26th August 2012: Wild Wales Challenge

What a great ride which took place in ideal sunny and dry weather conditions, providing a brief, dry interlude during one of the wettest summers on record.  As I sit here recovering from yesterday’s efforts the rain is bucketing down once again: but who cares after such a fulfilling day out in the glorious Welsh mountains.

This year’s challenge repeats a route of some 10 years ago riding out over the Hirnant Pass from Bala to Lake Vyrnwy and on to the first control at Llanerfyl village hall.  The route then turns east to follow some very lumpy roads to Machynlleth where there is no control but an opportunity to grab some much needed lunch.  After this brief respite the route turns north to follow a small back road to Corris and then the mountain road west to Aberangell and Dinas Mawddwy.  The Bwlch y Groes looms above this control and provides a challenging route back to the finish in Bala after a total of 83 miles and 7,000ft of climbing.

There were 6 of us Chester Easy Riders at the 08:15 start in Bala - the Geneva-Nice team (Martin Donaldson, David Matthews, Dave Pipe & Ray Stigter) putting all that alpine fitness to good use, along with Lowri Evans and Dave Hill who employed locally gained Welsh mountain fitness to get the two of them round the demanding course.

The following account relies mostly on my own experiences as we rode at our own pace and only coincided on the road as circumstances and pace allowed.  The mountain goat team of Martin and Ray disappeared into the distance beyond Lake Vyrnwy never to be seen again.  I believe they finished 2 hours ahead of the rest of us in the speedy time of 8 hours.

Since riding this course some 10 years ago a couple of handy books have been written by Simon Warren which document and grade 200 climbs in Britain’s hills.  Three climbs from the books are included in this ride, which gives some idea of the overall challenge.  The hills between the listed climbs often seemed just as severe as we linked up the well known, “big ticket” ascents.

First up was the Hirnant (grade 7/10), which provided an ideal warm up.  Not too steep at first, but rising to a 15% gradient for a brief section near the top.  The descent was fairly tricky as the road through the trees was damp in places.  There was also a fair amount of gravel that caused at least one rider to crash out.

On the Hirnant

Photographs by David Matthews

Once down at Lake Vyrnwy, whilst I was still in touch with Ray, we had a real blast riding with bunches of cyclists along the level, lakeside road to Llanwddyn.  Beyond this point I left my comfort zone of well-known roads to climb through a series of steep narrow lanes to eventually emerge onto the A458 at Llangadfan.  A short distance after this the first control at Llanerfyl village hall was reached.  There were long queues of cyclists here that caused a wait of 15 minutes or so to get through to the electronic control check and subsequently grab a snack.  Whilst waiting in the queue I met up with fellow Seamons CC rider Stuart Kay, last met on the Costa Blanca in April, so the queue time passed quickly for us as we caught up with the club news.

Leaving the control southwards the route follows one of my favourite roads in Wales along the peaceful and remote Nant y Eira valley, protected by its multitude of cattle grids.  On this occasion the road had recently been covered in liberal quantities of gravel which slowed things down a bit but the wheel crunching noise did give warning of a small convoy of 1930’s touring cars creeping along behind us.

After this relatively gentle interlude, there were yet more steep, twisty, narrow lanes that eventually led out to “big city” Machynlleth.  It seemed that most of the 500+ riders had arrived here simultaneously as every cafe and shop was filled to bursting with hungry & thirsty cyclists.  After standing in a cafe queue for 10 minutes and getting nowhere, I gave up and raided the local Spar shop for water, Eccles cakes and a banana.  Not the best meal---but packed full of energy!

The next section turned north for Corris and the Dyfi Forest climb (grade 7/10) with its 17% and 20% gradients over to Aberangell.  I wasn’t looking forward to this climb as I had traversed it with Ray some 12 days previously when checking the route sheet for the new 208k (130 mile) Audax “The Barmouth Boulevard”.  The three big lifts through the forest seemed really exhausting a couple of weeks ago after riding a challenging 80 miles prior to the ascent; on this occasion the climb coming after 60 miles of hilly roads seemed more reasonable to both of us.

Commemorative slate

Beyond Aberangell, a narrow riverside road leads to Dinas Mawddwy where the village hall control point is overshadowed by the looming presence of Bwlch y Groes. After a quick snack, I nervously rode out along the 4 mile approach road up the Afon Dyfi valley to the foot of the pass (the highest tarmacked pass in Wales; grade 10/10) and the start of the real climbing just beyond Llanymawddwy.  The road immediately rises up at 25% and maintains a similar gradient for the next 3 miles to the summit.  Most riders (self included) walked a few sections of the pass to relieve the strain, so congratulations to Ray and Dave Pipe who rode the whole way.

Once on top of the Bwlch y Groes there is an exhilarating descent to Bala Lake followed by a quick blast round the east side to Bala, the final control, a brew and a well earned commemorative slate.  A great day out and it’s all on again for next year.  

Many thanks to Organiser Denis Holder for coming out of retirement and once again providing such a consistently great event.

