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

30th April 2015: Gobowen (brisk)

I’d set out about 15 minutes earlier than planned on my way to Hildegard’s and it was soon obvious that I should have waited at home in the dry for those 15 minutes. By the time I reached the café, I had been well and truly soaked! Hildegard was mopping the floor as I arrived, as cheerful as ever. We chatted about her impending up-sticks back to Germany (in early June perhaps). I reminded her that, after years of looking after other people, it was meet and right that she should now be looking after herself. John arrives next and gradually a load more arrive. 

Where's John - gone for a swim?

Photograph by Clive Albany

I’d fancied a ride to Whittington, as I hadn’t been there since 2011. There were no takers except John, so we set off bound for Wrexham. I’d planned a wiggle through the centre of Wrexham and then up in the hills around Johnstown, thence to Whittington. We did our Wrexham wiggle, finding cut-throughs to the lane to Erdigg. The weather was rainy, windy and cold and so, with John’s approval, I cut out the hills and re-routed on the hoof as we headed for the Llangollen canal aqueduct cycle path then Chirk, and a bit of canal again towards Weston Rhyn. Here there is a wonderful, nearly straight lane going through Hengoed to the Gobowen Hospital. Derwen College café was busy and we were lucky to get a window table. As ever it is a pleasure to be here, with prompt and efficient service matched with home-cooked food. 

The sun is well out now and it is a real pleasure to be out in the Shropshire countryside. The route back was via the quiet lanes of Hindford and Dudleston Heath. Somewhere here I pick up a rear wheel slow, and with an audience of inquisitive bullocks, effect a repair. Through Lightwood Green and Cloy, we then take the main road back to Cross Lanes, through the industrial estate to the top of Borras Road (which looks like its at last going to be resurfaced) and then the 3 mile run down to Holt again. A mere 48 miles, with 70+ from Chester.

CA

12th March 2015: Ellesmere (mod)

There was a good turnout at Hildegard's. Jim had a route, but he also had a pain if he breathed deeply. My Green Party propaganda must have influenced him, because he had injured his torso by passionately hugging a tree. John appeared to have the flu, and Steve was still cautiously rehabilitating his back. Dave Matthews thought that he had a hundred day cold, but enjoyed a few miles with us. 

Those doing the full route were: Paul, Bryan W, Andy, Ray, Steve Tan, Martin, Trevor, Dave H, and Dave & Liz P. A quick glance at Jim's proposed route, and we were soon heading across the river to Farndon.

It was very pleasant and sociable, and it was nice to have a whole group ride. Andy was doing a bit of stirring, trying to be a wit, but I reckon he was only 50% there! We made steady progress south, sometimes into a steady headwind.

Basically, we headed for Hanmer via Shocklach, Threapwood and Three Fingers. This meant we avoided the muddy lane that follows if you cross the A525 at Eglwys Cross. Still heading due south, we managed to navigate to the edge of Northwood without the need for much map-checking. It is always reassuring to have Bryan around, when you are trying to lead on a route that you haven't prepared for. It was a bit intricate now. I wasn't sure if Jim had favoured climbing to Lea, west of Colemere or to just head up the main road. Expediency took over as the lunch break beckoned, so we headed directly northwest to Ellesmere from Lyneal, still on a quiet back lane for the most part. We managed to confuse ourselves over the pub of choice, as some pushed ahead, but we all ended up in The Red Lion which couldn't be faulted.

The brisker riders took their leave for a pacier ride back, whilst the rest of us headed up a narrow lane at the north end of The Mere toward Penley. Our route back was via Holly Bush and Bangor on Dee. We were soon on familiar back lanes from Sutton Green north to Holt. On reaching Hildegard's, Steve Tan was waiting after his ninth cup of coffee! Once again we had enjoyed a satisfying day out in good company, managing our fitness differences with mutual respect and common sense.  Distance: 40 miles.

DH

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 

22nd January 2015: Tilley (brisk)

Riding out from home with Ray the temp was 5˚C and it was chilly. Clive was sailing today so someone else needed to lead the ride and I had a ride prepared in case needed.  Arriving at Hildegard’s John was already tucking into his tea and tea cakes and soon the cafe was full with riders taking advantage of an expected dry day with little wind, albeit cold.

