE winds and near 30 degrees promised.  We were split to the front and back, which made a head count difficult, but based on DH saying he had 3 and no fast guys I figured it was 11-ish.

I had 7 in my group and I believe there were a couple in civvies, one was DM, out for coffee only.

My route was to the Aqueduct Marina, which is one of my favourites, due to the quality of the lanes and more open scenery, which works really well from Alison’s, as long as the winds are light of course.

My group formed instantly, as 6 of the eventual seven turned up virtually at the same time and grabbed the shade out front, the 7th was a lucky ‘kling-on’-Lol.

 

We set off right out of Alison’s and turned immediately left, settling into an easy rhythm, as I was warned by Steve-Lol. Shortly after turning right to Huxley, the rhythm was upset by somebody pulling along side me at the front. At first I thought it was a solo cyclist catching and passing us. However, after casually responding to his overtures with “yep, I’m alright mate”, I looked across and recognised those long blond-ish locks & the give away mini rucksack, as being Chris of course- Lol. “Where have you come from”, said I.

He had arrived late, riding in from home. Luckily for him (depending on your view point- Lol) he was just riding past the school and saw us go by in the distance, but wasn’t sure if we were CER. 

He chased us down, but had to work through the peloton, until he recognised somebody- Lol, which is probably why he simply rode straight past all of us - ok that last bit was a lie- Lol. 

The rest of the group was Nick (I’ve got no fast boy mates),the Chuckle Brothers (Allan & wife, aka Steve Hu- Lol) Shane ( what a nice man-Lol) And Kev (almost as nice as Shane- Lol, Lol, Lol) And little old me of course.

 

Chris settled into an immediate discussion about our bikes. This lead me to realising what a shrewd negotiator he must be, because he had paid less for his bike than I paid for my new cassette-Lol.

Anyway, by now we were cruising along nicely to Brassy Green and our right turn up to Beeston Castle, over my favourite little canal bridge for our first small effort. There would only be a couple more uppy bits on this almost pan flat route. Despite our lack of real hills, Nick still commented about how he hated that little pull up over the railway bridge, just as he was passing me. I completely concurred, as I shouted my response at his back wheel- Lol.

Now several miles on, and on a gorgeous stretch of lanes that being so well smooth, inevitably meant the pace naturally picked up slightly. I therefore took the opportunity to rotate back to enjoy the views, grab a smoke break and have a little chat with Kev, who I knew hadn’t been to the Aqueduct Marina before. He was revelling in the fact that there were no potholes for several miles, quote; “It’s so nice to not have to think about where to point the bike”. Then, mid chat, Steve called for a stop, to straighten his socks or swap bottles or was it to eat a melted chocolate bar - Ah no, that was later, Lol.

We got going again and within a couple of miles or so we were swinging into Church Minshull, where upon somebody behind commented on the Badger Pub, as we passed by. “Ah! Last weeks destination”, which was now only 1 mile from todays destination- Lol, although our route was completely different, according to the lunch conversations. These ranged from Trump possibly bombing Iran to our resident chatter box being offered the chance to get his food liquidised into a smoothie, to take away.

 

Kev offered to ask the staff, as he was worried it might be dark by the time we all got home, which was especially relevant today as Steve & Shane also planned to carry on for their 100 miles again. “What!” I hear you say, “ on a day of 30+ degrees”. I did hear somebody call them idiots, which couldn’t have been me, could it- Lol. Anyway, as soon as Kev made the offer, Steve then took a long breath and got on with eating. DH has a challenger for the slow eating title—Lol.

The popular choice for lunch was jacket spuds and tuna. However, our very own version of Jamie Oliver, had other ideas, when he pulled out lunch from his rucksack. I was not aware of the culinary talents of our newest member who, in the right light, could be said to look a little like Jamie Oliver, or was that Mary Berry- Lol. That said, Chris tucked into what looked like a simple egg mayo roll, which I commented was a pet hate of mine. “But have you tried my secret ingredient”, with a wry smile. “Oh yes”, with hopeful anticipation. “Sweet chilli sauce” was his response. “with eggs?”, to which I had this instant picture in my head of JO, with his head in his hands- Lol,Lol.

