27th March 2025: Little Bollington (mod+)

A modest turnout at Delamere, despite the weather being set fair. Although the prospect of a slightly stiff breeze may have put certain club member off. Lol.

Steve Hu just out for a coffee due to other engagements and good to see Steve T out after his medical sabbatical.

So, with just Shane and myself representing the mod+ crew we set off with a vague idea of going east.

 Almost instantly the awful potholed Blakemere Lane caused me to puncture, however whilst we were mending it a new plan was considered.  So, we set our compass for the Swan with two Nicks, the directions provided by google with the volume tuned up on max. Shane had the route on his phone using OS maps, but as it was in his pocket this meant stopping at most junctions to get our bearings, as it was hard to hear the google maps gal with the wind in our ears. Lol 

Despite the navigation issues, we set a good pace down to Acton swing bridge and through pretty Great Budworth, now fully recovered from the bitter disappointment of not having a wheel to follow. The Swan wasn’t too busy and the service very fast, subjects discussed included the demands of family life and the effect the orange buffoon was having on invested pensions.

Shane managed to save and reverse the route on his Garmin, so it was straight back the same way. By now the light breeze had stiffened somewhat and was in our face all the way back. The out and back plan also meant riding up the steep Acton lane, a reminder to have some rides saved for every start point.

A good day out all told with the excellent company of Shane, 43 miles for me and 56 for Shane.

 Alan

29th February 2024: Little Bollington (mod)

There was a strong turnout at Delamere, and conditions were fine for cycling. It was great to have Dave Pipe on board again. The chilled cruising group consisted of Dave Pipe, George, Trevor, Andy, Dave Matthews and myself. I had missed Ray’s email on Wednesday evening, which explained that he had just had a large tooth removed, so would have to give the ride a miss. 

It was going to be possible to cover a few more miles today than we had been doing, so with this in mind we started out in the direction of Kingsley before turning down Forest Lane. There was the usual steep climb under the main railway line at Cliff Lane, before plunging down from Acton Bridge to the A49. We somehow managed to lose Dave Matthews and Dave Pipe at Willow Green. We made a few phone calls to both, but to no avail, and thought that there was a strong chance that they had gone through Little Leigh, and we would cross paths near Crumleyheath Farm.  It was not to be, but phone contact was made at Comberbatch, and Dave Pipe said that he would meet us at our lunch destination. Dave Matthews had intended to peel off anyway. After well thatched Great Budworth we made quite brisk progress to Knutsford, and turned into Tatton Park. The deer were an attractive sight with two impressively antlered stags prominent. We passed through pretty Rostherne and crossed over the A556 to Booth Bank, which in years past would have been almost impossible but was now facilitated by a bridge over the Mere by-pass.  

We were very pleased to see Dave Pipe waiting for us at the top of the lane down to Little Bollington.  The service was friendly and the food fine at The Swan with Two Nicks. The young woman taking our order was bursting with personality and was clever enough to remember our orders without the need for pen and paper.  There was just one fly in the ointment: in a typical Pipesque act, Dave had disappeared to the toilets just as we were ready to order!  Never mind, the waitress passed the frustrating old fogies test and soon returned with a smile to take Dave’s order.  Lunch was very pleasant with interesting conversation. It was unusually quiet without Ray’s decibels, but at this stage we didn’t know about his tooth extraction, and the concern expressed about his absence was quite touching. I was just pleased to eat in peace.

The first leg of our return was on nice quiet lanes to Sworton Heath.  A straight flog into a slight headwind on Swineyard Lane, and then we were winding along the narrow lanes toward Arley Road, and beyond to Antrobus, Frandley and Little Leigh. George and I had recollected at lunch the run of wet afternoons that we had suffered returning from the Swan with Two Nicks in past years. One day I had watched Dianne Oxberry’s weather forecast, and I reckoned that we would find a dry window between fronts on our return to Delamere. We set out in drizzle anticipating a change for the better, but it never came, it just battered down instead. I think Kate from Neston, with the beautiful smile, was with us that day. I remember coming across a taxi, and I swear that on my own that I would have climbed in. Some of you will remember another extremely wet afternoon in the Lake District when Brian MacDonald had a little crash, and we took shelter in a hotel at Newby Bridge. We watched Wales beating England 1-0. Kate and George were on that ride too. Anyway, thankfully, today was dry.  After the hard climb to Acton Bridge, we returned to Delamere via the challenging Marsh Lane from Crowton to Norley. Andy was a bit concerned about reaching Mold before dark, as he was without lights. Dave Pipe and I managed a swift coffee thanks to the kind staff at Delamere Station Café who were just on closing. Forty-six miles covered on the day. Trevor, once again, was getting more miles in, about sixty-five. Andy, after a day with his Ruthin chums the day before, must have covered over a hundred miles. Where does he get the motivation?                                                                 

See route map and/or gpx file download 

DH

4th May 2023: Little Bollington (mod)

 It was dry and bright as I rode out to Delamere, but there was a blustery wind from the east which would affect us during our ride today. A dozen Easy Riders gathered at the Station Café - Electric Jim and Trevor were doing their own thing, Dave H was doing his and Neil arrived exhausted after battling the east wind all the way from Gresford and would do his own thing as well.

