24th February 2022: Hanmer (mod)

 Great minds think alike! I had ridden down to Tattenhall with a ride in mind which would take us to The Hanmer Arms at Hanmer. With a strong south-westerly wind forecast it was a route that went roughly south and returned in a roughly northward direction. It would, in theory, avoid too much cycling into the wind. I must admit to having cheated a bit by taking the idea from a previous ride. Seven moderate riders had assembled at Alison's cafe. Eventually the conversation turned to the subject of where we were going to ride to and it was at this point that it became clear that Steve Ha had come up with the same idea. So, The Hanmer Arms it was, and since Steve does more than his fair share of ride leading it only seemed fair that I should lead this one.

The seven of us, Andy B, David M, Steve H, Steve T, the tandem pair of Dave and Liz and myself set off out from Tattenhall towards the A41 and Chowley Oak. David was intending to leave us at Coddington and the tandem pair were going to see how it was with the wind. A tandem, after all, is the cycling equivalent of a high-sided vehicle. But at Coddington the situation was reversed. The weather seemed to be better than forecast so David continued on with us while Dave & Liz decided that the wind would be too much and decided to peel off. I don't think they liked the look of some rather ominous-looking dark clouds that were heading our way and neither did the rest of us but at this point we turned south and hoped to be clear of the rain before it got to us. In the end we got caught by the edge of it but only had to endure it for about five minutes before we were out and heading into sunshine again.

We had passed through Barton and headed down through Tilston towards Threapwood. Beyond Threapwood we encountered our next weather-related hazard – snow. It snowed for about 15-20 minutes but fortunately it didn't start to settle on the road. However, David realised that he wasn't properly kitted out for the conditions and decided to turn towards Malpas and home leaving four of us to turn towards Lower Wych and then on to Hanmer.

By the time we reached The Hanmer Arms the sun had come out again and had mostly dried off our outer clothing. However, we arrived cold from both the snow and the strong winds and when two of us ordered tea we all wanted to wrap our hands round the pot. Once a regular haunt for the Easy Riders it had been closed for a while. This was the first time I had been back there since it reopened, although other rides may have been there recently. It didn't look any different to me and the welcome was as warm as before. The food was also still good although the 'mini-bites' were a little too mini. The 20% off the food bill helped to soften the blow.

The sun was still out as we made our return through Tallarn Green, Sarn and Threapwood. The wind was also still blowing strongly and it seemed that we were still cycling into it. Or were my legs getting tired? At Shocklach Andy left us to go straight home and the two Steves and I turned right. We retraced part of our outward journey into Tilston but then carried straight on towards Carden. As we climbed the hill at the back of Carden Park I realised that it was my legs that were tiring and I was left behind by the other two. As I rounded the bend at the top there they were. I thought they had stopped to wait for me but actually they were repairing a problem with a loose mudguard. From there we continued to the main road where we dog-legged left and right. At Chowley Oak we once again joined our outbound route and followed it back into Tattenhall. Unfortunately, we were just a bit too late to enjoy afternoon tea and cakes at Alison's. Maybe next time. Still, despite the weather an enjoyable 35 miles. 55 for Steve H and myself by the time we got home and goodness knows how many for Andy.

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TC

5th August 2021; Hanmer (mod)

The forecasters had promised us strong SSE winds gusting to nearly 30mph, plus heavy rain from noon. Given this poor forecast there was a good CER turnout at Alison’s in Tattenhall. It was especially good to see Bob for the first time in some months. He is moving to live near Chorley, and we wish him well in his health and his new life in Lancashire.   

The anticipated weather affected our choice of route: either a longer trip south-westward in a crosswind to the Greyhound in St Martin’s, or a shorter route that minimised the time we would spend in rain.  The latter was chosen which meant a trip southward to one of our favourite destinations, the Hanmer Arms. The group comprised myself and the other two Steves, Dave H, George, Alan and Andy, plus Neil who was only able to join us for part of the ride. We headed off over the hills by Bolesworth Castle and then to Brown Knowl.  Although having not long been riding, we managed to lose both Alan and Steve Hu by the time we reached Broxton Old Hall. Luckily telephone communication was established and they re-joined us shortly afterwards. We continued on to No Man’s Heath and began the climb up to Malpas.  Here heavy rain began to fall and we donned our waterproofs expecting to be wet for the rest of the day. The route took us through Lower Wych, by when the rain had petered out. It didn’t take long to reach Eglwys Cross and join the A-roads that led us into Hanmer village by 1230. Although we had often been riding into the wind, it didn’t cause us too many problems, perhaps we had been sheltered by the landscape.

