2nd June 2011: Stone 110 ride (long)

An early start today for our annual ‘long’ 100 plus ride!  Ivan was busy fuelling up when I arrived at Chester Station café just after 07:30.  Within a few minutes Clive, Dave Hill and Mike G had joined us, leaving only Dave P unaccounted for.  Leaving it until the last moment Dave P and his son Dominic (planning to ride with us for the first hour) arrived just before 08:00.  With everyone accounted for there was just time for a photo before Clive led out down City Road.

Photographs by Bryan Wade

The weather forecast predicted ideal cycling weather: a warm but cloudy morning followed by a sunny afternoon with temperatures in the low 20’s and best of all no wind.  Clive’s planned route bore no resemblance to a normal CER ride apparently including some 12 miles of urban riding through the centre of the Potteries from Barlaston in the south to Kidsgrove in the north.  It says something about CER members to accept Clive’s assurances that we were in for a great day out: but that’s for later.  To start, we headed out of Chester along the canal towpath to Waverton where, with only a few miles done, my SatMap handlebar mount sheared off releasing the GPS to bounce at an alarming rate back down the road.  Unlike Clive’s experience a few weeks earlier the SatMap did not survive its ordeal.  A fractured screen amongst other damage signalled the end.
Back on the road we were soon going through Tattenhall, passing Bolesworth Castle, where Dominic left us, and on towards No Mans Heath where we turned left with Clive ensuring that we had one decent hill, over Wirswall, before entering Whitchurch for our morning stop.  Clive had chosen Jones Coffee House and with its impeccable and speedy service (from baked beans to toasted tea cakes) it was easy to see why.  An excellent choice.
The next leg was to take us along beautiful lanes, most of us had never ridden before, to Market Drayton and on to the upmarket village of Eccleshall.  From here the route took us past Drake Hall prison over the M6 and into Stone to complete a wonderful two hours of cycling from Whitchurch.  In Stone we headed for Wetherspoons for lunch just as the sun started to break through.  With some 50 plus miles done I couldn’t resist a pint of the ‘Stone the Crows’ ale from the local Lymestone Brewery to go with the steak and kidney pudding, chips and mushy peas.  Service could have been friendlier but was certainly quick and the meals substantial: just what was needed for a long day in the saddle.

By 14:00 it was time to leave and we set off heading through the lanes to Barlaston where we joined NCN route 5 to follow the Trent and Mersey Canal towpath north.  What followed was 12 miles of truly enjoyable leisure cycling through the heart of the Potteries, ducking under the ridiculously low bridges and squeezing through the anti-motorcycle ‘gates’.  It all took time as we cruised at a sight seeing pace taking in the familiar names, Wedgwood, Etruria, Stoke City ground, and then on to Middleport and Longport where the remains of the old mills lining the canal (Oliver’s Mill, Middleport Mill and Port Vale Mill) suggest how different things were in the heydays of the early 1800’s when they were built.  Further on the Westport Lake Country Park was full of families enjoying the sun as we rode by on the last mile to the start of the Harecastle tunnels where we left the canal to continue along the lanes.

After such an interesting section of the route one might be forgiven for thinking that it would be ‘downhill’ from now on, but no Clive had a number of other surprises in store for us as we continued to Alsager before getting on to more familiar lanes to Barthomley, Wybunbury and Nantwich.  Our afternoon tea stop was now overdue but Ivan had arranged a special treat for us, so rather than a stop in the town centre we headed to his sisters house on the edge of town to be greeted with plates of sandwiches and cakes and a choice of beverages: absolutely wonderful, many thanks indeed.
“It’s all downhill from here” says Clive with a smile “Acton, Brindley, Spurstow and home” he says.  I remind him of a slight undulation he has forgotten to mention.  “It’s at least two chevrons,” I say.  “There are none on the map” he replies.  “That’s because it hardly qualifies as a track let alone a road.  In any event its virtually unrideable” I protest.  With that Ivan looks up with a gleam in his eye and you know he’s up for it.
We follow the route back but by now I’m slowing down on every hill, dropping back and catching up on the flat.  Time is going on and just outside Bunbury, and despite the offer of a free birthday pint, Dave Hill and Mike G decide to take the direct route back via Beeston.  In the circumstances I decide to join them rather than face a struggle over the Peckforton Hills.  The three of us make good time past the Ice Cream Farm, Gatesheath and Bruera.  By Saighton we are caught up in a time trial and our insignificant 16 mph speed counts for nothing as the constant ‘whooooo se’ of passing time trialists testifies.  Not far now though and 20:00 sees us safely back in Chester with just over 110 miles clocked.
The remaining three of Clive, Ivan and Dave P continue on the original route through Spurstow and Peckforton before taking the track over the Peckforton Hills.  Here Ivan attempts the track, the top part of which is surfaced with setts the size of loaves of bread, only to fall off muttering about not getting out of the cleats quickly enough!  At The Pheasant the three take a pint while watching the sun go down over the Cheshire Plain.  “A fitting finale to the days ride” says Clive.
What a great ride!  Who would have believed it was possible to cycle the full length of the Potteries on such a fabulous route.  There were also lots of surprises all the way along.  A ride to remember: well done Clive.

BW

2nd June 2011: Abergele to Shotton (short)

The weather forecast had promised the hottest day of the week as we assembled on Shotton lower station waiting for the 10:04 train to all points west. The four of us, Brian Mac, Trevor, Norman and Jim were well covered in the necessary lotion but had some misgivings about Arriva Wales's intentions to accommodate us.  The web site declared their support for cyclists as long as there weren't more than two per train.  A plan was hatched and we stood in pairs at the opposite ends of the platform as the train arrived.  Not wishing to show any signs of hesitation we pushed on board before anyone could say “you can't bring that on here”.  In no time we were rattling along past the fleshpots of Prestatyn and Rhyl to arrive at Abergele half an hour later.  No sign of the promised sun though!  Only a cool breeze and the hilltops covered in cloud.  We set off' uphill of course (this is Wales after all) along the A548 towards Llangernwy (no I don't know where it is either).  After about 2 miles we turned left (more uphill) onto the lanes traversing the north side of the Afon Elwy valley.
If you are ever tempted to scoot down these narrow lanes without a care in the world-don't.  Round the next corner lurked a road sweeper, filling the whole road.  Hardly had we squeezed past him before a local farmer roared up behind us with a silage trailer, and then came his mate in the other direction.  At last they turned into a field and we were safe, but no, the dustbin wagon.  We were beginning to think that there was some sort of conspiracy taking place but eventually we were left alone to make our way to Trefnant just south of St Asaph.  From there we crossed the Clwyd Valley and climbed up the other side to Treheirchion and lunch at the Salusbury Arms.  The specially brewed local ale was well recommended by Don in his personal chair by the bar but all too soon we had to set off, uphill of course, towards Babell and Halkyn.
From there we swept down to Northop and finally Connahs Quay.  By now the sun was out and so were the local young mums with their muffin tops.  A quick coffee at Weatherspoons and Brian and Norman left to collect their vehicles leaving Trevor and Jim to set off along the fortunately flat Greenway back to Guilden Sutton.  A good ride of 34 hilly miles, or 55 for those from the wrong side of the tracks.

JD

26th May 2011: Little Warford

Wet, wet, wet was the forecast for today’s weather plus some gusty wind for later.  Contrary to the usual outcome today’s forecast turned out to be spot on.  It rained most of the way out to Utkinton, not heavy mind, but enough to be uncomfortable.  I settled down in Rose Farm café to tea and toasted teacake while first Clive arrived in full wet weather gear, followed by Ivan (just down from his new job in the Lake District to join us for the day: there’s dedication!) and finally Norman on his second outing with us.  That’s it for today, just four brave souls willing to take on the elements.
I suggested a ride out to Little Warford near Alderley Edge which would clock up about 50 miles round trip from Utkinton.  The only response from those present was Little ……?  And so Little Warford was agreed with The Stags Head earmarked for lunch.  I led out on the well-used route through Cotebrook, passing Oulton Park motor racing circuit and on to Whitegate where we turned right to use the wooden bridge crossing of the Weaver Navigation.  From here we took the rough track under the west coast main line up to Moulton where we rejoined the lanes to Davenham, Lach Dennis, Lower Peover and eventually Great and Little Warford to arrive in good time at 12:15.
There were two removal vans outside The Stags Head when we arrived and the pub tables were being loaded into the first of the vans.  “Have you closed?”  “No we’re just taking the tables away.  They’re reopening this lunchtime.”  Inside we found that the refurbishment was slightly behind schedule and that we were the first customers.  Judging by the plush new upholstery, new tables, polished timber floor and carpets we were not the type of patrons they were aiming to attract.  This is practically Alderley Edge after all!  That aside, we were made more than welcome as we discarded wet clothes, and the choice of ales put aside any lingering doubts on our part.  Food service was a little on the slow side but we had plenty of time and when it came, the quality justified the wait.
We left The Stags Head at 13:30pm in the rain and headed south to Goostrey with the choice of continuing on to Holmes Chapel or Middlewich.  I decided on Middlewich with the intention of trying the link over the River Wheelock to Stanthorne Mill that looked doable on the map.  In Middlewich we were forced to go through the centre, eventually reaching the turnoff for the Wheelock.  “It’s a no through road”, followed by “No it’s a Harry route.”  Well it looked OK; a wide grassy lane that led us down to the bridge after which the track narrowed eventually becoming an increasing narrow footpath.  After 50 yards of pushing we reached the Mill and continued the ride on to Winsford and the Whitegate Way.  By now talk was about where we should stop for afternoon tea.  We decided on the Shire Horse Centre café but Ivan, in a hurry to get home, left us just before Cotebrook.
The remaining three of us relaxed in the café over tea and carrot cake while discussing the implications of Brian Lowe’s resolution passed at the CTC national AGM.  When we emerged the rain had stopped but the wind was getting stronger!  It was only a few miles from here to Utkinton where we left Norman to collect his car while Clive and I fought the strong head wind back to Chester.
Today proved once again that despite the damp weather CER provides a great day out.  A round trip of 50 miles from Utkinton or just over 70 miles for those of us riding from Chester.
.
BW

