24th October 2024: Tilston (mod+)

 Those of you that have looked up in awe at a Red Arrows aircraft display will be familiar with their signature move, the bomb burst. This is where the tightly highly skilled aircraft pilots fly overhead and then disappear in all directions complete with red white and blue smoke.

 Well apart from the smoke that was us on Neils ride today! LOL. It all started so well with both old and new faces at Walk Mill Cafe. It was great to see John W, who earlier had stopped to assist Chris with a puncture. We also had a new rider today, Paul who Steve Hu brought along for the first time. Kevin who only joined us less than six months ago must feel like a veteran member now!

 We had two routes on offer from Steve T and Neil T. As Neil T is known as the “Wind Whisperer” it was decided to go with his route today as it was blustery. So nine riders consisting of John M, Kevin, Alan, Chris, Steve T, Steve Hu, Clive, Paul and our leader Neil T.

 Neils earlier feigned injury seemed to have evaporated as he set a spirited pace along Guy Lane and up to the Tarvin Bypass. Neil had chosen a cunning route to mitigate the sandstone ridge both avoiding steep climbs and the ever-present wind. Soon Kelsall was bypassed and we sped through Cotebrook and Eaton.

 We were later to learn that Pauls cycling palmares included training at Hern Hill Velodrome with a certain Bradley Wiggins and David Millar! The net result being placed in the top ten of the National Time trial events.  Coupled with extensive time spent overseas Paul was clearly happier riding on the right-hand side of the road rather than the left, much to the surprise and consternation of oncoming road users.

 As we passed Bolesworth Road it was clear John M was now missing. A quick call to Clive confirmed he was making a shorter detour to the pub. By Duckington we had lost Alan following a comfort break and both Kevin and Steve Hu were off the back due to a combination of waiting for Alan and trying to sort out the pernicious problem Kevin’s gears were presenting despite his attempts with the spanners.

 At this point we met Clive riding in the opposite direction looking for us, satisfied he had located us, he set off to find Alan. What a gent (take note Mr Tanner).

 So now we had at least four groups on the road, all notionally heading for the lunch spot. At the pub the nine reformed , but not for long as John M and Clive wanted to try a new cafe in Holt and Chris was off to work.

 Now down to six we stopped for a photo of four of us!!!  We chose a beautiful Jaguar E Type as a backdrop. I say beautiful  fortunately still so despite Steve T’s bike falling over inches from its pristine paintwork.

The homebound route was excellent and fast with all of us keeping together. Kevin broke off at Alford to ride into Chester leaving the rest of us to swing though Bruera and Saighton. Avid readers of these blogs will know Neil T’s distaste of having been mugged recently at the end of a ride. So as was customary we mugged Neil as a trident of fast riders zoomed into Waverton with Neil and Steve T in hot pursuit.

 Neil and Steve T continued to Walk Mill whilst Alan Steve Hu and Paul made our way back to Guilden Sutton.

 A great ride, on dry relatively clean roads with minimal wind in our face. Thanks for leading Neil.

 Steve Hu 

See route map and/or file download

14th March 2024: Tilston (mod)

After a dry start the forecast was for rain in the afternoon, the worst of it coming at around 4 o'clock. I set out with Jim to ride up to Rose Farm with a route in mind that would get me home and my fellow riders back to their cars before then. A good plan but doomed from the start. As we approached Rose Farm we encountered workmen starting to resurface the road up the hill. By the time we were ready to leave the road was completely blocked, even to cyclists, and the plan had to be amended.

There was a good turnout at Rose Farm but after the brisk riders had left and Steve Hu, Alan, David M and Jim had set off to return home there were only 4 of us left for the moderate ride. So instead of turning left out of Rose Farm Andy B, Dave H, Ray and I had to turn right and start the long and steep, but unavoidable climb up Quarry Bank. Not what you want in the first few minutes of a ride but a necessary detour to get to Cotebrook and Eaton. Avoiding the village itself we turned towards Alpraham and after a mile or so my satnav pinged to announce that we were now on my intended route. We cycled on to Alpraham and Bunbury where we turned south and into the wind which slowed us down all the way to Faddiley. Here we turned west and now made better progress. We passed by Cholmondley Castle and turned left to climb over Hampton Heath where we were able to help a passing motorist who was lost. We now headed over the main road towards Malpas but avoided the climb up to the village by taking the lower road towards Tilston. We were now approaching our lunchtime destination at the Carden Arms but with still some way to go the rain started. Fortunately we were able to get there without getting too wet and arrived to find a virtually empty car park. The pub was similarly deserted and as far as we could see the four of us doubled the number of customers. 

The conversation while we waited for our food ranged from politics (lamenting the state of British politics and in particular politicians) to the much more interesting topic of the upcoming special rides. By the time lunch was over the rain had stopped but the sky still looked threatening and we took the decision to take the most direct route back. We headed north towards Barton but before we got there Andy B left us to head back home. We carried on to Coddington and across to Tattenhall now making good progress with the wind behind us. On the far side of Tattenhall we stopped and I explained to Dave and Ray how to get back to Utkinton via Huxley and Corkscrew Lane as I intended to head straight home. An easy enough route to follow but I left the final section (how to get back to Rose Farm without hitting the roadworks) for them to work out. They would have got back there having completed about 40 miles.  