We had called ahead to alert the pub, but need not have worried as initially we were the sole customers. Drinks and food were ordered, the light bite fish and chips proving most popular and very tasty. Conversation ranged widely but, after George described having watched Jeremy Clarkson’s Farm, tended to focus on farming.  Specifically, Clarkson’s lack of farming aptitude and the massive cost of farm machinery, narrow margins and where did farmers make their money. 

Photo by SH

It was still not raining when we left the pub. We headed for Tallarn Green and Threapwood, noticing, as we leave Chapel Lane and join the B-road, a substantial house oddly named “The Holy Land”. From there we made for Tilston and Stretton, passed by Manor Wood café, and were soon back in Tattenhall. We’d only covered 34 miles, our return helped by a strong tailwind. The heavy rain hadn’t materialised, though when I reached home, I found it had fallen there and much more would later in the day.  I think we’d been lucky. 

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SH

7th November 2019: Hanmer (mod)

For CER riders looking out of their bedroom windows the main question was, “If I turn up to ride today will I just get reasonably wet, or insufferably wet, as in having to endure miserable, cold hours of driving rain ?” Those who have rich and full lives, urgent household task to tackle, or stimulating company at home, sensibly chose to “give it a miss”. Clive, Ken, George, Nick and myself turned up. To be fair, Nick was multi-tasking in terms of a need to get to Screwfix in Wrexham before the end of the afternoon, then he was going to hang curtains, and later practise his karaoke! That's the energy of (relative) youth for you. I suggested Hanmer or Ellesmere, and I reckon Ken had calculated that at my pace he'd be returning home in the dark if we went to Ellesmere, so the Hanmer Arms it was to be.

I sort of led, but although I have pioneered some perverse routes in this area, mainly to avoid hilly and rough-roaded Malpas, the help of the rest of The Crazy Gang, who ride these lanes more frequently, smoothed things along. When I don't know my north from my south, George can always take bearings from his beloved distant Welsh hills in order to keep us on track. The route out was via Churton. At Coddington the Caravan Park cafe was recommended to those who hadn't yet partaken. We continued through the mazy little lanes of Cuddington Heath and Oldcastle Heath. We passed Peacock Farm where my Clio RS happened to be in the capable, specialist hands of Steve and Andy of Birchdown Motors. At Eglwys Cross, Clive, perhaps surprisingly, suggests the main road in order to miss the super muddy back lane to Hanmer. George and I remember well using sticks here to poke the muck from between our tyres and mudguards. It was by leading us on back lanes like this that Clive literally cemented his reputation. The Hanmer Arms is full of chatting ladies, one of whom nearly knocks me over, chuckling over her view that my yellow “safety jacket” was the only thing that saved me from demolition. Service and food were very good, and it is nice to see this long time CER favourite returned to top form.

The conversation was interesting, but as I strayed onto the political, George, quite rightly mentioned out our informal concensus on avoiding the risk of heartfelt arguments over politics.  Of course, George may have just been on Civil Service autopilot after decades of ensuring Political Purdah before elections!

Our return was via Little Arowry, Three Fingers, Threapwood and Shocklach. The pace of the fast lads was considerately turned down, but progress had been good all day. Nick peeled off for home. We, amazingly, felt very little rain until the last few miles to Farndon; even this was only light. We decided to give our custom to Helen, back at Cleopatra's. We had a very pleasant coffee and cake session before departing. I suspect Ken, and definitely Clive, will have hit real rain riding home. Only 31 miles, but very enjoyable despite the gloomy forecast. I am sure that we all were glad that we had not “given it a miss”!

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DH

25th April 2019: Hanmer (mod)

After a sunny and warm, even hot Easter weekend, it was a shock to see heavy rain showers, cool temperatures and gusty winds in today’s forecast. Undeterred eight Easy Riders met at Cleos in Holt. The mods were Neil, George, Dave H and myself. We had decided that the conditions limited our distance to a ride out to the Hanmer Arms at Hanmer.  On the way out we would face an easterly wind veering to southerly, which would speed our return.

The brisk group left before us, and we followed in the same direction over the Dee Bridge and through Farndon to head towards Worthenbury.  So we were a little surprised to find the brisk group overtake us, slipstreaming behind a tractor.  Bypassing Worthenbury we looped round Tallarn Green and made for Holly Bush, then through Penley and towards Ellesmere.  We had been lucky with the showers, but were then hit by heavy rain and paused by The Mere to consider whether to seek shelter in an Ellesmere pub or head to our original destination.  We chose the latter, which turned out to be the best choice as conditions improved and we were drying off as we cycled into the courtyard behind the Hanmer Arms with 25 miles completed.

The pub is one of our favourites and we were welcomed and served decent food and drink.  Conversation turned to recollections of previous visits and previous cold wet rides. One we especially remembered had been led by Jim from Chirk into the hills with Dave, George and myself plus big Roy. The highlights(?) of this being near hypothermia and mechanical catastrophe.