DM

23rd August 2012: Mersey Estuary

Liverpool skyline

All aboard

Ray, Trevor, Dave B, Mike M, Clive, Liz D and Brian were all raring to go from Ness Gardens by 10:25.  Brian had asked for a smart, sharp departure before 10:30; Ray was so quick getting away, that he forgot to pay.  A quick ride diagonally across to Woodside saw us catching a ferry, much preferred to the electric train.  All on board safely, a picture taken of us seven, showed Dave decidedly sea sick and Mike cropped out completely.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

Is Dave sea sick? What's happened to Mike?

After the Albert Dock, an easy ride took us downstream on the Lancs side past Otterspool, through Grassington Park, old Garston village and out at the old Speke Airfield.  A path is marked on the A-Z atlas running between the airport and the estuary.  It may be worth checking out before the next ride to see if it’s passable.  Good time was made to The Wellington Pub in Hale, a Marston’s roadhouse similar to The Eastham Ferry.  A wide menu choice was on offer with the bonus of Lime and S only costing £1 and beer at £2.50.  Result.  Worth a return visit, as this area was devoid of pubs and cafes.  

Widnes staircase

After lunch, the ride saw us on parkland along the river bank and across The Bridge to that other desert, Runcorn.  The place has always been a minefield to cycle through, as it’s devoid of signs & what there are only point to places in the middle of the town.  Dave H had come to the rescue with a map running south to north, which I used on the recee.  Returning south, we saw a sign for a place we recognised called Acton Bridge & followed Sustrans route 562 past bingo halls, parks and motorways, before being ejected out onto the A56.  

Over the bridge

A ride along the main road through Frodsham, took us to the B road across to the Windsurfing Centre, where coffee and cake was consumed.  Suitably refreshed, and with Mike having departed earlier, we set off on the final leg through the Mickles to Mollington, where Clive left us.  Liz, Trevor & Brian arrived back at Ness after 7 hours and with 59 easy miles under our belts.  This ride could be done quicker in winter, provided you did not catch the ferry, which is both more expensive & slower than the frequent trains from Hamilton Square.

BMac

16th August 2012: Audlem (mod)

With a glorious sunny day in prospect a good turnout at Hildegard’s was to be expected.  Brian Mac just returned from his work at the Olympics was engrossed in a newspaper while demolishing his breakfast when I arrived.  He had apparently been up since five and had already done his ride!  Martin & Liz D, Jim, David M, Dave H, Andy, Trevor, Ray and I made up the remaining nine plus Mike Roberts from the Wrexham Reivers/Café Hoppers joining us for the day on his trike.

Jim had a route in mind to the Shroppie Fly in Audlem via Tilston and Wrenbury that sounded just right.  It was soon apparent that out of the 11 present only eight of us were riding, leaving Brian Mac, David M and Trevor to indulge further.  After a little cajoling we set off with Jim in the lead clutching a scrap of paper that doubled up as his GPS and satnav.  We made good progress through Tilston, then bypassing Malpas to No Mans Heath where we crossed the A41.  Mike Roberts decided to turn off just after Bickley Town as we reached the A49.  From here it was a lovely relaxing ride across to Wrenbury where we arrived with perfect timing just as the canal bridge was being lowered: no waiting today then.  Conversation continued as we made our way on the final stretch through Aston and Brown’s Bank to Audlem.

The Shroppie Fly was already busy when we arrived but we got two outside tables to soak up the sun while our orders were prepared.  The selection of ales was good ranging from Timothy Taylor Landlord to Bays Winning Gold (brewed for the 2012 Olympics) but the lime and soda drinkers found the price excessive.  That aside, it’s a lovely quiet spot here on the bank of the canal: a perfect place to relax and forget about the troubles of the world.  

The route back saw us retracing our steps to Wrenbury but then heading north to Cholmondeley before turning off to Hampton Post and Hampton Heath for the return leg back through Tilston.  Arriving back in Holt by 15:30 we had plenty of time for tea/coffee and a choice of Hildegard’s cakes before it was time to split up and make for home.

A lovely relaxing 43 miles with friends: a perfect day.

BW

14th August 2012: Barmouth Boulevard

The Barmouth Boulevard is a brand new audax 208km event heading out from Corwen round Lake Bala, over the Trawsfynydd mountain road and on to Harlech and Barmouth.  The return is through the Bird Rock road to Abergynolwyn, Corris, the mountain road to Mallwyd, Cross Foxes and Bala town.  It is scheduled as a calendar event for October 20, but can be ridden anytime as a "permanent". 

The purpose of today’s ride, apart from having a great day out, was to get Ray to check out the route sheet as initially prepared by DM.  It is quite remarkable how many first time errors appear in route sheets (as well as subsequent changes put in by road makers) and the best way to counter this is to get a second person to ride the route and see it through their eyes.

