16th October 2014: Lake District (Special Ride)

Trevor had let me know that he couldn't make it. He had felt all right the first two times, but when he had stretched across the table at home for a third piece of Victoria sponge, his hamstring had twinged.  So, Dave Pipe had joined Keith and myself in the big black Renault for the drive up the M6.  Steve H had stayed overnight at a Grange B&B, and met us in the car park at 9:20 a.m.  Dave was polishing off his Full English in the Coffee Pot Cafe "with Bay Views", when we received communication, that Ivan, Tom and Clive had left Chester later than intended and would be arriving after 10:00.  It was good to see Clive, as we thought he would be sailing, but the skipper had called it off.  

We were soon cruising down the promenade alongside Morecambe Bay, and then breathing heavily as we steeply left sea-level for the first hills and Cartmel.  We wended our way through the attractive square, and out alongside the picturesque racecourse.  More climbing on sheltered, quiet lanes led us to an exhilarating plunge down from High Gate to Low Wood.  We crossed the A590 at Haverthwaite, turning right at Causeway End and up the lovely Rusland Valley.  Hard toil through Grizedale Forest led to a splendid vista, before a steep drop and a rare flatish stretch alongside Esthwaite Water took us into the popular village of Hawkshead.  A bit of hummocky climbing soon ended at The Outgate Inn, on the dot of 12:15: exactly the time that I had booked for. The food was really good, and the beer seemed to go down well.

Photographs by Ivan Davenport

The afternoon leg was a long one.  Cream teas had been booked in Cartmel for about 4:15p.m. The weather was incredibly mild for mid- October, and I had to remove my thin shell top, and drink plenty of water to avoid overheating. We reached the most northerly point of our ride at The Drunken Duck before conquering Hawkshead Hill and heading down towards the eastern shores of Coniston Water, past Brantwood, Ruskin's home, and onto a planned stop in order to walk down a jetty and take everything in for a few minutes.  Coniston Water was sun sheened and serene. 

Across the lake, Coniston village nestled at the feet of The Old Man with his head high in the blue sky.  Ivan persuaded a young photographer to take our photo, but decided it wasn't quite right and made him take it again!  

The road became faster and easier down to Lowick Bridge, a section savoured by Bryan Wade three years ago.  From Spark Bridge we were soon at Penny Bridge and then crossing the bridge at Greenodd, where the River Leven flows through the sands.  We then had a pleasant interlude, partly off tarmac, and then alongside the river to Low Wood, crossing our outward route.  Ivan spotted the steam from an engine as we headed towards the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the route of which we roughly followed, before climbing above Great Haag, and then dropping down into Newby Bridge.  We had to carefully overtake a magnificent, large steam vintage road tractor at this point.  We took a quiet, narrow climb up Canny Hill to Seatle and eventually reached a welcome direct and fast road into Cartmel.  

Despite some of our legs beginning to feel the accumulation of many banks climbed throughout the day, we flew down to Cartmel, like Team Sky on a recovery ride!  The incentive of a cream tea, and a comfy chair awaiting certainly worked for me.  We arrived to a warm welcome and in good time at The Priory Hotel, with large pots of tea readily replenished.  The sting in the tail was the last climb of the day to High Fell Gate, before the descent back to the promenade at Grange, with a gorgeous view across the bay in the special, late afternoon light.  I was grateful for the support and convivial company of the guys.  We were so lucky to have a peach of a day. Approximately 49 autumn-tinged miles covered.     

DH

16th October 2014: Irby Mill (mod)

With most regular riders in the Lake District on Dave H’s special ride I wasn’t at all sure that there would be many, or indeed, any riders meeting at Ness Gardens.  On entering the tea room I was therefore delighted to find Ray already halfway through a cappuccino and eager to ride.  Interestingly we had both cycled out from Chester with a planned easy ride to Irby Mill with the aim of getting back early before the forecast rain arrived at a predicted 16:00.
Once the obligatory coffee/tea and scones were consumed we were on our way up to Ness to then take the usual lane bypassing Willaston on the way to Raby.  Determined to stick to the lanes as far as possible we continued on to Thornton Hough, Brimstage and Storeton enjoying the perfect autumn weather.  With the sun shining and clear skies after the overnight rain the views were stunning.  Entering Storeton we debated the pros and cons of the Landican vs Barnston/Pensby route.  I had heard that the Landican route had been improved, so what the hell, we’d give it a go and with time in hand we had little to lose.  Well, it had been improved: not perfect but no worse than the Wirral Way was our conclusion.  From here it was only a short ride to Irby Mill skirting the edges of Heswall and Irby.
Irby Mill was closed when we arrived at 11:45 but we chatted and relaxed at one of the outdoor tables soaking up the sun until 12 noon.  No wonder the pub is Camra recommended with something like eight cask ales to choose from.  I tried the Trojan Horse, a delightful black beer, while Ray went for a lighter summer ale: both superb.  To eat it had to be the lunchtime ‘small’ fish and chips that left us wondering just how big the full size version would be.  A great pub but after chatting for well over an hour it was time leave.
Determined to avoid the traffic we decided on a return route along the Wirral way.  From the pub we skirted Royden Park before dropping down to Caldy where we joined the Wirral Way for an easy ride back to Neston.  Here we decided to use the Burton Marshes route and the Millennium cycleway to return to Chester.
Halfway across the boardwalk section of the Burton Marshes route we were flagged down by a cyclist heading towards Neston but asking for directions to Garden City!  We invited him to join us rather than try to provide directions through the industrial estate and it emerged that he had arrived from Hungary two days earlier and had accommodation in Garden City.  As a matter of priority he had just bought a second hand bike and was out exploring while looking for a job.  At the Millennium Cycle Bridge he knew where he was and we directed him back to Garden City before we continued on to Chester.
Back in Chester by 15:30 we missed the rain, which started half an hour later.  A perfect day’s cycling in true CER tradition.  Only 25 miles from Ness Gardens back to Ness Gardens but 47 miles overall Chester to Chester.

BW

9th October 2014: Queens Head (brisk)

Setting off from home to meet Clive in Chester for the ride to Holt we were both kitted out in wet weather gear and cycles with mudguards, as the forecast was a wet day. We arrived at

Hildegard’s for coffee without a drop of rain falling.  Already gathered and still arriving were Jim, Tom, Dave H, Keith, Steve, Colin, Trevor, Liz & Dave on the tandem, Clive and Ivan. The brisk group today would consist of Tom, Colin and Ivan. A route to Queens Head was agreed and we set off. 

Leaving Holt we crossed over the Dee and up through the town heading for the usual route to Shocklach and Worthenbury. After a short time it was the first and only call to stop and put on rain jackets, as the rain fell in buckets, but thankfully only for 15/20 minutes. This was the one and only drop!!  Otherwise a fine day in 14˚C sunshine - weathermen!!

We cycled on passing Lightwood Green, crossing the A539 to Doddleston Heath.  We then passed through our first flooded lane giving Tom a dirty bike and face as he was pushing up the rear keeping us together but suffering with spray from our wheels. Riding along Birghill Lane (no hill) was similar to a summer’s day in glorious sunshine, onto the B5009 taking us to Queens Head and the excellent Queens Head pub. We had a good lunch stop here although Tom would have preferred a pub with a bigger heater as he was wet and chilled.

Photograph by Ivan Davenport

We were soon back in the saddle and taking the left hand lane from the pub, Woodhouse lane, it was a change to have a flat ride for a few miles instead of a climb straight after lunch following the Montgomery canal and on to Hordley. Here we encountered Road Closed but continued to be greeted by nice tarmac engineers who only advised us to travel cautiously which we complied with. After leaving the very bumpy roads we were through Techhill and not remembering the hill after enjoying the sweeping downhill ride to be greeted with the steep climb as soon as you round the bend - wrong gear!