19th May 2011: Llanasa

A fine day in prospect and so it was with plenty of sunshine to illuminate the Clwydian range of hills.  At the Gallery café, Jim suggested the Red Lion in Llanasa, so a route was quickly plotted and off went the nine of us (Dave and Liz, George, Dave M, Jim, Dave H, Alan J, Norman and I).  Plotting the usual route to Northop via the back lanes of Ewloe Green, we took it steady up to Halkyn and Pentre Halkyn and across the Brynford golf course.
Fine views of the Dee estuary and the Clwydians were in prospect.  Crossing the A55 at Calcoed we idled through Gorsedd before dipping down through Whitford.  The small lane on the left took us on NCN 5 around the base of the hill with the site on top of the supposed Roman watchtower or lighthouse now replaced by a folly-type tower.  From the top of the tower you can get panoramic views across the water to Liverpool.  At the bottom of this lane behind the hedge hides the “Maen Achwyfaen” Celtic cross that is supposed to be around 1000 years old.  After a brief stop to view this scheduled ancient monument, we “ancient relics” got back on our bikes bound for Llanasa.
What a pretty village this is; and the Red Lion has an elevated position in the village centre. Food and drinks were quickly ordered and we sat outside in the sunshine, and after a decent wait the decent food arrived.  As only 19 miles was under our belt, a longer return journey was soon plotted over the hill towards Trelawnyd.  After a short diversion in the village centre, we were soon down the lanes towards the A55 bridge crossing.  Dave M recognised the lanes as part of the Clwydian Audax route.  So the map reading was back on track.
I wanted to take the pretty lanes at the top of the hill above Tremeirchion since this gives three miles of delightful “flat” countryside to cycle through before turning right on to the road to Babel.  This road dips and rises over 400ft for 5 miles before you arrive at Pentre Halkyn Windmill at 900ft. Dave M suggested that we take the usual run down the back lanes towards Northop but bear right towards Alltami and Buckley and then into Hawarden.  The “Two Daves” set off down the lanes at a pace but were nowhere to be seen at the right turn lane towards Alltami.  George peels off to Northop and the rest of us make our way back via the Buckley suburbia.  Only Jim and I are bike-bound to Chester as the rest reflect on 44 miles of peaceful lanes and pretty Welsh villages.  Norman did extremely well on his first outing so we may see him again!

CA

12th May 2011: Whitchurch

Six of us (Liz & Martin, Jim, Brian, Andy and I) debated the likely weather patterns and noted the wind was stiff and a westerly, so going east from Manley would mean all the way home with the wind on our front wheel.  Where to go – Jim offered Whitchurch!  I had planned out a possible route to Mobberley so going to Whitchurch was contra-directional.  After a prompt, that there were not so many hills, we all concurred with Whitchurch and then Brian and Jim busied themselves finding a route.  Manley to Oscroft to Bunbury to Faddiley – after that Jim’s geography was vague, so I offered Larden Green to Chorley to Norbury to Marbury to Osmere to Whitchurch and the Old Town Vaults pub.  

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

The weather was cool with lots of cloud that threatened the odd shower.  The pace was brisk with Jim in the lead and the terrain “flat”.  As so we busied along via Beeston where we found an “End to Ender” puzzling over his ancient low resolution road map bound for Warrington this night.  I hope he made it!  At Norbury there is a steady climb up towards Whitchurch followed by a short run down into the town and to the Old Town Vaults.  The side gate was opened up and bikes tucked out of sight of the road.  We all went for the Senior Citizen’s Special, which for two basic courses plus a hot drink with a pint of Joules IPA (one of the other seven real ales) was under £10.  Liz of course was ineligible for this menu but ate half of Martin’s apple pie and custard anyway.  A promptly delivered meal that was tasty and very welcome – but as before, a smile from the owner would have completed the experience.  

The way back was plotted over lunch and via Wirswall we ran roughly parallel with the route in to Whitchurch before picking up the NCR 45 to Bickerton.  Jim did not fancy Harthill, so Reading Room Lane took us into Brown Knowl and across the A534 past Bolesworth Castle and the usual route to the Ice Cream Farm for tea and cake.  As Liz, Martin and Brian had to get back to Manley, we all set off for Huxley with Jim peeling off towards Waverton.  The roads here were wet after a recent downpour and although it threatened a few times, all we had was a few spots of rain all day.  Andy and I peeled off in Little Barrow to go Chester bound whilst the car-assist three returned to Manley with 61 miles on the clock.  The Chester Three had around 75 miles.

 

NB: I can attest that the Motorola Defy smart phone that I use for route navigation is really tough.  At one point whilst rolling down a longish downhill roughly surfaced lane the phone holder bounced off my bike and, upon hitting the road the phone split away from the holder only to be unavoidably ridden over at some speed by Martin.  Not a scratch on the phone and it was still working.  There are issues with the phone holder though!

CA 

5th May 2011: Carrog

Tudor Café - fuel up for the hills to come - and so it was as ten of us (Mike M, Dave & Liz P, George, Bryan, Brian, Andy, Ray, Alan and I) set off bound for the “The Grouse” at Carrog.  Taking the Cymau road to Ffrith, the legs were nicely warmed up thanks to two single chevron sections.  A second left along the B road eventually took us upwards via quiet lanes to Rhydtalog, followed by a slow climb past Llandegla to the Ponderosa roundabout.  The back lane off this roundabout, which runs roughly parallel to the A5104, offers stunning views over the Vale of Clwyd and out to sea - or would have done if the weather was clearer, but nonetheless a veritable feast of Clwydian hills were on view.  Rejoining the A5104 briefly, a quick left took us up a slow climb around Llantysilio Mountain to 1400 ft.
Pausing to regain our corporate lungs, and to admire the view over the Dee Valley and the Berwyns, we set off down the very steep descent to the Old Coach Road that would take to Carrog and the pub; - or would have done if my rear wheel had not been punctured - still, as everyone lay on the grass and let me get on with it, I mused that this was the first puncture I had succumbed to in 5300 miles of cycling.  Rapidly descending, we were soon in warmish sunshine on the Old Coach Road and near our lunch stop.  

Photographs by Alan Jeffs

The Grouse pub had an attractive outdoor covered seating area that gave panoramic views of the Dee Valley, the A5 and the smoke from the steam train at Carrog Station.  Lunch for 10 was promptly served and tasty it was too.  One to come back to in the future methinks.  “Are there any hills after lunch?” - well “Yes” is the answer to that question, and we were soon on the back lane out of Carrog ever upwards to rejoin the A5104 at Bryneglwys.  The Tandem Two left us here bound for Westminster Park.  Whereas we briefly rejoined part of the route out to join the Nant-y-Garth pass road near the top of its winding path.  Mike M was the second defector making his way Delamere bound.  The rest of us took the lane to Llanarmon-yn-Lal as the rain started.  They have the right idea here - the local pub was the polling station for the day - a perfect combination of politics and beer.  “Do you want to go home via Caffi Florence or via no café direct to Caergwrle?” - and so left we went via Llanferres to Caffi Florence.  By this time the forecasted light rain came down a bit harder as we sat with our “Coffi a chacen”.  Eventually we had to leave in the rain, climbing up the main road towards Mold before taking the near hidden right by the pub towards Nercwys.  The rain had stopped as we made our way to edge around Hope Mountain by Leeswood and on to Caergwrle.  Brian shot off to the station and was soon into his first pint awaiting the Wirral train.  Alan and George were car-assisted, and so the remaining four took the familiar route back via Kinnerton to Chester.  The loop from Caergwrle was 45 miles with lots of climbing and the Chester group had nearly 70 miles on the clock.