Note: If you intend to use the attached gpx route it covers my originally planned route of 45 miles. The roadworks should be gone by then.

See route map and/or gpx file download

TC 

28th December 2023: Tilston (mod)

The venue on yet another windy Thursday was changed last minute from a shut Walk Mill to Meadow Lea. Fortunately, it appeared that everyone who intended to be out had got the message. Despite the high winds, likelihood of mid-morning heavy rain, and it still being the Christmas holiday period, several members had made the effort. Steve Tan turned up in his attractive six-cylinder BMW Z3 roadster and kindly bought me a coffee. Following his recent floor routine on ice near Venetian Marina, he was recovering, but far from ride ready. Dave Matthews has been a consistent venue attender through recent weeks of ice, flood and storms, but wouldn’t be out for the day.  Matt was riding having recently returned from cycling challenges abroad. Also riding were Clive, Big Ray, Alan and myself. It was also great to see Roy being able to make it.

There wasn’t a properly thought-out route available, but I fancied that Malpas via Tattenhall would work, with the familiarity of a large section of the ride being the same as I had covered with George last week. George wouldn’t be bored by the repetition as he was away in Skipton. We headed for Hargreave via Waverton and Greenlooms. Dave Matthews accompanied us before pealing off for home as planned. We were suffering heavy rain and fierce winds, when Roy was unfortunate to suffer a puncture. He insisted that we carry on without him and that he would catch us up later or phone his wife to drive out and pick him up. He already had his wheel out, and as it was a front wheel, and we were not in the Welsh mountains, I could see that having four people standing around getting wetter and colder was not strictly necessary.  Nevertheless, I for one think we should have stayed. Roy has gone the extra mile to help in poor weather in the past. I apologised to him later, and  I won’t leave anyone again, unless going for help, or to return with the Berlingo. Come to think of it, like Roy, I insisted on people carrying on when my wheel rim exploded some weeks ago, but I was able to spend three hours reading The Times and eating biscuits in a couple’s sunny conservatory. Not quite the same! 

My newish OS map had almost dissolved in the rain, so I was grateful for Clive’s knowledge of the lanes meaning that I didn’t have to fiddle about checking the way forward to Tattenhall. Last week Brown Knowl and Duckington had been my route to Tilston, and on to Malpas via a circuitous route through Threapwood. I felt that even heading straight to Malpas from Tilston on this route would involve climbing and be slower. However, just like last week the direct route to the A41 was closed, presumably flooded, so Clive led us to Milton Green, Handley, Coddington and Barton in a reverse copy of the return route with George last week. This alternative cannot be recommended in normal circumstances, because the A41 stretch does feel authentically dangerous on a bicycle. Still, it is an attractive and quiet little link otherwise. 

Malpas was no longer first choice for lunch. I know that Alan was feeling the wet and cold like myself. Ray was still trying to convert me to the attractions of cruises. I must admit that this aroused images of a hot Caribbean holiday for a few minutes, which diverted my attention from my wet discomfort. Mind you Ray probably had cold Denmark in mind, with Wakefield’s own pub singer Jane McDonald as the wailing, on board entertainment! Thankfully, the rain eventually stopped for the day. The Lost Barn’s coffee aromas were enticing, but the place was amazingly busy, so we finished up at The Carden Arms. Our gloves were temporarily warmed, but not dried, on the hearth of the open fire. Calls were made to check up on Roy. He had fixed his puncture, rode to his van at Mickle Trafford and driven home. I look forward to him having much better days with us in future. The staff at the Carden Arms  were great and the food fine.  I got a little mixed up over where Matt had conducted his recent cycle tour, being at the opposite end of the table. It is amazing how he has pushed on his progress from serious injury. You will have to ask him yourself about the details of his solo winter adventure. Clive had to take off smartly for a haircut in Chester.

Photo by Alan O

We returned on a quick and direct route, which was mainly wind assisted. Alan and Matt departed at Farndon, and Ray and myself rode on to Churton, Waverton and Christleton. We took the Vicars Cross route with Ray operating the pedestrian lights, whilst I was directing a car heading toward me that was in the wrong turning lane. The right turn lanes here are unusually juxtaposed, and need amending. I wonder if Jim has a council number that works? We were soon passing Ivan’s house. Thankfully, he was not falling out of a tree wrestling with Christmas lights this year. Ray and I were glad to get back to Meadow Lea. I just had time to race back to get Harry the dog out before it got dark. Coffee and cake had to wait!  Many thanks to my comrades on the day for making the effort to make a go of it when once again the weather was not enticing, and Station Lane flooded by the time we returned.

See route map and/or gpx file download

DH

25th May 2023: Whixall Marina (mod)

Another week, another marina and, despite the good weather forecast, another low turn out. Only 8 members turned up at Cleopatra's on what promised to be a warm sunny day. Six of us intended to ride, these being Alan, Clive, Dave P, George, Ray and myself. Dave M had ridden out for coffee and was heading home afterwards. The 8th member was Peter, who was out to join us for coffee for the first time since suffering a stroke at the beginning of the year. Good to see that he is on the road to recovery and hopefully he will be able to join us for a full ride before too long.