Passing through Ellsmere we were then passing Penley and Horseman's Green when Tom announced he had a mechanical problem - slipping gears. Ensuring Tom's continued progress we slowed our pace to Tilston and Crewe by Farndon arriving in Holt just after 15:00. 

Tom decided to carry on home and sort his bike out so Colin and myself set off for Chester and decided to stop at Aldford for a break.

Overall a reasonable dry day and enjoyed the lanes but they are now muddy with farmer’s tractors etc. The standard of road surface is certainly improving with only a few really pitted roads encountered but some lovely smooth lanes to allow a cranked up surge in pace. 

Thanks to Tom and Colin for a good ride. 71 miles total journey (51 miles from Holt) and 914 metres of ascent at an average 14.8mph.

ID

9th October 2014: Gobowen (mod)

For a forecasted showery day, there were a lot of us at Hildegard’s cafe. A brisk group had coalesced and set off for Queens Head, and the rest of us (Dave & Liz P, Dave H, Jim, Trevor, the two Steves and myself) slowly assembled for a ride to Derwen College at Gobowen. Taking the back lane to the head of Wrexham Industrial Estate, we trail through smart and run down areas, mainly because I missed the cycleway turn into Red Wither Lane. Anyway, at Cross Lanes we were back on track, taking the repaired lanes around the back of Erdigg and Sontly bound for Ruabon. 

The Dennis brickworks looked more decrepit than ever, but still sells heather brown quarry tiles, for a price. Then we all enjoy the long hill out of Cefn Mawr towards Chirk. Taking the back lane, we pass the Marina and Golf Club, and the entrance to Chirk Castle before descending into Chirk proper. The canal path east brings us out at Chirk Bank on the main drag up to the A5 roundabout. A few hundred yards up the St Martins road, the right into Henlle lane guides us parallel to the A5 and into Gobowen town. 

The college is off the Whittington Road, and turning into it, we take a grand tour eventually finding the Orangery restaurant. As ever it’s busy, and the students are “off” today. The manager opens up a small dining room just for us eight. Within 10 minutes, we have chosen the main course and having it delivered to our table in double quick time. The hot puddings are even more quickly delivered. At under a fiver for two course and coffee, and of excellent quality, the college doesn’t ever disappoint. 

The sun is out briefly and we take a delightful lane off the 455 route circling back towards the big hill into St Martins. Onwards to Overton, there is a bit of rain as we meet up by the cafe crossroads. Steve H and I decide to take the run back to Farndon via Cloy, Hollybank and Worthenbury; whereas the others take the main road to Bangor. At the Shocklach turn, a "Road Closed" sign informs us that a bridge is being repaired at some place we can’t find on the OS map. The others then appear, and we set off assuming we will be able to get through. The bridge is just around the corner and we were able to walk the bikes over half of a new bridge. It’s due to be finished in three weeks: so they had better get a move on! I decide I need to get back to Chester, so I motor on leaving the seven Easy Riders to find their own way back to Hildegard’s cafe. 

A round trip of 46m at the start of Autumn with rain in the air, wet leaves on the ground and flailed hedges. It’s 65m from Chester, and it’s clear that the weather has turned and warmer clothes and lights, are now required.

CA

2nd October 2014: Aston (mod)

Steve Tan was my passenger from Runcorn. Road works in Frodsham meant a u-turn and a diversion down the motorway, and another about turn was required for a blockage when trying to head up towards Kelsall from Helsby. We were running a little late by the time we arrived at Utkinton. It was an easy decision when faced with our admirably fit and fast comrades on their best bikes, to decide to just relax and do a familiar, pleasant route to the Bhurtpore at Aston at an easy pace. The reality was, that I was about 24kg. heavier than Ray, and Steve's hybrid was about 9kg. heavier than Ivan's Willier, and that's before comparing our relative cycling fitness levels!  A unified ride just wouldn't have worked. Although it did make me determined to lower my calorie intake, and up my training before the Lake District ride.          

It was yet another ideal cycling day, and the tinge of autumn colours added to the pleasing rural landscape unfurling before us. Our route took us to Eaton and Wettenhall, and on to Ravensmore via Reese Heath and Acton. I tried to use my map to direct a lorry driver to a farm, but accidently sent him the wrong way, and also lost my gloves. This was made worse, because they were two odd gloves, so I now have two matching, now useless, gloves at home!  

The Bhurtpore was welcoming as usual, but the curry wasn't cheap and was just below average in quality. I'd already got lost around Sound on the way, and a similar casual attitude had us turning west too early at Chorley on the route home. We headed briskly up the A49 from the Cholmondeley Castle entrance to Spurstow, and then rode to Tarporley through Peckforton, Beeston and Birch Heath. The service was exceptional at the Old Fire Station, and we enjoyed coffee and cake in the sun at the back. We also had a long chat with a very elegant old lady, with Steve exchanging stories of Yorkshire towns and Leeds University, with which they were both familiar. We soon whacked up the last climb to Rose Farm and my now clean car. We had covered a very relaxed 40 miles, savouring every mile of lovely Cheshire countryside and the blessing of an Indian summer.

DH

2nd October 2014: Timbersbrook (brisk)

Looking for a destination not visited before I decided on a trip towards Congleton.  Setting off for Rose Farm I was joined by Ray and we enjoyed the quiet but chilly roads.  We were the first to arrive but were soon joined by Dave H, Paul and Steve T.  Ray and Paul accepted my proposal for a ride to Timbersbrook.  

We set off promptly via Cotebrook and the route towards Winsford and Middlewich.  Along Cledford lane to Breton Green and the Bears Head Inn we arrived at 11:30 covering the 20 miles in a sprint time.

We now sauntered along the new lanes towards Congleton being rewarded with a lovely autumnal morning with very light traffic. No problems skirting Congleton but we were greeted with our first climb of the day and arriving at the brow of the hill we found we had arrived at the Coach and Horses at Timbersbrook.

Photographs by Ivan Davenport

The views from the garden were panoramic and I could watch the Virgin Pendolinoes crossing the big viaduct over the town.  Good beer and choice of food were ordered and we were soon served with our meals.

After 45 minutes we were back in the saddle and heading upwards again!!  We passed a field of Lamas with a wooden Giraffe and a bear in a tree: strange garden furniture!  We were now on the left hand side of the ridge leading to Mow Cop. Biddulph was the next big town we passed through and it was still looking very floral. Taking a right hand through the town we went up hill on Mow Cop lane, this was to be a easy ascent to the folly at the top and with such a sunny day and high cloud it was the perfect day to ride here.

A fast descent down hill to Church Lawton and Alsager coasting plus 20mph then on the route via Malkins Bank and Winterley stopping at the pool to see the geese, swans and ducks on the water.  It was then onwards to Bradfield Green and an afternoon cake stop at Tilleys.  Arriving at 15:20 we enjoyed cake and cappuccinos.  

After resting it was the Beeston Castle and Waverton route arriving back into Chester for 16:45 after covering 86 miles on some new lanes.  It had been a good ride and we wonder how many of these fine days we can experience before the start of the wet and cold months ahead.  It has been a great summer of cycling.

ID

25th September 2014: Tattenhall (mod)

With other commitments in the afternoon I hadn’t intended to go on the ride, far less lead it. When I left home for the Gallery Coffee Shop in Hawarden I had only intended to cycle up to the venue to start collecting deposits for the Christmas Lunch ride then wend my way gradually back home through the Cheshire countryside. George didn’t want a hard ride into the Welsh hills and asked if he could tag along and when I mentioned that I would be going through Farndon Dave M said he would join us as he had left his car there. Before I knew it there were five of us, so by default I became the leader. George, Dave M, Dave H, Steve and I set off with the intention of lunching at Hildegard’s in Farndon. (We were briefly joined by Mike who soon disappeared into the distance as he had somewhere he needed to be.)