That left and octet of Dave H, Steves Hu and T, Alan, Ever Ready Ray, Clive, George and Roy who was still recovering from his collision with Dave H four weeks ago. Our destination was the Swan with Two Nicks at Little Bollington, one of Dave H’s favourites and on our list of favoured lunch stops, but somewhere that we haven’t visited for over four years.

Our route out took us via Hatchmere, Norley and Crowton to Acton Bridge, where we enjoyed the run down Acton Lane to the swing bridge. Our climb up it later in the day would be less enjoyable! Having crossed the A49, we climbed out of the Weaver Valley heading for Comberbach.  Just before there, near the Cheshire Riding School, the lane is badly potholed and these have been marked up for repair. Someone has written ‘Do all of it!’ in spray paint on the road here. Perhaps we should do the same on the road from Delamere Station to Hatchmere!

Going via Budworth Heath, we followed Budworth Road towards Knutsford. The strong east wind made itself felt all along here until we diverted from the route of four years ago to take ‘Tan’s Tabley Transfer’.  This allows safe crossing of the busy A556 close to where it intersects with the M6, but requires a ride along a very rough section of road past Tabley Moss Wood.

Entering Tatton Park at the Knutsford entrance, we were rewarded with the sight of a herd of red and fallow deer.

Leaving the park via the Rostherne entrance, we crossed the A556 near Bucklow Hill and turned to the east again to run through Arthill across the M56 and A56, arriving at Little Bollington just before 1 pm.

The Swan with Two Nicks gets its name from the practice of swan upping. Swan upping was the means of establishing a swan census, as all swans belonged to the Sovereign. Under a 15th century Royal Charter, the Vintners’ Company and the Dyers’ Company, two Livery Companies of the City of London, are entitled to share in the Sovereign’s ownership and it is they who conduct the census through a process of ringing the swans’ feet. Those caught by the Dyers and Vintners are identified as theirs by means of a further ring on the other leg. Today, only swans with cygnets are caught and ringed. 

Originally, the two companies made their own marks on the birds’ beaks: one nick for a dyers’ bird and two for a vintners’; today the two Companies use their own rings. This practice provided the name of the pub. This was a 16th century pun, the word “nick” also meaning “neck”.

Food and drink orders were quickly placed and we were able to sit outside in the warm sunshine. As usual the food was of a good quality, although a little more expensive than it was four years ago. Nevertheless, the ciabattas, fish and chips and sandwiches went down well. The only blot on the landscape was the sight of Dave H polishing his helmet, but the less said about that, the better.

The peleton...

....gathers....

..and leaves.

Our return journey took us along the busy A56, but we soon diverted along Spring Lane to Oughtrighton and past Lymm High School. After another short stretch along the A56, we hung left into Crouchley Lane past Lymm Rugby Club and then right into Mag Lane where we crossed the M56 once more. From Sworton Heath, we were soon cycling through the former RAF base at Stretton, which was set up to protect Manchester and Liverpool during WW II. Parts of it are still in use for private aircraft.

Crossing the A559 and Antrobus , we then followed the small lanes through Frandley to reach Little Leigh, where the road was clogged with cars as it was turning out time at the local primary school. Crossing the A49 at the swing bridge proved difficult and it was only due to Steve Hu’s selfless action of walking his bike across that we were able to reach the other side. The hill up Acton Lane provided a test of stamina to all of us. At the top Dave H decided to cover the rest of the ride at his own pace and so fell off the back of the peloton. The ride up into Norley provided our last challenge and so we arrived back at Delamere a few minutes before 4 pm with 49 miles covered.

Thanks to all participants for their support and company and special thanks to Alan for the photos.

ST

See route map and/or gpx file download

6th May 2021: Little Bollington (mod)

 There was another good turnout at Delamere, despite the chill air and the possibility of heavy rain catching us before the end of the day. As it was, we were a bit unfortunate to encounter a shower from the off. Talking of showers, our small moderate group consisted of Rumbustious Roy, Marin Mike and myself. Roy was wearing a “Fat Lad at the Back” jersey, which I took as a personal challenge to my long-established position in the club. 

Our route took us on the quiet lane at the back of Norley Hall. On the swoop down to Crowton, Mike was “doing a Pete Roberts”; I wasn't sure if this was due to sensible prudence on the wet surface, or fear of emissions from Roy and myself. We were closing on the other moderate group, but chose Ainsworth Lane, and the off-piste route to Acton Bridge. The steep climb under the main line to London had the so-called “Fat Lad at the Back” glide up ahead. 

Interestingly, a nurse had told Roy that he was clinically obese, despite his build self-evidently being far closer to that of Ben Young’s rather than that of Billy Bunter. It reminds me of being referred to a Physio recently by my G.P. Practice by way of the infamous “triage” process. Physiotherapy by phone does not sound reassuring. The delayed consultation duly lived down to my expectations: an unconvincing diagnosis by checklist, a couple of obvious exercises, and no improvement in my ankle condition. It looks like we all need to be our own Google Doctors if we are to survive these second-rate experiences, or just pay to see a proper specialist, for whose expensive training we have already paid.  