We left the pub to the sound of thunder. For our return I chose to follow the main roads rather than lanes to the east of Hanmer.  A couple of years ago we had become stuck in 6 inch deep mud on these lanes and the memory was sufficient to keep us away from them ever since. We passed through Lower Wych and Malpas, and then via Stretton and Wetreins Lane we entered Farndon and made for Lewis’s. A little later the brisk riders joined. We had successfully avoided any serious rain on the return despite dark threatening clouds in every direction and had been pushed along by a tailwind.  39 miles had been completed – a good ride in the conditions.

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SH

1st November 2018: Hanmer (mod)

All Saints Day began with steady rain, but by the time I’d ridden to the Ice Cream Farm, the clouds had cleared and the day promised to be dry with some sunshine and mild winds. Twelve Easy Riders turned up, the moderates comprising Jim, George, Mike G, David M, Neil (on his new bike), Steve T, Trevor and myself.  It was good to see Dave H also there, in civvies performing his club secretary duties, and also collecting choices and monies for the Christmas Lunch.  He needs to receive confirmation of attendance and at least the £5 deposit by 22^nd November.

I had pulled a previous ride to Hanmer from the archive: a figure of eight with a return through Malpas and Brown Knowl. We started through Tattenhall, Barton and Threapwood, but were making good time and I therefore decided to divert eastwards and dip down through Lower Wych to avoid arriving too early at the pub.  As we travelled along some good surfaced lanes for a change, we split into two groups.  I remained in the slower group and we were surprised to arrive at the Hanmer Arms ahead of the others.  About 5 minutes later they arrived much muddied from their excursion through the lanes to Arowry, whilst we had taken the clean main road for the final mile or so.

The pub was quite busy but we were accommodated on a couple of tables and served relatively quickly.  As usual, there was a friendly welcome with good value food and drink. There appears to be a planning application for a large holiday home development behind the pub. These and caravan parks seem to be a way to keep many country pubs open when others are forced to close.

I modified our return plans to keep the overall route under 40 miles and to avoid what would have been a hillier return. We took the fairly direct route northwards through Tallarn Green, Shocklach and Clutton. At Sarn Bridge we find a mega-sized tractor going our way, confronting an even bigger one on the bridge.  We carefully keep well away from these monsters at they manoeuvre past each other. From Sarn Bridge we gradually shed riders, as they make their own ways home.  Eventually only Steve T, George, Jim and myself end up back at the Ice Cream Farm, to reflect on what had been a good autumn ride of 38 miles.

See route map and/or gpx file download

SH

15th February 2018: Hanmer (mod)

A cold sunny but very windy day saw the Easy Riders descend in number on Cleo's in Holt.  It was good to see such a turnout and discussion covered the CER 10th Anniversary Special Ride on 26th April. But today, David M, Trevor and Bryan were doing their own thing; the mods decided on a trip to the Hanmer Arms; and our phalanx of brisk riders were heading for Ellesmere. (Is ‘phalanx’ the right term? Maybe it should be a ‘flight’ or a ‘tornado’? Suggestions on a postcard please.)

The mods were Andy B, Bob, Dave H, George and myself. The route out went through Shocklach, Threapwood and Penley, before skirting The Mere at Ellesmere, and then heading northeast to Hanmer. The wind came from the west and gusted strongly, but unlike the Winter Olympians at Pyeongchang, there were no complaints from the stoical mods. Though they were less sanguine about the steep climbs out of valley bottoms we kept finding.

With 25 miles covered, we arrived at the Hanmer Arms.  It was as good as always, and for those with big appetites and small pockets, the ham and eggs is to be recommended. We chatted about CER’s history and those with long memories tried to recall ‘the who’ and ‘the what’ of previous years, not always successfully.

The return route was only 14 or so miles and was mainly with a tailwind, so we needed to add another challenge. This came from the road surface, though many riders doubted we were actually on a road as we took the route from Arowry to Eglwys Cross and northwards. We had more potholes than road and Somme-like mud. Luckily Dave had packed his patent mudguard de-mudder: a special twig designed for such eventualities.  Soon we were back on tarmac, heading towards Malpas by special request from Dave. From there it was a quick ride to Stretton, down Wetreins Lane and back into Holt.

We arrived back at Cleo's, just as the brisk group were leaving, and settled in for hot drinks and cake, with nearly 39 miles covered. Special congratulations are in order for Bob, who completed an entire ride without a puncture!

See route map and/or gpx file download

SH

21st September 2017: Hanmer (mod)

It was raining heavily as I rode towards Holt and it was forecast to continue for the rest of the morning.  It wasn’t a bad turnout therefore when five of us gathered in Cleopatra’s: Ken, George, Keith, Steve T and myself. Ken was recently back from a cruise to Greenland and points west, and was only out for a brief ride.