The Brisk team today would consist of Ray, John and Ivan with new riders Sarah and Martin.  A big welcome to both new riders, they are long distance cyclists and very fast with Sarah demonstrating her speed sprinting up all the hills and today we covered 791 meters!! on a route to Tilley (Where!!).

The road from the river bridge at Farndon to Holt is under resurfacing and pretty bumpy so leaving the cafe we departed along the Wrexham Rd to the main road for the chosen route out via Crewe by Farndon and Shocklach. We are soon enjoying the frost free and relative quiet roads and soon rolling down hill at Sarn Bank. 

Our route is direct to Hanmer and passing the Hanmer Arms Hotel I advised the group that this is where the moderates are heading for their lunch, it was 11:20 so we carried on. The lanes passing Bettisfield and Nortwood were excellent and a pleasure to be cycling along.

We arrive at Wem and the Garmin did not let me down, following a path in the direction of a dead end car park supposedly, we got to a gate that required we had to lift our bikes over if we were to go through so we about turn back into the town.

Photograph by Ivan Davenport

It didn't take long and we were on Tilley lane and approaching lunch at our lunch venue the "Tilley Raven" last visited 8th September 2013. As then we were made welcome providing a big table for 5, although all tables were shown reserved, and our lunches were ordered. As per Clive’s write up of this inn nothing changes, we had arrived at 12:05 and lunch arrived 13:00 but it was worth the wait enjoying good cask ales and Ray selecting a Rump steak to build his stamina up for the return ride home. No puddings today!! so we rejoined our bikes and returning via Wem town and turning right for Creamore Bank we are again enjoying some lovely tarmac. The only dirty road was experienced at Welsh End and a single track taking us over the Shropshire Union Canal via a wooden drawbridge.

We were fast going down Shothill and trying to read the route on the Garmin at speed in sunshine I call a wrong turn and bring our down hill roller coaster to a halt only to advise the group we are carrying on - Sarah and Martin lead us up the hill but if any of you can recall this bank it is a long steepish climb.

Once over the brow we are then heading for Malpas with a good view of the church from this direction then on to Tilston and Stretton where our new riders leave us heading for Pulford. Prior to arriving at this juncture we had an altercation with the BMW mentality driver. We were running at 24+ leaving Tilston and just as you approach the right hand little bridge the idiot overtook us and nearly took a car out approaching in the opposite direction. He then slowed and held up his two fingers but kept far enough in front of John otherwise he would have found them elsewhere in his anatomy (he did take note of the number plate!!).

The trio arrived back into Chester and all departed for home after completing a 72 mile journey from home although from the cafe it was probably a 49 mile round trip.

A good day out for January at an average of 15.4 mph. 

ID

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

27th November 2014: Whitchurch

I thought it about time I led a ride after being away so long, so cribbed a route from 2011 but reversed the direction.  Dave M and Trevor met us for coffee at Hildegard’s, to see off 14 riders: Steve H, Andy, George, Liz & Dave P, Dave H, Paul, Steve T, Martin, Ivan, Ray, John, Tom and me.  Was this a record number for a winter ride?  I chose an anti-clockwise route to lunch at Whitchurch, as 40 miles is an advisable mileage with the shorter days.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

We rode south to Bangor then east to Malpas, where we regrouped at the medieval market cross. (photo 1)  As lunch time was pressing, we took the direct B-road south into Whitchurch, where The Black Bear P H beckoned (tel: 01948 663 800). I’d advised them last night that about 7 or 8 riders should be there for lunch, but when 14 turned up, it did not seem to faze them.  As usual, the food, beer and service was very good.

Afterwards, we continued our circular route back, via Wrenbury, No-Mans Heath, and Malpas. Together with Whitchurch Parish Church opposite the pub, we passed 3 or 4 huge ancient churches, dominating their surrounding settlements.  This whole area must have been very prosperous at one time for funds to be found to build these magnificent buildings.  A very pleasant, easy-going, incident-free 40 mile ride finished with afternoon tea at Hildegard’s.