We set off down the Wrexham Road before turning left onto the small road that would take us up the back of Bilberry Wood to the footbridge across the A55. It is quite steep in places and a long gradual climb but I knew that once we reached the top we would have finished climbing for the day (except for the riders returning to Hawarden). After crossing the A55 we turned right then left into Chester Road and continued into Lower Mountain Road by-passing the village of Pen-y-Mynydd. We then took a left and right into Sandy Lane before turning into Shordley Road and dropped down Cobblers Lane into Burton passing under the A483 and over the railway to emerge in Rossett. At this point I surprised several riders by turning left (They had expected me to turn right and head up Marford Hill towards Hoseley Bank) before bearing right towards the Holt road. A quick right again took us down a quiet country lane to emerge onto the Holt Road. A long straight road (fortunately with the wind at our backs) and a left turn brought us into Farndon where Dave M was reunited with his car. As it was not yet mid-day the remaining four decided to continue on to Tattenhall for lunch.

From Farndon we crossed the River Dee into England. We turned left towards Churton then right to Coddington and left again towards Handley. Then it was up to Chowley Oak and across the A41 to Tattenhall where we stopped for lunch at the Sportsman’s Arms. After lunch I took off my leader’s hat to make my way straight home for a 43-mile ride leaving the other three to explore the Cheshire countryside. 

TC

Photograph by Steve Haywood

It had been a long lunch break at The Sportsman's Arms, but the food was good and the service friendly. The back room was filled with what appeared to be a local old buffers' gathering, which no doubt delayed our service. We appeared to be sitting in an area that had been a butcher's shop, but faux bookcases now replaced pig's heads. This didn't stop Trevor giving us the chop! He had not planned to ride today, and needed to return home. His morning route had been idyllic. 

For the afternoon we were grateful for Steve taking the lead on a sort-of-agreed route. Near to Beeston we met Mike who had been doing his own extra loop, but rejoined us as we headed for Bunbury. At Bunbury we inadvertently disturbed the filming of a new ITV Second World War drama called Home Fires. Mike's raucous laugh disturbed their sound track, and then he had a little chat to one of the female actors! To be fair, four cyclists brainlessly pedalling through a 1940's scene wasn't our cleverest moment, regardless of Mike's unwitting insouciance. The cast seemed friendly, perhaps too nonplussed to be angry!  Anyway, we were soon spinning along to Wettenhall via Alpraham, and then briskly to Rushton and Cotebrook. The four of us agreed that we had forgotten how demanding the climb was to Utkinton. This was partly due to the brisk pace that Steve was setting. Many of the roads in the area had been resurfaced since last year, making progress smoother and faster. 

At Willington Corner we decided to try and make the cafe at the Mickle Trafford end of The Greenway before it closed. We really had to go for it, swooshing down through Oscroft, and moving properly fast down the A51, and then tore through Guilden Sutton. We were dripping, but made it!  We enjoyed our well-earned coffee and cake. Steve headed back to Kelsall and Mike, George and myself cruised down The Greenway back to Wales. A great day in excellent company: easy riding in the morning and some pacey training in the afternoon. 62 miles Hawarden to Hawarden, 70 or so for George, more for Mike and Steve.

DH

See route map and/or gpx file download.

25th September 2014: Meliden (brisk)

There were a surprising number at the Gallery this week, but six of us set off as the Brisk Group (Ivan, Ray, Colin, Tom, Martin and Clive) bound for Meliden. “Where?” you ask - near Dyserth and Prestatyn. Ivan had led a ride this way recently, but it soon became clear that my route was not the same as his. 

We headed for Alltami then the back lane to Sychdyn, taking the exhilarating run down to the A541. At Rhydymwyn, we turn right up a long climb to the edge of the Halkyns. A left takes us to Rhes-y-Cae, then up to top out at 923ft. A quick left and right down the hill takes on a straight run through Brynford and through to Lloc. On the A5151 to Dyserth, we turn left down a beautiful autumnal lane resplendent with pheasants launching themselves off at our arrival. This lane swoops up and down getting us to the top end of Dyserth. A quick left and right finds us diving down a tiny lane shadowing the old railway cycleway to Prestatyn. As we rise and fall and with a mile to go, Martin succumbs to a rear wheel puncture. After a short time, we descend rapidly down into Meliden for the Red Lion. 

Inside, the Red Lion is in need of a makeover, but there’s Brains bitter on tap and £6.95 two-course meal on offer. All bar one of us plump for the fish and chips main which comes surprising quickly given that the dining room was pretty busy with an 80th birthday party. The food is wholesome and good for the price as well. 

Leaving around 14:00, we make our way back to Dyserth and then take the long chevroned 20% climb up the hillside to reclaim 750ft of elevation. Across the hills we see the rain coming and it annoying lasts for about 15 minutes on an otherwise dry but cloudy day. The route back is the usual run to Babell, the Windmill and down to Northop. 

Martin’s super Garmin tells me that we have had 3,900 ft of accumulated climbing, with some 20% gradients, but my aching thighs told me that anyway! A fast ride today with many sections seeing madcap speeds, peppered with grinding ascents. The round trip to the Gallery was 48 miles, with 60+ for Chester starters.

CA

18th September 2014: Over Peover

Awaiting receipt of writeup.

11th September 2014: Ruyton-XI-Towns (mod)

Our last ride of the summer season from Chirk and the forecast was for a warm sunny day. Although not one of our more popular venues, Chirk does give us quite a variety of rides to look forward to. However, I was determined that I was not going up into the Welsh hills again, so scrutinised the map and came up with a relatively low level route around Shropshire. A message from Dave P the night before showed that he had similar thoughts so between us we chose the strangely named Ruyton-XI-Towns as our destination. A group of seven, consisting of Steve H, Steve T, Dave H, Bryan, Dave & Liz P and Jim duly set off from the café at 10:30. Ivan had plans to test his new bike against the hills and set off with Tom for the slopes. 

Photograph by Bryan Wade

 

We crossed the valley on the canal towpath and were treated to magnificent views up the Dee to the Welsh hills. The first real obstacle was crossing the traffic island on the A5 but we were soon safely on the lanes circumventing Gobowen and heading for Whittington. This seemed to have some potential for a more lengthy visit in the future, but for today we took the back lanes towards Maesbury and then east for West Felton. By and large the route was almost traffic free and we bowled along enjoying fine weather and the many unvisited hamlets, such as Eardiston and Wykey. The terrain was generally undulating with enough uphill bits to make us work reasonably hard at times, but soon we started picking up the signs for our destination. A quick check of the history reveals the correct title of the village “Ruyton of the eleven Townships”, referring to a time during the Middle Ages, when there were many small townships in the area, Ruyton being one of them.

The village itself was not particularly scenic, but the pub, The Talbot, was right in the centre, and served a good choice of local brews and a light bite menu. This was fine for us, as it is not easy pedalling for two hours when full of the pensioners three course special!

Special thanks to our friends at Camra and their website ‘whatpub.com.’ where I found the details and phone number of the pub.

After a pleasant break we set off back northwards through Stanwardine in the Fields, Bagley, Lower Hordley, and then the Franktons.  We were soon skirting round the east side of Gobowen and back to the café for coffee and cake. A very pleasant 38 miles in mostly uncharted territory.  A fine day out that will provide us with pleasant memories when we are splashing round the Wrexham Industrial Estate next winter.

JD

11th September 2014: Llangedwyn (brisk)

On arriving at the tea rooms in Chirk there were already a group of CER riders ready to enjoy another Thursday of sunshine riding!  Jim had a ride sorted and I offered an alternative that was accepted by Tom.
Tom and I set off turning right and riding along the Ceiriog valley which was bathed in sunshine with the odd tree already changing and turning golden/brown.  We took the old road to Llanarmon and kept left through the town going up and over the good single-track road to somewhere!!  This was a steady climb and the decent was fast.  We arrived at a brown sign pointing to Radyr waterfalls so set off to view.