I had seen a report on Google that the Hanmer Arms had re-opened, and keen to investigate whether what had been one of our favourite pubs was still as good, I suggested this as a venue.  Given the weather we agreed to take a fairly short route there and hope things would improve after lunch.

The way out was through Farndon, then Tilston and into Malpas from the west, where Ken left us. Next through Lower Wych to the A525, where we saw we were likely to be too early for the pub. We took the road to Arrowy intending a short loop through Bronington to take up the time.  Now we are used to muddy lanes, but these were really, really muddy: hard work and limited traction.  The only solution was to abandon the loop and make for the main road as the cleanest way to Hanmer.

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The pub was welcoming in spite of our sodden condition and we were quickly served with good reasonably priced food and I had an excellent pint of Dick Turpin. The only problem was the lack of a fire, not that it was cold, but we could have done with it to dry out our gear.  We agreed to place the pub back onto our list of favourites. We were happy with a fairly short route back, even though the rain had stopped.

A few days before I had watched a natural history programme called ‘Swarm’ on the powerful collective intelligence of animal groups.  Unfortunately the collective intelligence of Chester Easy Riders was sadly lacking when climbing the hill above Sarn Bridge, Keith’s rear mech snapped off.  Our initial plan was good: remove the mech and shorten the chain.  Our implementation was lacking.  We faffed about trying to detach Keith’s quick link, then puzzled over how to use a chain splitter, then were perplexed over how to reconnect the shortened chain. Eventually we were able to fashion a working though rather loose chain, good enough to get us back. 

Grateful to only have a short direct route back to Holt, we passed through Shocklach, and on to Farndon without the usual race over the last few miles. We had only completed a little over 30 miles, but were grateful to celebrate our ride in Cleos with a round of hot chocolates, courtesy of George.  It had been a day worth getting out for despite the weather.

SH

19th May 2016: Hanmer (mod)

We had been in a similar situation before at Cleopatra's - devising a route to avoid certain heavy rain from mid-afternoon. The plan this time was to take a longer route out, but have a short, quicker return after lunch. Steve H. lent me his map and the nine of us set off north to Churton. The group consisted of Keith, Dave and Liz, Bryan W, Macca, Mike Mc., Steve Tan, Steve H. and myself. Liz was in her pretty bonnet, and Dave was in his element giving the back tour of pretty Churton. From Churton to Coddington is flat, quiet and idyllic. We drifted along in typical easy riders social mode. At Tilston we turned right, and meandered through to Bishop Bennet Way via Horton Green, Chorlton Lane and Cuddington Heath. We had the familiar steady climb from Lower Wych with Steve T., despite his current joint problems, gliding easily ahead. We crossed the Wrexham to Whitchurch road at Eglwys Cross. Bryan was a bit sceptical, as we were now coming into serious Clive, bunged- up mudguards territory, but, fortunately, today was dry.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

One lady member of staff was doing nearly all the work at the Hanmer Arms, but the service was good, and the food was fine. Steve H. led back, with Steve T. almost falling at the cattle grid on leaving the car park. Our direct way back was through Tallarn Green, Threapwood and Shocklach. There was some fine rain in the air, but the weather held off. Some of us opened the throttle a little on the Crewe-by-Farndon stretch. The tandem was on top form again: I believe the Russians have contacted them to see what exactly is boosting their performance. I'm not sure that you can take bread and butter pudding and custard intravenously! 

Bikes were put in cars and we tucked into cake and coffee at Cleopatra's, although Helen was not her usual sunny self today. The blonde lady was very pleasant and efficient, nevertheless.  Only 32 miles today, but a relaxing route, and relaxing company. As we headed out the fast lads arrived. I did warn them that they had to make a choice between Victoria sponge and a damn good soaking. Being macho men, of course, they took both!     

DH

11th February 2016: Hanmer (mod)

Our winter weather seems to offer us two choices-wet and warm or cold and dry. Thursday presented us with the latter, so under an almost clear blue sky a good-sized group of riders met at Cleopatra’s in Holt. The moderate group consisted of Keith, Steve T, George, Mike G, Dave H, David M, Mike B, Steve H, Liz and Dave P, John M, Charlie, Jayne, and Jim.
We exchanged the cosy warmth of the café for the weak winter sun and set off south over the by-pass and onto the lanes on the west side of the Dee. Despite the relative dry weather of the last few days, the river was pretty near its peak and we all marvelled at the vast area of flooded fields between ourselves and the river channel: it was like cycling round the Zuyder Zee! Soon we came to the usual ‘road closed’ sign, which we decided to ignore, and 500 yards later found out why - the river had annexed the road as well as the fields and we had no volunteers brave (or daft!) enough to try the huge puddle for depth. Retracing our route to the last junction, David M guided us skilfully in the direction of Bangor-on Dee.