As we were sitting outside in the sunshine enjoying our morning coffee someone pointed out that none of our usual ride leaders were present. I had my Garmin with me so I started looking through it to find a suitable ride and the first one I came across for Holt was a 40-miler which went virtually south to Bettisfield before turning back northwards for the return. So where was lunch going to be, I was asked, to which I had to shrug my shoulders and reply 'I don't know'. From the map my best guess was that it would be the Hanmer Arms but someone thought that it had closed again. Clive suggested Wixhall Marina which he knew was just a few miles from Bettisfield so it was decided that I would lead the ride with Clive leading the last bit to the marina.

The sat-nav doesn't show which way the route was originally ridden so for personal reasons, which will become apparent later, I opted to lead it in an anti-clockwise direction. The six of us set out across the Dee Bridge and as we passed the turning towards Chester it was immediately clear that the original route had been clockwise. Fortunately Garmin haven't introduced a voice which keeps telling you to 'turn around when possible' so we turned right, crossed the A534 and headed down through Shocklach to Worthenbury. Before reaching Bangor-on-Dee we turned left towards Holly Bush and then Penley. Passing through the village we turned right and passed through Breadon Heath and on to Bettisfield.

At this point my route turned us left but Clive took over and we turned right for Northwood. Here we turned left and then left again to Whixhall Marina at Dobsons Bridge. Whixhall itself is actually 2 miles away but what's in a name? The important thing is that it has a cafe where most of us opted for a panini. 

Photo by CER

After lunch we retraced our route back to Bettisfield then continued north to Hanmer. The Hanmer Arms was indeed closed and up for sale. Another sad loss to our list of lunch venues. After Hanmer we had just over a mile of A-roads before turning off at Eglwys Cross. A few miles later we had a long straight descent into Lower Wych. I barely had the time to pat myself on the back for missing this ascent by doing the route anti-clockwise when, shortly after passing through the tiny Hamlet, we started cycling up again on a hill which I'm sure was much steeper. To avoid a further climb through Malpas we turned left and after a short detour to avoid a one-way street (who puts one-way streets in the middle of the countryside?) we headed through Chorlton and Horton Green and into Tilston.

After turning left Dave cycled up to me and said that he and the others wanted to stop at The Lost Barn for coffee. Faced with this mutiny and being outnumbered I had no option but to agree. I must admit, though, that they do do good coffee. I was also quite impressed by their cycle rack. Much better on the wheels than the ground mounted racks that most places had.

Photo by TC

Soon after The Lost Barn there is a short cut along Wetreins Lane. Alan wanted to take it as he had ridden out from Flint and had a log ride home. He took it and Ray went with him. The rest of us carried on, crossing back over the A534 at Barton. We followed the winding lanes through Coddington to Churton. Here the route turned left for the final run to Farndon and back over the River Dee to Holt. However for Clive and I, who had ridden down from Chester, it was closer to home to turn right. (Aah, so that's why the anti-clockwise route was chosen). Checking that George and Dave knew their way back, I sent them on their way to complete what would have been about 47 miles while Clive and I made our own ways home.

See route map and/or gpx file download

TC

1st December 2022: Tilston (mod)

It was overcast and grey as I left home to ride to Delamere Station Café, but, unlike last week, it was dry with almost no wind. At the café, there were 14 CER members, who eventually shook out into 5 ‘briskers’, 6 ‘mods’, with Electric Pete doing his own thing, Dave Matthews attending to some pressing family business and Andy B going home to attend an appointment with his wife.

My plan was a run down to The Carden Arms at Tilston, but I was slightly perturbed when Clive said he thought it might be closed. However, Steve Ha reassured me that there were a number of ‘Plan B’ options if that turned out to be the case. I was also anxious to ensure that we got back to Delamere in good time, as the light at this time of the year is falling very soon after sunset, which was due at 4pm.

So, the ‘super six’ (Steves Ha, Hu and T, Alan, George and Ray) set off to Hatchmere, where we turned left. Turning left again at Brines Brow Lane, I was confused to see that my bike computer had turned itself off, so we had to stop and re-load the route. Later on, Steve Hu explained to me that, in addition to loading the route onto the device, you have to ‘start’ the route, otherwise the thing just assumes that you don’t need it on.  This piece of information was added to the long list of technical support that Steve Hu has given me about my Wahoo computer and I will need a very large mortgage to pay off his invoices.

Things then went well and we passed quickly through Ashton, Oscroft, Waverton and Aldford. At Churton, we turned left into Pump Lane, which Steve Ha had warned me has a very poor surface. This turned out to be the case and it prompted a vocal complaint from Steve Hu. His ire was further inflamed when we lost him and Alan at the end of Aldersley Lane. They had stopped for a comfort break and didn’t see us turn left into Mill Lane, so they turned right into Coddington Lane. A quick phone call led to an agreement to meet up at The Carden Arms.