We got going with the assurance of light tailwinds all the way back. After a couple of miles, it got even easier, as Nick came to the front and decided he would lead us home, which felt lovely, I don’t often get to ride for numerous miles on somebody’s back wheel, even if it was a light tailwind, it’s still makes a big difference and much appreciated.

I then decided to lead the group up to Bunbary via Chestnut Meats farm/cafe, along Long Lane to Haughton, as the more traditional way to Bunbury, via Brindley crossing, has become very bumpy & pot holed, as we discovered a week earlier with Fiona & Elwyn, who were absent today, having fun at the dentist BTW. As I hoped, Long Lane has had loads of repairs and resurfacing since I last rode it several years back and is now a much better alternative and only adds a half mile. It was at this point that Nick didn’t think he had enough water to get him back to Tilston, so we diverted into the Co-Op in Bunbury.

This subsequently lead to the revelation of the day regarding the true characters of the Chuckle Brothers.

Let me set the scene. Nick got distracted and needed reminding to get his water-Lol, while everybody was wiping themselves down and shuffling into the shade ( 30 degrees on my Garmin).  Meanwhile, Chuckle Brother number 2 (aka- Alan) suddenly appeared eating a Cornetto. “No team ice creams then”, was my response- Lol. 

Where upon the Lovely Kev shouted out, “oh that’s a good idea and promptly offered to buy them. 

Almost simultaneously, the equally lovely and other half of the Chuckle Brothers also shouted he would get them in. Off they went and swiftly returned with sumptuous Mango Solero’s for everybody (such generosity-Lol). They were so well received  and quickly dispatched, although not before Shane decided to teach Chris how to juggle his-Lol. CB No 2 clearly must have thought that the whole group had a dairy intolerance or something and hence, he just bought a single Cornetto- Lol, Lol,Lol. 

20 minutes later we got going for our last 8 miles back to Tattenhall. We swiftly past Beeston Castle and before we knew it were at the junction on Burwardsley Road, just a mile left to Alison’s. However, we (Alan & I) had dropped the rest and waited to regroup, but only Kev appeared.  He explained that Shane & Steve had decided to show Chris the direct way for him to get home via the Ice cream farm, Gatesheath, Platt’s Lane and beyond, as they needed more miles anyway for their 100!  So those three turned off, half a mile back. Again the generosity of CB No1 has no bounds- Lol. 

What happened to Nick is unknown ( however, he was on home territory, so I wasn’t concerned about him getting home- Lol) I assumed he turned right with the others, for a longer route home. Meanwhile, we 3 carried on into Tattenhall and no sooner said did the ‘Mugger’ pounce, but this time I was waiting, thanks to the help from Nick on the previous 5 miles or so, which meant I had some legs left. I chased the ‘Mugger’ down and sat on his wheel into Alison’s (job done- Lol) . Unfortunately this meant we had dropped Kev, which was water off a ducks back to the ‘Mugger’ of course, but not me, so I apologise Kev (nice man) but I had to get him- Lol, Lol.

 

I left them both at Alison’s after Alan informed me he had 41 miles with an AS of 15.4 mph, which was surprising considering the heat, but it was pretty flat and low winds, although Nicks contribution probably made the difference. I got home with 46 miles & AS of 15.6 mph, as I used the last of my legs- Ouch!- Lol.

 

What a great day with fabulous company and some great banter- Lol. There was so much ammunition on this ride that I struggled to keep this story as short as it is- Lol.

 

At the time of writing, I discovered Shane & Steve did complete their 100miles ( madness, but well done). And credit to Chris who I think did 75 miles. No doubt, he would have liked to carry on with Shane & Steve, but I know he had a night shift to do.

Well done guy’s, all round, even Allan- Lol, A cracking day, especially the Solero’s- Lol.

 

Till next time chaps,

‘The Wind Whisperer’ & sometimes story teller.

