18th June 2015: Hough (brisk)

Arriving at the newly opened and renamed Cleopatra's at Holt were other CER riders already partaking in their pre ride drinks and munch. As there was a large group it would split into the brisk and moderate rides. I had prepared a ride out to Hough so set off with Tom, John, Dave P riding solo and Steve T.

Heading back down the hill to cross the bridge over the Dee and turn right to skirt the church and then out to Crewe by Farndon before turning left along Wetreins Lane. Onwards with a strong tail wind we were making good progress racing through Shocklach, Bickley, Wrenbury, Aston and Audlem. After turning onto the A525 at Coole Lane corner heading down hill into Audlem it is an awakening on how silly young drivers are in fast cars as two sporty cars try to pass us before the little bridge at the bottom and before going up into the high street. One passes down hill and one gets caught at the rear then squeezes past us as soon as we are over the bridge, lucky for them that they were not in the street when passing.

We are now on the main road for a couple of miles before turning right onto the lane for Hunsterson and staying on quiet green lanes of the country side in now sunny conditions passing Bridgemere, Checkly and turning north at Wrinehill heading towards our lunch stop at Hough. We pass the main line railway at Betley where I gave a little useless info of an occasion when the Royal Train was stopped at the signal box (circa 1973) when the signaller on duty had fallen asleep!! It was the early hours but he was moved out of the position as a result of his actions.

I had googled the local pubs and was looking for the White Lion that we have passed previously but ended up at the White Hart as the other hostelry was at Weston being informed by the postie!! 

It was the midday special for all and service pleasant but we were soon back into the saddle with a now head on wind to reduce our speed back home.

We passed Nantwich and taking the usual route back along Dig lane and Swanley and onwards crossing the A49 passing the Chomondeley Castle to Broxton and enjoying the down hill roll crossing the A41 and enjoying the last few miles through Coddington before we leave Steve at Churton who is returning to Holt where he was parked. 

The remaining four of us returned to Chester passing Aldford arriving back into Chester before 16:00 having covered 60+ miles from Holt but 80+ with the ride to and from Chester and Shotton.

A good ride and a pleasure to have Dave and Steve joining us.

No photos as too busy cycling!!

ID

23rd October 2014: Hough (brisk)

The weather forecast for today was to be better than expected. After a week of rain and high winds I set off for the Ice Cream Farm passing Jim and friend on Hare Lane. As I was early I intended on doing a little extra before coffee at the farm.

On arriving there were already a collection of bikes including Jim's. I offered a route to Hough (past Nantwich) and Ray, Tom, Colin, Paul and myself set off.

We took the route to Beeston taking the turn via Peckforton. The satnav route was taking a diversion through Cholmondely estate along Cholmondely Lane but when we came to the end of the road it was decided to return back to the main road. We spoke to some estate workers who advised that there is a route to the castle but with the recent wet weather probably not suitable for a road bike. Perhaps a dry summer ride! Turn round and plan B!!

We set off along the main road turning left and passing the Bickerton Poacher. The connection of the two pubs either side of this hill is the Pheasant!! at Burwardsley. 

Riding along at a good pace we were soon into Wrenbury passing the Dusty Miller. Round the corner to Aston and passing the Bhurtpore Inn and only 11:40 so too early for curry yet! Continuing along good dry lanes although we had passed a couple of tractors busy in their duties of hedge management we were racing through Audlem passing another stop the Shropie Fly. Then on to the road to Bridgemere and Wybunbury when the cry is where's the pub. Not far, just round the corner, and another 8 miles we were pulling up at the White Hart at 12:30 with 30+ sunny miles covered. The menu was good and the three beers to sample. We all selected the hearty lamb casserole with suet scones. Excellent choice.

Feeling refreshed the return journey was via Weston and Shavington before heading into Nantwich. Going through the town and Welsh Row we were soon in the lanes again (Marsh Lane). Using Dig lane to Swanley and continuing to the Wrexham Road then enduring the busy traffic until turning left again for Brindley. 

After a reasonable pace all day the brisk riders decided that on passing Beeston along Stonehouse Lane, Wickson Lane and Tattenhall Lane and with the ICF only 4 miles to go, to sprint. I was shown clean wheels with Ray and Colin topping 30mph on the stretch with Tom and Paul in hot pursuit. I can honestly say it was very fast and glad when we got to the cafe. Hot chocolate and cake needed to put calories back and we bid farewell to Colin who was going MTB riding over Moel Famau in the dark.

A good ride on dry lanes in about 16˚ C at an average of 16.7mph over 60 miles (81 to home). 

The ride home to Chester was a little more sedate, at Huxley I had a rear flat but as it hadn’t gone down fast I pumped it up and it lasted home. Too many farmers cutting hedges I think.

Thanks all for an excellent day out    

ID