While they reached there via Barton, we went through the grounds of The Carden Park Golf Club, something we had done with Neil a few weeks ago. Steve and Alan were at The Carden Arms when we arrived at 12.10, but, although the sign over the door said ‘Open’, the doors were locked and the lights inside were not on. So ‘Plan B’ was put into action and we rode half a mile down Stretton Hall Lane to the Lost Barn Coffee Roaster café, which was a first for everyone except Steve Ha and T.

We had been there before, but only for a drink or ice cream towards the end of a ride. Their food menu was not huge, but their ‘Farmers Bap’ was popular and the service was rapid. Following, the traditional group photo, we left the café at 1.15 pm and re-traced our steps to Tilston. Ironically, the pub lights were on as we passed it and it looked like it was open – another time, perhaps.

Photo by Steve T

We turned left into Duckington Lane and ran through there to Bickerton, joining the A534 Wrexham Road for the short run down to the Bickerton Poacher, where we peeled off left onto Stonehouse Lane. This runs in the shadow of the Peckforton Hills which, by this time, were shrouded in mist, emphasizing the need to press on before darkness came. So on we went, through Spurstow, Bunbury and Alpraham. Here, it seemed that we might have lost Steves Ha and Hu, but it turned out that a ‘mudguard clearing’ exercise had been necessary, delaying them for a few minutes. It’s that time of the year, isn’t it?

The last miles took us through Eaton and Cotebrook to Delamere, where we arrived at 3pm, having covered 45 miles at a brisk (for the mods) speed of 13.4 mph. No rain and mud-free dry lanes made for a pleasant day out with great company.

See route map and/or gpx file download

ST

27th October 2022: Erbistock (mod)

This week’s ride venue was Cleopatra’s, on a day that looked to be potentially awful, from a weather perspective that is, however not a drop fell on our group all day or at least not from the sky that is- Lol. More about that later.

Firstly, there were 14 of us in total, by my head count, which included Dave & Liz P (on the tandem), Jim, who was doing a prescription ride to the chemist? And 4 or 5 fast boys. For the second week in a row, yours truly, got to lead the moderate group of 8 (2 on the tandem) My promise of an interesting meander to the Boat Inn at Erbistock, clearly appealed to the majority, although some probably lived to regret that decision for several reasons that I will endeavour to expand on later- Lol. Notably missing this week was Steve Hu (the wimp from last week- Lol) Turns out, bless him, that he really wasn’t well last week and still isn’t. Unbeknown to him, he was coming down with a bug that has made him very weak/ tired (including his wife, I later found out- their symptoms sound like the Noro virus to me, which is doing the rounds apparently).

Time for the off for what I intended to be a very interesting and scenic route (hopefully confirmed by the group) although I didn’t expect quite so many mucky lanes- seriously- Lol. We head out of Holt via the main road in order to allow us to quickly head south on the B5130 (the first bit is no longer potholed and narly- this would be the 1st of 3 lovely stretches of resurfaced lane, which didn’t go amiss by some).

It wasn’t long before we were at Cross Lanes, followed by Cock Bank, where we would turn off into, let’s say, “adventurous lanes”. These lanes were later stated as being worthy of a ‘Clive ride’ (what did they mean Clive? - Lol). Not only that, Steve T, after our our lunch stop, even threatened to have words with me if we came across anymore mucky lanes on the return leg.  I guess this was because I promised a lovely dry clean 20 miles back, which I believe it was - Lol. The mucky lanes were a consequence of my scenic detour through Erddig Park. Unfortunately, EP was unusually busy with cars, there must have been an event on, as I have never known it like that. So it wasn’t quite the peaceful scenic meander, as we had to stop a few times.  I did feel a little sorry for the tandem, as it’s not so easy to keep stopping & starting, even with an electric motor.

Once we were through EP we turn left and head towards the Boat Inn by way of Sontley Lane, which was a rather slippery muddy affair. It was shortly after this that we had to make a U turn, as I missed our left turn down to Park Eynton. “Oh no, we haven’t got to go back through that lane have we” was somebody’s cry. Fortunately, I had only over shot our turning by 100 meters or so, “no was my cry”- Lol. We had a half mile on the A539, before we head right up hill into Chapel Lane. This is a lovely steady uphill bit (nice views heading the other way - Lol) leading to a nice descent into Erbistock Vale & a final short steep descent into the Boat Inn, which lies, just 50 feet above the river Dee (somewhat idyllic spot, right next to St Hilary church).

After briefly admiring the river view and considering sitting outside, we find our reserved table inside, which didn’t seem warranted at first. However, by the time we left the place was virtually full. Once the prices on the menu had been digested- Lol, everybody set about their choice for lunch. The Korean roasted cauliflower was the most popular dish. Both Andy and I were quite taken by this. I also got the impression everybody else were just as satisfied with their choices. That said I think DH made a mental note to not come back- Lol. I believe I heard him mutter something about needing a mortgage to eat there. And he wasn’t the only one- Lol. I was so taken by the setting and food that I can only remember a brief conversation about my choice and the ensuing story I told of how I discovered a Korean vegetarian restaurant in the back streets of London, some 35 years earlier.