CA

3rd May 2011: Momma’s Mountain Views (Tues)

Dave M and Ray S met up at Tattenhall in fabulous, if chilly, conditions for an early start to the Momma’s Mountain Views Audax.  We reached Chirk at 10:20 hoping to meet up with other members opting for the shorter version of the ride, but none were there to meet us: a pity on such a great day.  The mountain views were stunning throughout the ride and we arrived back from this hilly 134K (83 mile) challenge in 9 hours 55 minutes.
See route map and/or gpx file download.
DM

28th April 2011: Market Drayton (mod)

A dry but slightly cooler day than last week was the forecast for today.  Mike and Brian Mac had been in touch to say that they had each prepared a moderate ride, so not being sure which ‘brisk’ riders would be out I worked out a suitable 58 miler for them and set off to the Ice Cream Farm.  Just before the canal I met up with Mike M at the side of the road texting a friend about tickets to a Man U game: enough said.  Another good turnout today: Mike, Andy, Dave Heath, Dave M, George, Jim, Trevor, Brian Mac, Graham & Jane T (just returned from Egypt) and Alan (on his second ride with us).  Including me that made a total of 12 riders: just about at the limit for a single group.
While Mike and Brian Mac discussed their respective ride options I quizzed the ‘brisk’ group on their intentions, eventually offering my 58 miler to Market Drayton plus an offer to lead, but at a moderate pace.  This was quickly accepted by all present so with everyone onboard we agreed to keep together and ride as a single group.
We set off at an easy pace, then warmed up over Harthill before taking the easy route past Cholmondeley to Wrenbury.  The sound of continuous conversation from behind told it’s own storey and the group kept together as we cruised through Aston, Royal’s Green and Wilkesley.  I really don’t know why we don’t do this more often as the countryside round here is ideal cycling country, particularly on a glorious day like this.  Then on past Shavington Park it wasn’t long before we were on the outskirts of Market Drayton.
Coming in from the west we headed for the town centre butter market and, after Brian Mac had consulted a knowledgeable local, we made our way to the nearby Red Lion pub attached to the recently opened local Joules brewery.  Joule’s Pale Ale and Slumbering Monk: what more can you ask for?  This is a find and a half to be sure.  I would gladly do this ride again just for the lunch stop and those who did last year’s Shrewsbury 110 will no doubt also recall the delights of the Buttercross Tea Room!
All good things come to an end and after a relaxed lunch it was time to follow NCN 75 out of town to Norton in Hales and Audlem.  Dave M left us here to take the main road back while the rest of us took the lanes north to Nantwich with Graham & Jane T peeling off for the more direct route.  Once we had negotiated the edge of Nantwich the plan was to continue on to Venetion Marina for afternoon tea where we arrived just before they closed for the day.  After the canal side break, soaking up the sun, we set off again before turning east at Cholmondeston for the final stretch, leaving Mike to head for home via Wettenhall.  We were soon passing through Bunbury and Beeston to arrive back at the Ice Cream Farm just before 17:00 hours having completed 58 glorious miles in perfect cycling weather.  For those of us cycling out from Chester the computer was nudging 80 miles on the return, marking Trevor’s longest ride to date!

BW

21st April 2011: Oswestry (brisk)

It was clear that there would be a good turnout at Bellis given the forecast for excellent weather; and so it was that 14 of us split into two groups.  The Moderate group lead by Brian Mac would be heading for The Greyhound at Street Dinas and the Brisk group to Wetherspoons emporium in Oswestry.  So Andy, Ray, Dave M, Alan Jeffs (joining us for the first time) and myself set off down the familiar lanes to Shocklach and Threapwood.  Exiting to Sarn and crossing the A525 we found ourselves in the beautiful border territory close to Penley.  The sharply folded landscape hereabouts marks the border and provided the only hilly challenges of the day.  Taking the lane out of Penley, we passed The Trench, shimmy across the A528 at the Seven Sisters and The Cross and on to Elson.  The lane to Frankton passes New Crickett and Crickett itself, then onto Ridge and Perthy before exiting onto the A495 west of Welsh Frankton.  A short burn brings us into delightful Whittington with its moated castle. 

Photograph by Clive Albany

Rather than going into Oswestry the direct route, we circle south running in along the old coach road to the rather busy roundabout at the A5/A483 junction.  Turning left to the town centre, a newish-looking pub was offering 2 for £11 but as there were 5 of us this wouldn’t work so a short tour of Oswestry town centre found us at the Wetherspoons.  An ideal choice as it turned out, with prompt good food and three pints of lime and soda for 60p in total (due to a barman’s incapacity to operate the till correctly despite reiterated three pints please!). 

The return ride took us out behind the impressive Iron Age hill fort then past the Gobowen Orthopaedic hospital bound for Hindford and lanes to Overton.  This is really beautiful countryside around here and picture perfect on a 20+°C afternoon.  Out of Overton towards Bangor soon found us on the familiar back lanes route to Bellis except for a surprise re-routing via Erla’s Lane and the Wrexham Industrial Estate – just to balance out the day scenically!  Down Francis Lane and a mile from the end, we find Brian Mac riding back to his car having left the Moderate Group drinking tea in the sunshine at Bellis.  Returning back to Bellis, Alan has done very well on this 52 miler and as he heads Wirral bound, we take tea on the terrace with Mike M and Dave P.  For the Brisk riders 52 miles from Bellis and a round trip Chester bound of 75 miles in quintessentially English summer weather and spring green countryside.

CA

21st April 2011: St Martins (mod)

A sunny morning with a pleasant forecast was always going to guarantee a big turnout. Sure enough, by 10:05, ten of us were tucking in at the Bellis Garden Centre Café.
By 10:30, we had sixteen & decided to split into two groups.  The only decision was what to call us.  The “quickies and the dregs” were the politest terms.  Brian led out the dregs, assisted by the sub-committee of Mike with Jim who provided maps and we elected for The Greyhound at St Martins.  It was good to see Dave Heath back after his Op.  Nor was it a surprise that the dregs comprised the bigger group with tandem Dave & Liz, Dave, George in serious training for his E2E and Trevor on his new go-faster Scott.
We felt it fitting with our image that we should ride at a steady 12-13 mph, chatting and enjoying the scenery in classic CER style.  Shocklach, Worthenbury, Cloy and Overton were passed without incident, reaching the pub at 12:15.  The landlady remembered us from our previous visit – a cold, grey, damp winter’s day; in contrast, today we sat outside soaking up the sun.  Is this our summer?  In usual CER style, talk over lunch ranged from the merits of AV to Dave’s skills as a dog whisperer.  The beer was good; the food, not so.  Lime & soda was 50p; beat that.
The return leg through Penley and Threapwood was the usual post-prandial jaunt (guess who did Latin at school).  After Shocklach, the heat must have gotten to Dave & Liz, for having been tail-end-Charlie all day, they suddenly led us back at 16 -18mph.  There was no stopping them.  A warm 38 miles ended a classic EASY ride with tea and cake at Bellis again.
But what shall we call the two groups?
BMac

14th April 2011: Berwyns

It was a strange experience ‘leading’ a novelty ride for the first time, not knowing who or what to expect from riders more used to the Cheshire flat-lands.
Nine assembled in a drab and damp free car park at Llangynog (where the toilets even had hot water on tap) including a newbie Alyn from Ruthin. His sparkling carbon frame gave it all away though – this guy could ride fast. Others with conventional and significantly heavier bikes turned up as planned and we set off on the dot to cover some of my favourite roads in the whole world.
We started by taking the narrow, gravelly back lane to Penybontfawr, then straight across on the B road, soon to fork off left and skywards. Here a major rush of traffic caused by bin day interrupted the solitude. A steady climb soon caused layers to be peeled off, perhaps showing Mike’s choice of shorts to be not that optimistic. This lane bounded by banks of primrose and violets, with cute lambs gambolling in the fields, was crested all too quickly.

The whizz downwards to rejoin the B road was brisk but not mad and we regrouped shortly before turning across the dam wall at Vyrnwy. Here we were well catered by efficient service at the Old Barn cafe. Sausage sandwiches and cake consumed with passion and some speed.
From there, we turned downhill from the cafe to cross an aluminium footbridge below the dam and I tried my best to take a direct path back to lakeside. 10 minutes later with serpentine wiggles confusing even the best GPS map, we made it having viewed some marvellous sculpture in the Vyrnwy Sculpture Park.
The passage along the north shore of Lake Vyrnwy was the closest we got to riding as a group and very enjoyable it was too – a gentle pace, brightening skies, little traffic and superb scenery.