After several false starts caused by rubbish weather, we eventually left Corwen at 07:30 on Tuesday 14 August and headed out to Bala on a day that threatened just a few showers.  We turned off the main Bala road to ride alongside the E side of the lake, which road was covered in rather dangerous new gravel in several places, to the first control at the Eagle Inn in Llanuwchllyn.  After a good fill of coffee and doorstep toast, we set off for Trawsfynydd over the narrow mountain road.  The gravel spreaders had been at work here also and made the first 10k dangerous as well as strenuous up the steep hills.  The gravel rather spoiled the spectacular mountain views, as all our senses were required to stay on the bike.

Fortunately the gravel ended abruptly just before the last hill, so we could then enjoy the ride and views over to Trawsfynydd and the subsequent main road route to Harlech.  After a deli stop in Harlech, we then continued down the main road to Barmouth, followed by a ride over the Causeway to the Towyn road.  This section of road is really beautiful as it climbs above the sea before finally turning inland near Llanegryn, leading to the fantastic mountain views along the Bird Rock road to Abergynolwyn.

The official control here is at the local library/cafe/post office which we now know is open 6 days per week - closed Tuesdays.  Fortunately we spotted a nice pub down the road where we got our cards stamped and filled up selves and bottles with liquid refreshment.  The route now leads northeast past several lakes and a big climb to Corris.  After Corris, we turned off along another mountain road through Aberllefenni that has been recently resurfaced.  This nice surface helps just a bit on the 17% and 20% ascents over to Mallwyd and civilisation.

The next part of the ride was one of the hardest in our fairly tired state, as we had to climb 10k from Mallwyd up to Cross Foxes on the main road.  No chance of falling asleep here as white van men and tourists whizzed close by on the road and Tornado jets screamed overhead on low level exercises.  Once recovered in Cross Foxes, we headed off through Brithdir and then the main road to Bala followed by the Pale route to Corwen.

Overall a hard but very fulfilling day out of 132 miles (212K) and 12,000ft (3500m) ascent in 13.5 hours.  Thanks to Ray for his company, improvements to the route sheet and for waiting for me at the summit of the hills.

David M

9th August 2012: Dunham Massey (brisk)

Arrived at Rose Farm cafe, Utkinton at 10:00 to find Ivan sat on the benches outside in glorious sunshine. 

No one else had turned up by 10:30 so we set off for the Red Barn at Dunham Massey via Antrobus and all sorts of obscure lanes.  A few miles beyond Antrobus, we alighted on an old aircraft runway where Ivan pulled out his DNA test kit to confirm that the bloodstains on the runway had in fact been left by Trevor a couple of weeks ago.

To Ivan's dismay we could not find the pub at Dunham Massey, so settled for soft drinks, sandwiches and supercharged German almond cake (DM only on this one) at the Red Barn farm.

Still in glorious weather, we returned through Hale (excellent for ornithology according to Ivan who fell off my back wheel at this stage) along DM's old Seamons CC tracks and onward through Tatton Park to Knutsford.  From here we followed the now traditional route past The Bells of Peover to Davenham and the secret road to Whitegate and the Shire Horse Cafe for a well-earned brew.

Finally we rode along the secret lake road to Utkinton and Oscroft where Ivan continued onward to Chester.  70 miles round trip for DM and 80 miles for Ivan; at a pace somewhat above brisk.

DM

9th August 2012: Tracks & Trails of the High Peak

The cast of thousands - well 14 of us - assembled at the car park at the start of the Monsal Trail at 10:00 and set off at 13 mph: true Easy Riders pace! for coffee.  Martin, Liz, Trevor, Jim, Andy, George, Dave Hill, Bryan, Tony, Dave & Liz P and Dave H with special guest Collette.

Photographs by Dave Hill

The route followed the trail and tunnels for the first 9 miles avoiding the unlit walkers and ghostly cyclists appearing out of the gloom. We soon reached Bakewell Station and shot off down the unusually named Station Road to the town centre.  A bit of dicing with the locals and we were heading uphill on Yeld Road towards Youlgreave (why is it that downhills are always shorter that uphills? I bet there is a mathematical formula for that).  On reaching Youlgreave we realised that 5 of the group were missing. We had stopped to look at the medieval village at Conksbury, which we didn't find; perhaps they were still there? A phone call sorted out the problem and we agreed to meet at the pub at lunchtime. Onwards and upwards, through Middleton by Youlgreave and Elton, past the two faced stone and finally to the pub at Winster.  We seemed to have been going continually uphill for the last hour - Clive would have been proud of us!

After a leisurely lunch in the beer garden at The Miners Standard. We all set off north towards the High Peak Trail.  After a toilet stop by the junction with the Tissington Trail at Parsley Hay, the route continued north to the end of the trail.  A short dogleg across the A515 and we were following the Midshires Way north back towards Taddington. The track became steadily rougher culminating in a true off-road downhill descent to Blackwell Hall. Then a quick thrash down the B road (max 37mph) to Millers Dale followed by a short and final uphill to the car park and the coffee wagon. Then 3 miles back along the trail to our starting point. Nearly 40 miles, tough in places and easy in others, but with brilliant weather all the way.  A spectacular day was had by all.