Anyway, we continued on a fairly straightforward route to Knutsford by way of Comberbach, Budworth Heath, and Tabley Hill. We had the wind at our backs, it was pretty sunny, and all was well in our cycling bubble. We headed through Tatton Park very close to some handsome deer. Bearing in mind the approaching wet weather, we looked in at the cafe to seek a quick self-serve, but there was a queue outside, so we returned to Plan A. As we headed for the park exit a female cyclist approached with a zip lowered on her jersey, displaying her assets to a remarkable degree, particularly given the cold air. She passed with a big smile, probably noting how disturbed we were by this unexpected vision. The new by-pass means that crossing the old A556 south of the M56 is no longer a problem. The route through the delightful Rostherne village to Booth Bank and Little Bollington was quiet and pleasant. At The Swan with Two Nicks we sat outside with a roof over our heads. The service was friendly and fast, and the food was spot-on.

We had a nice back route to Sworton Heath and then used the back wheel of Roy to keep a reasonable pace into the wind along Swineyard Lane. We had more shelter down the little lanes north and west of Arley Hall, crossing the old airfield and passing the private hangar housing two old German planes that sometimes can be seen in the adjacent field or flying overhead on a nice day. Now it was 2.30p.m. And about to be very wet and cold for the last hour to Delamere via Antrobus, Frandley, Little Leigh, Acton Bridge, Onston and Norley. If Mike and I had regretted leaving our gloves at home early in the ride, we were now going to feel a lot more cold and wet, with a strong headwind and sluicing rain. Roy headed for Runcorn before we crossed the A533, but Mike and I parted at Hatchmere with the thought of a heated car at the front of our minds. I haven't shivered so much since Steve Haywood's puncture on his first ever ride with us, in similar conditions. Still, two thirds of the outing had been very enjoyable and in relaxing company. 42 miles covered.

DH

27th August 2020: Little Bollington (mod)

Well my first ride for a while and I can honestly say I was thinking 'fool'.  Well anyway after a discussion with Ivan about his knee surgery I was even less assured I had made the correct choice.  So I just sat waiting to be told which group I was going with  thinking how much I’ve missed the Thursday gang, when George, Dave Mathews and Dave Heath informed me I will be in their bubble - you know life can throw a few pleasures at you now and again!  Dave H was once again spot-on with the weather forecast and route. George and I had mentioned the same as Steve - how Carol was not telling us the right info - she needs to up her game and speak to Dave as he got the rain practically down to the minute.

Anyway we set off from the café in our bubble heading out of the station onto the main road. This is a perfect road for Jim to get in touch with the local council to re-lay some smooth new tarmac.  We turned right at the Chinese restaurant heading down to Crowton, then over to Acton Bridge via some nice quiet roads with very little storm damage.  We then had a nice wheee moment down Acton Lane, but I also knew later in the day, when your arse is hanging out, that we would have to climb back up it again. We managed to get across the A49 the Dave way (people who know him), then up over the bridge, then heading up more inclines to Comberbach. Then heading to Budworth Heath where a line of polite drivers were waiting for us to turn, when a nice local driver came pass us all, beeping his horn etc  etc etc. What a hero!  

We then meandered past Arley, then on to lunch at Little Bollington at the Swan with Two Nicks. As usual covid set-up, eating alfresco, freezing your knads off, getting the drinks order wrong. Dave M ordered a half of Guinness and got a pint. This when I thought he should be hung drawn and quartered, then have his eyes pulled out, he left half as he didn’t want it. In my home town you would have to keep hold of it till empty otherwise it's gone, but that’s discipline only having what you want.  

After lunch we set off, just the 3 of us as Dave M went his own way. So after our farewells, this is where smart arse Dave H got the weather forecast spot on and due to his excellent paper map skills we headed back almost the same route, except if you know Dave he does like to make the odd detour thinking off-the-cuff, ie passing through the old air base at the back of Appleton Thorn then over to Frandley heading up to the fore-mentioned highest mountain. Well it felt like it, but it's known locally as Acton Lane off the A49 up to the station at Acton Bridge, where there was a group decision not to climb up through Onston but carry on through to the flat to Crowton ,then heading upwards to Norley in the rather heavy rain as our resident weather man said, then it's back to base at Delemere, where the 3 of us go our separate ways.  

It was good to be out with George again and Dave M for the run out to lunch as normal - good company and kept a good pace up, and last but not least the tour manager/organiser Dave H who once again did a good job of getting us back in good shape, as both me and George haven’t been on our bikes recently. I can say it was brill, especially as the company was ok, well good then, Keith the one walking like John Wayne.  Dave thought I could just help out with the blog - use it or get rid of it, not bothered it's your call, cheers for boss day. I have forgotten the exact route so add at your pleasure.

KB

14th February 2019: Little Bollington (mod)

I arrived first at Delamere but was soon joined by droves of Easy Riders on what promised to be the best day of 2019 so far as weather was concerned.  The early cold mist soon cleared to leave a glorious blue sky and sunny 13C all day.  It was my first CER ride for 6 months, so it was good to catch up with the gossip and see Steve T back in the saddle. (More of him later)  Steve H kindly offered to lead a ride from his Garmin to Little Bollington, which I notice was visited as recently as last August.  It must be good I thought, not having been there.  Our route out took Dave H, George, Andy, Keith, Steve H, Steve T and me out via Acton Bridge, Arley Hall, Knutsford to Tatton Park.  The good weather had brought out trippers in their droves.  Soon after we passed the Bridgewater Canal, which I was surprised to read is still privately owned with its own website.  Two articles made reference to it NOT being the oldest canal in England, but both left me dangling to know which one was.