Lunch done and the temp getting even warmer, we set off to the comment of “we haven’t got to climb up that hill have we?” “There is only one way in and out”, was my response- Lol- Lol. No sooner said and we were at the Cross Keys pub, on the bridge of the river Dee. We turn right up a slightly longer and the only real climb of the ride. After a regroup at the top we turn left onto another lovely stretch of resurfaced lane that allowed us to detour Overton.  It wasn’t long before we were swinging downhill into Threapwood, after crossing Wych Brook, another favourite little stretch of mine and I think our 3rd river crossing, which is often a feature of my rides- Lol. The wet, muddy lanes before lunch were now becoming a distant memory as we settle into the promised dry lanes.

With Threapwood behind us and Tilston not far away, I canvassed everybody for a cafe stop at the Lost Barn, which seemed a popular choice, despite only being 3 miles from Holt. By this time DH had found his top gear and was now leading the charge. He was clearly feeling the need for a good coffee, even jumping the road works traffic lights at Tilston- Lol. We all decide to stop at the red! light- Lol and then chase after him, which was only a few hundred metres to the cafe. After a bit of shuffling of bikes, akin to musical chairs, we all finally settle on an outside table with the sun beating down on us all. 

What a lovely finish to our ride, as this was effectively the point where some of us departed for home. Both Steve Ha & I leave the others at the top of Wetreins Lane (only 300 meters up from the cafe) and set off for Tattenhall and in Steve’s case, Kelsall beyond. I got home with 52 miles on the clock and a surprising 570 metres of assent (I thought it was a flat ride- Lol). The likes of Steve Ha, Allan and Andy must have got a Grand Fondo in at least, as they all rode in further than I did - well done guys.

So, from what looked to be foolish to set off cycling at 9am, a great day out was born, if a bit mucky and slippery in places, made much better by the company- Lol- Lol- Lol. Thoroughly enjoyed the route, with some great scenery & even architecture (added an extra picture just for DH-Lol).

The route is even better in a clockwise direction, as the up & down bits work better with the views, in my opinion. Great to see you all as usual and look forward to the next ride.

NT

Photos by NT

See route map and/or gpx file download 

4th August 2022: Ellesmere (mod)

 For two reasons, it was with some trepidation that I offered a moderate ride to Ellesmere from Tattenhall. First, I was going to use my new bike computer for navigation. I’d never used if before and I hadn’t even got the route loaded. Secondly, I could see that the group was going to be very large and I had read about Trevor’s problems of last week in losing people.

However, after engaging the help of our resident ‘techie’ (Steve Hu), I had the route up on the computer and just before 10.30 there were 10 mods ready to go - Steves Hu, Ha and T, Daves P and H, Trevor, Andy B, Alan, Richard and Electric Pete. Then, just as we were about to roll, Neil turned up, gasping for breath. He’d gone to Meadow Lea, having mis-read the blog. He only realized his error when he got there, even though he’d passed Trevor going the other way. So, he’d hot-footed it the twenty odd miles to Alison’s arriving at 10.29.

There was light drizzle in the air as we set off, but the weather was forecast to get better as the day went on. We’d got as far as crossing the A41 when the cry went up to wait. Trevor’s chain had come off and it took a few minutes to rectify this. Fortunately, that was the only ‘mechanical’ we suffered all day.

The route took us through Clutton and Tilston to Malpas. As we approached Malpas, Neil decided to go his own way. He’d already ridden from home to Meadow Lea and Tattenhall, so another 40 miles was not appealing to him.

After crossing into Wales at Higher Wych, we were soon in the Shropshire lanes, with little traffic and (mostly) smooth roads.  A brief stop was made at Starks Bridge over the Prees Arm of the Shropshire Union Canal for a photo call.

                                                              Photo SHu

Passing through Lyneal and Colemere, we arrived in Ellesmere just before 1pm. There followed a degree of confusion about where we were going to sit (inside or out) and when we could order what (drink/food) and pay for it. The peculiarities of the system run at The Red Lion were baffling, but we eventually ordered and paid for our food and drink and the food arrived surprisingly quickly. We sat outside in the sunshine, batting away wasps which seemed to be attracted even to chips!

We left the pub along Church Street, taking the right turn into Swan Hill, where we paused for a second photo beside the unusual ‘Toad crossing’ road sign. Apparently, the road is closed between 19.00 and 05.00 throughout March and April each year to allow toads, which have been hibernating during the winter, to migrate to their traditional breeding grounds in ponds and the mere. Volunteers help them across the road.

                                                             Photo AO

Our route back took us through Penley and Worthenbury to Shocklach. As we turned right for Tilston by The Bull pub, Alan, Andy B, Richard and Electric Pete left us, heading for their respective homes. As we turned left at The Carden Arms, heading for Stretton, Dave P suggested a stop at The Lost Barn. It was set up in 2018 and has built up a strong reputation for their speciality coffee, which is roasted on site. Five of us stopped here, but Steve Hu pressed on as he still had plenty of miles to cover. 