Photograph by Ivan Davenport

We returned along the same road to Llangedwyn arriving just after midday.  Although advised three good inns in the town I had looked at the Green Inn at Llangedwyn so decided to stick with the plan.  Our route forward out of the town was blocked with a large HGV struggling to turn round so offered my assistance to the driver and we duly turned him around and received hoots and thanks (all in a days ride).
Arriving at the Green Inn, Tom and I were not disappointed with the choice and sat out in the garden letting our limbs relax in the sunshine.  Topic of conversation to hot for the blog but informative!!
We had enjoyed some good climbing to this point and Tom was tucking into his large lunch when I advised him we still had two lumps to get over yet so he decided to put knife and fork down.
Leaving Llangedwyn we set off at a fair pace and were soon climbing again through Trefonen and on to Oswestry.  Through the town which was as usual busy, going up hill again to Selattyn.  We cruised down to Western Rhyn and were lucky to miss a fast motorist heading in the opposite direction and arrived back at Chirk at 15:00.
Tom put his bike in the car and we retired to the Hand to watch the final 20k of the bike race.  A total of 44 miles, 1,100+ meters of climbing and 20˚ C average temp.
Enjoyable day and wish it had been longer.
ID

4th September 2014: Audlem

We were sitting in the sunshine by the canal outside the Shroppie Fly in Audlem having enjoyed a good lunch, when Dave Matthews, our leader, asked for a volunteer to write-up the ride.  As is common, no one leapt to volunteer, and so in the absence of others I stepped forward.
Now, writing the report is a lot easier when you know about it at the start.  Otherwise there are several problems.  It’s easy to note the names of those currently with you on the ride – Dave M, Tom, Paul R, George, Dave H and myself, Steve H.  But who had turned up at the Ice Cream Farm and didn’t join us? This required some prompting to remember it was Jim and Trevor.  And then wasn’t Ray with us?  Yes but he peeled off early at Bunbury as he was preparing for his trip to the Pyrenees.
The next problem is the route, especially as I was missing my satnav.  Some landmarks get fixed in your mind, while others get muddled or maybe lost altogether.  We did set off from Tattenhall towards Bunbury, and then I remember a longish stretch travelling south on the A49 before turning left and ending up travelling through Brindley and Ravensmoor.  We headed more or less due south after that to join the A525 heading into Audlem, turning off by the canal to the Shroppie Fly (apparently a fast boat used on the canals).

Photograph by Paul Rose

Aware of my responsibilities, the return journey fixed itself better in my mind. We left Audlem by the same route, but veered more to the west.  We sped past our regular haunt, the Bhurtpore Arms in Aston, but instead of using the level crossing in Wrenbury, we passed through Marbury and Bickley.  Soon we reached the perimeter of Cholmondely Castle grounds and turned left to Bickerton.  We joined the main road and passed by the Bickerton Poacher, Peckforton and Beeston Castle where Dave M left for the quick route home.  A brief conference among the remainder agreed that tea and cakes were needed, so we returned to the Ice Cream Farm.
A good ride overall in very pleasant September weather with good company - we wondered how many more fine Thursdays we had before autumn would set in properly.  How many miles? Maybe 45-50.
SH

28th August 2014: Hildegard's Holt

Three members turned up at the Little Roodee: David M, Andy and Tom.  Rode over to Kinnerton via Bluebell woods---then Hildegard's and home.  Stiff wind on road from Rosset to Hope.

DM

21st August 2014: Ellesmere

A select band of Bryan, Andy, George, Clive, Steve T, Dave & Liz P and Dave M gathered at Hildegard’s in Holt. Missing were Dave Heath (en vacance a Provence) and Keith (waiting for a shed in Runcorn). Andy offered to take us to Ellesmere using a 6th May 2010 route starting ‘by the usual route’ to Bangor on Dee.  Thus suitably refreshed, we set out along Wrexham Road. The only thing missing was a bit of sunshine….and Dave M, who ducked out of the ride, citing ‘grandchildren and a bad back’ as the reason for not joining us. We meandered down through Bangor-on-Dee and were soon in the country lanes of Shropshire, which are delightfully free of the traffic often found in the similar lanes of Cheshire. Crossing the A495 and then the Llangollen branch of the Shropshire and Union Canal at Lower Frankton, we crested the memorable hump back bridge and looped through Hordley and Tetchill to arrive in Ellesmere in good time for lunch. A discussion about which pub to go to ended when Clive suggested the Red Lion. This turned out to be an excellent choice, as their ‘over 60s’ two-course lunch for £5.45 proved to be of good quality and even better value for money.

Photograph by Clive Albany (with apologies to Andy)

After lunch, Clive suggested that we try an alternative route back via Colemere and Tarts Hill. With Clive leading we left Ellesmere on the A 495 alongside The Mere, but soon turned off on to the lanes towards Colemere.  From here we followed Clive north on a collection of lovely lanes unfamiliar to many of us, through Welshampton, Breaden Heath and Tarts Hill.  We then continued north eventually passing through Worthenbury and the usual route back to Holt. At Crewe-by-Farndon Clive headed off to Chester while the remaining six, led by the tandem, took the “short cut” into Farndon by the back way past the Church.  Andy and George disappeared while the tandem, Steve T and Bryan made it back to Hildegard’s for coffee.

A great day out, enjoyed by all, with Clive’s return route further enhancing Andy’s choice of outward route.  Cool and dry all day with 46 miles done or 60+ for those heading back to Chester.

ST & BW

14th August 2014: The Lanes and Fells of Lancashire

You know those days when the forecast is 'iffy', but once you are out on your bike it's perfectly fine?  Well this wasn't one of those days!  Rain showers were plentiful and heavy, and the best sunshine was on the M6 return drive.  Ivan was full of praise for the food and service at No. 61 King Street.  The route down to the River Ribble was soon rural, and easy, and green.  On reaching Roman Ribchester I tried to show the group the ancient bathhouse, but the great unwashed were sneeringly dismissive, asserting that Chester's were bigger and better!  The cafe at Ribchester was friendly and cosy, and we were soon tead, teacaked and toiletted ready for our first climb in the direction of Hurst Green.  A short diversion took in the well-preserved and pretty almshouses at Stydd.

Photographs by Clive Albany and Brian Mac

Stonyhurst College is a stunning vision as you turn the corner and see this impressive baroque building for the first time.  It was from here that my devious plan was to operate.  The faster riders could take off and ride alongside Longridge Fell's northern edge, eventually circumnavigating Beacon Fell, and meeting the less ambitious back at Chipping for lunch.  They seemed a bit reluctant to clear off!  Mike and Brian tried to be helpful with regard to taking my marked map.  Mike's excellent local knowledge would be invaluable.  The advantages would be a quiet, scenic extra 10 mile for some, while the tandem group could cope with the climb to Chlpplng at a slower pace.  This arrangement would also slightly stagger lunch, and get the tandem out ahead of the game for the afternoon.  Like most of my inspired ideas the plan never really got off the ground.  Heavy rain and a farmer scattering thorns meant that the fast group abandoned Beacon Fell, and we all arrived at The Sun simultaneously.  Well, not quite, Dave broke the chain on his tandem in a last effort to reach a menu card first.  He expertly fixed the tandem in the backyard of the pub, with support from Keith, and the use of a puddings board acting as an incentive to work quickly.  The food was fine and the service friendly at The Sun, but despite my pre- booking we were there a little while with eleven orders and probably one chef.  However, the upside was everyone chatting and getting on so well together.