 

Disclaimer: all content was base on a true story, the characters and names have all been taken from fictional scenarios-Lol, Lol.

See route map and/or gpx file download

1st May 2025: Whitchurch (mod)

There was a healthy turnout at Tattenhall on a fine, sunny day for cycling. The moderate group consisted of George, Trevor, Keith, Jim, Ray Bird, Mike Gilbert, Mike Dodd, Dave Matthews and me.  Our friends at Alison’s were flat out trying to fulfil our orders, but Dave Matthews had to cancel his food, because it hadn’t arrived before we were about to ride.

We set off for the Black Bear at Whitchurch by heading for Bolesworth Castle. At Brown Knoll we turned eastwards, rounding Bickerton Hill before thrumming down past Cholmondeley Castle and crossing the A49. From here it was straightforward to Wrenbury before turning southwest to Pinsley Green and beyond. Nice, scenic lanes that George couldn’t remember riding before. I was talking to Mike Dodd about Comber Mere and the abbey there showing on my map not far away to our left. Exploration of such sites was probably best following a recce, or solo with a friend, not when leading eight riders to lunch. I understand that it is a private estate with interesting walks and you can book rooms there. There is a monumental obelisk commemorating Lord Combermere, which you can catch a glimpse of from our route.

        

Ray was first to the bar: no surprise there. The staff were a bit thin on the ground, but thankfully the food was fine and didn’t take too long to arrive. Keith sat on his own to get a bit of peace. Ray had to pause because he was served first and would have finished well-first with his large mouth. The only problem was for Dave Matthews who picked prawns that seldom arrive in bulk and consequently were accompanied with less bread than other dishes. Having missed out on food earlier, Dave was a bit miffed and would be stopping to take in more calories at Malpas later. A pleasant lady offered to take our photo in front of St.Alkmund’s church before we started our return, so Mike Gilbert was able to be in the frame for once; was that a good idea? Judge for yourself! 

Manoeuvring through the Whitchurch one-way system to find the quiet and attractive way out on the road to Alkinton is seldom easy, but with an elite team of navigators and their Garmins in support we were soon sorted. Fenn’s Bank was reached by a green lush lane through Blackoe which crossed the Llangollen Canal. We avoided all but a few yards of the A525 near Painters Green by magic, and passed Iscoyd Park before reaching Malpas by way of the steep bank at Higher Wych. I had brain-fade at the start of the climb and changed to a bigger chainring, necessitating returning to the bottom of the hill and starting again. It had been great to have Jim on the ride, but he was peeling off to his daughter’s at Malpas. Dave Matthews was also leaving us and would be heading home after his intended café stop. We bypassed traffic tangled Malpas central by way of my new favourite small lane diversion that surfaces opposite the high school. The rest of the route to Tattenhall was via Ebnal, Kidnal, Tilston, Carden, Clutton and Chowley. Only George, Ray and myself climbed back into our cars at Tattenhall with thirty- six lovely cycling miles under our belts in brilliant weather. All credit to the rest of the guys for cycling many more miles to home or their outlying parked vehicles.  

DH 

 

 

1st May 2025 : Ellesmere (brisk)

As the sunshine surely brings the caravans out on the roads, so it is with cyclists. With a very warm and dry day in prospect, CER riders filled the outside seating area at Alison's cafe today. There were three or possibly four rides on offer, but I had accepted Ivan's offered brisk route to Ellesmere.

Our Brisk group of initially six riders consisted of Ivan, Ray S, Nick, and young Chris and myself with Ken accompanying us to Penley where he would have to strike for home today. Nick modified Ivan's first 4 mile section by striking out via Barton to Tilston as opposed to going via Clutton and it's hill. Chorlton takes us to Threapwood where we cross the badlands border towards Horseman's Green.

Once we had crossed the A525 Wrexham to Whitchurch road, the lanes were smaller and generally in a very poor condition. Beyond the odd poorly-filled surface, Ray remarked that it was more a gravel ride than a road ride. Ken turns for home as Penley appears as we five slide down the dip and up and onwards on the long run in to Ellesmere at only 21 miles.