Photos by Macca

Our destination for lunch was “The Swan with two Nicks,” NOT necks as I heard. It’s in Park Lane, WA14 4TJ 0161 928 2914.  On its website homepage, it shows a photo of ITV’s free advertising for the current drama “Cold Feet” with Pete on a bike ride.  Though busy with diners, we were soon served an ample sufficiency for £7-8.

Our return took us first via Lymn, then through the disused WW ll RAF Stretton, originally built to protect both Liverpool and Manchester from enemy aircraft.  It ended the War as a R N A S, supplying carriers with anti-submarine aircraft.  Cycling onwards through Whitley, Little Leigh and Acton Bridge, Tanny deservedly won KoM.  We dropped various riders off, leaving just Steve H and me to return to the Station cafe.  The least I could do after this enjoyable ride was buy him a well deserved coffee, having covered 48 miles at 12.5 mph average.  Thanks Steve

See route map and/or gpx file download

Macca

9th August 2018: Little Bollington (mod)

I arrived last minute at Delamere due to having to go to the Post Office at Kingsley, and then having my path blocked by a lorry delivering a skip excruciatingly slowly! Steve Tan had surprised us by driving himself to the cafe in his recently restored Z3. The car looked great, and it would be smashing if Steve could continue his determined progress and eventually join us on two wheels. Steve told me that his near-death experience had changed his outlook on life; if he was thinking of doing something he was more likely to just go for it. So is he going to Amsterdam to smoke pot and enjoy the company of luscious ladies? No, he is splashing out and having his drive done!

Dave Matthews had ridden out for coffee, but was bike tweaking, and not on board for our ride today.

The moderates had already decided to go to the default destination of The Swan with Two Nicks. So it was that George, Ian, Mike, Neil and myself set off for Acton Bridge via Norley. Keith kept us company for a while, but was on night shifts so soon left us for a local spin only. The route was standard, but I thought that Ian, and certainly Neil, had probably not cycled around the back of Arley Hall. This detour passes the cricket pitch and the picturesque green and pond, before we headed out for Hoo Green and Booth Bank on our way to lunch. Lunch was good as we sat outside in the warmth and chatted.

Photos by Mike G

Our return was by way of the Trans- Pennine Trail, and then through Lymm. A labyrinth of quiet, narrow lanes off Swineyard Lane transported us past Garland Hall, Antrobus Hall, Cogshall Hall and on to Little Leigh. It was a nice day to return alongside the River Weaver, and we stopped at Dutton Locks just to relax and soak in the summer scene. Mike took some photographs, and left his helmet behind! Only George noticed after we had climbed up to the 'B' road. Mike successfully retrieved his helmet, as we continued to Delamere via the back lane west of Norley village, passing some lovely properties including Norley Hall. Ian and myself returned to the Station Cafe at Delamere. We had a cup of tea, and I learnt a little more about cycling activities in the Chester area from Ian. If you are reading this Ian, and still interested in riding the Trough of Bowland on Thursday please ring me on 01928 710308 there is a choice of a shared lift available.

DH

See route map and/or gpx file download

19th October 2017: Little Bollington (mod)

Seven of us turned up at Delamere: David M, George, Steve T, Steve H, Nick, Mike and myself. Steve was nursing a knee injury, so was unable to ride. Dave was running-in a temporary bottom bracket on his exotic classic, and didn't want to chance it.

So it was, that the Not So Famous Five set out for Acton Bridge via Norley, and the quiet, homely hamlet of Onston. After Comberbach we by-passed Great Budworth passing the attractive Cock at Budworth pub and restaurant. At Bate Heath I considered heading north for High Leigh and Lymm, in order to stay in the “dry corridor” between Manchester and the next wave of wet from the west due at about 5 p.m. However, I decided that the lads may feel short-changed by an abbreviated route, so we pressed on. It was drizzling all the way to Knutsford and through Tatton Park. We had been brisk, so decided to ride for a few more miles by heading for The Swan with Two Nicks rather than eating at the restaurant by the Hall. It was around this time that Mike enthusiastically volunteered to take the photograph of three bubbly young women. He took a long time getting their photos just right, and finding the correct buttons! They kindly reciprocated by taking our picture (below). We headed for pretty Rostherne, and on to Bucklow Hill. We then cycled up the old main road, on a new cycle track, to see if it was now viable to cycle straight past Rostherne Mere to Booth Bank and Little Bollington. It appeared that the new motorway link road had chopped off that possibility. We were getting wetter and a little hungry, so we returned to our normal route via a new bridge to Hulseheath, before heading north for the last couple of miles before lunch.

Photos courtesy of Mike G

Lunch was really good, and the service was efficient and friendly. Conversation was interesting about careers education, aspiration, and the need to strengthen technical training routes. We sat in front of a wood-burning fire, trying to dry our outer garments. George was so close to the fire that he began to sizzle.