BMac

9th October 2014: Queens Head (brisk)

Setting off from home to meet Clive in Chester for the ride to Holt we were both kitted out in wet weather gear and cycles with mudguards, as the forecast was a wet day. We arrived at

Hildegard’s for coffee without a drop of rain falling.  Already gathered and still arriving were Jim, Tom, Dave H, Keith, Steve, Colin, Trevor, Liz & Dave on the tandem, Clive and Ivan. The brisk group today would consist of Tom, Colin and Ivan. A route to Queens Head was agreed and we set off. 

Leaving Holt we crossed over the Dee and up through the town heading for the usual route to Shocklach and Worthenbury. After a short time it was the first and only call to stop and put on rain jackets, as the rain fell in buckets, but thankfully only for 15/20 minutes. This was the one and only drop!!  Otherwise a fine day in 14˚C sunshine - weathermen!!

We cycled on passing Lightwood Green, crossing the A539 to Doddleston Heath.  We then passed through our first flooded lane giving Tom a dirty bike and face as he was pushing up the rear keeping us together but suffering with spray from our wheels. Riding along Birghill Lane (no hill) was similar to a summer’s day in glorious sunshine, onto the B5009 taking us to Queens Head and the excellent Queens Head pub. We had a good lunch stop here although Tom would have preferred a pub with a bigger heater as he was wet and chilled.

Photograph by Ivan Davenport

We were soon back in the saddle and taking the left hand lane from the pub, Woodhouse lane, it was a change to have a flat ride for a few miles instead of a climb straight after lunch following the Montgomery canal and on to Hordley. Here we encountered Road Closed but continued to be greeted by nice tarmac engineers who only advised us to travel cautiously which we complied with. After leaving the very bumpy roads we were through Techhill and not remembering the hill after enjoying the sweeping downhill ride to be greeted with the steep climb as soon as you round the bend - wrong gear!

Passing through Ellsmere we were then passing Penley and Horseman's Green when Tom announced he had a mechanical problem - slipping gears. Ensuring Tom's continued progress we slowed our pace to Tilston and Crewe by Farndon arriving in Holt just after 15:00. 

Tom decided to carry on home and sort his bike out so Colin and myself set off for Chester and decided to stop at Aldford for a break.

Overall a reasonable dry day and enjoyed the lanes but they are now muddy with farmer’s tractors etc. The standard of road surface is certainly improving with only a few really pitted roads encountered but some lovely smooth lanes to allow a cranked up surge in pace. 

Thanks to Tom and Colin for a good ride. 71 miles total journey (51 miles from Holt) and 914 metres of ascent at an average 14.8mph.

ID

9th October 2014: Gobowen (mod)

For a forecasted showery day, there were a lot of us at Hildegard’s cafe. A brisk group had coalesced and set off for Queens Head, and the rest of us (Dave & Liz P, Dave H, Jim, Trevor, the two Steves and myself) slowly assembled for a ride to Derwen College at Gobowen. Taking the back lane to the head of Wrexham Industrial Estate, we trail through smart and run down areas, mainly because I missed the cycleway turn into Red Wither Lane. Anyway, at Cross Lanes we were back on track, taking the repaired lanes around the back of Erdigg and Sontly bound for Ruabon. 

The Dennis brickworks looked more decrepit than ever, but still sells heather brown quarry tiles, for a price. Then we all enjoy the long hill out of Cefn Mawr towards Chirk. Taking the back lane, we pass the Marina and Golf Club, and the entrance to Chirk Castle before descending into Chirk proper. The canal path east brings us out at Chirk Bank on the main drag up to the A5 roundabout. A few hundred yards up the St Martins road, the right into Henlle lane guides us parallel to the A5 and into Gobowen town. 

The college is off the Whittington Road, and turning into it, we take a grand tour eventually finding the Orangery restaurant. As ever it’s busy, and the students are “off” today. The manager opens up a small dining room just for us eight. Within 10 minutes, we have chosen the main course and having it delivered to our table in double quick time. The hot puddings are even more quickly delivered. At under a fiver for two course and coffee, and of excellent quality, the college doesn’t ever disappoint. 