JD

2nd August 2012: Llanasa

The team assembled at Spiros in Hawarden at 10:00 am like the cast from the Usual Suspects:

Martin & Liz, Mike M, Ray, Tony, Clive, George, Dave H and Jim.

There was a general atmosphere of disinterest for a long ride so I proposed a shortish trot to Llanasa for lunch and back (about 40 miles) leaving us back in time to catch the cycling at the Pleasuredrome.  All were in favour so we set off at a steady pace for Northop, Halkyn, Whitford and Llanasa.

Service was a bit slow but we didn't mind as it was heaving it down outside and I'd left my helmet on my handlebars!  Dim move, but we all make mistakes! The route back was up that interminable hill towards Trelawnyd, over the A55 and up towards Babell and Windmill. The group split at that point with those eager to see Victoria Pendleton in her lycra leading the way with myself, Dave, George and Mike following at a more sedate pace.  A slight detour from Halkyn Hill allowed us to miss the little narrow lane, at present full of mud so George assured us, and back to Northop, then Hawarden.

40 miles, with 60 for those from Chester, and we still got home for 4 pm.

JD

26th July 2012: Moore

The sun was out at Manley Mere and a cyclist's dozen were out to day - 12 bikes but 13 riders.  No one had a route; so the one I had prepared last November would do. I'd been out with Harry last November but didn't fancy his extended route from Grappenhall, so found my way home via Runcorn's canals. To mix it up a bit, the obvious way to Kingsley was ignored as we exited Helsby and ground up the chevroned road to Alvanley; then up onto the top via Commonside and Newton. Somewhere here the message came that Jim and Mike M were going to do their own thing, so we pressed on via Kingsley to Acton Bridge.  Aren't English lane names fascinating; there was Cliff Lane without a cliff, and Roddy Lane with a rod, and thankfully no offal in sight in Offal Pit Lane! Somewhere near Frandley, Martin and Liz decided to make their own ride, so the rest of us (Ray, Ivan, George, Trevor, Roy, Paul, Tandem Duo and myself) found ourselves zigzagging down the lanes towards Appleton Thorn via the old airfield. Here Trevor involuntarily left some of his DNA on the road as he skidded trying to avoid water-filled pots. He was OK, as was his bike, but attention was cleverly diverted to George's mudguards. Once all fixed, we skirt the Young Offenders Institution and savour the downhill run into Grappenhall. Out towards Stockton Heath, George's mudguards feature again as we ride up to Appleton Reservoir. Soon we run down into Moore and at 28 miles, are ready for lunch. The Red Lion needs a bit of TLC but the food is good. In fact, Trevor liked so much that he is due to return to collect his saddlebag sometime soon! The novelty part now starts as we "admire" the outer Runcorn estate housing architecture, and access the Runcorn branch of the Bridgewater Canal at Norton. We ride the canal towpath all the way to near the station thus bypassing most of Runcorn's architecture. Here Roy is on home territory and helps us out and up to Weston to admire the Mersey view and the Castner Kellner plant.  In Frodsham, we enjoy lattes in the air conditioned Costa Coffee before tackling the long hill out and up towards Riley's Bank and the downhill back to Manley Mere. The route was a leisurely 44 miles, but around 65 for those of us Chester bound.

CA

19th July 2012: Pendle Witch Country

The weather was uncertain, but the lemon cake was a sure thing at Number 51. We were having a communication problem with Dave M., who had apparently turned back in the face of miserable motorway rain. So it was that the certainties, myself, Brian Mac and George were conjoined by the last minute surprise trio of Mike Morley, Jim and Bryan Wade. 

We scooted around to briefly view Whalley Abbey entrance, and then headed for the golf course. There was a lot of up: Clive’s altimeter would have been whirring its wheels off. We weren’t in much risk of whirring our wheels off though as we strained slowly up from Sabden Brook. The narrow ridge road passed through a grotto of green onto the top of Padiham Heights, with Burnley below. Soon we were cruising, the weather was dry and the riding was easy.

After the delightful hamlet at Sabden Hall, it was 100% effort again just before reaching steeply situated Newchurch in Pendle with its strong connections with the Lancashire witches. In 1612 ten witches from the Pendle area were sent to the scaffold. In the graveyard of St. Mary’s of Newchurch is a tombstone with a skull and crossbones known locally as ‘the witches grave’. George appeared to be the expert on witches having married a local girl; he even knew where one of the Nutters was buried. 

East from Newchurch we bowled down Jinny Lane to the last remaining Clarion Room in the country. 

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

Hundreds of mill workers and their families used to come up here for refreshment and fresh air at the weekend. But there was much more to the Clarion movement than this, and fitness and fraternity through a national network of cycling clubs was a significant element of this socialist movement. Cyclists and walkers still come here for a drink and a break on Sundays. From here we rode into Barley, ignoring the cosy tea rooms as my little black timetable book had us behind schedule. We then whacked our way around the impressive green bulk of Pendle Hill. Right and ahead was a panoramic view stretching as far as the Yorkshire Dales. Our geographers, Jim and Brian Mac, recognised Pen-y-Ghent and Ingleborough on the horizon. We hurtled down the multi-arrowed Pendle Road to famously filmed Downham. Here we ran into two lively ladies who stalked us to the post office tea shop. I think they were looking for Specsave!

