Arriving at the Roodee café it was overflowing with keen riders even though the morning was chilly and with a fog. Hopefully the weatherman will be proven right and a glorious days riding should be enjoyable.
With Clive returned from Norfolk the brisk group consisted of Clive, John, Tom, new rider Lee Scragg (Tom’s neighbour) and Ivan. I had a route covering 35 miles for lunch at the Swan Inn at Marbury followed by 45 in the afternoon.
Leaving the Roodee we cycled along the riverbank heading for Boughton following the river Dee to Alford. We diverted via Saighton as the B5130 direct to Alford was covered in fog so took the quieter lane. Reaching Churton we took the left route bypassing Farndon and on to Shocklach. The lanes were dry and quiet and by 11:30 the sun was out and the fog lifted. We were pacing along passing through Wrenbury and Aston and skirting Whitchurch before heading to the Swan Inn.
I had contacted the pub previously to enquire if they were open and available for food and advised yes but we have a funeral party in from 11:00. Our expected time of arrival was 12:30 - 13:00 so not a problem. On arrival and ordering a pint of station ale the landlady advised they could only cater for sandwiches - OMG we have to leave!!!!
Fortunately the partner saw £s and rushed to the kitchen to see what can be rustled up - we were provided with reasonable food and the beer was good as was tea and juice for others.
After lunch we returned to our bikes in warm sunshine and were soon heading out via Wirsall to arrive into Whitchurch from the south then out via Ash Magna, Ighfield and Royals Green.
The season is progressing and already the hedges are showing green and with lambs bleating it is great to cycle through the seasons although we don't enjoy the wet and cold days.
We pass through Aston again and head towards Ravensmoor but had a little diversion from here out via Burland and Long Lane to Bunbury where we stopped at Tilleys for milk shakes and cakes (Dave take note!! all wanting to partake).
We then took the usual route home to Chester via Beeston, the Ice Cream Farm and Waverton.
The ride was minimum 78 miles for me but 80+ for the other riders with an incredible 3,192 ft of ascent - we did notice a couple of rolls but surprised at the elevation.
An enjoyable day at 16.9 mph average.
ID
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