The main climb of the day followed at the lake end, where those of us with appropriate gears changed down as the road rose to tackle the lofty Hirnant pass. This is a special place for me; such beauty, rugged rock, trees and sky with gurgling mountain streams. The sharp climb through huge towering conifers was heavenly and the descent down the cwm a delight with dry roads and clear lines of sight allowing one to ‘let go’. The further descent towards Bala with trees springing into life, was as idyllic as ever and now bathed in a balsamic scent of blossom wafting in the light breeze.

We regrouped in chilly downtown Bala with the Goat’s £2.99 menu tempting us in. Basic food and basic pub atmosphere but perfectly serviceable.
The short afternoon for many was spent pass storming the long but gentle climb of Milltr Gerrig. For those who rode with the leader, we encountered a little dampness but no real rain, to enjoy an exciting run down the dramatic U- shaped valley back to Llangynog.

Some faster riders had already left for home by the time we had rolled in. The pass was new to some and I hope enjoyed by all. Being only just after 3 o’clock on arrival, I led 4 of us along the valley to soak up the quietness and solitude of Pennant Melangell chapel with its mediaeval shrine and 2000 year old yews. Well worth the extra 4 miles.

                      
Guys, I have to say, those who didn’t turn up missed a classic ride. Perhaps some of those that did missed part of it too, as in my view it is best savoured slowly like a glass of fine port or a pint of good ale.

Next time we’ll try the Bwlch y Groes and I’m sure I would lead that from the back too.

DHill

12th April 2011: Conwy Valley (Tues)

This was the first official CER “Tuesday” ride with the weather perfect, cool but sunny all day, and what a rewarding stunning ride it was.  Ivan and I took the train to Colwyn Bay and, after a short warm up along the sea front to Rhos (OK- to a café!), we were warming up the thighs up the hillside and into the quiet Nant Groes valley behind Colwyn Bay. Once on the top road, we rode the smooth-surfaced B5113 for the next near traffic-free 25 miles all the way to Pentrfoelas.  The views of the Snowdonia range were stunning with Tryfan and Snowdon clearly in view and a long view north back to the Conwy valley head at Conwy itself.  Taking the quiet A5 towards Conwy at Pentrefoelas, we spun along in the sunshine on smooth roads until a left at the old bridge at Bro Garmon took us along wooded lanes towards Betws-y-Coed.  

Photographs by Clive Albany

Crossing the B4460, the next lane gave us access to the Conwy Falls (in need of some water) until coming down to the main road to Blaenau Ffestiniog aka A470.  The narrow lane on the bend took us the back way into our lunch stop.  This wooded lane will be stunning in a few weeks time and worth another visit later in the year.  Betws-y-Coed was humming with OAP coaches and a quick loop of the town indicated that all the tourist cafes were unappealing.  Then remembering local advice courtesy of Mike G, we found the Buffet Coach Café that is parked across the main line tracks from the station proper.  What a find!  

Ivan was in his element with a rolling stock café serving steak and kidney pies all in one – he had to call home.  The route back to Conwy was a delight – the B5106 hugs the western side of the valley all the way into Conwy.  By now we were searching for a well-earned pint and the Liverpool Arms at Conwy quay fitted the bill nicely.  Given we had plenty of time, we headed off for Llandudno and a loop of the Great Orme.  Toll-free to cyclists, this private toll road circles the Great Orme in an anti-clockwise direction.  It is uphill all the way to the tip and then a glorious downhill run back in Llandudno.  Wonderful marine panoramas towards Anglesey and the Wirral were in prospect – along with a stiff headwind.  To get back to the station, we just had to cycle the Llandudno seafront and follow the cycleway signs and hence arrived back at CB station with 5 minutes to spare before the train arrived.  We had ridden 62 miles with 3400 ft of ascent but it was truly worth the effort for a memorable ride through beautiful countryside in perfect weather conditions.

See route map and/or gpx file download.

CA

7th April 2011: No Mans Heath (mod) & Jodrell Bank (brisk)

A first today: two planned rides to cater for the ‘moderate’ and ‘brisk’ riders amongst the growing CER membership.


No Mans Heath (mod)
With Dave Heath rejoining us for his first ride after his hip operation Bryan had promised an easy 35 mile’ish flat route to welcome him back.  After waving off the brisk ride from Rose Farm the moderate riders comprising Bryan, Mike M, Dave & Liz P watched as Dave Heath stowed his walking stick and with a somewhat unorthodox procedure mounted his bike.  Once on board everything was fine as we cruised familiar lanes through Clotton, Huxley and Tattenhall en route to No Mans Heath.  Just after Tattenhall Mike M left us to return home for another engagement.   The remaining four of us continued south through Clutton and Tilston where we took the Malpas road deep in conversation.  At Simmonds Green we nearly missed the turning, remembering just in time to head through Ebnal and on to No Mans Heath in the spring sunshine.
The Wheatsheaf Inn is always worth a visit with its choice of ale and good food.  We passed up the sausage board today in favour of the two mains for £10 together with a pint of ale.  After a relaxing chat it was time to make a move.  Once on the road we enjoyed the quiet lanes through Bickley Town, Chorley and a circuitous route to Brindley.  It was great to soak up the Cheshire countryside at an unhurried pace with daffodils lining the verges and blossom on the trees.  The promised afternoon tea stop was Tilly’s Coffee Shop in Bunbury where we settled down to coffee and coffee cake.  Then it was the final leg to Tarporley and back to Rose Farm Garden Centre.
A great day out at a steady 11 mph overall average and 37 miles covered.  Dave Heath had confirmed to us all that he was making good progress and would soon be back riding every week.
It was then time for me to leave the others for the ride back to Chester.  A circuitous route back today but with the sound of the new born lambs in the fields a great way to end a wonderful day. Distance from Chester and back exactly 60 miles.

BW


Jodrell Bank (brisk)

Six of us set off from drizzly Rose Farm (Ivan, Mike G, Andy, Ray, Martin and myself) leaving the others who were going on the “Dave Heath post-op ride”.  We were heading for Jodrell Bank area today.  A feature of this ride was the off-road sections down Cheshire cycleway routes 71 and 73.  We by-passed Tarporley by taking Heath Green and then via Eaton on to Wettenhall and Winsford.  There is no easy way around Winsford and finding the 71 eastwards was a small challenge.  Taking the canal path off Clive Green Lane, we headed north into Middlewich only to find the path under repair resulting in a deviation through acres of suburbia.  Eventually we left the urban sprawl behind, taking the 71 over the M6 to Brereton Hall. The Hall lane soon deteriorated into a farm track, yet it is still the 71, and just rideable in the dry.  Turning left we headed for Davenport Hall – a certain rider’s country seat (dream on!).  The imposing gravelled drive continued into a hard surfaced old lane going down into the lovely Dane river valley and then pops up close to the Swettenham Arms (worth a visit next time).  Taking Sandy Lane (deep ford notice alert) half of us braved going through the ford. Soon we were in Trap Street, Lower Withington and the hopeful welcome of the Red Lion.  The food was nicely presented, a bit pricey but tasty unlike the sour-faced manager!  The sun was now out, and getting ready outside after lunch we noticed a duck on its nest in the pub window box – totally ignoring all of us.

Photograph by Clive Albany

Soon we were passing down the lane behind Jodrell Bank that boasts the largest Sky+ dishes in the UK.  Given that we were early away from lunch, a tea stop was agreed upon to top up the somewhat meagre lunch portions.  So we headed via Blackden Heath and the just rideable farm lane that is the short cut to Townfield Lane to get over the M6.  Onwards through Davenham and a shimmy under the Northwich by-pass found us on the cycle path along the Northwich bound side of the A556.  Up into Cuddington and Norley we were soon at the Delamere station café for bread and butter pudding and tea.  Martin shoved off back to Utkinton and he will have rode 50 miles, while the rest of us went via Ashton to the greenway.  The Chester group put in a 75 mile round trip in dry and overall pleasant weather conditions.