For our return, I promised the lads that we would be in the dry corridor, promised by Diane and Carol, within five miles of heading west. We rode to Lymm by largely following the Bridgewater Canal, and left Lymm by the little lanes to Sworton Heath. After Swineyard Lane we negotiated a maze of muddy little lanes to Frandley, and on to Little Leigh. Mike thought I had caught the Clive virus, which leads to meandering endlessly in the muck until the wet, shivering weaklings in the group start hallucinating about a warm black taxi suddenly appearing from a wet-leaved, sodden side lane. Tanny and I had not come with mudguards, and were paying for our stupid optimism. Needless to say, the rain got heavier and heavier, and our last miles were direct via Crowton and Norley. The roads were flooding in places, and going through the forest an oncoming car submerged me totally in a wall of water. Nobody stayed for a cuppa at Delamere, as hot showers and dry clothing a.s.a.p. was top of the agenda. When we got to Steve's house I showed him the state of my front car seats: very muddy and very wet. Despite sponging and the use of a hairdryer, the car still smells like an old wet dog, days later. To top it all I fell over my bike and into Lynne's car when I got home, and gave my knees a good mashing. Still, I so need the exercise and enjoy the company, that I am glad I turned up to ride. My trust in Carol is no longer so unquestioning however! We managed 51miles. 

DH

25th May 2017 : Little Bollington (brisk)

On a sweltering summer's day 4 brisk riders struggled to decide on a destination but all seemed to favour a less energetic pace to keep us from overheating. No-one had prepared a route but I fancied a ride to the “Swan with Two Nicks” in Little Bollington. I hadn't been before but had a previous CER route on my Garmin.

Accompanied by Nick, Tom and Andy B, I left Delamere Station heading towards Norley and after crossing the A49 onward towards Comberbach and Great Budworth. We were careful not to upset the Budworth natives given recent anti MAMIL newspaper reports. The village looked as idyllic as ever under the bright blue skies. 

We sailed on at a steady pace but I was getting a little anxious as Garmins battery was running down rather quickly and because I don't know the area at all. Anyway, we crossed the M6 and things began to go awry. A left turn was indicated but major roadworks made that impossible. We stopped to re-route. Andy rummaged in his rucksack to find the relevant OS map. After a couple of minutes of intense scrutiny, he declared we were in the wrong place. This was Andy-speak meaning he wasn't carrying the map for our location!

By this time I decided we would cut out a loop and go more directly to the pub which was only a few miles away on the other side of Rostherne. Unfortunately, on arrival there more road closed signs were in our path. We decided ignore these but we were soon advised by a local dog walker that the road was impassable and we would have to retrace our route and do a big loop to our destination. At this point Garmin was freaking out and the battery level was heading south with constant recalculations. Nonetheless, we get to the Swan without any more problems.

It's a delightful destination and we enjoyed a leisurely lunch in the garden. Reluctantly we eventually left the shade to remount. 

The consensus was that the road to our left (which was what Garmin wanted us to take) was probably one of the closed roads. So we took a right turn and headed for Lymm hoping to pick up the planned route there. Garmin switched to night mode and refused to find the required left turn off before the centre of Lynn. (Looking at Strava later, I noticed we actually stopped at the relevant corner). Andy was happy to head directly west into the sun on the grounds we would eventually cross in to Wales! Nick added a bit of flesh to that idea and on rather more main roads than desirable we passed through Stretton, Preston Brook and Sutton Weaver to arrive at Frodsham.

We stopped for coffee and sitting in the sun were approached by an attractive young blonde who excitedly extolled the benefits of sun cream for bald pates! To prove her credentials she raised her top to reveal a tattoo across her back proclaiming her to be a local barber! Nick foolishly admitted he hadn't applied any protection to his bonce despite the sunny weather and this was immediately rectified by our new friend! Happy her work was done off she went and we follow not long after. Nick, duly protected from UV rays, headed up Frodsham Hill toward Delamere to return to his car. We remaining three travelled via Helsby to Chester and from there wended our separate ways home.

I had done 61 miles which was enough on such a hot day. Andy and Tom as usual had to plod on even further before reflecting on eventful but nonetheless enjoyable day.

JM

16th February 2017: Little Bollington (mod)

We parked in the small, free car park the other side of the line from Delamere railway station cafe. Beware, getting back safely on the road on your return- cars appear at speed over the bridge on your right.

There was a very good turnout at the new venue of both the committed, and those who need to be committed. John Beavis was a welcome returnee from winter hibernation. Dave Matthews was in civvies. John, Jim, Stephen, Andy Whitgreave, Trevor and myself were the initial moderate group. As we prepared to ride, Liz and Dave Pipe arrived. We arranged to meet Dave at Acton Bridge, because he didn't want to hold us up unloading the tandem. Our route to the swing bridge was via Norley and Crowton. As it was all downhill we made briskish progress, and when we arrived at the Leigh Arms, guess what? Dave had still not had time to unload the tandem! Anyway, no sweat, we were soon on our way again. A moderate ride is not as complete without Dave and Liz, and we didn't happen to have any Strava targets for once. Our route took us past Cogshall Hall to Antrobus, and along the lovely lacework of little lanes north west of Arley. Little Bollington was finally reached by way of Booth Bank.

John wanted to know where Macca was, and we were certainly going to miss his enterprising photography. You can see a snowy picture of the Swan with Two Nicks on the cover of the Winter 2016 edition of the CAMRA 'Out Inn CHESHIRE' magazine (although we're not on it!). My edition was acquired for me from The Bhurtpore by my daughter, when we went with the dog for lunch last weekend. This mag. makes interesting reading for CER regulars. For instance, it informs readers that the potential demise of the Wheatsheaf at No Mans Heath is being fought against by the Pub Protection Group. An application to the Parish Council has been made to list the pub as an Asset of Community Value. Anyway, lunch was really good at the Swan with Two Nicks, and the staff were very friendly, encouraging us to move tables as we wished.