The sun is out briefly and we take a delightful lane off the 455 route circling back towards the big hill into St Martins. Onwards to Overton, there is a bit of rain as we meet up by the cafe crossroads. Steve H and I decide to take the run back to Farndon via Cloy, Hollybank and Worthenbury; whereas the others take the main road to Bangor. At the Shocklach turn, a "Road Closed" sign informs us that a bridge is being repaired at some place we can’t find on the OS map. The others then appear, and we set off assuming we will be able to get through. The bridge is just around the corner and we were able to walk the bikes over half of a new bridge. It’s due to be finished in three weeks: so they had better get a move on! I decide I need to get back to Chester, so I motor on leaving the seven Easy Riders to find their own way back to Hildegard’s cafe. 

A round trip of 46m at the start of Autumn with rain in the air, wet leaves on the ground and flailed hedges. It’s 65m from Chester, and it’s clear that the weather has turned and warmer clothes and lights, are now required.

CA

28th August 2014: Hildegard's Holt

Three members turned up at the Little Roodee: David M, Andy and Tom.  Rode over to Kinnerton via Bluebell woods---then Hildegard's and home.  Stiff wind on road from Rosset to Hope.

DM

21st August 2014: Ellesmere

A select band of Bryan, Andy, George, Clive, Steve T, Dave & Liz P and Dave M gathered at Hildegard’s in Holt. Missing were Dave Heath (en vacance a Provence) and Keith (waiting for a shed in Runcorn). Andy offered to take us to Ellesmere using a 6th May 2010 route starting ‘by the usual route’ to Bangor on Dee.  Thus suitably refreshed, we set out along Wrexham Road. The only thing missing was a bit of sunshine….and Dave M, who ducked out of the ride, citing ‘grandchildren and a bad back’ as the reason for not joining us. We meandered down through Bangor-on-Dee and were soon in the country lanes of Shropshire, which are delightfully free of the traffic often found in the similar lanes of Cheshire. Crossing the A495 and then the Llangollen branch of the Shropshire and Union Canal at Lower Frankton, we crested the memorable hump back bridge and looped through Hordley and Tetchill to arrive in Ellesmere in good time for lunch. A discussion about which pub to go to ended when Clive suggested the Red Lion. This turned out to be an excellent choice, as their ‘over 60s’ two-course lunch for £5.45 proved to be of good quality and even better value for money.

Photograph by Clive Albany (with apologies to Andy)

After lunch, Clive suggested that we try an alternative route back via Colemere and Tarts Hill. With Clive leading we left Ellesmere on the A 495 alongside The Mere, but soon turned off on to the lanes towards Colemere.  From here we followed Clive north on a collection of lovely lanes unfamiliar to many of us, through Welshampton, Breaden Heath and Tarts Hill.  We then continued north eventually passing through Worthenbury and the usual route back to Holt. At Crewe-by-Farndon Clive headed off to Chester while the remaining six, led by the tandem, took the “short cut” into Farndon by the back way past the Church.  Andy and George disappeared while the tandem, Steve T and Bryan made it back to Hildegard’s for coffee.

A great day out, enjoyed by all, with Clive’s return route further enhancing Andy’s choice of outward route.  Cool and dry all day with 46 miles done or 60+ for those heading back to Chester.

ST & BW

17th July 2014: Ellesmere

Ten of us met at the ice cream farm on what promised to be a glorious summers day. By consensus the Black Lion at Ellesmere was selected as the lunch destination and the group consisting of Bryan, Steve, Dave H, Tom, Petar, George, and Trevor set off with Dave & Liz on tandem leading. The initial route followed the lanes used by the Vets Hundred via Tilston, Threapwood and Tallarn Green to pick the A539 for a short distance past the turning for the Hanmer Arms which proved too much of a temptation for Bryan who had ridden to the start in the morning and had enough miles in his legs to satisfy him for the day. Very shortly after the group dived into the lanes again to head south for Ellesmere with one or two sharp climbs on the way.