Continuing southwards, we followed the lanes to Penley, Breadon Heath and Bettisfield. Turning sharply northwards, we crossed the A495 and arrived at the Hanmer Arms after a very pleasant 20.5 miles. Most took advantage of the very reasonable two-course menu for £5 and the beer drinkers had a pleasing choice of beers too.

Photograph by Mike Gilbert

Soon we were back in the saddle again, heading north for Eglwys Cross. By the time we had crossed the A525, we had remembered where the filthy muddy lane that is imprinted on our memories was to be found. However, this time it wasn’t too bad and we were able to continue on our way without spending time scraping mud from under our mudguards. The lane down to Threapwood was a very nice few miles, mostly downhill, and after the stiff climb out of the Wyches Valley, we set off for the direct run through Shocklach and back to Farndon, arriving back at the café in good time for coffee and cake.
A lovely dry day throughout, with occasional sun, and quiet lanes giving us very enjoyable riding. A total of 35 miles or about 60 for those riding from Chester.
JD

4th February 2016: Hanmer (mod)

A small group of us met at Rose farm: Andy, George, Mike, Dave & Liz P on Tandem, John W, Tom and David M.  John proudly showed us his well-earned PBP medal before he and Tom whizzed off at high speed to points unknown.
The strong west wind determined that we strike out west so we could eventually be blown back home.  Consequently David M led the rest of us to Malpas (where we could decided on further progress, if any) using a lumpy route over Brown Knoll and through No Man's Heath.  The tandem was finding it a bit of a struggle to keep up through the lumps and into the wind, so elected to stay back near the "Copper Mines" (as was) and ride serenely on to lunch at Malpas.
Near Malpas the solo team decision was made to carry on to the deli at Overton for lunch, but due to David M's personal sat nav being incorrectly calibrated, we diverted through more lumpy bits to the pub at Hanmer (highly recommended with excellent 2 course lunch for £5).
After lunch we headed north into yet more wind, but then veered east to Tilston with some assistance.  Here we split with Andy and Mike heading back to Chester whilst David M and George continued through the failing light to Oscroft and Rose Farm respectively.
Probably the best day out this year for weather (so far) with approx 50 miles covered.
DM

30th April 2015: Hanmer (mod)

A group of nine: Bryan, Dave and Liz P, Dave H, Keith, Trevor, Brian Mac, Mike and Jim assembled at Hildegard’s to plan our day’s ride. The Hanmer Arms was chosen as our lunch stop as the route gave us several opportunities for change should the weather become unpleasant.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

We set off across the Dee into Farndon and then northwards to Churton.  Here we turned east towards Coddington and then south through Barton and Stretton to Tilston. A few showers hit us as we followed the dog-leg lanes broadly southwards through Horton Green and Cuddington Heath to Lower Wych. We then joined the A525 at Eglwys Cross briefly before following the A 539 into Hanmer. This allowed us to avoid the short but usually very dirty lane direct into the village. 

The pub was a little quieter than usual and most took advantage of the ‘Pensioners Special’ menu, which included a free half pint/tea/coffee. Not a huge amount of choice of food but we get easily confused these days! Plenty of ales to choose from though, including an interesting Elderflower Ale. We could see the weather steadily improving and set off an hour later in dry and occasionally sunny conditions. 

We followed the lane south to Bettisfield and then turned north-westward heading for Penley. Here we picked up one of our regular routes back from Ellesmere to Worthenbury, Shocklach and back to Holt in time for coffee and cakes. No more rain, though the breeze did pick up from time to time.

An excellent days’ riding on mainly quiet lanes: 41 miles in total.

JD

22nd January 2015: Hanmer (mod)

The bridge was closed between Farndon and Holt, and there were significant delays at the junction of the A55 and A483, but everyone made it on time to Hildegard's. Well, I say everyone, but obviously not our tandemists, yet. Dave and 'Liz duly arrived at 10:26, and Dave ordered porridge, a kipper, toast and marmalade and continuous coffee top-ups. (O.K., I am ever so slightly exaggerating!). We were very happy to welcome Martin and Sarah, a friendly and athletic looking couple who appeared to be proper cyclists, so inevitably went with the brisk group of Ivan, John and Ray.

Jim, George, Liz Donaldson, Dave & Liz P, Steve Tan, Brian Mac and myself set out north, mainly on the pavement as the road was up. At Churton we tuned east for Coddington and headed south for Tilston via Barton and Stretton.  We turned right at Tilston and then worked an intricate web of small lanes in order to avoid Malpas and enjoy some peace in typical easy rider terrain. Horton Green, Chorlton Lane, Cuddington Heath, Oldcastle Heath, then left along Bishop Bennet Way, right at Manor Farm to the usual hilly challenge of the area around Lower Wych. On reaching Eglwys Cross we headed down what was the grottiest surface of the day. It started to dawn on me as we approached the sea of mud at Hanmer Hill Farm that this was part of a previous Clive route in reverse. No surprise there! Never mind; we were soon racing down the hill with pretty Hanmer Mere on the left, before turning up to the Hanmer Arms with 20.5 miles recorded. 