We crossed high above the A59, and over the Ribble at Chatburn (site of a yummy ice cream shop) and made our way south west to wonderful Waddington. The Lower Buck tempted, but I wanted the back of the ride broken by lunch, so we carried on easily to Higher Hodder Bridge. We ground around the heavily wooded Waddington Fell and up the Hodder Valley. We had done a lot of climbing, and after at least three hours in (and out of) the saddle, our lunch stop, at Chipping’s haunted 17th Century Sun Inn, arrived not a moment too soon. The food was excellent and the service was courteous and friendly.

We wound out of Chipping up a lush Quiet Lane past Legram Hall. The peaceful road meandered between Burnslack and Fair Oak Fell soaring to our left, and the wooded River Hodder below. The Wild Boar Park was passed, and we soon sighted the unlikely red telephone box as we steadily gained height and faced the last really steep bank of the day by Knot End cottage. The reward was a panoramic view across The Forest of Bowland to Yorkshire, and a lovely long descent to Burholme Bridge. The return to the Ribble Valley was by the route of least resistance! The famous Inn at Whitewell was passed as we followed the Hodder before winding left up the Roman road to Cow Ark, and past Browsholme Hall the ancestral seat of the Parkers, Bowbearers of the Forest of Bowland since Tudor times.

It was mostly downhill from here as we sped to coffee and cake at Balshall Barn. As we sipped next to the cows, Mike, George and I decided to have a look at the breathtaking Stonyhurst College, a magnificent 16th. Century manor house now home to a famous independent Catholic school. We passed ‘Cromwell’ Bridge over the Hodder and the beautiful old Alms House in Hurst Green on our extra loop. We finished by crossing the River Ribble at Great Mitton and returned to Mike’s former home village of Whalley.

It was a pleasure to cycle in such pleasant company. It was quite a demanding ride, and for those, who, because of various circumstances were not at their fittest, very hard at times. I hope now that the lactic acid has dissipated they will look back with pleasure and remember the fine views.  Mileage 46 or 51 with the Stonyhurst College loop.

DH

12th July 2012: Calverhall

Today was all about finding a pub that was open at lunchtime for food.  The target was an unknown pub in Prees, but more later.  As it promised to be a sunny dry day, there was a crowd at the Ice Cream Farm. Bryan was in civvies mode and Dave M in recovery mode.  So the rest of us (Roy, Dave H, Ray, Brian, Trevor, Tony H, Tandem Duo and I) set off bound for Prees via Whitchurch.  Up around Burwardsley and Harthill we find the lane to Cholmondeley closed off for water works but still open for bikes.  We circle Moss Wood to Swanwick Green and onto Marbury.  Up some new lanes to Hollyhurst, we enter Whitchurch close by the station.  We exit via a dead-end road to cross the busy A525 towards Brown Moss conservation area.  The Tandem Duo wave us on so we amble through the shady Brown Moss area. 

More on the pubs; Brian's phone call to his mate reveals that the Prees pub is closed (later confirmed as 3 years ago), the Horseshoes in Tilstock doesn't do lunch, so he suggests the Raven on the A41.  We stop across the dual carriageway from it and there is not much enthusiasm despite it being pint time.  I offer the Olde Jack at Calverhall that is unanimously accepted as a better alternative to the Raven.

Whitchurch Canal Basin

Retracing our route, we come across the tandem bound for the A41. The Olde Jack does us proud proffering a large bowl of free chips when I protest that my meal is without them.  After lunch, we re-access the prepared route via Coton. The pub here was the original lunch venue but a web search mysteriously revealed that it was either shut or open! - it was shut as we rode by bound for Alkington and Whitchurch again. 

Photograph by Clive Albany

We join the towpath at Whitchurch canal basin and exit at Grindley Brook.  Going north, we shimmy left and right across the A41until past the Bell o" the Hill pub I offer a route diversion.  Back a shorter way or onwards via Malpas. The call of the Ice Cream Farm is too strong and we arrive back to meet up with Dave and Liz.  They had eschewed the Raven and taken lunch at the truck stop next door, and very good it was according to Dave. 

Today, Tony H was back with us after his extensive long distance practicing in the US, Trevor had new tyres and tubes, and Roy was a ridiculously strong rider, but then he is half our age! So 54 miles of British Summer weather and quintessentially English lanes - a good day to be out in the saddle.