CA

31st March 2011: Cilcain

I leave home this morning for the ride out to Hawarden with a lovely 40 mile circuit planned out over Bwlch Penbarras, through the Vale of Clwyd and returning over Moel Arthur.  Half a mile down the road with a gale force head wind to contend with it was quickly apparent that something less strenuous was called for.  The struggle up the river Dee path was difficult enough but over Ferry Lane Bridge it was dismount or be blown over the railings.  The gusting wind continued past the AirBus Factory where with head down I could only manage 5 mph!  Thank goodness things got easier on the climb up to Hawarden where the woodland and houses provided some protection.
Considering the weather conditions the turnout at the Gallery Tea Shop was pretty good with Clive, Dave M, Ivan, Ray S, Andy and Brian Mac all present.  Seven of us altogether but only five doing the ride as both Andy and Dave M had already had enough.  We decided that a shorter than normal ride was more appropriate to the conditions perhaps with a longer than normal lunch stop to discuss the email I had circulated with some pressing CER issues.
I led out along Bilberry Wood, across the footbridge over the A55 and down to Penyffordd.  The wind was still gusting quite hard but it wasn’t to bad on the sheltered roads although we were pleased to leave the open section on the A5118 to enjoy the lanes up to Nercwys.  Time was already getting on as we crested the short two-chevron climb before Gwernymynydd: this was hard work and we had only covered a few miles.  As a form of consolation however the sun was now shining, the sky had cleared and we were treated to great views across the valley as we contoured round above Mold.  Rather than the direct route from here to Cilcain, today I thought we would try the ford across the Alyn to emerge on the Loggerheads to Cilcain road at Maes-y-groes.  Not having done this before I wasn’t sure what to expect: the zigzag descent down to the ford was both steep and rough but the ford itself was only a few inches deep today so there was no need to use the footbridge.
Once back on the lanes it was only a short ride to the White Horse Inn at Cilcain where we were able to relax over a pint or two of ale and a choice of hot food and babs.  Unusually for CER today’s discussion was more akin to an AGM as we discussed ride start times, the Tuesday ride proposal, splitting the larger Thursday groups, the need for more ride leaders, finance and the circulation of mobile phone numbers.  It wasn’t all business though and a lively conversation with an 80 year old at the next table, who described her cycling exploits, added to the enjoyment of the day.
The return journey started with a long enjoyable descent down to the A541, followed by the climb up Moel-y-crio where we turned right to Rhosesmor.  From here we opted for the Alltami/Buckley route back to Hawarden to arrive in plenty of time for tea and a choice of Greek cakes/deserts.  Well, we may not have covered many miles but with the wind against us on the way out we deserved some treats!  A round trip from Hawarden of 30 miles.

BW

24th March 2011: Lymm

Spring has sprung! – sunshine, shorts and bare arms – the first opportunity of the year. There was a cyclist’s dozen soaking up the sunshine at Manley mere as we set off for Lymm – exact pub to be defined when we arrived there. The original plan was to access the Trans Pennine way from Runcorn all the way to Lymm. However serious stroking of beards effected a reversal of the planned route – i.e. we would go out the way I had planned to return and find another way back from Lymm. 

Trevor was sporting his new Scott Speedster and the rest of us (Mike G, Mike M, George, Liz and Martin, Dave H, Andy, Ray, Dave M and myself) all set off to access route 70 via Delamere, Pickering’s and Dutton’s Locks and Acton Bridge along the Weaver canal. Heeding Trevor’s plea not to get his new bike too dirty, we sped down quiet lanes to Little Leigh with Dave M having now peeled off to get back to fitting his kitchen. On through Antrobus and ignoring Arley, we accessed Swineyard Lane via the edge of the old airfield to Sworton Heath. Over the M56 we joined the A56 top road through Lymm. The Crown was offering “2 for £10” so that would do nicely and nicely it was – even better since it was a certain doctor’s very big birthday – cheers Martin! 

After lunch the warm sunshine enabled us to motor back quickly via cobbled Grappenhall, and on through Appleton and Stretton. It was all going too well but Andy helped us out with an unexplained puncture. The wheel was changed in lightning speed, and we were soon through Hatton and across the A49 and in the outskirts of Moore. The Bridgewater canal provided a very pleasant route passing the Daresbury Laboratories and also a way under the M56 at Preston Brook. There is no pretty way back to Frodsham and the Cottage Tea Shop, but the warm sunshine even made the Frodsham bike by-pass aka cycleway 5, pleasant. Mike M eschewed tea and cakes and made off home to Delamere. Out of the town towards Helsby, there was a request for the novelty route through the geological park off the Old Chester Road. Last time it was unrideable, but this time Martin and Ray made a brave attempt to cycle to the top.  A final push up the hill past Alvanley and a fast run down back to Manley mere was in prospect. A round trip of 47 miles in sunny and warm conditions – the first of many hopefully.

CA

17th March 2011: Brynford

Overcast with light rain at lunchtime - the forecast for Caergwrle was exactly right as four of us (Martin and Liz, George and myself) set off bound for a pub (yet to be determined) in Holywell. Paraphrasing the Daniel Day-Lewis film title “There will be hills” and hills aplenty there were. A short ride around the back of Hope warmed up George’s legs, and then we were off up the hill to Pontybodkin. Across the main road we took the twin single chevroned lane towards Trueddyn only to stop suddenly as Martin had picked up a glass puncture. Whilst this was being repaired, there followed a long story from George about a discussion at Cheshire Oaks Cycles re the choice of tyres for his end-to-end ride. Martin favours Gators whilst I favour Armadillos – yet both are a bit heavy. A comic interlude distracted us as the rubbish collection lorry arrived and proceeded to destroy part of the entrance to the house it was collecting the weekly rubbish from. Just as we were leaving the householder returned but we decided we had tarried long enough! Onwards and upwards towards Nercwys we took the mercifully short double chevroned lane to Gwernymynydd. Taking a left at the main road, we battled up the hill as the wind was picking up and the clouds started to look like the rain-bearing variety. Taking the lane at Loggerheads and then the right towards Cilcain, we might have thought we were on a motorway for all the traffic on this small lane. Taking the direct route to Rhys-y-Cae and yet another chevroned lane, we discussed a possible lunch stop before Holywell given the supposed dearth of decent eateries.
As the drizzle started we found that each pub we passed was firmly closed: a familiar story in this part of Wales. At the crossroads in Brynford, George was almost certain the pub in the hamlet had closed down (he was right) but the one just up the hill may be opened at lunchtime. Executive decision time: based upon L&M’s expert local knowledge, we went to the only café in town, that being at the Pet Cemetery (see the review at http://www.northwales.co.uk/cafes/the-pet-cemetery-brynford/). What a good place for lunch: good and inexpensive food on floral china and friendly service combined to give it a Michael Winner “historic” cache. After lunch, the drizzle had stopped and, passing the pub that might have been open (it looked firmly closed down), we sped back to Pentre Halkyn and the back lanes towards Northop before turning towards Altami. George and I peeled off to get back to Caergwrle whilst L&M turned towards Hawarden. Only a 38 mile ride but 750ft of height difference and 2500ft of total ascent.

CA

10th March 2011: Whitchurch

Cold, showery and windy with gusts up to 30mph was the forecast for today.  Despite that five members met for morning tea and coffee at the Ice Cream Farm.  George was already there, mending a front wheel puncture, when I arrived.  An ominous sign I thought.
By 10:30 we were ready for the off, having decided on Bryan’s suggestion of a 50 mile round trip to the Dog and Bull at Coton with the option of cutting the ride short for lunch in Whitchurch if the weather turned really bad.  On the road the group comprising Bryan, Ivan, Ray S, Trevor and George covered all of ¾ of a mile before a call from the back heralded George’s second puncture of the day: front wheel again!  With assistance from Ivan and Ray the puncture was soon dealt with and the tyres (note the plural) inflated, during which there was some pointed but good-humoured banter about tyre quality and track pumps.  It would be nice to say that, with two punctures out the way, the rest of the ride proceeded without incident.  Unfortunately it was not to be and just past Lower Carden George had his third puncture: rear wheel this time.  While Ivan searched the tyre case for the cause (a small shard of glass) the inner tube was marked up for George to repair over lunch.  Bryan supplied a new tube as George had used up his stock and amid more banter regarding the quantity and quality of chain lubricant the wheel was fixed and we were ready to go.  An hour into the ride and we still hadn’t reached Tilston!
We continued heading south through the lanes making for Dymock’s Mill but with Whitchurch rather than Coton as the intended lunch stop.  It’s a while since I’ve done Dymock’s Mill and I tend to treat it as a summer route only but the loose, stony uphill track I recall on the south side has been transformed.  It’s still a track but the surface is good and firm, the loose stones have gone and there are no potholes to be seen.  From here it’s not far to the A525 and a short main road section to the outskirts of Whitchurch.  But this is no ordinary day and after a mile on the main road we are faced with a few cars backed in the middle of the road and a smashed up car, upside down on its roof.  This is serious, but there is nothing we can do so we press on.  Within a few hundred yards a speeding adrenaline fuelled police car approaching on the wrong side of the road with lights and sirens blaring tries, unsuccessfully, to take out Bryan.  A near miss that!
The Old Town Vaults in the centre of Whitchurch provided a great range of ales while we waited for food to be served.  George borrowed the landlady’s pen to fill the back of a beer mat with his birthday wish list: track pump, tyres ……….  Then while discussing his forthcoming LEJOG the punctured inner tube was repaired.
Back on the road we head north up NCN route 45 in lovely sunny conditions before turning left to go through the picturesque village of Marbury.  By Cholmondeley the weather had worsened and the wet roads indicated we had just missed a heavy downpour.  The final section took us over Harthill on the usual route back to the Ice Cream Farm where we arrived in time for afternoon tea and cakes before the final leg back to Chester.
Not your usual CER ride but one that will certainly be remembered.  A round trip from the Ice Cream Farm of some 35 miles or 57 from Chester and back.