The ride back retraced our steps until nearing High Leigh, when we turned left to avoid the busier B5159. Unfortunately, the little bit of the busier road we did go on had a hedge-cutting tractor flinging thorns across the carriageway. South of the garden centre we took a quiet left loop, before heading directly south to Bate Heath. Jim sorted a puncture at Moss End. We looped around Great Budworth, and headed for Liz and Dave's car via Comberbach and Little Leigh. They will be happy to have missed the usual steep climbs from the Weaver to Delamere. My chosen route was via The Cliff and Cooksongreen with a deviation around Norley Hall. At Town Farm we had a friendly chat with a local couple while we waited for those struggling up the demanding Norley Lane. We were soon back to Hatchmere. I had worn shorts, no gloves and a summer cap, but it had been warmer than recently rather than really warm. I need to concentrate on Carol Kirkwood's pressure charts, rather than being distracted by her daily hot front. Tanny had returned from the fast ride some time ago, when we reached Delamere station. All had had a good ride. Us moderates had covered 40 very sociable miles in classic CER style.                           

DH

4th August 2016: Little Bollington (Mod)

The moderate riders group comprised: Steve H, George, Keith B, Trevor, Petar, Kate and myself. I offered to lead to The Swan with Two Nicks at Little Bollington. I had checked on other attractive pubs around Dunham, but some reviews had put me off. Continuing the trend of counter-intuitive starts we headed west, then south-east to Ashton Hayes. Here we headed north, but then snuck up a narrow lane past The Grange, which I had fancied checking out. Some of the troops thought I was taking a wrong turning, and were a bit reluctant to follow.

This was to be a recurring theme! I suppose if you choose to join a cycling Dad’s Army, there are bound to be moments of reticence and confusion.  At Brine’s Brow I wanted to go right, then left. Steve, however, thought I wanted to emulate Colin McCrae, and headed uphill, then down a rough forest track to nowhere useful. As Steve was now forty yards ahead, further discussion would be as effective as arguing with my wife when she had moved into another room, totally confident that she always knows best. Just past the Delamere Forest Visitors’ Centre, I thought we could cut diagonally down a pleasant forest trail past Blakemere Moss, and avoid the dodgy B5152. George and Trevor reacted like stubborn holiday donkeys on a Greek Island, being urged up a rocky track with 16 stone women from Manchester onboard.  So, not having a big stick handy, we headed for the B5152. 

We reached Acton Bridge via Norley and the lovely, quiet hamlet of Onston. We seemed to have spent a long time getting this far! We started to make brisker progress north-east to Frandley, passing Bartington and the attractive Cogshall Hall estate on the way. After crossing the double-dodgy A559, we turned right at Antrobus and headed for Bate Heath, then north-east past the back of Arley. An intricate ‘home-made’ route of little lanes then took us to Hoo Green, Booth Bank (with its historic Methodist connection), and finally, and hungrily, to Little Bollington and lunch. We had endured some persistent and heavy showers, and covered over thirty miles, but everyone was in good spirits. Kate went to The Ladies to blow dry her pony tail. Most of us didn’t have to worry on the hair drying issue.

Lunch was a little slow being served. Keith was ecstatic over his, because he had a huge portion. Kate, however picked up on the fact that some full meals were no bigger than the light bite cheaper versions. She’ll be doing a survey on lime and soda prices next! Kate’s relative youth, gender and bright smile adds pleasure to the group, so I hope she doesn’t become too institutionalised in a pensioners’ world of lunch value trivia.  Besides, the post of Far Too Intense Lunch Scrutineer is already more than adequately filled by Brian Mac.

We started back by crossing the narrow bridge over the River Bollin, and skirting the deer park of Dunham Massey, before cruising along the Trans-Pennine Trail toward Lymm. I then cut off on an obscure path which becomes a small road coming out near Lymm centre. Few if any followed at first. Was that shouting, or the braying of a stubborn Greek donkey, digging its heels in again? Actually, it was Trevor who thought I’d gone wrong. To be fair, Ray Hardman wouldn’t have followed me either! Trevor is familiar with Lymm, and took his leave in order to visit his son’s house, or perhaps to munch a few carrots.

The back lanes south of Lymm led us to Sworton Heath. The weather was now dry and sunny, and Keith was ploughing through the wind like Ian Stannard. We turned towards Whitley Reed, crossing the old WW2 Royal Navy airfield. Near Antrobus Hall a plane could be spotted in a field. These lanes west of Arley Hall are quiet, lush and sheltered.  Little Leigh was soon reached, and at Dutton Locks we rested for five minutes with the warm sun shining on our faces, and the Weaver twinkling. Two horses crossed our path alongside the river on the south side.

