24th April 2025: New Brighton (mod+)

 Another good turn out of CER members at Ness Gardens saw nine souls up for a ride out to New Brighton on a bright and sunny morning. I was a bit concerned that the usual crew of Clive, Steve Hu, Alan, Shane and myself had been joined by Elwyn, Fiona, Chris and Paul as the latter pair are capable of much higher average speeds than I can manage these days.

Nevertheless, we set off from the café, heading down to the path along the edge of the marsh to thread our way first through Little Neston and then Neston itself before wiggling through Lower Heswall and climbing gradually to cross Telegraph Road into Heswall itself. Who says there are no hills on The Wirral!

Photo by SHu standing in the middle of the road!

Then it was zooming downhill past the school to Irby where there’s another wiggle to avoid the one-way system before we reach the roundabout at Irby Hill where we swing left to head through Newton to pick up the path that runs next to the railway line and the station at Hoylake.

Reaching the seafront, Fiona asks if this is New Brighton, but I have to disappoint her as we’ve several miles to go before we get there. We run along the seafront until we reach Meols, where we turn inland, crossing the railway line just before a train arrives. Running along a road next to a housing estate, Clive, who is now leading, suddenly turns left along a footpath and I nearly take his rear wheel off as I follow him. This is a short cut that he’d spotted that last time he’d done this route which saved a longer run through the houses.

We’re soon out of the houses and running along Leasowe Road – straight into the wind which is now quite strong. Fortunately, I was able to hide behind Chris and we were soon on the seafront running into New Brighton. As usual, the Seaside Café offered their excellent fish and chips lunch which comes with a cup of tea and a slice of bread. At £9.50 it still represents great value for money, although only a couple of years back the cost was a mere £8.95.

Leaving we headed along the promenade, running past The Ferry pub at Egremont which has featured on the BBC tv series ‘This City is Ours’. We paused a couple of times to take photos  - Everton’s shiny new stadium at Bramley Dock and the Liverpool waterfront – as this was all new stuff to Elewyn and Fiona.

Everton's stadium just above Steve Hu's head!

Then we were soon wiggling our way past the Seacombe Ferry terminal, the ancient priory at Birkenhead and the industrial delights of Bromborough Pool. Approaching Eastham Country Park, Alan made slight contact with a gate which pulled his front mudguard and had him on the deck, fortunately without injury. After a few minutes sorting out the recalcitrant mudguard we were soon on our way through Eastham Village and Willaston, arriving back at Ness Gardens having covered 42 miles.

Congrats to Elwyn and Fiona who had ridden in from home, so they will have clocked 70 odd miles on the day. Trooper of the Day award goes to Clive who’d had a tooth extracted at 09.30, but had come out on the ride and hour later!

ST

See route map and/or gpx file download

28th November 2024: New Brighton (Mod+)

 What a day , glorious blue skies no rain but just bitterly cold.  In all eight of us met at ‘The botanic kitchen’,   just five riders,  three in civvies,  just out  for a social coffee. Steve Hu and Shane were guilty as charged since they had their bikes and cycling gear in the car. I continued to work on them and just as the ice outside was thawing I saw their resolve weakening. Hey up, we will have five out today I thought. That was until……….

In walked Chris the warrior, bedecked in shorts! Did I mention it was minus two degrees Celsius outside. Not only wearing shorts but also a bloody graze on his leg where terra firma and he had met on the way to the cafe! Apparently, Chris had come off on one of the marsh cattle grids, so we needed to be wary of icy patches. Steve Hu and Shane’s interest in the ride quickly melted away!

George had a plan to return across the icy wastes of Burton Marsh on a circuitous route to Holt, see GW’s blog.

Clive was driving to Norfolk later in the day so it was Steve T, Chris and myself who decided on a clockwise Wirral loop that we had ridden earlier this year. With the temperature still at minus 2, we didn’t dawdle and soon passed through Neston and Thornton Hough and then the seemingly never- ending uphill drag to Irby.  Downhill to Meols and on to the sea front, and, although it had warmed up to 1 deg Celsius, it didn’t feel like it in the cold sea breeze. Maybe Steve Hu and Shane had been right after all.

The low tide had attracted thousands of sea birds, and also dozens of cocklers on quad bikes towing trailers, a hard way to earn a living ordinarily and even more so on a cold winters day.

Changing the plan slightly we arrived at ‘The Seaside Cafe’ a CER favourite lunch stop.

As well as a scraped knee, Chris had also hurt his hip, which was now giving him some discomfort. So Steve then reminisced about some of his more spectacular tumbles over the years.  A sobering reminder of the potential risks of our pastime, of which our erstwhile secretary Dave H is blissfully unaware. LOL

We set off again to follow the prom to Seacombe , by now  turning  into a strong and freezing headwind.  Following the Wirral coast cycle path over this section seems to be more difficult. It tends to zig zags left and right I managed to lose my teammates for a while, reuniting at Woodside.

Chris left us at Childer Thornton to get back for his evening shift; I don’t know where he gets the energy from, but then he is a good 30 years our junior and holds the double award for the ascent of Hope Mountain with Matt & Paul a few weeks ago.

So, a challenging 40 miles in the wintery conditions, but made enjoyable by my two companions.

Alan O 

See route map and/or file download

7th September 2023: New Brighton (mod)

When I write up a ride report I usually start at the beginning but today I'm starting at the end. After we had turned into the car park at Ness Gardens at the end of the ride Alan, who had been leading the ride, asked if someone could write it up. He was off on his holidays on Sunday and needed to pack, so wouldn't have time. George hadn't a clue where he'd been and Ray was busy putting his bike on the back of his car. Clive offered to do it but pointed out that he was off on his holidays on Monday. I was going away too, but not until Wednesday. I wasn't sure of all the places we had ridden but, with the benefit of the route recorded on my Garmin, I offered to do it. So here I am, map in front of me and I'll try to do my best.

I've managed to mention all five riders already but we were also joined by Steve T, only out for coffee. The cafe itself at Ness Gardens was closed but they were serving on a takeaway basis from the doorway. Apparently during the heat wave we have been having recently the cafe had been getting very hot and several people had fainted as a result. Fortunately it was warm enough to sit outside and the rain that had been around early in the morning had mostly disappeared.