Our usual lunch stop here has been the Red Lion pub. I had asked Ken if he knew of any cafes in Ellesmere and he recollected one in Scotland Street near a patch of grass. There are two cafes in Scotland Street – “Coco” and “Cherry Tree”– I didn't like the look of Coco so further up Scotland Street was the Cherry Tree cafe sited next to a patch of grass! We sit outside in the shade and the filled paninis come out quickly, along with a baked beans and potato combo. We all enjoyed our food choice.

Ken's lunchtime recommendation

By the time we leave, the inside seating was nearly full with pensioner lunches – so suitable for most of CER then! We head back through the town passing the shining mere and now headed for Welshampton in the rising heat. Cutting off left, we take the little lanes back to Hanmer where once again the lanes are in a very bad condition south of the A525. We briefly stop in Hanmer for an ice-cream break from the small village shop and PO. Several wild water swimmers are in the mere today.

Where is this to be found? *

The Lower Wych road is mostly billiard table smooth as we roll down the hill knowing that there are two steep exits from Lower Wych. We go left and up the hill towards Oldcastle Heath. As we hit the Oldcastle Heath to Malpas road, Nick turns left for home as we turn right into Malpas. Shimmying around the back of the town, we emerge near Bishop Heber high school and roll down to the A41 roundabout heading for Bickerton and Harthill. Harthill Road is “closed” to traffic but a very large tractor coming towards me is therefore a surprise as I hit 30+mph. The road is closed all the way into Tattenhall for what reason we know not. 

We are back in the town with 42 miles ridden and as the cafe will shut in fifteen minutes, we head for Chester. All around, those coming from Chester environs will have cycled mid 60+ miles today in 25C heat. Ivan leads the charge back as I hang on his tail only to find that Ray and Chris are nowhere to be seen but apparently they had been taking a leisurely ride back into Waverton.

So thanks to Ivan for the routeing suggestion as we all had a very enjoyable day out in the countryside today.

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

* On the wall outside Hanmer PO

13th March 2025 : Whitegate (brisk)

A cool start to the day for a ride out to Whitegate accompanied by Clive, Ray, and Nick.

Leaving on time, we headed north out of Tattenhall crossing  the canal and railway bridges before weaving our way through Hargrave where we saw Chris cycling in the opposite direction.  Chris was hoping to join us but had  been delayed on the roadside by a faulty derailleur and had to resort to converting his bike into a “fixie” to enable him to return home.  Hope you made it home ok.

Continuing on and cycling into a headwind, we passed  through Oscroft prior to the hillier section of the  ride which took us up and down through Kelsall, Mouldsworth and Manley, before being able to enjoy the  long descent  through Kingsley and Crowton  into Weaverham.

 From here we headed straight  into Sandiway  along Weaverham Road and, after crossing the A556, we arrived at our lunch venue the “Station Cafe” at  Whitegate. This very cosy cafe is run by volunteers and was reasonably quiet so our food and drink orders were taken and delivered promptly by the very friendly efficient staff.

The return journey back to Tattenhall was only 13 miles via  direct a route  passing through the villages of Little Budworth, Eaton and  Tarporley.  We  arrived back in Tattenhall at 2pm having ridden a total of 40 miles and accumulated 2000 ft of ascent although all of us will have an individual daily ride total  of at least 65 miles. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

KP

30th January 2025: Overton (mod)

 Well today’s ride….woke up and looked out and was surprised -  ice, ice baby ( Vanilla Ice ); anyway just thought let’s go . The gang that showed- me plus my driver, DH, Steve Tan in casual attire due to impending holiday (recovering as well from an introduction to asphalt), Shane, the half Welsh duo SHu and Alan, Clive, Ken, Nick, Ray and a late arrival representing the mob that can shift at a fast pace for ages,whereas me and my partner Dave kept to the script - moderate or as some car drivers liked to say knobs get a move on .