The Black Lion in the centre of Ellesmere (not to be confused with the red lion another good pub on the outskirts of Ellesmere) lived up to its reputation for substantial good quality food at a reasonable price and good ales that we enjoyed under the sunshades out in the fresh air.

The route back took a short ride north on the A528 before turning right at the 1st junction heading for Penley via beautiful lanes and another steep climb. Keeping to the lanes we headed north via Hollybush, Worthenbury and Shocklach where those not wishing to stop for afternoon coffee at Hildegard’s pushed on directly to home, leaving six of us to enjoy the usual hospitality and banter at Hildegard’s in the hot afternoon sunshine.

The tandem pair and Dave H meandered back to The Ice Cream Farm to pick up their cars leaving those who had ridden to the start to head directly for home.

A glorious day for sunshine and scenery and good company. Black Lion rating – very good. Price is a reasonable £8 full size mains – half size meals available at reduced price. The steak and kidney pie lived up to its promise of being big enough for 2 but I did manage it all with a struggle.

Total distance 49 miles to and from the Ice Cream Farm.

DP

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

15th May 2014: Bradfield Green (brisk)

Today was the first day that bare legs and arms were possible, so, what’s not to like about nearly 80 miles of Cheshire countryside in the sunshine. There were a lot of us at Holt, so a foursome (Ivan, Steve, Tom and myself) set off as the "Brisk Group" bound for Bradfield Green – “Where?” - was the universal cry. North of Leighton Hospital – “Ah, I know where you mean now!” I had led a ride to this destination not quite 2 years ago, so I used the existing gpx plus a few mods on the fly. So up the A534 to Cock o’ Barton and a fast run to Tilston where we turn down Duckington Lane in formation. Around the delightful shoulder of Larkton Hill, we head out for Cholmondeley Castle. Here we go off-piste via the lanes to Bickley Town crossing the A49 at Higher Nab. We loop off the NCR45, past the Cotton Arms and out through Wrenbury bound for Sound Green. Off Mickley Hall Lane, we stop briefly at the Hack Green Secret Bunker tourist attraction (we were the only ones apart from some workmen) before heading north to Nantwich. 

Photograph by Clive Albany

There is no pretty way to easily avoid Nantwich if you want to go due North that is, but we tour round around Nantwich Lake and the Weaver meadows before dragging through suburbia to the Sainsbury’s roundabout on the A51. Ivan’s sister, who lives locally, says there is a new cycleway to Middlewich running parallel to the A530 and she is correct. It’s a wide path that runs for about a mile. We then cross the road and explore its extension which unhelpfully goes NE and we want N. We find our way back via a housing estate to the A530, then past Bentley Motors and Leighton Hospital to the Coach and Horses pub. The pub didn’t disappoint 2 years ago and it didn’t today either - definitely the best pub chips around. 

After the long repast (it was 31 miles) in which we covered world events from the AZ-Pfizer deal to potato stealing by railway employees, we head off bound for Church Minshull. Tilly’s is in prospect, but seeing we are going to arrive quite early, I add a loop in on the fly via Tilstone Bank just to warm up the legs before tea and cakes. The route back to Holt would be straightforward and rounds off at 58 miles, but as we all are Chester-bound, we head for Tattenhall where Steve heads for the hills and the three of us head for the Greenway. As I turn into the driveway, I’ve 79 mile on the clock, and no doubt Tom has a few more when he’s back in Connah’s Quay

CA

15th May 2014: Hindford (mod)

With a sunny dry day forecast a goodly number of members met at Hildegard’s for morning tea and coffee.  We were joined by newcomer Lyn Arnold who was out to build his fitness after some years out of the saddle.  Clive offered a 56 mile ride going east to Bradfield Green while others favoured an easier paced ride heading south.