The weather forecast was good. Not much in the way of wind, maybe a little rain early on but starting off warm and getting warmer throughout the day. Temperatures in the high twenties were expected by late afternoon. The unusual feature of the weather, however (and one which the forecasters missed) was the sandstorm! I had ridden through a short shower on my way out and had seen small spots appearing on my bike as the droplets dried out. It happened again shortly after we started our ride and one of the other riders said that he had seen an orange glow in the sky looking towards Chester. Occasionally a desert storm far away in the Sahara Desert will whip sand high up into the atmosphere where it is blown by the wind and eventually falls onto clouds below. It will then fall with the rain and that is what we were experiencing today. We have ridden in many weather conditions over the years but I think this was the first 'sandstorm' we had ridden in. 

Enough of the weather. What about the ride? We turned left out of Ness Garden then right towards Raby, managing to cross the busy A540 without too much trouble. At Raby we turned right and headed towards Willaston but by-passed the centre of the village by turning left into Mill Lane. Another left took us towards Hooton and then we turn up Eastham Rake where we crossed the equally busy A41, this time with the help of traffic lights. We were heading for Eastham Country Park but, as Alan admitted, by a longer route than he had planned as he had missed a turning earlier on. Here we expected to follow the Wirral Circular Trail, albeit for the first time (for me at least) in an anticlockwise direction. However just before Bromborough we turned inland and found ourselves cycling along the route of a disused railway which none of us (apart from Alan) had been on before. Eventually this brought us out in front of the Unilever factory and then into Port Sunlight, the village originally built by William Lever to house the workers in his soap factory.

After cycling through Port Sunlight (another first for most of us) we regained the Wirral Circular Trail and followed it through the Cammell Laird Industrial area passing Birkenhead Priory, tucked away among the modern industrial units. From here we dropped down the aptly named Monks Ferry Lane to the spot where the first Mersey ferry service was started by the monks in the 12th century. We were now following the banks of the Mersey, pausing briefly for a photo and to admire the 3400 passenger Celebrity cruise ship (other cruise ships are available) visiting Liverpool. Then a final dash along New Brighton's brilliant promenade to our lunch destination.

Photos by Alan O

Our first choice of lunch venue when we visit New Brighton is the Seaside Cafe and it was warm enough today to sit outside. The 'Fishy Special' was the most popular choice with three of us tucking into fish, chips and peas with bread and butter and a drink. I can't remember the last time they put the price up so great value for less than £9.

After lunch we set off on our return journey, ignoring the promenade this time as we were soon turning inland towards Bidston. Alan took us onto a network of paths, some getting overgrown, that got us under the M53 motorway and out to Bidston Station. I'm not sure I would have ventured in there on my own – I doubt I would ever have found my way out again – but Alan knew his way through. After a short distance by road he disappeared up another path and we skirted round Bidston Village. Then he found us yet another off-road path that we hadn't ridden on before. This one was sandwiched between the railway and the M53 followed the River Fender eventually emerging into the Woodchurch Estate. Not a place to linger too long, we hurried through and crossed over Woodchurch Road.

This took us into Landican Lane. An unsurfaced route to be avoided when it's wet but on a dry day such as today a useful short cut to get us up to Storeton. Now we were back onto quiet lanes that took us down to Brimstage. A short dash along the busy main road through the village and we turned off again to cycle through Thornton Hough and a return to the small village of Raby. From here we followed our outbound route through Neston to arrive back at Ness Gardens having completed 38 miles. Alan's hopes of getting an ice cream before setting off home were dashed by the fact that as early as 3pm the cafe was already closing down. Anyway thanks to him for leading the ride and for managing to find good off-road routes that we have never been on before. It amazes me that after 13 years riding with Chester Easy Riders it is still possible to find them.  

See route map and/or gpx file download

TC

1st June 2023: New Brighton (mod)

Ten Easy Riders turned up at Ness Botanic Gardens café, but not all would join today’s ride. Neil had already ridden 25 miles to get here and was meeting his mother-in-law for lunch at the Bluebell Café; Dave M was going home to mow his lawn with his new battery powered Makita and Duracell Jim was doing his own thing, revelling in climbing hills using battery power.

That left the Magnificent Seven (Dave H, Andy, Alan, Ever Ready Ray, George, Matt the Trike and Steve T) to set off on an anti-clockwise tour of the Wirral. We got onto the Wirral Way via the half mile railway cutting at the edge of Neston. Whilst the sun was warm, in the shade of the cutting it was quite chilly, so we were pleased when we emerged into the sunshine and stopped for a comfort break and a photo at Hadlow Road station.

Photo by AO

We left the Wirral Way just after Willaston and followed the lanes through Childer Thornton and Eastham Woods Country Park. 

Photo by ST

A little diversion suggested by Alan took us through the soap works at Port Sunlight before we wiggled left and right through housing estates and along the river side, eventually arriving at Birkenhead Priory, close by Woodside Ferry.  Weaving around the ferry station, we keep close to the water with wonderful views across the Mersey to Liverpool, where a group photo opportunity was taken, courtesy of a passer-by.

Photo by CER

We emerged by the swing bridge and onto the prom at Seacombe Ferry. It was then a pleasant run to New Brighton and our planned lunch venue, the Seaside Café. Although the café was very busy, we found a table outside without a problem and lunches were soon ordered. It’s worth noting that the café only takes cash, something that limited George’s repast and also forced Matt to head off to Mackie D’s.

The route back is familiar to all and we’re soon threading our way between walkers, dogs and children along the maritime cycle path to Meols and Hoylake, where we take the cycleway alongside the railway and then re-join the Wirral Way. Somewhere around here, Matt left us as he had to take a phone call. By now the sun is quite intense and the track is very dusty with plenty of pedestrians, dogs and children to contend with. Arriving at Neston, we had planned to ride through the town, but were advised against this by a local who told us that there was a parade taking place in the town to celebrate Neston Ladies Day. This is the highlight of the year for the Neston Female Society, which was founded in 1814 and is the only surviving female society of this type in the country. Each June, they march under their banner bearing the motto ‘Bear Ye One Another’s Burdens’.

About 39 miles covered on a warm summer’s day in excellent company. Special thanks to Alan for leading the ride after I had a ‘tech prob’ with my bike computer.

See route map and/or gpx file download

ST

16th February 2023: New Brighton (mod)

There was a good turnout of mods at Ness Gds: Jim , Dave M, Steve Ha, Hu, Tan, Alan Ray and Trevor. 