The service and food at the Hanmer Arms was really good, as ever, at one of our favourite pubs. Liz and George instigated an interesting discussion ranging around books and films, with Wolf Hall and the character of Cromwell at the fore. I then overheard Dave Pipe interrogating the waitress about portion sizes; after my comments about eating last week, you couldn't make it up! 

Dave H's wish comes true a week late

The route back was intended to be relatively direct and speedy. We returned via Three Fingers, Tallarn Green, Threapwood and Shocklach. Some of us started to wind up the pace towards Farndon, as is now the tradition. It was only 8/10ths stuff, but it at least it raised our heart rates for a sustained few miles. Between my map and reading glasses tied around my neck with shoelaces, and Jim's GPS a hundred yards back, we had navigated without any hitches or delays.

Photograph By Brian MacDonald

It had been a very enjoyable ride, and back at Hildegard's we had a good laugh with our excellent hostess, and plenty of tea and cake, of course. Conversation covered the pros and cons of dog ownership, and the hokey cokey of the Sun's page three. Actually, I've just realised that you can't mix the images on page three with the lyrics of the hokey cokey and expect to go to Heaven!

Our ride back was once again shorter than our fitness levels required in order to improve. We probably need to stretch ourselves a little further now as the days become lighter. A lovely day with friends, nevertheless and 32 miles done.

DH 

26th December 2014: Hanmer

Manley Mere was to be the meeting point but it was closed, so the ever-reliable Hildegard’s was chosen. I arrived just after 10:00 to find John waiting outside.  Hildegard opened up shortly after and gave us a warm Christmas welcome.  A little later Dave M arrived, and we spoke about our Christmases and cycling.  Both John and Dave were only out for a brew and made their ways home.  I needed a bit more exercise after too much Christmas cheer, and followed an old ride southwards out of Holt to the west of the Dee to Bangor, then on to Penley and Bettisfield before looping back north towards Hanmer.  The return was via Cuddington Heath, then northwards east of the Dee to Farndon.

Despite bad weather warnings the ride out was dry though muddy and cold.  After a quick stop at the Hanmer Arms (always a good choice) the return was wet and murky.  A lone walker flagged me down just north of Shocklach – she was lost and wanted to know how to get back to the Carden Arms! I put her on her way and my good deed done, headed back to Farndon and then on to home increasingly wet.  The snow started after my return. 

One of those days when it was well worth the effort to get out.  The round trip from Holt to Hanmer would have been about 40 miles.

See route map and/or gpx file download.

SH

3rd July 2014: Hanmer

A good mix turned up at Hildegard's: Ivan, Paul, Ray, Tom, Steve H, George, Dave and Liz P, and the Runcorn clan of Dave H, Steve Tan and Keith. Dave Matthews had cycled out for a chat, but was again in recovery mode, having worn down his perineum skin as thin as Graphene cycling in France. Initially the weather was disconcertingly cold with drizzle, but gradually improved to ideal. We had gratefully accepted Ray's initiative in leading, as he had Clive's outline route to Hanmer on his screen. We were soon twiddling down our favourite quiet lanes through Ridleywood and Sutton Green to Bangor on Dee. Ray was doing well following Clive's intricate and hummocky route. We took in Penley, Hampton Wood and Bettisfield before reaching the Hanmer Arms, one of our favourites. 

My food was really good, but Keith and the Pipes were grumbly about the quality or absence of bread. Also, the waitress initially wanted us to pay as a group, threatening that if we paid as individuals the last person would have to cover any cash shortfall. Dave Pipe was thankfully assertive. After all, the Pipe's pudding penchant meant they could well have been last to pay.  Ivan had turned back before lunch, as he had initially said that he would have to return early to Chester. Something about cycling without electrical assistance not floating his boat anymore. Incidentally, his next bike is to be a carbon Willier with electric gear change. Tasty!

Our return was via Eglwys Cross and Higher and Lower Wych: hard work for the valiant tandem two. The remainder of our route took us to Cuddington Heath and Chorlton Lane towards Shocklach and Farndon. George put the pedal to the metal as we headed north to the A534. We presented an unwitting lead-out to Paul 'Kittel' Rose who rocketed past. Ray and Tom soon appeared in his wake. Despite missing the break, the indefatigable Steve Tan was registering 24 m.p.h. just trying to catch up on his semi-mountain bike. No podium place for me today after all! This bit of a burn-up is becoming a fun optional tradition of ours when finishing at Holt. Hildegard was our wonderful host at the end. Luscious plum cake and extra coffee - who needs a medal? About 38 miles without the mud of March. Great company and a great day out.