We headed after no discussion at all to Overton via lanes that were extremely muddy and icy so we took care to behave. The route started by passing through Tattenhall to get to Overton via a route made on the fly by Dave, who, as usual, put Garmin and other twenty first century navigation equipment to shame by using a map with more creases than my holiday luggage. We meandered through lots of exotic locations - Duckington, Tilston skirting Malpas to Tallarn Green, then to Holly Bush and into Overton, stopping for food at the Two Doves cafe . The lunch time discussion was…. oh well, time to crack on.

The route back was also cold, even with a good winter sun out, but the ice had mostly thawed. One thing that had been evident was the amount of flooding that has happened, with the lanes muddy and lots of water left, but these where actually helpful identifying the pots. Anyway, the route back went via Bangor on Dee passing the small but very popular horse racing venue, on towards Worthenbury, Shocklach, back through the hood commonly known as Tilston ( Runcorn pubs don’t have tether points for our ponies) then passing Carden Park golf club ( so wanted to shout 'fore!' to a bunch of golfers.. what a game). Anyway we then bumped into the Welsh partnership finishing their cycle meander around Cheshire lanes, whereas me and Dave had crossed the border into Wales, I only have one question concerning this. Why did the sheep all run in the opposite direction when Dave was passing? Just a thought . We finally arrived back at the cafe in Tattenhall Alison’s.  38/ 44 miles in great company putting the world to rights.

KB

30th January 2025 : Frodsham (brisk)

A dryish day in prospect as I arrived at Alison's cafe where Ray S was already into his cake and coffee. Very soon about 10 riders were eager for the off with Dave M and Steve T in civvies,

The Brisk Group consisted of Ray, Nick and Matt, once he had arrived from Walk Mill. Matt was sporting a new Swiss-made  titanium bike (even with Ti front forks and Rohloff gearing, massive tyres and  a carbon fibre "chain")  - must have cost a fortune but it should last forever.

We set off at a pace around Beeston Castle bound for Bunbury and Alpraham. Equally at a pace, we take the aptly named Long Lane to Wettenhall then Darnhall. We weave through pleasant Winsford suburbia on our way to Whitegate and the edge of Hartford.

Arriving at Weaverham, we dive right down to Winnington. After a while I realise that I had loaded up the longer route option. I had meant to drop down to Little Leigh to arrive near Dones Green. I decided not to admit the mistake but exited Winnington up the very steep Soot Hill near the Anderton Boat Lift. We take five to recover not just Soot Hill, but the high speed 22 mile run out to here.

Pushing on, we eventually get to the 2 mile long ever gently upwards Marsh Lane which enables us to approach Frodsham from the North East. At last the lunch stop is in sight. Matt needs to get home so carries on as we three stop at the Devonshire Bakery cafe right by the lights in the centre of Frodsham

We are able to order up very quickly and then access Whatsapp to discover the shocking news of Ivan's medical emergency whilst on holiday in Spain. Ken had been in contact today with Ivan and passed the news onto us and Dave H. Whilst Ivan is recuperating in hospital, apparently he is concerned what has happened to his bike and where it actually is - like we all would be! 

I feel I must tell Ray and Nick that I had inadvertently taken the 4 mile longer route thus pushing the distance ridden from home before lunch to 45 miles+. The food is good and very welcome. We discuss the way back and we three take the long hill out of Frodsham towards Hatchmere. Nick motors on for home, whilst Ray and I take the Delamere forest road back to Chester via Manley.

Arriving back home I find its nearly 70 miles today and the 15 mph average belies the fact that we were going a lot quicker than that for most of the route - except for the hills and the minor rain shower.

So many thanks to Ray and Nick for riding with me all the way round, and to Matt for slogging his new bike through muddy lanes  - but at least it will not rust! Hopefully Ivan will recover quickly and be back in the saddle again.

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

30th January 2025: Whixhall Marina (mod+)

Today was a first -  I enjoyed my coffee inside at Alison’s, the reason being the cold had driven the CER hardcore all inside. Whilst it was a balmy four degrees Celsius in North Wales it was somewhat cooler and icier on the Cheshire plain.