Dave M, Steve Ha and Jim were doing their own routes, so Alan’s route to New Brighton via Birkenhead Park was selected. 

Alan’s route initially took in the well proven roads through Ness Neston and via Leighton road to Gayton. Skirting Heswall to the south we climbed up “the only hill on the Wirral” to the outskirts of Pensby. A number of cheeky left and rights allowed us to pop out at Thingwall Road and access Arrowe Park via a permissive bridleway.

This was certainly a challenge as much of the route was single track and due to last night’s rain a tad muddy. See photo. 

Photos by Steve Hu

Once clear of the woodland we skirted Upton and passed over the busy Moreton Spur. On joining Fender Lane we were treated to our own full size cycle lane. Imagine a dual carriageway split into two lanes with cones up the middle. Well that’s what whisked us to Bidston Moss. 

Following the signs to Wallasey Golf Club (the first club of the day) we popped out at the sea front. A leisurely pedal to New Brighton brought us to our lunchtime stop at the Seaside Cafe. For a very reasonable £8.90 one can have fish, chips, mushy peas, salad, a slice of bread and a hot drink. One of our favoured riders even managed a jar of preserve too. 

Replete with either Fish or Gammon we followed our trusted route along the waterfront admiring the new Everton Stadium and marvelling at the cranes “disappearing” into the low lying river mist. At Seacombe Ferry we diverted from our usual East Wirral return route and headed into the lovely Birkenhead Park. 

From here Claughton Village gave way to Oxton and we entered our second golf course of the day, Prenton. Armed with a friendly caution of “watch out” from a nearby golfer we climbed steadily to the quaint village of Storeton. 

From here we were now on familiar roads and the villages of Brimstage, Thornton Hough and Raby zoomed by as our tyres hummed along the dry roads with excellent views of the Dee Estuary and North Wales. 

At Ness Gds, Alan, Steve T and Ray collected their cars whilst hardcore riders Trevor and Steve Hu set off for home avec biciclette.

A big thanks to Alan for researching and planning such an interesting route with little or no busy traffic. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

Steve Hu

3rd November 2022: New Brighton (mod)

A keen group of seven mods presented at Ness Gardens this morning. New member Ray, Dave H, Steve T, George, Steve Hu, Steve Ha and ride coordinator Alan. Steve Ha was on a three-line whip to attend a family event later in the day so only joined us for coffees.  A notable absentee was Neil T, we were all hoping for a hat trick of ride led by Neil. Maybe it was the stern warning of muddy lanes from Steve T or Alan’s dry cleaning bills that kept him away LOL!

Both Alan and Steve T had a similar route, however Alan’s promise of a “new lane “by Bromborough Pool swung the vote. So the famous five set out towards Ness. A quick right turn found us heading towards Williston on Damhead Lane a lovely quiet lane with good road surface. Soon we were winding our way into the back of Eastham Rake, and past St Mary’s church which features a Yew tree mentioned in the Doomsday Book. It was at this point Dave Heath introduced the concept of three volumes of interesting places to visit, none of which mentioned Eastham so we were a little confused at this time. A quick photo stop at Eastham Ferry was hastily arranged before we plunged into the woodland which borders this section of the estuary. Following a brief ride through the industrial units bordering Magazine Road Alan found the entrance to the new “lane”. This old railway track /lane parallels Bromborough road and was an idyllic ride with autumn windblown leaves creating a fantastic carpet.  A point to note Neil T, no mud was present on this lovely stretch. 

Eastham

'New' lane to Port Sunlight
Photos by AO

The old lane emerged right in the centre of Lord Leverhulme’s  garden village Port Sunlight. This village was founded in 1888 by William Hesketh Lever. It was created by the forward thinking industrialist to provide decent sanitary housing in a considered architectural form. To this day the village has lost none of its charm, with a group of schoolchildren getting ready to enter the art gallery and a pop up coffee stall manned by a local charity group. Ray mentioned the museum by the art gallery was worth a visit. 

The route now took a different turn as we entered Rock Ferry and rode past the wasteland where a number of shops stood just before being blown up in a large gas explosion a number of years ago. The road along Rock Park Road always reminds us of the grandeur of some of the 1900’s river facing houses that line this road. It must have been a very desirable place to live at one time.  The route took on a maritime theme as we skirted Camell Lairds to see a Fred Olson liner in to have her “keel and hull cleaned” before returning to service. There was also a military vessel in, it was good to see the shipyard so busy. A new route through Seacombe Ferry terminal advised by Ray led us onto the Seacombe Promenade and the stunning views of the Liverpool skyline. Ray pointed out the new £500 million Everton ground which will certainly bring football close to the city centre. 

Lunch was accommodated at the Seaside Cafe in New Brighton, however the “cash only “ policy caused a series of members to “copper up” for those who only carry plastic. Fortunately I always carry a few gold sovereigns in my saddle pack, so a fish special was sorted. 

Reminded of the need to carry one’s bike over the bridge at Bidston railway station prompted a re plan by Alan to take a much less onerous route. Fender Way is a brilliant small off road route which borders the motorway and has a great road surface. Just outside Irby a lovely lane turned into a bridle path (a common issue when mapping rides I find) this necessitated a replan. At this time Ray’s local knowledge came to the fore and Alan and Ray navigated us across the busy Telegraph Rd outside Heswall and dropped us through lower Heswall to Gayton. As we approached Neston, Dave, Steve T and Ray carried on to Ness Gdns, whilst Alan, George and Steve Hu carried on to Burton Marshes and then into the majesty that is N.Wales. 

A great ride led by Alan, a tad under 40 miles which is respectable for November ride on clean mud free lanes. 

See route map and/or gpx file download 

Steve Hu

21st July 2022: New Brighton (mod)

There was a good turnout of mods at Ness Gardens today, the fast boys were absent, possibly doing an alternative start venue. Jim D, Dave M and Steve Ha had all chosen to ride to the start venue, then do their own thing back. Trust you had a good return ride lads. 

Alan had a route using the tried and tested route out to New Brighton but with an alternative route back via Bidston Landican. So six intrepid mods consisting of Dave H, Neil T, Alan (leader and boss man) George, Trevor and Steve Hu. 