We took the Quiet Lane out of Chipping and headed for the Wild Boar Park.  I was grateful to Mike for leading the faster group, and to Brian, Keith and the two Steves for supporting the tandem.  Before the exhilarating swoop down to Burholme Bridge there was a wonderful, panoramic view of Bowland and beyond.  The road to Dunsop Bridge was alongside the river and true easy riding for a while.  Steve H and Brian were advised of a short route on foot past the road closure at Newton, while the tandem and co. climbed up the fell and came down again at Slaidburn.  Slaidburn is an attractive, stone- housed village, but once across the burbling water there is a steep climb.  Steve and Brian had waited for us, and the fast group was well ahead at this stage.  The rain started lashing down as we approached the lovely sweep down toward Sawley Abbey on the Lancashire Cycleway route.  You can normally clearly see the peaks in the Yorkshire Dales here.  Because of the weather Dave and Liz had done more costume changes than Kellie Maloney!  As we came down it looked as if the road had been dry all day.  Grindleton and Downham were by-passed in order to reach our ordered cream teas at The Calf's Head in Worston.  We just made it, gratefully tucking in to jam, cream and scones and hot drinks.

Our few miles back were flat and leafy, and we met Clive and Ivan at The Eagle in Barrow.  Despite the weather the camaraderie had been excellent.  Everyone had been helpful and tolerant, and this made the day enjoyable and worthwhile.  That Keith has to bust a gut to arrange shift swops to cycle with us in the rain, and loved it, says it all!  Attendees: Dave H, Dave & Liz P, Keith, Clive, Ivan, Brian Mac, Petar, Mike G, Steve H and Steve T. 

DH

7th August 2014: Caerwys (mod)

Enjoying the hills and the splendid views of the Welsh mountains but not be able to keep up with the brisk group in this sort of terrain on the tandem we came prepared to lead an easy ride. With the other “easy” riders away on holiday or otherwise committed we set off at our own pace towards Northop and up into the Halkyn Mountains via Rhosesmor, Moel y Crio and Rhes y Cae. Here the map showed a narrow tarred road to the left that looked interesting and which certainly was. Quite rideable but very narrow and rapidly grassing over: an ideal diversion on a summer’s day. A return to higher ground and more open views and a quick look at the time confirmed we should head for the nearest pub that was the Piccadilly Inn at Caerwys.

After lunch we found a new narrow track (road) up to Babell and then a similar beauty down to Brynford. From here a relatively gentle run with a slight tailwind along the side of the Halkyns and a climb over Windmill Hill with its splendid views and open moorland before dropping back down to Northop and tracing the route to Hawarden.

35 enjoyable miles at just over 10 miles an hour which seems to be our pace in the mountains these days.

Pub Review

The Piccadilly Inn, Caerwys on the main street at north end of the village Tel 01352 720284 Open 12 noon – midnight all week. 

Recently fully refurbished and is now a busy modern eating-place with a good range of draught beers. Food from the lower price menu looked good and the Faggots and mash at £7.95 did not disappoint; nor did the Old Speckled Hen. 

DP

7th August 2014: Rhuddlan (brisk)

Brian (back from his travels), Clive, Ivan, Ray, Tom and the Tandem Duo met on a perfect summer’s cycling day at The Gallery.  The Duo decided not to join us on a hilly ride over Halkyn Mountain to Rhuddlan with Clive leading, as he said he wanted to be home smartish. After passing Lixwm and Caerwys, Ivan suffered a broken spoke from a hilly newly tarred and stoned road; this required much pushing & pulling of bits from his hub, but soon we were on our slightly slower way.  Down the steep Rhuallt hill on the old A-road and onto the coastal flood-plain, we stopped at the first pub in Rhuddlan, but were denied entry as there was a funeral taking place. Whether the coffin was still there, I know not.  We soon found another hostelry, The New Inn Hotel, High Street, LL18 2TY, tel: 01745 592027.  The two meals for £8 were good, the lack of real ale, not so.

Photographs by Clive Albany

After lunch, we had the obligatory photo stop at Rhuddlan Castle, one of 14 giant fortifications that Edward I had constructed after he overran N Wales in 1282. From the castle ramparts, we headed north along the tidal River Clwyd estuary that was full of wading birds seemingly unperturbed by the megopolis of the surrounding caravan parks. We then headed east along the coast past the hordes of sun-worshippers on the golden sands of Rhyl, Prestatyn and Talacre.  Heading back on the coastal A548, the pace hotted up as Ivan had been watching too much time-trialling at the recent Commonwealth Games. A steady 23mph cruise took us quickly down to Flint for afternoon tea.  Replenished, but slightly weary from the pace, miles and sun, we bimbled back through Connah’s Quay, crossing the Dee at Hawarden rail bridge.  Here Brian swung off while the other four carried on to complete 71 miles back to Chester.  Round trip from Hawarden 55 miles.

BMac

31st July 2014: Over Peover

Gathered at Manley Mere were Brian Mac & Dave Matthews, who had just joined us for coffee, and the rest: Dave H, Keith, Clive, Ray, Tom, Trevor, Steve T, Dave & Liz Pipe and Steve H.  Dave H took the initiative to organise us, and I asked whether we’d ever ridden out to The Dog at Over Peover.  That was enough to be elected as leader for the day; not that I’d ever been to The Dog, but it looked OK on the web.

We laboured up the hills over the New Pale, before enjoying the fast descent to Kingsley. We crossed the Weaver at Acton Bridge, then on to Great Budworth, Plumley and Lower Peover that gave us a misleading sense of closeness to our destination. The two Peovers are about 4 km apart, but wishing to avoid main roads and have a decent morning ride, we took a loop through Ollerton and Marthall to reach what the map said was Over Peover’s pub.  But it wasn’t The Dog. The Dog is actually in Peover Heath, less than half a mile away.

The Dog was bustling with activity – there appeared to be a barbeque and a beer festival.  Unfortunately the barbeque was a private party and the beer festival starting the next day.  Still, we found a good range of real ales and food, which turned out to be of very good quality - a place to return to.

The return route took us through Goostrey and Lach Dennis, where Dave H bid us farewell. We then sped on to Davenham and Moulton to descend the rough track that allows the Vale Royal Cut of the Weaver Navigation to be crossed.  Through Whitegate, after which we said goodbye to Tom, Clive and Ray who headed towards Chester.  Then to Sandiway where Steve H left, allowing the others to make their way back to Manley.  Overall 59 miles and just under 1,000m of climbing on a mild dry day which was much better for cycling than the hot weather of recent weeks.

SH

24th July 2014: Pistyll Rhaeadr (mod)

The moderate group consisting of Dave and Liz on tandem, Dave H, Steve and Trevor set off to repeat Mike Morley’s route of 2010 to Pistyll Rhaeadr: a splendid route over the Berwyn mountains down to the Rhaeadr Valley and up to its start at the magnificent waterfall (Pistyll Rhaeadr) with its quaint tearooms at its foot.

Photograph by Steve Haywood

The return route descended further down the Rhaeadr Valley to turn north at Abercynllaith to take a lower but still very hilly return route over the Berwyn’s back to Chirk.

A little bit of walking on the 1 in 6 sections but the views and sense of achievement of cycling in the high mountains makes for a splendid day out at a pace suited to all of the party.  Distance 43 miles. A steady ride averaging just over 10 miles an hour including the walking. 

Pistyll Rhaeadr Café rating:  good selection of food at moderate price.  Open all year. No beer.  Seats outside but beautifully cool inside on a scorching day.

Getting to Chirk: several riders took the train from Chester to Chirk, we took the tandem in the car as usual (25 minutes from South Chester). Steve cycled from Kelsall to the start and back making a round trip of about 110 miles.

DP

24th July 2014: Llanymynech (brisk)

As I had been to the waterfalls a few times, I offered Ray and Tom an alternative in a re-hashed June 2013 ride to the Bradford Arms Hotel on the English side of the border in Llanymynech. We set off round the back of Chirk heading for the castle at a “briskish” pace which slowed considerably as the heat and the hills took its toll. We maxed out at 1000 ft, all within the first three miles. Back now on the main road up the valley, we were able to motor along to Tregeiriog and just catch the tail end of the moderate group who had taken the main road from Chirk. We then took an innocent left turn that concealed a vicious climb up from 850 to 1200 ft. I was struggling after 2 weeks off the bike, but Ray and Tom managed to get up in one go. From the top, we swoop up and down the lanes on our way to Llansilin, and out the other side before skirting the next big hill. At Pen-y-Bont we take a planned route diversion on our way to the pub. 