Suitably refreshed, the ‘fabulous five’ pressed on to Tattenhall and our journey’s end.  My initial trepidation turned out to be unfounded as we didn’t lose anyone and my new computer took us around the planned route without any problems other than those I brought on myself through lack of familiarity with the new device. Thanks to Steve Hu for acting as ‘sweeper’ and to the rest of my companions for a great day out in the English and Welsh countryside.

ST

See route map and/or gpx file download

1st January 2015: Tilston

The New Year was seen in with a party and champagne last night, but that was some hours ago.  Now it was New Year’s Day and time to set off for the first CER ride of the year.  With the Blue Moon Café closed for refurbishment the decision was made to join up with the CTC Chester Section at Christleton Pond for a leisurely joint ride out to the Carden Arms at Tilston to join the annual New Year’s Day meet of local cycle groups.  Of the eleven riders who met up at 10:30 there were three CER members (David M, John and myself).

Sue Booth demonstrated her new selfie stick before Martin led us out via Waverton and Tattenhall.  The weather was much warmer than it had been on New Year’s Eve and we soon had to stop to shed a layer of clothing.  Then it was on to Tilston via Chowley and Lower Carden arriving just after 12:00 noon.

Judging from the number of bikes outside, the pub was already busy and so it proved.  There was a queue of Wrexham Reivers at the bar and with only a single barman on duty it took a while to get served but at least the food order of beef or veggie stew could be ordered at the same time.  Lessons learned from last year when a separate food queue meant twice as long standing in line.  The stews were excellent and were served and consumed quickly.  Then it was time for the serious business of catching up with old friends from the other cycling groups; quite a few of whom I only get to meet once or twice a year.  Mike Cross made the presentations to the leading local female and male tourist competition riders: Lowry Evans and Peter Dilworth.  Soon it was 14:00 and time to leave.

Sue Booth led the ride back by way of Crewe-by-Farndon, Aldford and Saighton where we split up with some heading back to the start and others taking the direct route to Chester.  In all about 30 miles done; dry with the wind against us in the morning and wet but with the wind behind on the way home.  A great way to start the New Year.

BW

1st January 2014: Tilston

It’s the start of the New Year and looking out of the bedroom window this morning I was delighted to see that, although overcast, the weather was dry and there was no frost.  The forecast was for some wind and rain from 11:00 onwards but it didn’t sound too bad.  That was it then, decision made; it was off to the New Year’s Day meet at The Carden Arms in Tilston via the Blue Moon Café.  By 10:00 as I was preparing to leave home it started spotting with rain.  By 10:15 on the way to the Blue Moon it was definitely raining!  With one bike parked outside when I arrived I guessed that I could at least count on some company on the ride to Tilston.  I joined David Mathews with a cup of tea and we chatted while watching the rain get heavier.  By 10:45 David decided that he was going home to get changed and then drive to Tilston!  I decided to cycle: it’s only rain after all.

Leaving the warmth of the Blue Moon I headed through Handbridge to take Lache Lane south to Dodleston and on to Pulford.  By now the wind was picking up, the rain was unrelenting and progress was slow.  A left in Lavister took me onto the exposed road to Holt straight into the wind driven rain, making riding distinctly unpleasant and leaving me wondering if I shouldn’t have tried an alternative route.  In Holt I resisted the temptation to stop for a coffee in Hildegard’s and crossed the swollen River Dee into Farndon to take the usual route along Wetreins Lane to Tilston in the continuing rain.

There were no more than a dozen bikes outside the Carden Arms this year, clearly demonstrating the effect of the adverse conditions.  In my case sodden gloves that when rung out released a waterfall of rainwater and “waterproof” cycling boots that squelched at the slightest movement.

Photographs by Sue Booth

Inside a goodly number of CTC Chester Section members had just arrived and were drying themselves out.  Numbers from the other groups: Mold, Wrexham, Two Mills and Wednesday were sadly few in number this year.  Food was limited to stew or stew but proved to be both appetising and warming.  Just right for a day like this.

After an hour and a half of chat catching up with the latest news and gossip it was time to leave.  By now the rain had stopped and I joined the Chester group for the ride back.  With Sue leading and the wind behind us we made good progress to complete a memorable first ride of 2014 with 35 miles done.

BW

1st August 2013: Eccleshall (2013 long ride)

The day promised to be the hottest day in the year so far (in fact since 2003 according to the BBC) so the obvious thing to do is to ride for 100 miles in the heat. Were we put off? - No! There were nine of us starting out at 08:00 at a chilly (18˚ C) Chester station - Martin, Dave P, Dave H, Mike G, Ray, Colin W, Paul, Roy, and myself. To get out of Chester quickly, we take the canal all the way to Waverton. Up Guy Lane we run apace since we are 10 minutes late in meeting up with Jan at Duddon. Out via Utkinton, we take the Tarporley "bypass" to Eaton and thence on to Calveley Lane running parallel to the A51. A quick dash up the A51 takes us off at Barbridge and down Wettenhall and Welshman's Lane to access, via the back streets, the Nantwich café stop. We arrive slightly before they open at 10:00 but we are enthusiastically allowed in from the rear "bike park" door and are soon filling up on calories. 22 miles done 75 to go. Suitably refreshed the route takes us out passed the Secret Bunker turn to the outskirts of Audlem. Skirting the town to the south, we access national cycle route 75 to Norton in Hales. Crossing towards Mucklestone we are now in uncharted territory. The countryside here is gently rolling and turning out of the pretty village of Ashley, we take a long narrow lane to Slindon and Sturbridge on the outskirts of Eccleshall. 