Alans route started with the “plunge” back down to the marsh and a gentle coastal bimble to Parkgate. At this point we had our first parting of ways as Steve Hu following his computer took the Wirral Way to Parkgate only to look in his mirrors to see no one had followed. Alan having developed a cunning route to avoid the dusty Wirral Way. Back together the Sextuplets set off along boathouse lane and then on the steady pull up to Heswall. By this time it was clear Alans computer was playing a game of “I bet you can’t guess where we are going next” Neils computer had lost signal so maybe we were at the centre of a denial of service aimed at thwarting the CER day out. However normal service was resumed and we briskly whistled though Irby Frankby and into the lovely town of Hoylake. Hugging the coast we cruised through Meols and then used the scenic sea wall route, which apart from the occasional pockets of sand afforded us a quiet route to New Brighton. 

Photos by AO

As we approached New Brighton the subject turned to our lunch stop, would it be “The Chippy or Wetherspoons” In the event our decision was made easier by Spoons being closed for refurbishment. The Seaside Cafe provided a super £8.95 special of Fish Chips Salad Bread & Butter plus a drink. Furthermore the young lady serving us found Alans name to be particularly attractive there followed Neill (Alan 2) and Steve (Alan3) all being served huge portions and great smiles.

Full of seaside fare we back tracked for about a mile along the sea front. At this point George demonstrated his cat like reflexes as the roads had been “gritted” in the heat and the gravel was treacherous. The route then took us to a further cross training exercise where our members were invited to carry their cycles over Bidston Station metal pedestrian bridge. Oh how those of us with featherweight bikes laughed. The route now took a convoluted way to Landican where we joined Landican Lane a path used in fine weather by CER veterans. 

At this point Neil decided to lead a masterclass in roadside puncture repairs. Only to find his tyre bead refused to be parted from the rim, despite two of us trying the bead would not budge. That was until “Iron Hands Heath” had a try and effortlessly removed the tyre. Following fitting the new tube Neil proceeded to bunny hop down the road to re seat the tyre!

Staying on nice lanes we travelled through Thornton Hough, Raby and lastly into Little Neston for our start position. At this point Dave H and Neil left us to drive home and the remaining group continued on to their various homes. In keeping with the TDF we are all watching, the following jerseys were awarded at the end of the day

• Most aggressive rider of the day: George
• Long distance award (70 plus miles): Trevor
• Yellow Jersey: Alan 

Thanks again to Alan for developing the route and leading the group. 

Steve Hu

22nnd July 2021: New Brighton (mod)

On what was arguably the hottest day of the year so far a number of intrepid CER riders met at Ness Gardens Cafe. The group consisted of Elwyn, Fiona, Neil, Dave M, Steve Ha, Steve T, Steve Hu, Alan, Roy, Andy B and George. 

Elwyn, Fiona, Dave M, Neil and Steve Ha had all ridden from their respective dwellings having covered 25/30 miles already, so this group set off for home via different routes. 

This left the hard core of George, Steves T & Hu, Roy, Alan and Andy. Alan had a route around the Wirral however this involved extensive use of the Wirral way and the thought of stone chips on Steve’s Hu new bike left him apoplectic with worry. However even in his absence Clive saved the day (thank you Clive). Steve Hu had recorded the 12th March 2020 ride when Clive navigated us around the Wirral on a day of stinging wind and high tides. Today there was no wind, or breeze just 26 to 30 deg C wall to wall sun. 

The group left Ness returning to the coastal path past Nets and on towards Parkgate. Some nifty turns and a short stretch on the Wirral Way had us cruising through Lower Heswall and onto Ireby. A strange sound emanating from Andy’s bike turned out to be a nasty puncture which had damaged his tyre. Despite wacky suggestions to insert £10 notes into the tyre between the case and the tube we were left with an Egg bulge on the tyre. Quick thinking and internet browsing by Alan tracked down a bike shop in Moreton for a new tyre. Once replete with fresh water, a new tyre and having found a £10 in his tyre Andy was good to go at full speed. I just wonder if the 145 mile Audax he did in Suffolk last Saturday had worn his tyre too much. 

Photo by Steve T

Onwards to the Sunshine Cafe at New Brighton, open, quiet, but unfortunately no shade, so back to plan B, Wetherspoons. Despite testing the linguistic skills of the bar man George managed to order two meals in a pure Geodie accent. Possibly as a result of the translation required, Andy's and George's meals were last to arrive. 

Photo by AO

Again fully replete the team of six set off along the New Brighton coastline weaving along opposite the Liverpool City backdrop complete with cruise liner in dock. Then followed the endless turns to take us through Woodside, Birkenhead, Rock Ferry and ultimately Eastham. Another refreshments stop here where the peloton fueled up on Ice Creams and soft drinks. From Eastham it was a short jaunt through Willaston back to Ness Gardens. 

Just under 40 miles on a very warm day with super company. 

See route map and/or gpx file download

Steve Hu

24th September 2020 : New Brighton (brisk)

I have consciously decided that café meets and large groups are not for me until we are over this current plague. Therefore, I suggested to John W and in agreement with me, we decided to start later and ride straight to lunch at New Brighton. 

My route was to navigate along the coast from Parkgate to West Kirby and the ever-popular route along the cycleway to New Brighton. We met up with the Moderates only briefly riding from Ness café along the coast cycleway but the mod group stopped to chat with Doc Martin and Liz as they do!!

John and I pressed on but not flat out and enjoy the opposite views looking at the Halkyns instead of riding over them.  Only one hill to speak off and after photo stop on Davenport Road, the Pipes lane is next and the unmade road Oldfield Drive riding up to Irby.

Fame at last - for the road that is!

At New Brighton, we lunch at the fish and chip shop* but not impressed on this visit. As we were leaving Dave and George arrive and advise them to lunch at Wetherspoons, but not a good idea today after reading Clive’s blog.

As John and I set off we have a few spots of very cold rain and by the time we are passing Egremont the sky is blue above us but very dark over the water and Liverpool City. Missed that shower!

We continue riding the Wirral circular cycle route which in places needs some TLC. Leaving Eastham park, we are now inland and enjoying the quiet road at Rivacre Park although the traffic on the M53 could be heard. Ellesmere Port, Little Stanney, Stoak and we are back at Mickle Trafford.