BW

3rd March 2011: Hartford

Foggy and cold the day started but it ended up bright and sunny as we met at the Little Roodee Café.  As sheep-mode was engaged, Bryan, Dave B, Ivan, Andy, Ray S, Trevor, George, Martin and Liz and me set off promptly for a route which was planned to take in the local industrial heritage on our way to a new pub in Hartford.  Dave M still looked poorly and excused himself.  The Tandem Two arrived just as we were setting off but mysteriously off-loaded once they knew that Ince Marshes were on the menu.
Wending out of Chester on highway no 5, we scooted down through the zoo and out onto the towpath towards Stanlow.  Bryan had advised that the aptly named Oil Sites Road was open so we cycled through the local industrial heritage that is Stanlow Oil refinery into the surprisingly quaint Ince village.  Marsh Lane started off quite well – Bryan had advised that it was rideable in dry conditions but somewhat rough.  Well it was dry-ish and it was rough!  The lane is being “improved” by laying recycled old tarmac and eventually it will be compacted but today it was more like porridge than tarmac.  I took the executive decision to cut and run so we headed for Helsby rather than continue for even more mud toward Frodsham.  Why do slick tyres pick up so much mud?
Taking Howey Lane, we climbed out of Frodsham onto the Kingsley Road with the sun emerging out of the cold fog.  Taking Ball Lane out of Kingsley, we headed for the Weaver towpath, or were we?  Just before the end of the lane, a sharp right confusing marked as a No Through Road takes us out to Acton Bridge.  Hanging left at the railway station and onwards to Weaverham for more industrial heritage on the outskirts of Winnington.  Cries of “Are we nearly there” are rewarded with the Hartford Hall Hotel coming into view.  The “2 for £10” menu was on offer and we all partook of it: the well-presented and tasty food came quickly and although Lime and Lemonade was £2.60, the soda variant was £1.10- a useful lunch stop for future rides.
The return journey employed a muddy NCR5 to get us across the Weaver near to Meadowbank and onto local route 71 aka Whitegates Way.  At Cotebrook, the creperie café was closed, so Summertrees it was for afternoon cake and tea – ‘but which way to go?’ - the direct ascent via Tirley Lane or the psychologically “less hilly” route via Hollins Hill, Knights Lane and Quarry Bank.  The cake stimulus spurred the group the take the actually hilly indirect route with 350ft of ascent.  The fast spin down to Willington and Oscroft was short lived but Ivan sped off into the distance missing the Tarvin turn in Oscroft. There we found Dave M with his flat cap on, supervising his building works.  Wending our way back to Chester either to the canal or the greenway, we ended up with a 54 mile circular route that was even muddier than last week’s ride around Penley!

CA

24th February 2011: Hanmer

For a change the forecast for the day was good and consequently there was a good turn out of 12 riders at the Bellis Garden Centre Cafe, Holt.  The roll call was Ivan, Clive, Ray, Mike G, George, Jim, Lizzie and Martin D, Dave and Liz P and Andy.  The first four rode to the cafe from Chester and, in Mike’s case, Connahs Quay.  Jim reported that Dave H had his new hip popped in last week and was making a satisfactory recovery.  We hope to see him back on his bike next week!  The group was thrilled to see that Ray’s new bike - a Van Nicholas Yukon - was being given its first official ride.  This model is rapidly becoming the all-purpose bike of choice for the discerning cyclist!
A decision was made to ride to Hanmer via Penley and Ellsmere.  We set out at comfortable pace through Farndon and heading south to Shocklach.  The temperature was rising well into double figures and a stop had to be made for removal of clothing layers.  At Tallarn Green the road appeared impassable where a bridge was being rebuilt but we were able to dismount and walk along a temporary pathway.  Towards Penley short climbs began to appear and Ray’s Van Nicholas showed an impressive turn of speed on one of them.  We passed though Penley and then skirted round the north of the mere at Ellesmere until we finally arrived at the Hanmer Arms for lunch at 12:45.
The 2-course menu at £7.95 proved popular and was generally rated as excellent.  The service was fairly rapid, so often a problem with larger groups.  The meal and increasingly warm and sunny weather meant that a degree of lethargy had to be overcome but we started rolling again along narrow country lanes where we passed more horses and tractors than cars.  Near Lower Wych Ivan called a puncture but mysteriously there appeared to be no discernible problem with either the tyre or the inner tube.  Some privately thought that it was a ruse on Ivan’s part to gain a respite form the fierce pace!  Several riders were having problems with a build up of drying mud between tyre and mudguard and improvised tools picked up from hedgerows were used to remove the accretions.
Eventually the Malpas church appeared on the hill top and we continued though the village and on to Tilston where the Chester boys peeled off and the remainder rode back to Bellis’ where we had a cup of tea in the hot and sunny cafe.
A pleasant meander of 40 miles through quite country lanes on what felt like the first day of   spring

MD

17th February 2011: Audlem

A grey cool day and thus it remained all day except for a brief glimpse of the sun around lunchtime.  Setting out for Rose Farm, I caught up with Liz and Dave on their tandem close to the café.  Waiting there were Andy, Liz and Martin, Trevor, Ivan and Dave M. Dave M was still poorly from his Oz holiday flights, so came along for companionship and coffee.  Dave and Liz were not going the full distance today, so we six set off for the Shroppie Fly pub in Audlem.  A minute down the road I realised I had left something behind, so asking the group to carry on I returned to the café saying I would catch them up.  Setting off again, I charged down the hill towards Tarporley and up the other side.  A quick change down to bottom gear resulted in a crashing of gears and a dead stop.  The rear mech was not adjusted properly (mea culpa) and the chain was caught solid.  Trying to sort this out on the hill was not clever so I carried the bike to top of the hill where the Famous Five were patiently waiting.  Borrowing a screwdriver from a local resident, the gearing was sorted out and we all set off bound for Eaton the back way out of Tarporley.  Thankfully the rest of the ride was incident free.
Into Winterford Lane and a few left and rights then found us on the A51 a mile north of Barbridge.  Taking the lane there, we eventually ended up near to Reaseheath and crossing the static traffic on the A51 we were quickly in the centre of Nantwich. Going via Queens Drive and the cycle path along the River Weaver, we were soon out and on the Hack Green Secret Bunker road towards Audlem.  This is a long quiet lane and comes out a mile south of Audlem.  Up the hill and a quick left at the canal found us at the pub – only 21 miles ridden but we were ready for lunch.  Good service and excellent fare refreshed us as we set off with 28 miles to do.  Out along a brief stretch of the Market Drayton road, we were soon back to hedge debris lined lanes towards Wilkesley.  The route back was very straightforward once we arrived in Aston.  Taking the NCR 45 we seemed to bowl along getting to the Ice Cream farm by mid afternoon.  After the customary sampling of the cakes, Liz and Martin wended their way back to Rose Farm with just short of 50 miles ridden.  The remaining four took the customary route back to Chester.  For me a round trip from home of 70 miles.


PS: On this ride, I was using my Android smart phone with ViewRanger OS maps and route planning.  It worked very well – it will be more seamless once I have a bike mount for it, rather than having to keeping stopping to look at the display!  Apologies to the group today and thanks for your patience.
CA