Stomachs are rumbling as we pass through Eccleshall with cries of " Are we nearly there yet?" Well we are, as the Star Inn comes into sight at Cop Mere. 52 miles done, 44 to go. A really welcoming pub this is, who have reserved us a section of the bar following my earlier call. The selection of ale is good, as is the service and the food. 

Although we haven't seen much of the sun until now, it is out in full force as we meander up the lane taking the Bishop's Offley "bypass" via Walk Mill, and then towards Market Drayton. Passing Chipnall, we enter a hidden vale growing elephant grass (for biomass use) in the fields around. I really like this vale and have cycled it a few times now. Into Market Drayton we pass enticing close to the Jules brewery but soldier on to take the long 5 mile lane that takes up to Calverhall. After Ash Magna, we take the back way into Whitchurch. As one café eschews our custom, we find Jacks Café where we are enthusiastically welcomed with waitress service. 

Which way to leave Whitchurch? Why go up the main road when you can take the canal; so the canal ride brings us welcome shade and we end up near to the Malpas turn at Grindley Brook. A few miles from Malpas there is a rifle shot sound and Ray's rear tyre explodes. There is plenty of advice on hand and a patch is applied to the torn side wall, which holds all the way home for Ray. The plan is to meet up at the Carden Arms, so we all storm off from Malpas to Tilston. On counting up, a few are missing as Martin succumbs to a puncture. Nonetheless as he arrives at the pub, we all take a pint in the shade. Jan heads for home via Carden Hill and Tattenhall. We decide to amend the published route to go via Cuddington and Churton back to Chester. Here for some unknown reason (probably the sun getting to our heads) we steam along at c 20mph all the way back to Chester. Martin and Dave Pipe however took a slightly different route from Tilston via Farndon. 

Photographs by Clive Albany

Only 96.5 miles back in Chester, but with over the magic 100 on the dial as I arrive at home after a memorable day's cycling. Oh, just to say that Roy had cycled from Frodsham, so set off back with 130+ on the clock! My thanks to Dave M for the initial route suggestion - some beautiful Staffordshire countryside on display.

CA

PS: They say things come in threes, so I shouldn't have been surprised to find a flat front wheel on my bike the morning after!

1st January 2013 : New Year's Day Ride to Carden Arms

The official CER meet is at The Little Roodee (shut) with an option of The Blue Moon (open).  Ray made it to the official start and picked up Andy and David M on the road near the Blue Moon---shortly to be joined by Dr Martin.  The Blue Moon provided a warm recovery point to nurse our hangovers before setting off to the official New Year's Day meet at the Carden Arms in Tilston, via a welcoming stop at Hildegard's in Holt.
The day was dry, the temperature reasonable for time of year and the pace, set by Dr Martin, reasonable.  At the Carden arms 52 cyclists from all parts of Chester & North Wales received a warm welcome and equally warming meal from a giant stewpot (non-veggie or veggie to suit).  David Ackerley presented prizes to C&NW CTC riders who had won the CTC tourist competition yet again.
After the presentation we all left in dribs and drabs to follow our various ways home in the fading light.
Yet another excellent New Year's Day meet at the Carden Arms---Thanks to Harry for organising yet again.
DM
Note: The Carden Arms is under new management and very keen to accommodate cyclists.  They will send details of opening hours & meal facilities for the website.

1st January 2012: Carden Arms, Tilston

Despite late night/early morning celebrations to see in the New Year, four members met at the Little Roodee for the annual ride to join all the other local cycle groups at the Carden Arms in Tilston.  The group of Dave M, Dave B, Clive and I set off at just after 10:00 heading for Hildegard’s in Holt for elevenses via Overleigh school and the cut through to eventually emerge onto Lache Lane before we were on the lanes through Dodleston and Pulford.  Clive and Dave M decided to pull in a few extra miles before elevenses and sped off up Marford Hill while Dave B and I took the Lavister turn for the direct route to Holt.  Not long after a yellow jacket in the distance heralded another cyclist making for Holt.  It was Tony Small, who had just passed Harry making use of a handy field.

By Holt it had started to rain so bikes were quickly locked as we made for Hildegard’s usual warm welcome.  Within a few minutes we were joined by Clive, Dave M and Harry followed soon after by Dave & Liz P and Ray.  Dave M announced the sad death of Jim Skelding, one of the founding members of C&NWCTC, and who as President for ten years in the 1990’s had contributed so much to cycling in the area.

By 11:45 it was time to leave but today members were intent on doing their own thing and in dribs and drabs we left Holt for Farndon and Tilston.  At Crewe by Farndon the main group was down to just three as Clive, Dave B and I made our way south to Shocklach before turning north to arrive at the Carden Arms at just after 12:15.  Most groups including Chester, the Fabulous Ladies, Wrexham, Mold and Watson’s Wanderers were already there plus a sprinkling of others.  With numbers around the 45 to 50 mark the mood was lively, even with the inevitable wait for food.