John rides solo back home along the Greenway and I’m home

An average day around the Wirral  at 45 miles (if back to Ness), but an enjoyable day out with John again.

 See route map and/or gpx file download

ID

Photo JW 

Ed:* Perch Fish Bar maybe? or Seaside Cafe where my F&C was excellent.

https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1294732 

24th September 2020 : New Brighton (mod)

I hedged my bets on the weather forecast – BBC said it would rain, Met Office said unlikely, and XC had both features. Still, as long as it isn't raining when you set out, then it is better to travel hopefully than not at all. Thus I arrived at Ness Gardens cafe with full Covid conditions in place.

Dave H and Keith were already there, shortly to be joined by Erik, George, Alan and Ray. So we had a Cyclist's Half Dozen didn't we? I had offered a ride around the Wirral that Dave had gratefully accepted. So we set off down the hill towards the Nets Cafe. Here along the footpath, Ivan and Wilkie zoom up upon Ray, Erik and I to tell us that the rest had stopped to talk to Doc Martin and Liz! So we wait patiently for them at the Harp whilst Ivan and Wilkie zoom off.

Soon we are in Allan Meadow passing Brian Mac's house and weaving through the park and Neston little lanes to exit along Wood Lane. Well there is no wood really and no tarmac surface either for most of it. We are now off to Brimstage via Thornton Hough and pause in Storeton. Originally I had planned to take Landican Lane, but with the recent overnight rain it was bound to be agricultural. I spare them the early mud bath and aim for Prenton Hill and the long run down to the Woodchurch Asda where we take the tarmacked version of Landican Lane southwest towards Irby and the highest point of 260ft by the old mill.

A quick right here takes us down to Frankby and a loop around West Kirby and Hoylake suburbia to end up at Meols beach where the Viking landed from Ireland a long time ago. The tide was well out today, not like the last time in March 2020 when we were here with high winds and mountainous seas. We cycle the sea wall arriving at New Brighton. The weather had been good so far as we had missed the obvious lone rain clouds, but our luck was about to run out.

Our Cyclist's Half Dozen of 7 riders wasn't accepted at the Weatherspoon's - not even as a group of 3 and then another of 4. So with the rain coming down, we head for the old favourite of Seaside Cafe and espy Ivan and Wilkie just leaving for home. No such group problems at the cafe – only table service today and as usual everything comes very quickly at a reasonable price. 

Lunch stop!

The rain stops just as we are leaving for the return loop of the fat figure of eight. Along the prom and up into Wallasey, we are now heading for the Bidston Moss M53 transfer. It's not the most attractive route back to Asda, but it just works. So we are now at Landican Lane again and up and off to Irby yet again. This time we dive down to Thurstaston heading for the Wirral Way. The Wirral Way is quiet and a bit muddy though. I suggest to a coffee stop at Elephant Cafe at Parkgate Front, and once again no problem with a Cyclist Half Dozen. The route back is well known and 47 miles comes up and a surprising 2000ft a climbs.

Ray, Erik and I split for home via Burton, Ledsham, and Capenhurst. Unfortunately we catch the back end of a very wet shower. Still, the bikes needed a wash after the Wirral Way routing. George and Alan were heading over the border to Wales. So home in the dry with 60+ miles for Chester riders. Then comes the inevitable dilemma – do I clean the bike now or leave it for another day? I opted to do it then, and pleased I did so.

Finding “new” routes around the Wirral is difficult, especially since we have “lost” the expert aka Macca. Riding the Wirral during early lockdown was helpful in putting this route together, and I hope there were a few lanes that were unfamiliar to the group

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

Photo by Alan

12th March 2020: New Brighton (mod)

We were going to be in for some extraordinary weather today - sunshine all day and very strong winds along with a very high Spring tide in the Mersey estuary. Serendipitously I met up with Steve H at Dunkirk. He was just riding out and back today from Kelsall, so just a 45 mile round trip! At Ness Gardens, a crowd of ten riders would eventually arrive, although John W and Steve H were just out for coffee today. Dave H and Steve T were welcoming a potential new member, Denise, who had arrived in shorts! I had already prepared a Wirral Wander ride of 40 miles, which was gratefully accepted.

So the group, consisting of Steves T and H(NM), Peter, George, Trevor, Dave H, Denise and myself, set off down to the Dee shoreline along by Nets Cafe. Here was the first surprise of the day - a debris-strewn path - a result of a very high tide assisted by a fierce NW on-shore wind. There was a digger out by the Harp pub pushing the marsh debris back off the road. In and out of the Nestons, we wiggle through the big houses of Gayton to arrive near to Poll Hill in Heswall just off Telegraph Road.

In quick succession, as it is largely downhill, we are through Pensby, Irby and Frankby (former Viking villages) to arrive at West Kirby and the railway cut-through to Hoylake and Meols. Hitting the esplanade here, we are greeted with a seething seascape of enormous rollers as it is now about the height of the highest Spring tide. The wind was very strong N Westerly, probably storm force 8-9. It had been hindering us a bit, but not now as we were literally blown down the road towards the sea wall path to New Brighton.

As we get to the end of this road, it becomes clear that cycling the sea wall path will to be dangerous with the breaking waves and high winds. So what to do - find another way inland of course. This we do by wiggling down No-Thorough roads (which weren’t) and the housing estates of Moreton. We end up along Leasowe Road where Denise takes an unexpected tumble. Although shaken and slightly injured, her bike had sustained a brake/gear lever mounting bracket fracture, and it is wobbling around on the bars. A few cables ties later we are off again heading for the esplanade which has been closed to traffic. Sea water is splashing over the sea wall with somewhat mountainous waves just off-shore. Arriving at the boating lake by the fort, the sea is in a real turmoil as Steve H(NM)'s photo shows. Negotiating the temporary sea flood defences, it is now a few minutes to Weatherspoon’s “The Master Mariner” pub and a very quick and welcome hot repast.

The route back is as per usual i.e. along the western side of the Mersey promenade. The tide height at Gladstone dock is around 33ft today with a tidal range of nearly 30ft of seawater!. The Black Pearl pirate “ship” is no where to be seen, but there was a great pile of driftwood just off the prom though. So we wiggle our way back towards New Ferry where we pause to consider how the SS Great Eastern was broken up here at the Sloyne (see Trevor's photo). The wind was still a problem for us as we cut across the Wirral via Eastham and Willaston arriving back at Ness Gardens around 1600. Peter and Denise stay for a hot drink as the rest of us disperse for home. A 42 mile Wirral circular ride today with plenty of wild weather producing a different aspect of this former Viking kingdom.