The pain of the last lap started at the steep bank up from the river, continued through the back routes of Kingsley, and on up to Birch Hill. Steve and George were on good climbing form. Kelsall and North Wales must provide good climbing training grounds. Or, perhaps they eat less jelly babies and sausage rolls.  Steve insisted that turning up New Pale was the best direction for Manley, but more rolling hills were more than my legs fancied, so I bailed out after 30 yards, and took the Simmonds Hill route as I had planned. I was enjoying an ice cream with Steve Tan, when the remains of the mutinous mob finally turned up at Manley Mere. Just over 57 miles were covered together, with more like 77miles for Keith. Petar had left us at pace just before Kingsley as he had to pick up family at Manchester Airport. He made it on time! Leg-pulling apart, it was another really good day’s exercise in the convivial company of Easy Rider friends.

DH

3rd September 2015: Little Bollington (mod)

Chilly, but a bright start today so first time for the long-johns for me at Manley Mere. The start time came and went and then Steve H offered “The Swan with Two Nicks” and we were late away, except he didn’t have a route! So, recycling a lot of the outward Cheshire Cycleway Long Ride route, we i.e. Steve’s T and H, Dave and Liz, Mike G, Ray, Dave M, and myself, set off via Delamere, then down to Croxton, bound for Comberbatch. The ride is uneventful until we get to High Legh where I realise I need to look at a map to navigate the lanes down to the pub. It’s not far now as we pass the John Wesley monument under the M56. The pub doesn’t disappoint and the food arrives promptly. At 14:00 and after only 26 miles, we set off homebound via the Trans-Pennine Trail aka NCW62. This sounded like a “good idea" because it’s flat, bypasses areas of no outstanding beauty i.e. Warrington, and is new to most of us. Ivan had cycled this Merseyside route so I know we could get through.
So off over the trip-trap bridge, we edge round Dunham Massey to try to find the access to the trail. The OS shows a tiny lane, which then finds us gingerly cycling around the edge of a gas pipeline enclosure and then scrambling down a bank to finally get on the former rail track. Anyway it’s an adventure! The track is muddy in parts and there are groans from some riders about binding brakes etc but I don’t care since I’m on my winter bike with disc brakes. The signage is poor, and a few times we have to guess which is the right way through Warrington.

Photograph by Clive Albany

Here Steve T comes into his own and offers to lead us out of the mess. So ducking and diving through former industrial areas, we end up riding for miles along the side of the defunct St Helen’s canal and the Manchester Ship canal. We go past Ferry “marina” and Fiddlers Ferry power station before stopping to view the new coffer dams with their cranes, which are busily building the new Runcorn bridge. Steve acts as an excellent guide as we have to take a diversion around the works to access Runcorn Bridge. After two hours riding covering only 18 miles, we are now ducking and diving around Runcorn as Steve leads us out on yet another new way around the town. Steve drops off now as he is only 30 yds from home so we then run down to Costa in Frodsham. The way back to Manley is easy now and with 56 miles up, this has been a very interesting if somewhat novel ride. So, the day started out with no idea where we would go and ended up with 75 happy miles, yet without Steve T, we might still be finding our way out of Runcorn!

CA

4th July 2013: Dunham Massey

It was promising to be a rare warm day as we rolled up to Manley Mere.  It was great to see Mike Morley who had driven down to meet us (and took our photo).  Mike Gilbert arrived glistening having ridden from Shotton. The riding group consisted of Steve, Paul, Mike G, Trevor, Andy, myself and Ivan ‘Choo Choo’ Davenport. I had a route to Dunham and hot Mike had planned something similar. We settled on The Swan with Two Nicks at Little Bollington for lunch.  I shared Andy’s fondness for the Lavender Barn, but its setting is more attractive than its food and service. Ivan was desperate to go to the pub.

Photograph by Mike Morley/Ivan Davenport

We took the New Pale, Waterloo and Dark Lane route into Kingsley, and Roddy Lane out. We reached Acton Bridge via Actoncliff. The strong wind soon had us bowling along to Great Budworth, the habitual feasting place for our missing tandemists. After passing south of Arley Park we headed north up Cann Lane and over the M6 briefly stopping at Booth Bank under the M56 at the site of a former Wesleyan chapel.  A few minutes on we were sitting outside in the sun, enjoying good food and friendly service, at our chosen lunch venue.

Following lunch we crossed the exceedingly slim bridge over the River Bollin and climbed over the wall into Dunham Park, passing deer by the Hall.  We then headed out of Dunham Town by Back Lane, crossing the Bridgewater Canal and joined the Trans-Pennine Trail. Ivan wanted to know what I was up to, as I headed down a short stretch of overgrown bridlepath toward the centre of Lymm. He seemed to grow a little apoplectic and then fell over!  Fortunately, he hadn’t injured himself, and seemed to think it was a good thing to get used to falling over again as long as ambulances weren’t involved. Strange fellah!  We cycled south out of Lymm and via a myriad of quiet little lanes and the old airfield at Stretton, were soon passing Garland Hall and heading for the duck pond at Higher Whitley.  Mike Gilbert’s map-reading skills and support were much appreciated here. The last stretch took in Aston, and then a designated cycle route to circumnavigate the first hill into Frodsham. Andy and Trevor weren’t too keen on the Frodsham route, because of the busy main road and steep climbs back.  I totally understand this perspective, but it is always hard work from the Weaver back to Manley whichever way you choose, and once up the Ridgeway, the last nearly three miles are 95% downhill. The headwind didn’t turn out to be an issue on the way home, because of the lush summer hedges and sheltered route. Actually, some breeze was welcome on a warm afternoon heralding a fine week ahead. Thanks to Steve for his support work at the back of the peloton, this is always appreciated. 54 miles, Manley to Manley, and considerably more for Mike the Map. We all rubbed along very well, and I thoroughly enjoyed everybody’s company.