The assembled crew split into a mod, mod + and a brisker group. Shane, Alan and myself had planned to use Neil T’s dry roads route we used in autumn '24, with a lunch stop at Holt.

So, the three musketeers set off and meandered along muddy icy lanes until we reached Farndon. At Farndon we turned left & right and crossed the busy Barton road. Following the ascent of Wetreins Lane the mantle of ride leader was passed from myself to Shane, with a new lunch destination of Whixall Marina.

I’m sure since I enjoyed my Christmas Fayre and libations that the climbs to Malpas have been made steeper. Alan and Shane sprinted off up ahead as if being auditioned for the new Ineos squad. The roads around Malpas were particularly treacherous with long sections of slush. However, we were soon away and zooming towards the busy Whitchurch road and then onto Fens Bank.

 I’m always amazed at the time taken from passing the sign advising you are entering Whixall and riding over the canal to the canal-side marina. It must be another fifteen minutes. Hot food, chilli con carne, eggs and lasagne were all washed down with hot tea as we basked in the midday sun at the marina. Special mention must go to the staff and service here, it really is first class.

Replete with hot food we set off home repeating our route to Tilston in the vain hope we would enjoy a tailwind. Of course, as we all know in cycling, a headwind out means a headwind back!

 Shane peeled off in Stretton and Alan and I plodded on to Coddington and ultimately Tattenhall. In Chowley Oak we espied two cyclists who bore a remarkable likeness to Keith and our esteemed secretary Dave H. It was pleasing to see Keith had done six hours voluntary community service accompanying Dave to Bangor on Dee and Overton. Thus, the remaining four easy riders plunged into Tattenhall to the warmth of waiting cars.

 A pleasant route with thanks to Neil T and Shane in temps down to two degrees Celsius covering forty seven winter miles.

Steve Hu 

See route map and/or gpx file download

5th December 2024: Alison’s Tattenhall - Rain avoiding loop (Mod)

 With the forecast for heavy rain after 1pm everyone was up for a short ride and no surprise, Dave H and I both had loops via Malpas in mind. Checking the time at as we went we modified the route on the fly to get us back dry. The Mods consisted of Dave H, Dave and Liz, George, Keith and Ray B. We covered a route of 22 miles via Brown Knowl, Malpas, Cuddington, Tilston, through Carden Park, Coddington and back to Alison’s just as the first spots of rain arrived. Perfect timing. The Mods + group had already returned and occupied the outside seating area which we then fully filled with Dave and Liz opting for the last table inside.

 Congratulations to Alison’s for fitting us all in.

DP

5th December 2024 : Tattenhall Circular (brisk)

The whole of the outside seating area at Alison’s was taken over by C.E.R members which was surprising given the yellow weather warning for high winds and rain. Of the brisk group Ivan, Ray, John and Nick rode out solely for coffee leaving Clive and myself to formulate today’s ride. However, due to the awful weather forecast, all the planned group rides were changed to shorter circular rides with a lunch stop back at Alison’s.

Our planned ride was a loop out towards Malpas and Threapwood returning via Tilston. After looking at our route, Nick decided to join us given this conveniently coincided with his journey home. Initially we headed out through Burwardsley and Bickerton crossing A41 at Hampton Heath and on into Malpas. Here we went down Dog lane and began our return leg through Threapwood and Tilston.

Nick peeled off for home here while Clive and I continued on via Barton and Coddington to Tattenhall arriving back at 12pm in the dry, with the other groups arriving shortly after as did the rain!

This ride of 25 miles avoided the heavy rain and wind and was probably one the year's shortest rides. It is also accompanied by this year’s shortest blog!

See route map and/or gpx file download

KP

5th December 2024: Tattenhall circular (mod++)

Approximately 15 turned up at Alison’s today, which included the tandem team, just as we were getting ready to leave!

I had a clear intention and route that would allow us to get back to Alison’s for lunch, due to the forecasted heavy rain and strong winds that were due around 1pm.

This meant a short one of 31 miles ( circular route south, via Malpas) This route is a favourite of mine that I use after heavy rains, as there aren’t usually any floods, apart from Rocky Lane, which for today, I knew was clear ( that changed after the afternoon rain by the way - Lol).