Photo by TC

Photo by SH

See route map and/or gpx file download

CA

19th July 2018: New Brighton (mod)

Arriving at Ness Gardens in lovely warm weather, I was quickly joined by Keith, Bryan W had just returned from a Scandinavian holiday, George, Trevor, Andy W, Andy B and Neil.

Enquiring on whether anybody had a planned ride, Andy W said he was only out for a meet, Trevor like Andy W was out for a morning ride and those remaining had ideas for lunch but couldn’t recommend a pub. We were missing ‘Wirral Travel Guide’ Brian Mac, and so we settled on a fish and chip emporium at New Brighton that Bryan W and George knew. A route was then agreed to our lunch stop via the Wirral Way, Hoylake and the coast. Bryan led us through Neston to the Wirral Way where Trevor left us to return home. At West Kirby, George took us to Hoylake and the coast where we were able to observe the contrasting architectural delights of the offshore windfarms and Victorian water features.

Photos by Mike G

We arrived at New Brighton with George very confident on the location of our lunchtime eatery. Having almost passed through New Brighton via Marine Lake we turned around retracing our route until the correct fish and chip shop was found, The Seaside Café. We were able to sit outside in the warm sunshine and enjoy a wonderful fare. Certainly, a holiday feel to the place. As Andy B said ‘Where could you find a ‘place’ where lunch is £6:50 and such value’. Others had chips and tomato sauce, beef burger, steak pie and a calorie filling big breakfast. There was certainly a leisurely feel to the ride.

After lunch we set off for Egremont Promenade following the Wirral Circular Trail. We stopped quite frequently taking in the views of the Mersey Estuary and Liverpool Waterfront. The Trail signage in places could be improved on this section, but with each of us using our memories we found our way to the submarine museum, Birkenhead Priory, Cammell Laird through Bromborough and onto Eastham via the Country Park. A circuitous route through the housing estates of Eastham followed, returning via Raby and Neston on quiet roads, arriving at Ness Gardens in time for refreshments. Overall about 40 miles at a leisurely pace, with plenty of sunshine and lovely company.

See route map and/or gpx file download

MG

28th September 2017: New Brighton

Eight of us met at Ness with an acute shortage of route ideas, or of maps with which to conjure some. Dave Matthews, Clive, Nick, Steve Tan, George, John, Keith and myself were present. John and Dave Matthews were going their own way at 10.30. John's ticking, creaking sound on his bees knees bike was traced to his swish, Swiss wheel spokes. I must say, that the degree of bending of outside spokes over the inside ones didn't look right to me. Anyway, it was thought that the fretting at the point of crossover was causing the noise under torque. Perhaps, a touch of lubricant would help. No doubt, Dave Pipe would have individually wrapped each spoke with electrical tape from his magic panniers!

Clive nobly took responsibility for making up a route and leading. We headed north past the impressive Thornton Manor estate and onto Brimstage. From Storeton we turned south-west  to Barnston, as even Clive baulked at the obvious, but no doubt very muddy, Landican Lane link. Clive  forged  ahead up to Thingwall on the A551, stopping at the side of the road in order to give us a short history lesson on the Viking origins of the name“Thingwall”. However, as we thought he was only waiting for us to catch up, we carried on past him, regardless! Clive had stopped at Cross Hill adjacent to two reservoirs. He would have told us stuff like, that the name Thingwall derives from the Old Norse meaning “assembly field.”  Cross Hill was a major meeting place or parliament for Viking communities on the Wirral, and perhaps from as far as Helsby, Whitby and Talacre. “by” is a suffix meaning “village”, e.g. Frankby(Franki's settlement), Greasby(wooded stronghold) and West Kirby(west church settlement).

We worked our way through the supposedly notorious Woodchurch estate, and then meandered towards Bidston via a snaking, largely green route. We passed under the spaghetti junction of exit 2 of the M53, but eventually reached the promenade at New Brighton on this route that only Clive would be able to repeat without the assistance of GPS and a water diviner.

The weather and the view across the Mersey was very attractive, and soon we were making the choice between Weatherspoon's, or the traditional fish and chip Nirvana of The Seaside Cafe. Fish and chips and tea it was.

Photo by Steve T

We were unusually into the wind on our initial riverside return.  I was soon lagging behind with Keith, as we favoured a more relaxed pace on a full stomach. Visiting New Brighton is always a little nostalgic for a lad born in Liverpool in the forties. I remember the ferry well, and the Tower Ballroom where The Beatles and Joe Brown and his 'Bruvvers' played at some time in the sixties. The  Tower itself was before my time, and at 544ft. high was the tallest in the country, before closing in 1919. As a kid, I particularly remember the daring Wall of Death riders in the old fairground.  Guinea Gap baths I also remember from sixty years ago. Evidently, the baths are over 100 years old, and originally used sea water. Between 1908 and 1957, 205 world and national swimming records were achieved here.

The swing bridge between East Float and Alfred Dock was missing at Seacombe, so we had to divert to the next crossing. We eventually returned to the river front before Birkenhead Woodside ferry and bus terminus. At Birkenhead Priory a very welcoming guy told us the opening hours, and I was pleased to know that the tower overlooking the famous Cammell Laird shipbuilding site was once again open to the public. Rock Park with its magnificent old mansions overlooking the river is a real gem, hemmed in by less glamorous urban and industrial development.