DH

13th September 2012: Little Bollington (mod)

Only five out today (George, Dave H, Andy, Bryan and myself) at Manley.  Dave M came for coffee and was nursing a bad cold. Weather-wise it was bright but a little chilly, clouding over later, but brightening up at tea time. "Little Bollington" I offered; "Where" came the reply - "Next to Dunham Massey" - "Oh there! How many miles?" "50" and "OK". Off we go, out and up the ridge towards Alvanley and the fast descent to the outskirts of Frodsham. Then out through Frodsham, turning off the main road at Dave's suggestion to avoid the freeway. We access the Bridgewater Canal at Preston Brook and cycle northwards towards Warrington. We pass the Daresbury Laboratory that boasted the Synchrotron Radiation Source until it closed in 2008.

Photographs by Clive Albany

Very pleasant it all was until, tempted by a further canal path section, the inevitable rear wheel puncture happens. It happened to be mine, and managing to nip the newly-inserted inner tube, I have to borrow another from Dave H. Anyway the group needed a rest! Crossing the A49, we go up and pass Appleton Reservoir, and ignoring the "No Through Road" sign, we make our way along lanes anew and down through Stockton Lane ("Closed") and finally the cobbles in Grappenhall. Ducking about the canal, we find Waste Lane towards Lymm, passing the Lymm Dam and thence to Outringham Lane and alongside the same pub-infested canal until the "Home" pub comes into view. 

The Home is deserted, but the food comes quickly and is well received together with the Flowers IPA. The return route is "straightforward" but weaves about a lot on our way back to Manley via Hoo Green, Comberbatch, Acton Bridge, Norley and Delamere Forest. Under the M56 there is a curious plaque commemorating John Wesley's preaching at Booth Bank - he would have to speak up today given the volume of traffic passing by on the M56. Passing close to the Great Budworth Ice Cream farm proves too strong so we stop for afternoon tea and cake. In Delamere Dave H peels off to go back to Manley whilst us four continue via Ashton Heyes back to Chester. The circular route is 54 miles; with the Chester add on making it around 65+ for most of us. It was a wonderful autumn day through heritage countryside embracing the age of canals and high nuclear physics - a pity that only five of us were out to enjoy it.

CA

13th August 2009: Arley, Tatton and Dunham Massey

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

The wasps were after our jam on a magnificent Manley morning. Mike displayed skill and bravery with his bare-handed killing technique. A friendly young man with a North-East accent introduced himself as Steve, and said that about twenty miles was his normal trip. The debutant leader had planned to visit Arley Hall, Tatton Park and Dunham Massey. Ambition may have to be trimmed!
Jim, Brian Mac, Steve, Mike and myself trundled up to Kingsley and wafted along the Weaver by a roving route. Small, quiet lanes, many that even Ray may never have ridden, were the theme for the whole ride. A lady flashed past our noses at Comberbach, riding hell-for-leather on a mountain bike laden with shopping. We just about caught up with her, and had an interesting chat for a few miles. She once climbed in the Alps and cycled home to England. She left us near Arley to paint her house at Appleton Thorn. Some of us vaguely remembered once having the energy to go on a ride and still do major domestic tasks all in the same day.
Some walking was required on wide metalled ways in the grounds of Arley and Dunham Massey: persuasive e-mails for greater cycle access will be sent. After Tatton Park we finally stopped for sustenance at The Swan with two Nicks at Little Bollington. The ale was great from the village brewery (according to our very experienced beer-swilling expert, Mike). The food was also very tasty. According to Jim the best dish on view was the stunningly attractive landlady, but unfortunately she wasn’t on the menu.
Back on the road, we headed for the Trans-Pennine Trail. Brian MacDonald-Contador made devastating sporadic spurts ahead. This worried me initially, because he had said that he knew this area about as well as the far side of the moon. It turned out he was just positioning himself to take photographs of us for the website. Ta for that Brian.
An overgrown bridle path slid us toward the centre of Lymm. Take-out cappuccinos, sat in the sun with the ducks having fun. Would I remember the next intricate twists and turns Garminless, hopefully not gormless? (But sadly out of date, still with film to finish in my camera, and chrome and leather toe-strapped to my quill-stemmed Raleigh). I buoy myself up by thinking I’m actually coolly retro, and anyway Tupper of the Track managed to be a winner without sophisticated gear! Ticking along the traffic-free lushly lined lanes: Crouchley, Mag, Swineyard, Crowley, Pennypleck and Caldwell’s Gate passed with The Antrobus Arms as our last stop. Lime and soda with ice slakes the thirst. Forgot to note the price for the book I know Ray has in him.
The usual sting in the tail over the penultimate miles loomed and the steep zigzagging up to Newton Firs was certainly knackering. Steve was coughing, but conquered the summit; I think we’ll see him again. Thanks to the troops for their positive support on this slightly off-piste excursion. It was a beautiful day, no main roads and 62 miles clocked in relaxed, agreeable company. Can’t wait for next Thursday!
DH