DH

27th March 2014: Hanmer (mod)

A good-sized group of 15 assembled at Hildegard’s for the usual effusive welcome. Dave M was in short ride mode and set off for home the long way.  Clive, Ivan and Paul set off for a brisk ride southwards, while the remaining group of Mike G, Bryan, Ray, Andy, Tom, Steve H, Dave H, George, Dave & Liz P, and Jim set off for a moderate ride to Hanmer. We were a little disconcerted to be informed that the Hanmer Arms had recently undergone refurbishment and might not be open. However, plans had been made so we set off optimistically down the lanes towards Ridleywood, Sutton Green and Bangor on Dee. The weather was chilly but dry and we looked forward to a reasonable day. However, we had overlooked the fact that after a very wet winter the local farmers had all set out to get the spring ploughing done while the weather was dry. Consequently, the lanes were covered with a layer of glutinous mud that found it’s way into the gap between tyre and mudguard, and quickly became an irritation in both noise and drag terms. The first of a number of stops took place while we poked around with bits of stick to clear away the offending material.

Leaving Bangor on Dee, we continued southwards to Penley and Hampton Wood. Turning too soon out of Penley, we had to cross the very steep little valley by Brookmill, but pressed on regardless through Hampton Wood towards Bettisfield. 

Turning back northwards we soon reached Hanmer Mere and the Hanmer Arms. To our relief the pub was open for business and offering an exceptional choice of ales and reasonably priced soda & limes. The food was well cooked and priced, and we were soon back on the road, after once again clearing huge gobs of mud from our machines.  We crossed the A525 at Eglwys Cross, and followed the signs for Higher and Lower Wych: always a grind crossing the valley.  Keeping to the west of Malpas, we passed Cuddington Heath, and Chorlton Lane before entering the last part of the journey through Shocklach and Farndon. Ray, Mike G and Andy left us here and a few minutes later the heavens opened!  We had a tasty coffee and cake back at Hildegard’s before setting off home.  A mainly dry ride of 37 miles, or 60 for those from Chester.

JD

10th January 2013: Hanmer

What a difference to last week’s balmy weather!  At 9:00 as I left home for the ride to Hildegard’s it was cold, grey and with a touch of fog.  A relieved Dave H was already there, having arrived early and then been concerned that he had gone to the wrong venue.  Hildegard made a large pot of tea and within a few minutes two of the tables were full as Ray, Ivan, Dave & Liz P and Paul also made an appearance.  With the weather outside being so cold there was some reluctance to get out and our start was a little delayed.  No worries though as we were following my route to Hanmer and I could always cut a bit out if necessary.
We were soon out in the country riding south on the back lanes between the Dee and Wrexham Industrial Estate, which if it hadn’t been for the state of the roads would have been perfect.  Unfortunately this set the tone for the rest of the day: beautiful, almost traffic free, lanes thoroughly covered in gunk and with the occasional flooded section.
Through Bangor on Dee we went, past the racecourse, and then just as Paul swept past to attack the coming hill, a left turn up Brynhovah Bank.  Continuing south through the lanes the sun made an attempt to show itself and it did seem a little warmer although Ray was still complaining about the cold.  At the southern end of Lionlane Wood Ray spotted a sign to Hanmer “not much further to lunch then”.  Sorry Ray but “we’re going further south to Bettisfield before we turn north to Hanmer”.  So ignoring the signs we continue south: after all we still had a few more chevroned hills to pull in before lunch.
After Bettisfield it was a straight run north to Hanmer and the group fragmented as riders made off for the warmth and comfort of the Hanmer Arms.  The Hanmer Arms Hotel was packed with a large funeral party but we found a space by the fire in the front bar and while Ray warmed himself we ordered food and drink from the bar.  The food was excellent as usual and the range of ale more than enough to satisfy the drinkers amongst us.  Talking to the barmaid it appears that the existing lessee has just put up the lease for sale.  Let’s hope that the new management maintains the current standards.
By 14:00 it’s time to make a move but a reluctance to leave seems to have gripped the group with half the group claiming they were just waiting inside for those already standing ready to depart outside in the cold!  To warm up we retrace our steps up to Arowry and then turn north to cross the A525 to eventually drop down to Lower Wych.  Once up the other side we take a meandering route through the lanes to Shocklach and on to Farndon.  Here Andy and Paul leave us to ride straight back to Chester while the rest of the group continue to Hildegard’s for coffee and “nice” cake (pineapple and coconut).  Suitably refreshed I leave at about 15:45 for the ride back to Chester in the gathering gloom with the fog thickening.
Yet another great day out covering some 39 miles or just over 60 miles for those riding from Chester.