CA

5th July 2012: Beatles Cycling Tour of Liverpool

1. Ringo's birthplace

2. Sefton Park

3. Coffee

4. Penny Lane

5. Strawberry Fields

6. Paul's house

7. Otterspool Formation Team

8. Ferry across the Mersey

9. Disembark

Eight members gathered at Chester Station to catch a train to Liverpool for the start of The Magical Mystery Tour – Trevor, Martin & Liz, Clive, Ivan, Mike, Ray & myself.  Alighting at James Street, we made our way south alongside the Mersey, to view various important places associated with The Beatles.  (pics. follow in numerical order) 

Ringo’s birthplace in Toxteth was first 1; sadly it had seen better days.  Riding thro Princes Park, Trevor had the first of 3 punctures.  Sefton Park followed, 2 and the call went out “I want a wee” (It’s like herding cats or kids) followed by a coffee stop 3.  Penny Lane, 4 was next (are you singing along yet?) soon followed by “A shelter in the middle of a roundabout” at its northern end.  George’s birthplace near the Picton Clock was next.  There we were not sure what all the Japanese tourists would make of the locals sitting outside their houses in the sun in the afternoon, still dressed in pyjamas.

A long ride east took us to the increasingly more affluent area where John grew up with his Aunt Mimi.  First though, we stopped at St Peters Church Hall, Woolton, where 55 years ago to the day, John was introduced to Paul, who had to audition there to join the Quarry Men.  Along the road we came to 5, Strawberry Fields, an old orphanage sadly looking in a sorry state.  John’s house on Menlove Ave was next, now a National Trust property.  As was the next 6, Paul’s house in Allerton.  A massive carvery followed, costing £3, at a recommended boozer.

After lunch, the CER Cycle Formation Team 7 appeared again on Otterspool promenade, though with all the folk out enjoying the sun, otters were few and far between.  As we were early for the first commuter ferry across the Mersey (are you still singing?), we had a pleasant 30 minutes to kill at the best hostelry in the City, the Philharmonic Rooms.  The ferry 8, 9 was busy and the half-hour trip enabled Trevor to change puncture number 2.  Disembarking at Woodside at 16:45, I spotted a new Sustrans sign pointing to Eastham ferry and as time was pressing, we went for this new route.

We soon found in Rock Ferry that some signs had already been re-cycled into scrap and as a result I was not 100% sure of the new route.  Who should then turn up but a knight in shining armour, a k a, Gary from the local wheelers, who was cycling home to Port Sunlight.  He put us right and we returned via Eastham, the missing Link and Ledsham to Chester.  Distances were 23 miles in the city, followed by 20 odd to Chester.

Feedback received was encouraging and I enjoyed being a tour guide for the day, though the tips were miserable!!  I used a booklet on the Beatles for my guidance and you are welcome to borrow it anytime. 

BMac


Photographs, tour planning and commentary courtesy of Brian MacDonald

28th June 2012: Bradfield Green

Back from two weeks off, namely sitting about on a boat, it was a struggle to get out to Hildegard’s café.  The Alpine Quartet was all there with very professional photos of snow, views and enormous hilly climbs (up to c 2900m!).  Dave M was in recovery mode after his tunnel experience, so the rest of us (Martin, Liz and Dave P, George, Dave H, Ray and I) set off for a 55 mile ride which curiously no one really asked about as I led them out towards Tilston along the main road.

The Secret Nuclear Bunker

“Road Closed” greeted us at the Cock o’ Barton and this was to be a feature three more times. Ignoring the sign, we find it is the annual road patch-up season.  The route takes us through Duckington to the Cholmondeley Arms. Here Martin has had enough for the day and turns back. The same happens with the tandem at Sound as the remaining four cycle towards Nantwich bound for the Coach and Horses at Bradfield Green. On the way we briefly visit the Secret Nuclear Bunker at Hack Green that has a large café – so perhaps an afternoon tea stop on another ride. Several new Bentleys pass us on their way back to the Crewe works and, at nearly 30 miles, Leighton Hospital passes us by and the Coach and Horses is a welcome site.
The reception is very friendly and the food comes quickly and all are replete. I offer afternoon repast at Tilley’s so it is an easy run back into Bunbury via Bird Lane. The heavens open as we sup our drinks (no cakes though).  We wait a few minutes until it clears and make out way back towards the Ice Cream Farm.  Here, George and Dave H make their way back via Tattenhall to Farndon whilst Ray and I wend our way back to Chester with 70 miles on the clock. Apparently there was downpour in Chester whilst we had just a few spots of rain so my rain-avoidance skill/luck still holds.