10th February 2011: Tremeirchion

After a short ride out to Hawarden in pleasant cycling weather it was good to see I wasn’t the first to arrive.  George had already ordered and Dave H was just locking up his bike.  We settled down to tea and toasted teacakes as the others arrived: Jim, Dave B, Clive, Dave & Liz P and Dylan joining us for the first time.  Nine of us today but none of us had any firm ideas on where we should go or how we would get there.  The Bells of St Mary’s at Gronant and the Eagle and Child at Gwaenysgor were considered but eventually the decision was made to try somewhere new and so we settled on the Salusbury Arms at Tremeirchion.  Hills didn’t appear to be flavour of the month today so Bryan agreed to lead a route avoiding the worst.
Leading out, we headed west through Ewloe and Northop until a short section on the A55 brought us to the Britannia Inn.  Dylan left us at this point while the rest of us continued to the Brynford turnoff where we headed up into the hills past the golf course, through Brynford, the Friary and on to Gorsedd.  At the boarded up Druid pub we took a left and checked out The Rock pub at Lloc and Misty Waters at Pen-fford-llan (both look possible for future rides).  From here we had a straight ‘run’ down to Tremeirchion: or so we thought!  As we ground to a halt at the A55 we realised that in fact the only way across was literally to ‘run’ across the carriageways through the gap in the central barrier.  Not ideal by any means but the tarmacked path showed that this was the approved way to cross.  Safely over, we continued on to the steep descent down to the Salusbury Arms arriving just after 12:30pm.
Once the drinks were ordered (Marston’s ales and lime and soda at an unbelievable 25 pence a pint) we were shown into the lounge where food orders were taken and served.  What a contrast with last week’s venue.  The Salusbury Arms will certainly be on the list for future rides.  All we needed now was to decide on the route back.  While discussing the possibilities Dave H remarked that it would probably be the death of him, to which a voice from the table behind piped up to offer his business card – he was the local undertaker!  After more discussion Clive’s suggestion that we go back up the way we had come and then cut through to the Babell road was agreed.
The climb back up proved much easier than we had anticipated and before long we were on easy lanes heading east to Babell, across the Halkyns and down to Northop.  George and Dave B left us here while the rest of the group returned to Hawarden via Ewloe Green, arriving well before 16:00pm to finish the day with coffee and cake at the Gallery tea shop.
Another wonderful day in great cycling weather: neither to hot nor to cold.  A round trip of 38 miles from Hawarden or some 55 miles from Chester and back.

BW

3rd February 2011: Wimboldsley

An impressive turnout of 17 met for tea and coffee at Manley Mere Windsurfing Centre on a bright dry day.  For the record, given the record attendance: Bryan, Clive, Andy, Dave H, George, Jim, Liz, Martin, Ray S, Trevor, Mike G, Dave & Liz P, plus a non-riding Dave M newly returned from Oz with his laptop to give us a slideshow of his Australian audaxes, and three newcomers Mike (a friend of Jim who would join us to Hatchmere) and Chris and Jackie who had met up with Mike G on the way out.
With strong winds from the southwest forecast for the afternoon Bryan suggested we head past Winsford, for lunch at The Verdin Arms at Wimboldsley.  We should then have the wind behind us on the return.  With no other suggestions on the table Wimboldsley was agreed and after seeing Dave’s slides (many thanks for bringing them in Dave) we set off for the Delamere Forest.  Mike left us at Hatchmere while the remaining 15 continued on through Norley, Cuddington and Sandiway.  Jackie and Chris left us at Foxwist Green to make their own way home for lunch.  Bryan led us through Whitegate to the Weaver Navigation, which we crossed on the wooden bridge before turning right on the river path admiring the industrial archaeology of the salt industry.  A first time for all, except Bryan, this section was clearly the highlight of the day.  All to soon though we reached the main Winsford bridge and rejoined the roads to bypass most of the town on one of the few cycle friendly roads in the area.  Of course it couldn’t last and eventually we were forced onto the busy A530 for the final leg to The Verdin Arms.
What can one say about the Verdin Arms?  Good ale, but dining pretentions far beyond their capabilities.  13 of us just proved too much for the kitchen, and front of house insisted on treating us as three separate tables rather than as a single group.  Table one had finished their meals well before table three had even a hint of food.  Even a humble sandwich proved to be a problem taking three attempts!
Once outside and ready to go, we were still short of three riders (table 2 no less, who had unwisely decided on puddings).  While Dave and Liz P decided to stay longer, I have never seen anyone polish off a pudding as fast as Mike G.  It was by then past 14:00 when the remaining eleven of us set off for Church Minshull, Wettenhall, and Cotebrook.  The Cotebrook café was closed when we arrived, as too was the Rose Farm Garden Centre café in Utkinton.  No afternoon tea and cake today.  The final leg through Oscroft back to Manley Mere was completed without incidence.
A great day out clocking 42 miles on the ride or just under 60 miles to and from Chester

BW

27th January 2011: Sun Inn, Trevor

Cold (0°C) but dry and a hint of sunshine - just right for going over Horseshoe Pass.  I arrived at Tudor Café first, to find it firmly shut for the day.  Off up the High Street, I found the “Deli” which offered hot fare and a few seats – this will have to do.  Andy and Dave H were de-biking their cars in the car park so they went to the Deli while I went back to Tudor Café to find two lost souls looking for more cyclists.  This was repeated a little later with a further two lost souls.  We were nine in all, Dave H, Mike M, Ivan, Liz and Martin, Andy, Ray S, Brian Mac and I.  A circular route stopping at Sun Trevor pub was agreed.  It would be hilly on the way out and “flat” on the way back- only 34 miles but those hills take it out of your legs.
Setting off behind the car park was a small lane that would cut the corner off and save half the slog up the Minera Steps.  A slight hill climb practice up a no through road set us up for the long 20% climb proper up and onto the top to Cymau village.  After apologising for the rather hilly start  (there was no mention of chevrons on the OS map!) we ducked out of the village down the steep twisting River Lane ending at a ford.  A couple of brave bikers rode it, but the rest of us took the bridge.  An equally steep twisting ascent took us up to the Steps road – Ray S decided to change his front inner tube by the ford so we regained our breath whilst we waited for him.  The rest of the route of about 10 miles was all up hill.  Cutting right of the Steps Road into Bwlchgwyn (translates as “White Pass”) and across the A525, we reach the top and onto the Old Road.  Taking the lane to the Llandegla outdoor centre, we ran parallel to the Ruthin Road.  A left at the traffic lights took us up to the roundabout signposted left for the Horseshoe Pass.  We agreed to stop at the Ponderosa to regain our legs.  It became noticeably cold and windier as the advance guard arrived ready to use the facilities.  Once the rest arrived, an unscheduled tea-break ensued.  Good for morale I reflected, after a lot of climbing to get here.
Dave and Mike decided to take the main road down and meet us at the Sun Trevor Pub on the Wrexham side of Llangollen.  After carefully briefing the remaining riders about the steepness of the old Horseshoe Pass road and the fact we would take the first left to access the Panorama road, we set off down the lane brakes well engaged. A certain slim Trek rider zoomed past and into the distance and out of view.  We six all took the left lane to get us to the Panorama road.  It became quickly evident that we were missing a slim Trek rider.  Ten minutes later my mobile rings – “Where are you?  I’m at so-and-so”.  New directions were given via the main roads to the Sun Trevor.  Meanwhile we six enjoyed the panoramic views of the Llangollen valley and Dinas Bran ruins.  Arriving at the Sun Trevor we were very soon joined by the errant three.  There is always a warm welcome at the Sun Trevor with good real ale and fare with a window seat to boot. The return route took us past the Bryn Howell Hotel and down the back lanes passing the aqueduct canal basin and into Cefn Mawr high street (very sorry state) and onto Ruabon. There is nothing pretty around here so the back road to Wrexham found us twisting this way and that around the A483, finally arriving at the Sainsbury’s roundabout.  The Summerhill road beckoned and it gradually went uphill and largely parallel to the busy Wrexham to Hope road.  A short stretch of this road found us back at the start with the Deli café shut.  Four of us set off back for Chester via Sandy Lane Kinnerton making a 60 miler with lots of hills.

CA

20th January 2011: Bangor on Dee

As I left Chester the sun was shining brightly through the early morning fog and although it was -4°C, I was confident the sun would burn the fog off and we would have a sunny cold day.  How wrong can you be!  The only other bright lights seen today were the car headlights in the freezing fog!  I espied Ivan ahead going towards Greenlooms on the way to the Ice Cream farm, he was cycling uncharacteristically slowly.  The reason was icy lanes around Christleton and unplanned de-bike manoeuvre.  As soon as we got into Martin’s Lane, it was clear that there was no grip and cycling would have been positively dangerous, so we walked most of it (about 1.3 miles) until it felt safe to cycle again.  By the time we arrived at the café, it was close to 10:30 but Mike M and Trevor were just getting their drinks so we agreed to relax until 11:00 when the sun would of course have burnt the fog away.  A call from Ray S came in to advise us he was not coming to the start but “where were we thinking of a lunch stop”.  The Buck Hotel in Bangor–on-Dee was chosen so off we set on a modified back lane route.  Out through Tattenhall and down to the A41, we eschewed the Bolesworth way to Brown Knowl by cutting up off the A41 into Coach Road and then across the A534 into the continuation of Coach Road and into Old Coach Road.  This normally scenic route was limited to a gloom with only 200m visibility.  Over the crossroads at Old Hampton Post, we once again hit the A41. Taking our life in our hands, we ventured across the traffic, continuing along the truncated Old Coach Road and into No Man’s Heath.  “Can we stop here” came a cry as we passed the Wheatsheaf pub – no answer from the front – just a right hand signal and down the lane towards Malpas.  Cutting left we then followed the cycle route 70 down Mastiff Lane et al until we arrived close to Worthenbury on the B5069.  It was then a short run then to the Buck Hotel.  Ten minutes later, Ray S arrives covered in hoar frost from a solo ride out from Chester.  What value for money the Buck offers in its “Over 55” menu– a two course meal plus coffee and a real ale pint for under £10 – promptly served and tasty fare.  The big news was that Ray’s Van Nicholas had been delivered but he came out on his “old bike” in case he scratched the titanium frame in an untimely de-bike activity.  Back into the cold damp gloom the route back was the familiar run of Worthenbury, Shocklach, Tilston, and Coddington. Trevor and Mike split off to go back to Tattenhall having completed a 35 mile run and the remaining three of us went back to Chester via Churton, Bruera, Saighton and Waverton having clocked up nearly 60 mile round trip from Chester.  The day was not as planned but nevertheless an enjoyable ride even though we saw very little of the Cheshire countryside.