We eventually reached Brimstage for tea and cake at an establishment in the far corner. We were served by lively young people and sat outside in the sun at the back. The conversation was informative and wide ranging, from Clive's historic references about the Vikings and more, to an analysis of the attractions and limitations of  Barcelona and its environs, conducted mainly by George and Steve, as I recollect.  The lad on the till was enterprising, as not having the correct change, he suggested that they owed me until my next visit! Shurley some mishtake there!(As the late Bill Deedes would say). Clive couldn't resist the muddy link past Oaks Farm, so earning a few more points for his brown polka dot jersey as King of the Grime (urban and rural). Somewhere along the line we lost the agreeable company of George and Nick, as four of us headed toward Clive's home village of Mollington. From there The Runcorn Three clocked up 60 plus miles back to Guilden Sutton via the Greenway. This was the furthest Keith had recently ridden  without breaking anything!  A really pleasant day, expertly led.
                                                                                                         
DH

16th March 2017: New Brighton (mod)

Ness proved popular today with nine riders turning out for coffee. Jim and Trevor rode home as the rest of us (Bryan, Andy B, Keith, Dave H, George, myself and new rider Bob) set off on a Merseyside ramble to New Brighton. It was a lazy choice but, as no-one else had a route, this was the default choice. So out via Willaston, we pick up cycleway 70 to Childer Thornton. Down New School lane, I unfortunately pick up a rear wheel puncture. It’s was due to an arrow-head of glass. Luckily as I had just fitted a new chain, cassette and rear mech, the wheel was not too dirty. So, with help from Keith’s CO2 pump, we were on our way quite quickly.

Sliding through Eastham Village, we are soon down to the Mersey and emerge out of Eastham Country Park into the Bromborough industrial wastelands. The Wirral Circular cycleway is well signposted as we pass Bromborough Pool and New Ferry. We are soon into Rock Ferry where the 19th century mansions overlook the Mersey. Some are sadly dilapidated today, but it must have been a very desirable address back in the late 1880’s. We bob across the A41 dual carriageway only to meet it again at New Tranmere. Passing Cammell Laird’s yard, we are soon ducking and diving along the Merseyside towards Woodside Ferry and Seacombe Ferry quays. It’s now a pleasant ride along the prom to the Seaside Cafe at New Brighton. 

The cafe harks back to the 1950’s with its wooden bench "ferry" style seating and honest menu. We are all served pretty promptly, with Fish and Chips being a favourite. The sun is out and the wind is up, but it’s pleasant sitting inside the cafe. As I’m relating why the Nice Boys (Ivan, Tom and John W and now sadly minus Dave P) are not out today, John appears in the cafe complete with two rather attractive young ladies, namely his granddaughters!

The Seaside Cafe with its repleted customers

Mindful that the weather forecast suggested rain at 1500, we set off for home in glorious sunshine westwards down the prom. I have amended the return route to now take NCN56 back to Neston. This is not a trivial navigating task, but it’s made easy by Pocket Earth Pro mapping in Cycling mode, on my trusty iPhone 4S.So we wiggle our way back southwards to Bidston Village via Bidston Moss under the M53. Skirting Woodchurch and Noctorum, we are now taking Landican Lane still on the 56. It starts off well with a tarmac road, but then we veer off down a farmer’s track to exit in Little Storeton. Bryan recounted that the surface was "much improved", and I’m glad I haven’t cycled it before now!

It’s now downhill to Brimstage and Thornton Hough. Crossing the A540, we eschew the final part of the 56 to run down into Neston passing the old windmill. It’s only a short run now back to Ness Gardens with 38 miles completed. A few of us decide to run for home in case the rain arrives, and a few take a final coffee in the cafe. So no rain until 1730, good periods of sunshine, a "new" route back down the 56, and very pleasant company all day.

CA

18th February 2016: New Brighton (mod)

A lovely sunny crisp day - Jane volunteered to lead the ride with Tom, John, Trevor, Chris, Ken, Dave H, Charlie, Steve H, Keith, Dave & Liz P in tow.  A reasonable mix of country lanes, Wirral villages, seaside and local history - we went through Little Neston to Raby and the Lord Lever village of Thornton Hough. Passing by Brimstage Hall (built sometime between 1175 and 1350) we barrelled along Lever Causeway, with Jane giving Liz and Dave a run for their money with a sneaky turn onto the cycle path.  Past Birkenhead Priory, we made Woodside Ferry with a few guesses and unintended turns, only for Ken to have a puncture. But it was sunny with fantastic views of the Liverpool waterfront.

Photographs by Jane Marshall

 So on to New Brighton via 4 Bridges and Seacombe Ferry terminal to The Seaside Café tucking in to traditional and tasty fish, chips, mushy peas, bread and butter and a pot of tea (OK not everyone).  The usual mix of fantastic sea views and pesky sand and a head wind on the way to Meols.  We will have passed the site of the submerged forest off Dove Point, and the remains of a 1,000-year-old Viking longship under The Railway Pub.  A slight hiccup between Greasby and Irby, when Jane’s chain came off, we did some interesting wiggles on the way to Lower Heswall, giving the Wirral Way a wide birth because of half-term hazards of children and dogs, and on through Neston back to the start at Ness.  An enjoyable 35 miles.

JM

13th August 2015: New Brighton (mod)

You can always rely on Brian Mac to come up with a route for a ride from his local starting point at Ness Gardens. Despite the fact that he wasn’t there, today was no exception as I had downloaded a ride he had led back in 2011. It wasn’t a particularly long ride but with heavy rain forecast for the evening we didn’t want to be out too late.
As I cycled up to Ness I wasn’t expecting a large turnout. The more strenuous riders were off on the annual 100-mile special and a number of riders were off on holiday. However 5 regulars turned up. These were Bryan, Dave H, Steve H, Steve T and myself. We were joined be a new rider, another Brian, who I had met while cycling across the marshes. He said he had heard of our group and had thought about joining us sometime so I persuaded him to join us today.
The six of us set off northwards heading into Neston where we turned right to cross the A540 and on to the village of Raby. A left here took us on through the pretty village of Thornton Hough. Brian’s route was a figure-of-eight and just beyond the village we came to the crossover point. Instead of carrying straight on we turned right so that we were now following Brian’s route in reverse. This brought us to Brimstage where we turned left and headed up to Storeton. Beyond Storeton we were on to the Lever Causeway before dropping down towards Rock Ferry where we hit the Wirral Circular Trail. This would take us around the North Wirral Coast.

Mersey Ferry

Photographs by Bryan Wade

We now followed the trail past the Woodside and Seacombe ferry terminals and up the coast past the Egerton Ferry pub. This had been our lunch stop on the original ride but it was not yet noon so we carried on to New Brighton. Here we decided on Wetherspoons as our lunch stop. Probably not the best choice but the company and the conversation were good.
After lunch we carried on along the coastal path, ploughing our way through the sand drifts in places, until we got back onto tarmacked roads at Meols. Here we turned inland and cycled through the villages of Greasby, Irby and Pensby and back to the crossover point at Thornton Hough. We turned right here and headed back across the A540 and down towards Parkgate. Before we reached it Bryan spotted a road off to the left (Wood Lane) that was signed as a cycle route to Neston. We hadn’t been along it before so we took the opportunity now. Unmade for the most part, but passable, it eventually brought us back into Neston.
From here it was back the way we had come towards Ness Gardens but before we got there we dropped down to the coast again and along to Net’s Café. After a well-earned cup of tea (and a cake, of course) we all went our separate ways although for four of us it was back across the marshes towards Chester. A round trip of 37 miles from Ness or around 60 from Chester.