The last time we were here was last June when it really rained hard. The landlord allowed us to shelter the bikes in a storeroom, and as then, he was happy to see us and to promptly rustle up some very nice food. Strangely the lads both had a rather hot chilli dish! 

Photograph by Clive Albany

With 26 hilly miles done, the remaining 16 miles were flat as we made our way back parallel to the A483, which we then crossed to quickly run through Oswestry exiting towards the Iron Age hill fort (3500 years old - started on a Monday about 0800). The run back through Weston Rhyn allowed us to access the canal aqueduct route back into Chirk. After 42 miles, we were enjoying an ice cream at 15:15, in readiness for Ray and I to catch the busy 15:48 train. Ray was on his new self-built TDi bike today (titanium frame with Shimano Di2 group set) - i.e. electric powered transmission. I had expected Tom and Ray to be well tired out after their Tuesday's 90 mile ride to Mop Cop (which included cycling the final ascent twice - ask Ivan why!), but they didn’t show it. Incidentally, the moderate ride today was slightly longer and a lot hillier than the brisk version!

CA

17th July 2014: Ellesmere

Ten of us met at the ice cream farm on what promised to be a glorious summers day. By consensus the Black Lion at Ellesmere was selected as the lunch destination and the group consisting of Bryan, Steve, Dave H, Tom, Petar, George, and Trevor set off with Dave & Liz on tandem leading. The initial route followed the lanes used by the Vets Hundred via Tilston, Threapwood and Tallarn Green to pick the A539 for a short distance past the turning for the Hanmer Arms which proved too much of a temptation for Bryan who had ridden to the start in the morning and had enough miles in his legs to satisfy him for the day. Very shortly after the group dived into the lanes again to head south for Ellesmere with one or two sharp climbs on the way.

The Black Lion in the centre of Ellesmere (not to be confused with the red lion another good pub on the outskirts of Ellesmere) lived up to its reputation for substantial good quality food at a reasonable price and good ales that we enjoyed under the sunshades out in the fresh air.

The route back took a short ride north on the A528 before turning right at the 1st junction heading for Penley via beautiful lanes and another steep climb. Keeping to the lanes we headed north via Hollybush, Worthenbury and Shocklach where those not wishing to stop for afternoon coffee at Hildegard’s pushed on directly to home, leaving six of us to enjoy the usual hospitality and banter at Hildegard’s in the hot afternoon sunshine.

The tandem pair and Dave H meandered back to The Ice Cream Farm to pick up their cars leaving those who had ridden to the start to head directly for home.

A glorious day for sunshine and scenery and good company. Black Lion rating – very good. Price is a reasonable £8 full size mains – half size meals available at reduced price. The steak and kidney pie lived up to its promise of being big enough for 2 but I did manage it all with a struggle.

Total distance 49 miles to and from the Ice Cream Farm.

DP

10th July 2014: New Brighton

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

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

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

Photograph by Clive Albany

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

DH

3rd July 2014: Hanmer

A good mix turned up at Hildegard's: Ivan, Paul, Ray, Tom, Steve H, George, Dave and Liz P, and the Runcorn clan of Dave H, Steve Tan and Keith. Dave Matthews had cycled out for a chat, but was again in recovery mode, having worn down his perineum skin as thin as Graphene cycling in France. Initially the weather was disconcertingly cold with drizzle, but gradually improved to ideal. We had gratefully accepted Ray's initiative in leading, as he had Clive's outline route to Hanmer on his screen. We were soon twiddling down our favourite quiet lanes through Ridleywood and Sutton Green to Bangor on Dee. Ray was doing well following Clive's intricate and hummocky route. We took in Penley, Hampton Wood and Bettisfield before reaching the Hanmer Arms, one of our favourites. 

My food was really good, but Keith and the Pipes were grumbly about the quality or absence of bread. Also, the waitress initially wanted us to pay as a group, threatening that if we paid as individuals the last person would have to cover any cash shortfall. Dave Pipe was thankfully assertive. After all, the Pipe's pudding penchant meant they could well have been last to pay.  Ivan had turned back before lunch, as he had initially said that he would have to return early to Chester. Something about cycling without electrical assistance not floating his boat anymore. Incidentally, his next bike is to be a carbon Willier with electric gear change. Tasty!

Our return was via Eglwys Cross and Higher and Lower Wych: hard work for the valiant tandem two. The remainder of our route took us to Cuddington Heath and Chorlton Lane towards Shocklach and Farndon. George put the pedal to the metal as we headed north to the A534. We presented an unwitting lead-out to Paul 'Kittel' Rose who rocketed past. Ray and Tom soon appeared in his wake. Despite missing the break, the indefatigable Steve Tan was registering 24 m.p.h. just trying to catch up on his semi-mountain bike. No podium place for me today after all! This bit of a burn-up is becoming a fun optional tradition of ours when finishing at Holt. Hildegard was our wonderful host at the end. Luscious plum cake and extra coffee - who needs a medal? About 38 miles without the mud of March. Great company and a great day out.

DH

26th June 2014: Wheelock (mod)

A good turnout at the Rose Farm café, and three alternative routes provided plenty of choice.  Bryan, Petar, Dave H, Steve T, Steve H and Darren, on his second outing, chose a 50+ miler that circled yet avoided Crewe. 

We set out to cross the A49 at Cotebrook and follow the quick route through Wettenhall to Nantwich.  From here we took the road through Wybunbury, and then largely kept to village roads and lanes, through Hough and Weston, and then through Gravel Wood.  This should have been a warning because by the time we got to Haslington we came across a recently resurfaced road with mountains of gravel in the gutters.  

Photograph by Steve Haywood

We persevered and eventually came to our intended stop, the Hydes’ Cheshire Cheese Inn at Wheelock.  This was a new discovery and we were pleased to hear they were serving food – in fact good CER-value food, with steak pie, chips, peas and gravy at only £4.75. We sat in the garden and discussed how best to penalise Luis Suarez for biting - a muzzle or full extraction being suggested.

On our way again, turning east at Ettiley Heath, where Darren left us. From here we touched the edge of Leighton before crossing the A530 at Bradford Green where we had lunched at the Coach & Horses only a few weeks before. Through Church Minshull, and we crossed our outward journey at Wettenhall. Then, with a few spits of rain beginning, we made for afternoon refreshments at Tilly’s in Bunbury.

Finally back by Beeston Castle, Huxley and Clotton to the final climb up the hill back into Utkinton.  In total around 53 miles in generally dry pleasant conditions over new ground for many.

SH

26th June 2014: Delamere Forest (short)

With a good turnout at Rose Farm Café I decided to take a short scenic ride round the local area. The group consisted of myself, Dave and Liz on the tandem and guest rider Mike. We set off in the direction of Oulton Mill pool, past Oulton Park racing circuit, and on to the pretty village of Little Budworth. Then downhill towards the Whitegate Way, past the ‘road closed’ signs, and turned left towards the Cheshire Polo Club field. Crossing the A556 we headed towards Delamere Park, past the former residence of Gary Barlow, and then downhill through Acton Bridge to the River weaver. Here we took the riverside lane to Dutton’s Lock, where we crossed the river onto a short path under the Weaver Viaduct, before the steady climb up towards Kingsley. We turned west back towards Delamere Forest and lunch at the Forest Café. Well fortified with an excellent lunch, we took the track straight through the forest towards Eddisbury Lodge fruit farm. Here the tandem chose the undulating route towards Kelsall and back to Utkinton, while we headed for Ashton and the well-signed ‘Motor Museum’. A gentle lane then brought us back home through Morley Bridge and Bridge Trafford. A very pleasant 42 miles door to door.