This really has to be the best way to start the New Year and renew friendships with members from other groups.  Then followed the presentation of the awards for the CTC TC after which it was time to depart.

We left with a large group comprising Chester, Fabulous Ladies, CER and some others for a relaxed ride back to Chester with the wind behind us.  What a great start to 2012.

BW

1st January 2011: Carden Arms, Tilston

Some half a dozen CER members met up with the Chester section of the C&NWCTC for the annual ride to the Carden Arms.  Somewhat unusually Martin decided on the short route, normally reserved for poor weather, this year.  Consequently the group was the first to arrive at the Carden Arms well before noon.  Before long the other groups appeared including those travelling by car (Bryan and Erla included).
This annual pilgrimage provides a great opportunity to meet up with friends in other groups and is always a good way to start the New Year.
BW

1st January 2010: Carden Arms, Tilston

New Years Day and the temperature outside is minus 2º C. I decide to use the main roads to get to Christleton Pond and breathe a sigh of relief that the gritters have already been out. Two riders are already at the pond when I arrive and before long there are nine of us: not bad for such a cold day!
Today Chester Easy Riders are joining Chester CTC on a joint ride to the Carden Arms where the local CTC groups have one of their New Year Day meets. Martin leads off through Waverton in cold and dry conditions but by the time we are passing Greenlooms it has started to snow. This is a cross between snow and hail and I’m not alone in hoping that it won’t last for long.  My wishes are met, the snow stops and we continue on dry roads towards Tattenhall only to find that the snow has already settled here. Martin wisely decides to give Bolesworth and Brown Knowl a miss this year and chooses the direct route through Clutton and Lower Carden.

Photographs by Glennys Hammond

Riding on the newly fallen snow is a real pleasure but the compacted car tyre tracks are already icy and could be worse by the afternoon.  The group becomes spread out so we stop to regroup just before Clutton and those of us with slick tyres find spinning rear wheels make it difficult to get started again on the slight incline. Once moving again everything is fine and we make good progress passing several cars at the side of the road with spinning wheels.
We arrive at the Carden Arms safely, if a little cold, to find a good number of other groups already there. After queuing to order food there was time to greet and chat with colleagues from across the region. What a great way to start the New Year.

Unfortunately it was soon time to leave with the return journey made carefully on the lanes via Stretton, Barton, Coddington, Churton and Aldford. At Saighton the group split into two with some turning off towards Chester while the others headed back towards Christleton.
Distance from Chester and back a cold but enjoyable 33 miles.
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1st January 2009: Carden Arms Tilston, Chester CTC New Year’s Day meet.

Photographs by Glennys Hammond

Having been out earlier in the week I had already decided that extra layers of clothing would be needed today; and so it proved to be with temperatures staying below freezing. Eight riders braved the cold to turn up at Christleton Pond; a combination of a depleted Chester Section and Chester Easy Riders. Despite reduced numbers the group enjoyed a relaxed start to the New Year along frosty lanes passing the Ice Cream Farm before skirting Harthill by way of Bolesworth and Brown Knowl. From here it was downhill to Duckington and the turn-off to Tilston. A good number of cyclists had already gathered when we arrived, although judging by their attire a significant proportion had come by car this year. Although total numbers were down from last year Harry counted just over 40 present: not a bad turnout for such an unpromising start to the year. After a leisurely lunch and chat with those present it was time for a more direct route back via Lower Carden and Tattenhall with a tea stop in Waverton courtesy of John and Eunice.
Distance from Chester and back 37 miles.
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18th December 2008: Carden Arms Tilston: Christmas Lunch Ride

Photographs by Glennys Hammond

Two riders were already enjoying tea when Erla and I arrived at Bellis’s. Jim, who was joining us for the first time having inadvertently missed last weeks ride due a mix up over numbers, was sampling the popular Bellis breakfast. By the time our tea and teacakes arrived the other members were appearing.
Unusually, today was to be a joint ride and lunch with Watson’s Wanderers. Thanks go to Harry who had sorted out the arrangements. It wasn’t long before Harry’s group arrived and we all relaxed and chatted until 11.30am before making our way to the Carden Arms. Now Holt to Tilston can’t be more than five miles so what could go wrong! Within minutes of starting out the group was split by the traffic lights at the bridge over the Dee. Unknown to those in the following group the first group had taken the back road through the houses in Farndon to use the Crewe Lane track to Crewe-by-Farndon. The following group sticking to the High Street and the B5130 arrived at Crewe-by-Farndon first and assuming the first group were ahead continued to Tilston by the short route while Harry led the first group via Shocklach. Eventually we were all reunited and enjoyed an excellent three course Christmas lunch with turkey and Christmas pud. All good things come to an end and it was with some reluctance that at 3.30pm we donned our winter gear for the ride home. Thanks again to Harry for an enjoyable day.
Distance from Chester and back 34 miles.

BW