TC

29th January 2015: Wirral Périphérique to New Brighton (brisk)

The weather forecast was for snow, high winds, hail, and rain; and for once it was spot on. As Steve T, John and myself battled around the familiar Wirral Périphérique route in a clockwise manner, we got the lot. I was the first to arrive at Ness, and then a solitary rider, aka Mike, asked if I was from CER. Mike knew of us from John who soon arrived. The Moderates arrived (Jim, Dave H and Steve T) and were doing their own thing, but Steve T decided to chance his ride with the three Briskers - little did we know how much of risk the ride might turn out to be! Just as we left, there was a huge deluge of hail rattling on the cafe glass roof. Did we sit down and take another coffee? No! We set off down towards Burton Marsh and the Nets café lane to the Harp. Mike decides he’d already had enough and peeled off for home. 

We remaining three then literally battled along the track being shot-blasted by the hail stinging our faces. We reached much needed cover near the Harp and the wind dropped a little but the hail turned to heavy snow. As we battled on near to Allans Meadow, I was tempted to call at Brian Mac’s house and seek sanctuary. We have a quick conference, and after brushing off the rapidly accumulating snow from our wet weather gear, we elect to get onto the Wirral Way that would offer us grip in the snow and hail. The snow eases off and we agree to keeping going to West Kirby and make a decision there. The newly widen trackway is somewhat bumpier than I recall, but we make good progress and arrive in West Kirby with the sun out. We elect to go on as the wind will be behind us all the way to New Brighton. So, taking the cycleway past Hoylake station, we end up on the North Parade prom. Here I easily manage 35mph under wind assist, and John a bit more as he glides by me. We quickly arrive in New Brighton somewhat frozen even with the sun out and opt for the familiar but distinctly cold and draughty Seaside Cafe and the all-day breakfast while our gloves dry and warm on the single radiator. 

Wot No Snow!

Photographs by John Wilkie

As we leave in the sunshine, the wind gets up as we trundle easily along Magazines Promenade, past Seacombe and Woodside ferry terminals for the familiar Wirral Wander trail back towards Chester. Around Rock Ferry Park, the clouds darken ominously and we get shot-blasted again with hail until Eastham Ferry. Here it’s a quick run to Childer Thornton. As none of us need to get back to Ness Gardens, we access the NCN 56 cycleway towards Mollington.  

Mersey Ferry Smiles

Steve motors on to pick his car up at Jim’s, and John breaks for Saughall as I trundle down into the Mollington metropolis. If we had gone back to Ness, it would have been along the Wirral Way again thus completing the 40-mile loop. We were lucky with the weather as it didn’t get any worse after Parkgate, but it could have easily turned out differently. Steve found an inch of snow back home in Runcorn!

CA

10th July 2014: New Brighton

We arrived at Ness on another lovely summer morning. Many had ridden the Greenway, and up the steep climb from The Marshes. We were well ready for a cuppa. Seeing that it was my birthday I treated myself to a large sausage sarnie. Jim was doing a Dave Matthews again, although his excuse was domestic chores not exotic foreign cycling adventures. He was soon off to France and Diane likes the inside of the windows to gleam so that any possible burglars won't be complaining on Trip Advisor. The free men for the day were: Dave P, Dave H, George, Keith, the two Steves, Ray, Clive, Trevor, Tom, Ivan and, of course, Liz. We were hoping that the Wirral Wizard, Brian Mac would appear in order to take care of the route, but we were grateful to Clive, as so often, for being willing to lead.

The route took us into Neston and through the sandstone cutting of the Wirral Way. It was a pleasure to cruise along the scenic sun-dappled path, although a bottle of wine and extra time and penalties, watching Holland and Argentina the night before, meant that my body was hankering for sub-Clive pace. Ivan's considerate waiting for the moderate mob was much appreciated.  We passed through the hidden gem of Eastham village, and Clive led us expertly through Bromborough and New Ferry. Here again, a collection of beautiful old buildings, this time mansions with stunning views across the Mersey, but very close to oil terminals and busy roads. All was quiet as we passed Woodside Ferry and the remains of a submarine. A national public workers' strike had given an unusual feel to the day. We continued along the prom, past the site of the 'one o'clock gun', past Seacombe and towards Egremont. We were pleased that the wooden galleon on the shore had been replaced or restored, after being wrecked in December's storms and high tide floods.

We sat out for lunch at The Seaside Cafe: great grub, fast, fun service and good value. There was a real old-fashioned, sunny seaside holiday feel at New Brighton. Families had been liberated by the strike.

Photograph by Clive Albany

After lunch, the smell of sand and sea, and the views from the end of the Wirral Peninsula were terrific. The headwind was very strong, however, and it was quite a slog to Hoylake. Our normal cycle path was closed, probably due to The Open golf preparations that were well under way. At West Kirby we were struggling to find the passage to The Wirral Way when a fragrant lady opened her window to help. She seemed quite taken with Ivan, but had probably been drinking. A Numpty crashed into George near Parkgate, and by the time we had helped him to sort things out we knew many of the others would be halfway to the farm café below Ness Gardens. For medical reasons we decided that George would require a large amount of ice cream as soon as possible. We (Liz, Dave P, Trevor, Dave H, Keith, Steve T and George) headed down to the two rival ice-cream specialists on the front. Whilst we monitored George's recovery we decide to sample some ice-cream ourselves. The weather and view of The Dee and Welsh hills was magnificent. If we could have hired deck chairs we wouldn't have got home before dark. We met the others on Burton Marshes after their coffee and cake. Everyone was happy as we cycled our various ways. The incline to Guilden Sutton felt a long drag at the end of a hot day, but we gave it a bit of welly, finally clocking 66mls.The Ness to Ness distance approximately 42mls.                    

DH