CA

21st June 2012: Malpas

I had suspected that numbers might be somewhat depleted today as four of our regulars are currently traversing the Alps, Andy is cycling in Croatia and Clive, who led last week's ride, had mentioned that he was away for the following two weeks.  Also, the weather forecast was not great with only a suggestion of some dry weather later in the day.
My suspicions proved well founded, as I was the only CER representative at Utkington today.  A fellow cyclist, who introduced himself as Roy, was sitting there when I arrived.  Engaging in conversation he told me that he had cycled over from Runcorn.  He had cycled with us once before a few weeks ago when the majority of the club were cycling in the Peak District, led by Dave Heath, Roy had joined Dave M and Ray who had offered an alternative ride on that occasion.
As the rain came down and it became apparent we were the only two brave/foolish souls out today, Roy decided to call it a day and head for home.  I was tempted to follow suit.  However, I was conscious of the need to get some miles on the bike.  I have entered next Sunday's Bert Bailey 100 mile Vets event and am not as prepared as last year when it formed part of my build up to my End2End.  So attempting to ignore the light but persistent rain I set off for Malpas through Tattenhall and Farndon.
I had lunch at the Old Fire Station cafe, now rebranded as a "Bistro" but still offering, among its more exotic fare, such old stalwarts as baked potato and toasted panini’s, both for under a fiver and therefore comparing well with pub prices.  After lunch I turned north again through Tilston and then more or less followed the Cheshire Cycleway as far as Huxley before cycling the last few miles through Duddon and back to Rose Farm.  It did eventually stop raining after lunch!
GW

14th June 2012: Llanbedr

The forecast was for sunny spells and although rain threatened several times, only a few spots fell – so I have maintained my “ability/luck” to control the weather over the last three rides!  Six of us left the Gallery Café bound for Penycloddiau pass and the Griffin pub in Llanbedr DC.  Liz D, Trevor, George, Alan, Dave B and I left behind the Tandem Duo and Martin.
Out from Hawarden, we warm up our legs over wet roads past the Ewloe quarry towards Buckley. We take the back way to Soughton to access the steady climb up to Gwernaffield.  Down the steep descent to Cilcain Bridge, we puff up the double chevron ascent and turn right towards Nannerch.

Photographs by Alan Jeffs

At the start of the long climb to Penycloddiau I suggest we meet in the car park at the top for a breather.  In the car park Alan and I enjoy the Vale of Clwyd views and the history of this Iron Age hill fort and patiently wait but no one comes until I spot Trevor who says he is the back marker.  We three set of down the lane to find the others.  A phone call from Liz advises they couldn’t find us in the car park (?) and are down the bottom at the crossroads.  “OK” I say, “be with you soon”.  However down the lane I find Alan assisting Trevor with a puncture so I freewheel all way down to the crossroads and advise Liz and Co to follow the B road to the Griffin.  I grind back up the hill and wait at the turn for the high level lane that cuts across the countryside to the pub.  

The pub is good value and we leave bound for the Nant y Garth “bypass” at Graigfechan.  We wait for Trevor at the start of the run down to Llanarmon.  He doesn’t appear, and his phone I later discover is elsewhere.  I grind back up the road to find him changing the front tyre.  At Llanarmon, we view the Welsh motte and bailey castle thinly disguised as rocky outcrop and a copse.  Up to Trueddyn, we make our way to the edge of Leeswood before turning back bound for the old Chester Road in Penyffordd and Bilberry wood. Trevor and I go back to Chester via Saltney Ferry and the others finish the 45 miles route back in Hawarden. Several other notable riders were resting today ready for their Alps sojourn next week.  I thought they might have relished a warm up over the Clwydians!

CA

7th June 2012: Welshpool 107 ride (long)

Let’s start with the weather - rain all day forecasted - not correct in fact. True that it rained all the way to Hildegard’s where we were to pick up Dave M. Instead we lost Martin as he took a “rain-check” and also Dave M who decided the warmth of the café was preferable. So we five (Paul, Ivan, Ray, Mike G and I) struck out straight for Ellesmere. The rain soon stopped.  By 10:00, we were eating a late and welcome breakfast at the Corner Café in Ellesmere town centre, which is worth noting for future rides. It was “dry” as we ventured down new lanes towards Baschurch and crossed the A5 to pick up NCN81 towards Welshpool. We lost the route a bit due to malfunctioning software thus adding in about 7 miles, but thankfully Mike G’s hardware guided us through the maze of lanes in the hills west and parallel to A483. Here it was “not dry”, so the Raven Arms at the top of Welshpool high street was a welcome sight at just after 13:00. 

Using the pub’s wifi, I reinstalled the software and the route mapping was working OK again.  With over 60 miles on the clock, we struck out east and north in the rain to circle Breidden Hill for a route crossover at Four Crosses. In Llanymynerch, we turn east and then northeast to bypass the A483 northwards towards Maesbury. The rain has stopped and occasionally is in “on and off” mode for the rest of the day. In Oswestry by 17:00, we take coffee and cakes in Costa and reluctantly decide to miss out on Dave H’s kind offer of refreshments later in Wrexham. Refuelled, we leave Oswestry powering our way homeward via St Martins, Overton and circling Wrexham exiting down Marford Hill for a speedy 18 mph dash back to Chester by the most direct route. 

Tired, wet, but above all happy with our achievement of 116 miles at 14.7 mph average speed – no mean feat given the on-and-off rain and increasingly windy conditions. My thanks go to the riders who stuck it out all day. We had the pleasure of 60 miles of new lanes, only two punctures, some good food, and the companionship of evenly matched riders with a combined age of about 300 years!  As I cycled home at about 20:00, I added in a little loop to round off the day at 125 miles – the longest distance so far for me.