JD

26th June 2014: Jodrell Bank (brisk)

The Tuesday ride was a very brisk, 89 miler lead by Paul at a cracking 16.5 mph pace; so I was looking for a bit of relief today but I didn’t get any. Five of us (Ray, Ivan, Tom, Alex and myself) set off bound for Jodrell Bank. Alex joined us for the first time today and hopefully he will return in the future. The ride has been done before, but I felt sure I could tweak it on the fly. So we were soon out flying through Eaton on our way to Winsford. Despite shimmying around the town, we still had to deal with the big roundabout over the Weaver, but there is a way to miss it by using the cycleway underneath it! This brought us out at the Bottom Flash section of the NCR 5. An upward path came into view, which quickly turned in a 25% so we all ground to a halt in the wrong gear. Onwards out through Clive Green, we circumnavigate Middlewich through the unending housing estates exiting on NCR 71 to Brereton Green. Ignoring the next section of cycleway (which is a poor track) we end up ambling down the private road to a certain person’s ancestral home (aka Davenport Hall).

This is a lovely route over the Dane river valley exiting into Swettenham village. We take Sandy Lane, and over the ford, before circling around to Lower Withington and on to Jodrell Bank visitor centre itself at 27 miles ridden.

Photograph by Clive Albany

The cafe was not serving hot food today due to a kitchen upgrade, but, as ever, the food was of excellent quality. The return route beckoned, so we set off for Goostrey then Rudheath Woods and down the eponymously named Sandy Lane to bypass a little of the main road; then heading for Lach Dennis and Davenham. Crossing the main A556 at the Hartford turn, we take the counter direction footpath, and, at the railway bridge, take the cut through to Hartford Station. Littledales Lane leads to Hodge Lane and eventually Norley Bank. A short burst then finds us at Delamere Station cafe. 

The route back to Rose Farm is now due south and rounds off at 52 miles. As none of us need to go there, we grind up the Eddisbury Hill bypass, speed down the old Kelsall main road, though Hollowmore Heath to Guilden Sutton and the Greenway. Only 80+ miles today!

CA

19th June 2014: Holt (mod)

The Gallery Café in Hawarden means Welsh hills. But among the members assembling on a fine morning, George had allowed a rebel thought to enter his head – wouldn’t it be a good idea to head into the Cheshire plain instead.  Convincing Dave H and Steve to follow him, the trio slipped away from the pack, and headed through Dodleston to reach Pulford and the lanes to Farndon and Worthenbury.  The furthest objective reached was Lower Wych, with a return through Malpas for a planned lunch at the Carden Arms in Tilston, which was reputed to have a good name.

After some delightful miles speeding through the lanes and up the odd hill, we arrived at an ominously quiet pub, lights off and doors locked. After a quick re-evaluation we decided that Farndon was a sure alternative, a busy village with two pubs to choose from.  “The Farndon” looked promising with its fare described on boards outside, but alas, was closed for the day. Across the road stood The Greyhound, and it was open.  We cycled round the back and met the landlady. She was more than happy to serve us – with drinks, but she didn’t do food!  Reluctant to cross the Dee when our intended route stayed in England, we followed this triple disappointment with a fruitless search for a reputed Farndon café.  Hunger and thirst getting the better of us, we then made what should have been the obvious choice: cross the Dee and make for the always open and always reliable Hildegard’s in Holt. We were not disappointed with good food and a warm welcome.  

Photograph by Steve Haywood

The rest of the route took us through Churton, Tattenhall, Hargrave and Waverton, before a final stop at the Meadow Lea Café at the end of the Greenway after a little over 50 pleasant miles from Hawarden.  From here George and Dave headed back to our start and Steve peeled off to Kelsall.  

SH

19th June 2014: Dyserth (brisk)

Meeting at the Gallery Café in Hawarden Ray and I rode out from Chester and arrived to find several cycles already there at 10:00. Enjoying their coffee and tea cakes were Tom, new rider Darren Burlington from Hoole Chester, Mike G, Dave H, George and Steve.
Knowing Clive was away I had looked at a previous ride from Hawarden to Dyserth and the waterfalls and offered this ride to the group. The moderate group decided to have a quiet ride out to Holt so the brisk group consisting of Tom, Darren (who has not ridden over 45 miles and not sure what Brisk meant), Mike, Ray and I set off through the warming up streets heading for Northop. My Garmin or the user is hopeless at the start of rides (see the last Chirk ride) and we end up at the end of Pinfold lane with only the A55 as a route to Pentre Halkyn. With Mike in the lead we set off at a brisk trip in the metre wide strip of tarmac along the A55 to join the route into Northop and cycling along the route towards our regular and expected A55 experience. Dave H advised us to be careful on this road and I had only expected to be on it once!!
We left the tarmac and headed up Pen Lan lane towards Pentre Halkyn and up onto the tops with lovely views of the estuary and the Wirral.
Passing through Brynford we passed police and assume they were speed checking, fortunately they did not pull us over but probably near the road max speed.
Passing through Pantasph and the beautiful Church and building we roll along very quiet lanes. The NCR5 leads us through Whiteford and Llanasa where we take the left turning passing through Talfryn Woods (via the road) with a lovely smell of the garlic flower. We head down a tight little lane and emerge into Dyserth at 12:20 covering 24 hilly miles at a good average.

Photograph by Ivan Davenport

We take a photo shoot at the waterfalls and witness the photo expertise of Mike who offers to take snaps for other snappers and gets really close to the ground for some shots of the magnificent waterfall. I hope they enjoyed the pic's.
We have lunch at the New Inn and opt for the small lunch deal and sat out side in sunshine. When the food arrived which was very prompt it was a good size meal and lucky we did not opt for the main menu.
Lunch consumed and pint we set off up hill again to the Cwm road and this is a fantastic viewing gallery of Snowdonia. At the end of the road turning left to go under the A55 for a change again uphill (Newydd) and the right hand lane half way up for relief only it too goes up and up.
We experience very quiet lanes and continue passing Babell and skirting Lixwn before arriving on top of Pentre Halkyn and the grand decent into Northop.
We arrive back at the café for 15:30 and enjoy tea and well-earned cake.
The ride was 48 miles with 4,367 feet of ascent.
Last week Tom celebrated his first 100+ ride (126) and today Darren broke his ride max and considered the brisk pedlards a good ride out and will join us next week from Rose Farm.
Ray and I continued onto Chester and Tom went his way and clocked up 68miles for the day making it another fantastic CER ride.
ID

12th June 2014: No Mans Heath (mod)

Bryan, Dave & Liz, George, Mike, Trevor were joined at Manley Mere by Brian Mac, recently back from the other Manly in NSW.  I had decided to lead a ride, as I could then set the pace and distance while some strong riders were doing their midsummer 100 miler. I had noticed that most rides from Manly went east towards Knutsford, but fancied a pub to the south that had good reports.  The route out took us without incident, south through Kelsall, Huxley, Tattenhall, to Broxton Hall, home of Mr Iceland himself, where we had a photo stop. Then onwards to The Wheatsheaf at No Mans Heath, 2 miles east of Malpas (tel 01948 820 337) Dave, Liz and Bryan had all peeled off before lunch, leaving just four doing an easy 13 mph average, in true leisurely CER fashion.

To my knowledge, CER had never been to This Wheatsheaf before, but what a find.  Capitals shouldn’t be used here, but LIME & SODA WAS 40p.  Beat that.  Then it got better.  See the picture of the Specials Board.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

Yes, you read correctly, £3-50 for 2 courses!  Would anyone like to see on past CER reports, if that is an all-time bargain?  While portions were tasty but small, with limited choice, there was enough to eat for a hot summer ride.  I suspect we have overlooked this pub before, as it’s too close to the nearest Meeting Cafes of the ICF or Utkinton.  But I think the 4 of us would all recommend it again, maybe riding from the Little Roodee or Alwyn.