After some discussion, and the promise of help from Dave H, I led off the moderate ride with Ye Olde Boote Inn at Whittington as the provisional destination.  Crossing the Dee and up through Farndon the group comprising Dave H, Keith, George, Dave & Liz P on the tandem, Lyn and myself kept up a steady pace as we headed south through Shocklach and Worthenbury to Holly Bush.  At this point Lyn left us to return home via a different route while we continued south to Dudleston Heath where we entered a network of lovely narrow lanes through New Crickett, Crickett and Old Marton with Dave H more than fulfilling his promise of help with the route finding.

At Hindford immediately after crossing a branch of the Shropshire Union Canal we stopped to check directions and noticed the entrance to what looked like an interesting old pub we hadn’t visited before: the Jack Mytton Inn.  Although only a mile and a half short of Whittington curiosity got the better of us and we turned in to grounds of the Jack Mytton Inn a converted Victorian farm building with extensive grounds.  With Stonehouse and Six Bells ales on tap and a good menu we were soon ensconced in the conservatory.  The food proved to be both substantial and well above the average pub quality with prices perhaps a tad higher than some are used to.  All in all, well worth another visit.

The plan for the return journey was to pull in some more of the delightful lanes before heading back through Overton and Bangor on Dee.  From Hindford we set off westwards before swinging north to the edge of St Martins.  Here we joined more of the lanes following an arc until we turned north at Dudleston to Shelbrook Hill where we joined the road to Overton, then past the racecourse to Bangor on Dee.  The smell of Hildegard’s coffee got the better of some at this point and the group fragmented as we made our way through the familiar back lanes to Holt.

With everyone back by 16:00 there was plenty of time to chat over coffee and cake before wending our respective ways home.

A great day out in lovely weather with excellent company and with 40 miles done or 60 for those Chester bound.

BW

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

27th March 2014: Ellesmere (brisk)

Is it that I’m getting lazy as I get older, or, is it that I am applying the wisdom of advancing years? It was obviously the latter as I selected on the fly, a May 2010 Bryan route to Ellesmere. It was Bryan who introduced me to this myriad of Shropshire lanes and every time I ride them I am content: whatever the weather. The "Three Cycleteers”, a.k.a. Paul R, Ivan and myself, set off via the dirty lanes to Bangor on Dee. Up and out we head for Cloy and Sandy Lane. We then cycle through the quaintly named Cricketts (new and old) via Dudleston Heath, then onto the Franktons via Perthy, and finally into the Red Lion in Ellesmere. 

As ever the Red Lion does not disappoint. I decide to amend the route back so we set off bound for Welshampton and veer off left proceeding NE to the Hanmer Arms. It’s just past 14:00 and we espy an unruly crowd of cyclists discharging from the pub. Oh no, it’s the Moderate Group! After exchanging pleasantries like “ How was the food” we decide not to hang around and head off north, bound via Little Arowy for the outskirts of Threapwood. A right down Back Lane then finds us at Cuddington Green. If we had taken the route back to Holt via Shocklach we would have ridden 45 miles, but we decide to head for Chorlton and Edge Green ready for the slow climb up to Brown Knowle. At Bolesworth, the rain and hail arrives with a vengeance, and we hammer away with it stinging our faces on our way to the Ice Cream Farm for a cuppa at 15:30. It tries to rain a little more as we exit Christleton bound for our homes. 

The Three Cycleteers managed 70-75 miles each at 15mph, and the rain held off for most of the day, and the Shropshire lanes remain attractive whatever the weather.

CA

5th February 2014: The Plassey

With a belt of severe rain forecast to arrive by mid afternoon, the group, consisting of Dave H, Dave M, Ray, Roy, Clive, Steve H, Jim, and Dave & Liz on the tandem, set off sharply from Hildegard’s for the delights of Wrexham Industrial estate, with the aim of getting to Gobowen and back in the dry. As usual the journey through the estate was fragmented with traffic islands and HGV’s but the group finally re-assembled on the lane leading southwards. At this point, Clive, feeling that progress had been a bit on the slow side, decided to leave the group and set off on his own. 