 

Anyway, it didn’t take long for the usual Mod+ suspects to agree to follow me, which meant a group of 7 ( that included Elec John, who was just riding a few miles with us and then heading home)

DH decided his group would also do something similar. So it was that everybody was going to get back to Alison’s for lunch, even Clive and his group of 1.  Everybody else was just there for coffee and heading straight home.

 

I set off with Al, Steve Hu, Steve T, Shane, Rapha Ray & Elec John.

Left out of the cafe and down through Rocky Lane when we meet a hedge trimmer, just as we crossed the A41 ( not even 2 miles completed- Lol)

Fortunately there were no punctures and I decided to bypass Hollywell Lane, turning right toward Clutton, through the old disused railway line.

I knew of a big flood on the bend to Manorwood Cafe, so we turn left at the junction in Aldersey, which enabled us to ride through Carden Park, which is fairly common for me when on my own ( I like to pay homage to my other great pastime of golf and my club- Lol) 

However, only a few hundred metres inside Carden Park and just as I was about to say to Al  “keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers”, can you believe, one popped out of the reeds on the left and flew across the road, right in front of us, which made our day - Lol.

Before we knew it we were in Tilston and turning left heading toward Bickerton and our 2nd crossing of the A41, which was only 2 miles before our 3rd crossing at the ‘Forts of India’ curry house.

After a few more miles and a couple of little hills we hit Malpas and swiftly passed the Fire Station Cafe and then turn right for one of my favourite downhill stretches, that is surprisingly long, taking us all the way to the right turn into Saughans Lane leading us up to Shocklach.

 

By now we were getting some pace on and rapidly boosting our average speed, which, as Steve Hu pointed out, a few miles earlier, was very poor.  I did say at the start that the first half would be sluggish, mostly uphill and into to the light southerly, until we turned north after Malpas.

We now had a 10 mile stretch of pan flat tailwind, so it wasn’t long before we were beyond Farndon and whipping along past the Grosvenor pub. We turned right over the bridge of Aldford Brook, heading for Platt’s Lane and our 4th crossing of the A41- Lol.

After a brief regroup and a few gasps from the group, I think I asked if anybody was complaining about the slow pace -Lol.  Steve T definitely wasn’t, he was hanging in there well!

Steve Hu then piped up about our average speed having gone from 13.8 to 14.9 mph over that last 10 miles - Lol. 

We crossed over the A41 into Gatesheath Road and I pulled in to visit another tree and suggest to the group that if then wanted to crack 15 mph AS then they better get a grip as a team, because we now had a crosswind for the last few miles into Tattenhall. My legs were ok, but not up for pushing the pace on any more. Shane stepped up and I jumped on his wheel, but the rest didn’t it seems. 

After a mile or so, I suggested to Shane that we eased up to try and get the group together, and guess what happened, the ‘mugger’ struck again. Al steams past, leaving us in his wake and trying to regroup. Steve Hu then rallied us into a pursuit, leaving Steve T happy to bring up the rear with just a mile to go.

We rounded the corner and past the school, when I looked down to see 15 mph average, which I pointed out to Steve Hu, so we could knock our efforts off, having not caught the ‘Mugger’. I looked behind to see Steve T just coming around the corner. 

We pulled into Alisons at 12:45 after 29 miles, only to find Clive already there - Lol. 

Just as we got seated, light rain started, so I got straight back up, made my apologies and headed for home, preferring to get there before the heavy stuff arrived from the heavens. 

I only had a mile to go and couldn’t bear the thought of heavy rain after lunch with cafe legs; hence, my apologies and quickly off.

I arrived  home just as I was in need of a wet jacket - perfect- Lol.

 

What turned out to be a slow start became one of our quickest rides for a long time- Lol, Lol

A good day in the end and to think I nearly didn’t bother- Lol

 

PS, didn’t it chuck it down about an hour later!?

 

Till next time,

Neil.

See route map and/or gpx file download