BW

24th February 2011: Hanmer

For a change the forecast for the day was good and consequently there was a good turn out of 12 riders at the Bellis Garden Centre Cafe, Holt.  The roll call was Ivan, Clive, Ray, Mike G, George, Jim, Lizzie and Martin D, Dave and Liz P and Andy.  The first four rode to the cafe from Chester and, in Mike’s case, Connahs Quay.  Jim reported that Dave H had his new hip popped in last week and was making a satisfactory recovery.  We hope to see him back on his bike next week!  The group was thrilled to see that Ray’s new bike - a Van Nicholas Yukon - was being given its first official ride.  This model is rapidly becoming the all-purpose bike of choice for the discerning cyclist!
A decision was made to ride to Hanmer via Penley and Ellsmere.  We set out at comfortable pace through Farndon and heading south to Shocklach.  The temperature was rising well into double figures and a stop had to be made for removal of clothing layers.  At Tallarn Green the road appeared impassable where a bridge was being rebuilt but we were able to dismount and walk along a temporary pathway.  Towards Penley short climbs began to appear and Ray’s Van Nicholas showed an impressive turn of speed on one of them.  We passed though Penley and then skirted round the north of the mere at Ellesmere until we finally arrived at the Hanmer Arms for lunch at 12:45.
The 2-course menu at £7.95 proved popular and was generally rated as excellent.  The service was fairly rapid, so often a problem with larger groups.  The meal and increasingly warm and sunny weather meant that a degree of lethargy had to be overcome but we started rolling again along narrow country lanes where we passed more horses and tractors than cars.  Near Lower Wych Ivan called a puncture but mysteriously there appeared to be no discernible problem with either the tyre or the inner tube.  Some privately thought that it was a ruse on Ivan’s part to gain a respite form the fierce pace!  Several riders were having problems with a build up of drying mud between tyre and mudguard and improvised tools picked up from hedgerows were used to remove the accretions.
Eventually the Malpas church appeared on the hill top and we continued though the village and on to Tilston where the Chester boys peeled off and the remainder rode back to Bellis’ where we had a cup of tea in the hot and sunny cafe.
A pleasant meander of 40 miles through quite country lanes on what felt like the first day of   spring

MD

19th February 2009: Hanmer

Photographs by Ray Hardman

Having only returned to Chester the previous day, after being away for over four weeks, it was immediately apparent that my fitness had suffered. It was some consolation then that temperatures were reasonable and the weather dry, plus today’s elevenses was at Bellis Garden centre promising a reasonably flat ride. Brian was already there when I arrived quickly followed by Ray. When Graham, Dave and Liz arrived we were in new territory. Six riders and it was only 11.00am. Then when Jim and Dave arrived to make it eight Ray insisted on a photograph to mark the occasion!
The ride south to Hanmer was taken at a steady pace evidenced by the buzz of conversation from the following riders. Shocklach and Threapwood were quickly passed and we were soon in the undulating lanes that characterise the area around Hanmer. The Hanmer Arms Hotel was as welcoming as usual with a table prepared by a roaring log fire. The Adnams and baguettes went down well and after an hour or so of chat it was time to make a move. More interesting lanes followed until we reached Penley from where we turned towards Bangor on Dee, Wrexham Industrial Estate and thence back to Bellis at Holt. After further sustenance (they do a very tempting carrot cake) and discussion the group split up with riders making their own ways home.
What a great day this turned out to be.
Distance from Chester and back 51 miles.
BW

24th July 2008: Hanmer

Riding out to elevenses at Bellis Garden Centre Café against a head wind I began to wonder why I had chosen the long way round, but after an hour of hard riding I was supping tea in Bellis’s with the other riders and looking forward to the day ahead. It took only a few minutes to agree an outline route to Hanmer and we set off crossing the Dee into Farndon and then via Shocklach and Threapwood to cross the Wych Brook at Sarn Bridge. We then negotiated the narrow lanes through Three Fingers and Little Arowry to Hanmer making full use of the SatMap (recently updated with new software so that it fully supported OS 1:50 000 scale mapping). The impressive Hamner Arms Hotel looked rather too up-market for us cyclists but the welcome by, none other than, the hotel owner dispelled any doubts. Nothing was too much trouble and a courtyard table was prepared while we sampled first the Adnams ale and then the local Stonehouse. Food was excellent and the staff friendly. What more could you ask for on a hot summer day? On the return journey the SatMap helped navigate the lanes past Tarts Hill, Penley and through to Tallarn where we headed west to Bangor on Dee and then north on the network of minor lanes to reach Holt at 3.30 pm. After tea and cakes at Bellis’s Café we headed back home through Aldford and Saighton with the wind behind us to complete another great ride.
Distance from Chester and back 53 miles with 433 metres of ascent.
BW