Having promised riders a 50 miler on a sunny day, we all felt short-changed arriving at the pub with only 21 miles covered and a shorter route home.  So with my very able deputy Trevor and assistant-deputy ride-leader George, we added more miles by returning north through Tilston, then west through Farndon, Churton, Tattenhall to the ICF, where Brian stopped for afternoon tea and the others returned to Chester.  Later on in Kelsall, I was map-checking when who should jump out in front of me, but Glennys.  Invited back for tea with John, we caught up on old rides and old riders; sadly some no longer with us.

Back at Manley Mere with 53 hot miles on the clock, I reflected on a classic Chester EASY ride...........average of 13mph, plenty of puff to chat, gloriously sunny day, light wind, capped by a £3-50 two-course lunch.  What more could you ask for?

BMac

12th June 2014: Long Ride to Tibberton

Seven of us (Colin, Tom, Steve, Dave R and H, Paul and myself) are ready for the off at 07:59 outside Chester Station. No Ivan yet: he arrives at 08:00 expecting coffee before the 08:30 start! So off we go up City Road and out of town via Pearl Lane to Christleton. Here we pick up the school run rush, but soon leave it behind as we pass through Tattenhall and down to the A41. A quick dash down the A41 and first left gets us to Brown Knowl and out to Hampton Post. The plan is to weave round the A41 before entering Whitchurch at 25 miles at 10:00. All goes to plan, and we arrive at the empty cafe in the High Street pedestrian area. Soon it fills up with locals and more cyclists appear (End to Enders). Worth a re-visit at some time. 

It’s now warming up as we exit Whitchurch the back way to Ash Magna via Edgeley. I can’t resist a deviation via Brown Moss nature reserve and we rejoin the route at Ash Parva. At the next village of Ightfield, we turn south for Prees Higher Heath to locate the NCR45. We follow the cycle route through the lanes to Marchamley climbing higher to its heady 168m summit. There is a lovely downhill section now, through the dapple shaded trees that hide the extensive Iron Age hill fort of “Bury Walls.” At Stanton upon Hine Heath, we are cycling so well that I decide to add in a loop to Ellerdine on the fly hoping the group will not notice. All goes well but I am undone when the short cut lane we want to take looks suspiciously agricultural, so deciding that we don’t need any incidents or accidents, we plough on along a slightly longer deviation via Osbaston. Rejoining the route at Little Bolas, we then pick up a group of manic contract silage tractor drivers who decide that the lane is theirs and no one else’s. Very intimidating and unnecessary behaviour, especially if you are caught up between them. The smell of beer is in the nostrils as we arrive in Tibberton at the "Sutherland Arms" with 57 miles completed. As in April, the pub does not disappoint, and we while away a pleasant hour or so outside in the sunshine.

 

Photographs by Ivan Davenport and Clive Albany

I promise no more loops on the return, and we head off down beautiful lanes towards Cheswardine. Here we take the bypass, and come across a curious mile marker obviously erected by a cyclist. The route via Chipnall to Market Drayton is one of my favourites down “Elephant Grass” valley. Outside the town, we have a steep climb up to the canal path to effect a bypass of the town. All goes well as we motor on to Norton in Hales and out and up over the hills to the outskirts of Audlem. It’s then a quick dash along NCR70 to Wrenbury. The village shop’s coffee machine is broken, and I detect a slight cheer as we go to the nearby Cotton Arms for “tea”. 

Dave H decides he wants to take it leisurely back to Chester, so we leave him bound for Cholmondeley via Bickley. The sun must have gone to our heads because as we get closer to Tattenhall the faster we are cycling. Post Tattenhall, Dave R and Steve split off home, and as we enter Guilden Sutton, the "Bird in Hand” beckons Ivan and me, whilst Tom and Paul go home with 100+ miles on the clock. Reflecting on the great day’s ride, the paraphrased lyrics of Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day” came to mind “Just a perfect day, Drink beer in the pub, And then later, when it get’s dark, We go home”. You can’t beat the English countryside in high summer. The official route clocks up at 108 miles, but most of us achieved more than that!

CA

5th June 2014: Oswestry (mod)

At last, a dry day forecast, after a series of somewhat damp Thursdays, to enhance our departure from Chirk.

The new café proved to be a surprise, with white tablecloths and smiling, efficient waitresses - not what we are used to at all! A  reasonable sized group of eight met at 10 o’clock sharp to discuss destinations. The brisk group decided to head for Llangollen, while the moderate group of Mike G, Petar, George and myself set off for my circumnavigation of Oswestry. 

The route was something of an experiment as it had been chosen straight from the map without any prior recce, so it could have been a disaster. As it happened, it worked out very well, with a fairly hilly morning followed by an undulating afternoon. The route took us south to Weston Rhyn and up to Offa's Dyke past the Old Racecourse. The views were impressive along the ridge and we stopped several times to enjoy the panorama and to try to identify the hills to the south. A detour through  Creosau Bach took us in a loop round Trefonen and through a ford to give Petar’s new bike a good work out.

Photographs by Mike Gilbert

Eastwards to Morda took us to the south of Oswestry and on to lunch at the Navigation Inn at Maesbury Marsh. The local brew, Shropshire Lass, proved popular with some, and the food was very good quality. Definitely a recommended stop. 

Mike could remember much of the return route from one of the CTC longer rides, so we set off still eastwards for Stanwardine in the Fields. Turning north in the village we swept through pleasant lanes up to Lower Frankton and Welsh Frankton, before crossing the A5 at a busy traffic island and then taking the old main road back to Chirk.

Nearly 43 miles, and not a drop of rain in sight. Perhaps Chirk isn’t too bad a starting point after all! 

JD       

5th June 2014: Llandderfel (brisk)

Ivan suggested a 40+ miler to Cynwyd, and as this was close to my suggestion of Melin Rug, Tom and I were happy to take Ivan’s route. So after a quick orientation ride around Chirk to get the Garmin acclimatised, we set off up the Ceiriog valley in sunshine and a brisk westerly wind, which we would come to rue later on in the ride. At Castle Mill, where Edward II was beaten by the locals in the 12C, we turn sharp left and up, and then up and up again! We climb a 1,000ft in 4 miles to magnificent mountain and valley views all around. The lanes are getting smaller and rougher and then at a sharp bend, the Garmin says straight ahead across a wide mountain track. We consult to the OS map and decide tiny lanes are better than farmer’s tracks so we head on down towards Llansilin via some exhilarating smooth descents. The Garmin still insists we should go straight over the Berwyns but we ignore it and head westwards along the Tannat Valley and Llangynog. Here we enjoy the second 1,000ft climb over 4 miles of the day with stiff westerlies cooling us down. We top out near 1,600ft ready to enjoy the fast downhill towards Bala.

Photographs by Ivan Davenport

At 35 miles near to Llandderfel, the Bryn Tynion pub comes into view, and, as its way past lunchtime, we decide to take lunch anyway. The pints were welcome as was the promptly served food. It’s now about 15:00 and we take the B4401 towards Corwen skirting the Dee valley. Passing through Cynwyd, we notice that both of the pubs are closed and we have cycled 41 miles already! “Only 20 to go now” says Ivan. We take the easy option along the A5 back to Llangollen and then the bone-dry towpath virtually to the Pontcysyllite aqueduct. As we get very near the end of the towpath there are barriers barring our way, so we have to take the footpath down onto the road by the aqueduct. Here Tom admits to being a little acrophobic, so we give the walk across the aqueduct a miss and get back on the towpath via the road. We motor on all the way back to Chirk on the tow path having completed 62 of Ivan’s 40+ miler ride with nearly 5,000ft of climb and quite a few 20% gradients - but it was all worth it; new lanes and roads and magnificent vistas. As Ivan and I enjoy and ice cream at Chirk station waiting for the 17:48 Arriva train, our legs remind us of the 13.5 mph average speed.

CA

29th May 2014: Destination unknown

Awaiting ride report.  Would any member out on this ride submit a ride report for inclusion on the blog.