CA

15th January 2011: Revolution

The 2010/11 Revolution Champions were decided this evening at the Manchester Velodrome in an evening packed with non-stop action.  A party of eight CER were there to enjoy the racing as Maxgear Racing picked up the trophy.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald


A great evening thanks to Brian Mac who organised the trip.
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13th January 2011: Egremont Ferry

With 11 riders meeting at 10:00 at Ness Gardens, is it New Year resolutions or has the CER been on a recruitment drive?  Whatever.
It’s always encouraging to see so many, and a warm welcome back to some faces not seen for a while, like Mike, Kate and Dave B.
With a SW breeze, the best route to New Brighton was clockwise via Thornton Hough and the Viking settlements of Pensby, Irby, Greasby, Frankby and Hoylake.   Then it was that very easy ride along the sea wall, past the new £60m development of lido, hotel and shops, which hope to bring the punters thronging back to regain New Brighton’s glory days.  A photo stop ensued at Perch Rock Fort (unfortunately the passerby recruited to take the snap suffered from uncontrollable camera shake requiring the later use of the delete button).  The fort has been guarding the Mersey entrance for nearly 200 years but with walls 24 feet thick, it only ever fired its huge guns twice; and that was in peacetime.

Photograph by Ivan Davenport

Lunch was again at The Egremont Ferry Hotel, where a quality pint of Cains is always served, while enjoying the views over the city opposite and the river below.  The TV was showing Everton’s recent 5 goal spree......... bliss.
The route back is easy if you know Birkenhead; Duke St Bridge, through The Park, Manor Hill, Storeton Rd, and down to Thornton Hough.  Then back through Raby and Neston for tea and cake at Ness Gardens.  An easy, pleasant, if uneventful ride round the Peninsula, of some 37 miles or around 60 miles for those riding from Chester.

BMac

6th January 2011: Street Dinas & Overton Bridge

a. Street Dinas
A magnificent turnout at Bellis heralded the first ride in the New Year with12 bikes and 13 riders.  The suggestion of a route towards Chirk and a potential lunch stop at the excellent Greyhound at Street Dinas was approved and we set off via the back lanes towards the Wrexham Industrial Estate.  There is no pretty way to get to Cross Lanes so an amble past the WDA sponsored businesses (some now closed!) brought us to Cross Lanes lights.  Going straight across onto the B1530 we bisected the A528 and A525.  At the A528 junction we went straight across into the quiet and occasionally icy Welsh lanes.  Given the numbers riding, we stopped at the top of Bwgan ddu Lane to call the pub and after some hesitancy they welcomed us for lunch at around 13:00.  Turning right out of Bwgan ddu Lane – which roughly translated by Google means “The specter of black (sic)”, we went straight across the B road and through Crabtree Green to come to a halt at the A539 Overton to Ruabon road.  The leading pack of seven had taken a right turn just before the main road and unfortunately the trailing group was too far behind to see the turn and had gone straight on.  Mystified why the second group had not appeared, phone calls were made and Ivan offered to ride off to try to find the group.  After 15-20 minutes, the leading group decided that as the lunch venue as known (and it being only 8 miles away by main roads) we would ride on.  Down through Ruabon, we took the Newbridge road and after slogging up the long slope from the new bridge over the Dee, we headed for Chirk.  Taking the first lane on the left, we ended up near MacDonald’s just off the A5 at Halton.  After 16 miles, the pub was very close now, only 2 miles as the crow flies but double that for these very small winding Welsh Lanes, and for good luck adding in a 20% gradient lane with running water, field debris and ice, no wonder most of us walked up this steep section.  The Greyhound was welcoming and the food was promptly served.  After lunch, we took a meandering sedate ride back through the lanes to Overton and cut right via Hollybush Lane towards Worthenbury for the traditional route back via Shocklach.  Arriving back at Bellis for afternoon repast, we were reunited with the rest of the group.  We had clocked up 41 miles and as the dusk settled three of us took the Churton Road back to Chester.  The route from Bellis was 40 miles making it a 60 mile round trip from Chester.

CA

b. Overton Bridge
Deep in conversation as we progressed south from Crabtree Green the leading group had been out of sight for some time as the following group of six approached the A539.  Not realizing that the lead group had already turned off the lane some half a mile back we expected to see them at the main road: but there was no sight of them.  Which way had they gone: right on the main road or straight on?  Surely they would have waited if they had turned right?  So we headed straight on across the main road onto a lane I had not ridden before.  After a further mile and still no sight of the others I was wondering where this lane led.  Did Clive know of some short cut or was this a dead-end?  The SatMap indicated a dead-end so we stopped and consulted a passing horse rider.  “No it’s not a dead-end but it disintegrates into a potholed rough track which comes back onto this lane.”  So it’s a dead end then!
By now it’s 11:45am so it’s back to the main road and left to Ruabon to try and catch the others, or right to Overton Bridge and the attractions of the Cross Foxes.  By common consent the Cross Foxes had it and we rejoined the main roads and then the back lanes through Erbistock to Overton Bridge.  Once inside we chatted away happily until it was time to leave and then decided on the scenic but short route back rather than the longer Worthenbury/Shocklach alternative.  By 14:45pm we were back at Bellis ready for coffee and cakes having completed a 28 mile round trip or 50 miles in total from Chester and back.
Another great if interesting day with CER.
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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.
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30th December 2010: No Mans Heath

It was a grey dull overcast day with light fog, forecast to last all day, but hey the snow and ice had gone and it was great to be out and about again.  Six of us met at Rose Farm Garden Centre in Utkinton (Brian Mac, Dave Hill, Clive, Dave Heath, Ivan and Bryan) to find that frozen pipes meant the café was closed.  After waiting until 10:15am we left a note on the door to say we were off to the Fire Station Café in Tarporley for tea.  Unfortunately Dave and Liz P arriving later didn’t see the note and decided on a different café in Tarporley.
The Fire Station Café proved to be somewhat too welcoming and it wasn’t until around 11:00am that we got away. We had agreed on a ride to the Wheatsheaf at No Mans Heath with Clive navigating on a route programmed into his new Memory Map SatNav.  With that we headed off for Eaton, before looping south to Alpraham and eventually Bunbury where Dave Hill left us heading back to Chester.  The remainder continued on the empty lanes to Brindley where to vary the usual route Clive took us along the main road to Faddiley before rejoining the lanes.  Soon we were on NCN 45 for a few miles before the signposts reported No Mans Heath was only a few miles ahead.
The Wheatsheaf beckoned but as we locked up the bikes Clive noticed a group of walkers descending on the pub and with almost improper haste we made straight for the bar to get in first.  A good job we did as it turned out for with 20 of them pre-booked we would have been waiting for some time.
Now the Wheatsheaf specialises in sausages and their plate sized Yorkshire pudding filled with three sausages of choice, mash and gravy proved irresistible, along with the ale, of course.  Over lunch we discussed, amongst other matters, family tree research including a fascinating account of the problems of ‘incorrect’ birth certificates recounted by Brian Mac.  I had a brief chat with Barry Davis, ex C&NWCTC Rights Officer, out for the day with the 20 ramblers but still waiting for their food to be served.  Then we agreed a return route back via the Ice Cream Farm.
Out on the road the light fog was still in evidence, so it was on with the lights for the return journey just as they had been on the way out.  The Old Coach Road took us straight to Broxton Old Hall where we made a right turn to Brown Knowl and the usual route to the Ice Cream Farm via Bolesworth Castle.  Then while most of us settled down to an afternoon coffee and cake Brian Mac joined us with an overflowing ice cream cornet for the last chat of the day.  It was quietening down when we left, but Melanie reported that she had seen more cyclists over the last two days than the previous month.  Like us they had been eager to get out again once the snow and ice had disappeared.
With only a few more miles to go back to Utkinton or Chester we wished each other a Happy New Year and bid farewell.  Another great year of the Chester Easy Riders.

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