We then had a change of plan, nominated Dave M as leader and set off again with the intention of lunching at the Plassey craft centre. Dave led us out down a whole series of delightful Welsh lanes to the east of Wrexham arriving at the venue in good time for a relaxing lunch. The return journey was more direct, through Bangor on Dee and Worthenbury, where Dave left us to head off towards Malpas. With the wind behind us we made good time back to Holt, in fact Ray was going so fast he melted his mudguard bracket! 

Back at Hildegard’s, we just had time for a quick coffee before loading up the cars in a light drizzle-arriving dead on time at 15:00.

For the Chester riders about 55 miles: a bit further from Runcorn!

JD

19th December 2013: Calverhall

Having seen the day’s weather forecast for snow and rain over Llangollen way, I hastily cobbled together a replacement 45 miler from Hildegard’s café to the standby lunch venue of the Old Jack at Calverhall. The two Pauls, Brian, Stephen and myself would be the cabal today. The Donaldsons were only taking coffee with us and then off "house rental" hunting having just “bought” a new house (i.e. the plot thereof) in Parkgate. So off we go hoping it won’t rain today; and soon we see the rain clouds over the hills to the west as we ride Shocklach bound, turning off at The Purser to cut down to Threapwood. 

There is evidence of a lot of water in the fields and roads after the overnight downpours. We take the oddly named “The Ln” out towards Whitewell, and then on to Fenn Bank to locate the NC45. The lanes are muddier now, helped along by tractors coming off fields and the overnight deluge. At Prees, we climb out under the A49 and over the A41 and then the long lane to Calverhall village.

The pub’s is open and we are soon organising our own table under an enormous stag’s head. Disappointingly, my pint of Stonehouse bitter is truly “off” and is promptly replaced with Shropshire Gold. The luncheon fare comes promptly, and as ever, it is plentiful and of good quality. As we start to leave, the rain arrives and it feels colder. The return ride is straightforward i.e. through Whitchurch, Malpas and Tilston. However as we enter Whitchurch, Brian has a front wheel puncture on his new tyres (last week it was the rear wheel). It had to happen to one of us given the amount of hedge cutting we have seen today. Soon along the Malpas road, we take a left down to Higher Wych to get off the main drag to Malpas. Thankfully, the rest of the ride is uneventful, and the rain thankfully stops. We all take a hot drink at Hildegard’s and, around 16:00, go our separate ways home where I notice it is 3ºC! For me this is the last ride of 2013, and as ever the mix of good company and the Cheshire countryside is an unbeatable combination even in the dark and cold days of winter.

CA

7th November 2013: Overton

With the promise of a fine day ahead I decided on a 13 mile loop via the Greenway and back along the river cycle path to the Little Roodee to warm the legs up.  Upon arrival new rider Paul White was already there and keen for the day ahead. Thirteen riders assembled at the café: Bryan, Clive, Ray, Roy, Stephen, Dave H, Trevor, George, Ivan, new rider Paul W, Dave M, Dave R and myself. I put forward a ride to Overton and the White Lion pub, which was accepted by Bryan, and was happy for me to lead my first ride. Dave M and Dave R were only out for coffee.
So eleven of us set off over the Old Dee Bridge via Handbridge for Eccleston, we pick up the old Wrexham road bound for Marford hill and left past Gresford flash and across the foot bridge and down into Wrexham. We then make our way along Cefn Road to Bedwll Road left at Cross Lanes heading for Bangor-on-Dee, where we stop on the cobble bridge for Bryan to wipe his nose [sorry Bryan] we take the Overton Road out of Bangor onto Cloy Lane and into Overton for about 12:30pm, food was promptly served from the two for £9.95 menu.

Photograph by Paul Rose

We set back out at 13:45 returning down Cloy Lane but keep on this road for Hollybush and Theapwood out onto the B5069 and left through the lanes to Tilston left at the Carden Arms left again along Wetreins Lane and into Holt for afternoon coffee at Hildegard’s. Ivan, Stephen, Trevor, and George head back to Chester via Aldford the rest head back along the Rossett Road to Pulford onto Dodleston turning right along Lache Lane and back to the Little Roodee café completing the 49 miles or closer to 60 miles for those cycling home.  Yet again another great Easy Riders day with good company and friends.

PR