CA

7th June 2012: Bickerton Poacher (mod)

It was Liz’s idea to put on a shorter ride for members not wishing to sign up for the Club’s annual ‘long ride’.  Great idea if it hadn’t been for the weather.  The forecast was for rain all day.  Sure enough it was raining at 09:10 as I left home for Manley Mere Windsurfing Centre and it was still raining when I arrived.  The thought did cross my mind that it might be drier doing a session of windsurfing than a day riding!  Who is going to turn out on a day like this, but true to her word Liz made an appearance and we settled down to a coffee while discussing what we should do.  I had a route down to Hanmer of some 60 miles (nice pub the Hanmer Arms) and we agreed a couple of bailout points for if it got bad.

With no one else making an appearance the two of us left Manley Mere at 10:30 up towards the Delamere Forest, through Kelsall, past Willington Hall, Clotton, Huxley, the Shady Oak and Beeston Castle.  In truth it wasn’t all wet and with time to chat we made good progress.  Then the rain started again as we made our way south through Peckforton.  By the time we reached the Bickerton Poacher the temptation to stop was just too great and as it was already past noon we convinced ourselves that it was perfectly acceptable.  So much for our pre-arranged bailout points.

A light bite of ham, egg and chips washed down with a pint of Flying Scotsman from the Caledonian Brewery made for a perfect lunch on such a dismal day.  With no need to hurry we had time for a coffee before venturing back out into the wet.

Our route back took us round Bickerton and Larkton Hills past Broxton Old Hall, down to the A41, Chowley, Tattenhall, Hargrave and Tarvin.  In Tarvin we avoided a standoff between a bus and a line of cars by taking to the pavement.  Then a few more lanes and we were back at Manley Mere having completed 37 miles.  Although wet this will be a day to remember.  Thanks to Liz for getting me out.

BW

31st May 2012: Ellesmere

Well the “raining all day” weather forecast was 95% wrong today – there was a little rain on my ride out via Hope to the Expresso café, a few spots throughout the day and a little as we arrived back at the café.  Brian Mac, Dave M, Ray and I bid Liz and Martin a farewell at the café.  Not so fast however, since Dave M’s Abus lock failed to unlock and it was locking Dave’s and my bike together!  Pliers from the local auto repair along the parade easily cut through the cable, so we were off at last bound for Wrexham down the main road.  Out past the hospital and onwards towards Bersham we ride through Rhosllanerchrugog bound for Acrefair and the aqueduct.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

Down and over the Dee, we take the towpath towards Chirk.  Here we decide to carry on along the well surfaced towpath past the marina and through the first 173 yd tunnel to exit at the back of Chirk just before the 400 yd + tunnel that we walked three weeks ago.  Over the aqueduct and now upwards through Weston Rhyn, we cross the A5 and out through Gobowen taking NCN 31 all the way into Ellesmere to our favourite pub, the Red Lion.
Rain is threatening, and sure enough it pours down as we tuck into the two-courser.  A strategic post lunch coffee sees the rain off as we head out of town now bound for Sandy Lane.  Holly Bush and Worthenbury see us sprinting our way past Shocklach and into Hildegard’s where Dave M samples cake with port yogurt dressing.  Ray heads Chester bound as the three of us head out of Holt towards Borras back to Expresso via Pandy with exactly 50 miles on the clock.  I cycle back home via Hope and Kinnerton with 80 miles up. So all of you who saw the forecast and thought “I‘ll stay at home in the dry” you missed a pretty flat and essentially dry ride through some very green countryside.

CA

24th May 2012: Audlem

12 of us assembled at the Ice Cream Farm under cloudy, but improving conditions (David M, Ray, Dave & Liz P, Trevor, Ivan, Martin, Dave H, Andy, Brian, Alan and Paul).  David M had a sport plan that involved riding to the Priest Hole cafe in Audlem, after which the assemblage could individually choose their own method of return: moderate, moderately brisk or brisk.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

We all headed out in a speedy bunch through Bunbury and Burland to Sound.  Beyond this a few more lanes led to Audlem where the sun came out with a vengeance and a small splinter group of four riders led by Ivan headed for the pub.

After an excellent lunch at the cafe, eight of us headed back to Nantwich via Madeley and Wybunbury.  Other riders variously headed straight back home, or went for a blast round even more lanes (Ivan & Martin).  

At Nantwich the group of eight split to return either via Faddiley and Peckforton or the Agricultural college.  At Beeston castle, David M split off to get an ice cream at the castle and then short cut home.  However the van was absent so he continued to the Ice Cream Farm, catching Ivan & Martin on the descent from the castle but losing them on the long upward drag to the right turn at the wrought iron works.

Back at the Ice Cream Farm, most of the riders arrived in varying groups at various times for the necessary refreshing ice cream and a brew.

Mileage for the main group ride was 55 miles, Ice Cream Farm to Ice Cream Farm.

DM

17th May 2012: Macclesfield Forest & Lyme Park (special ride)

It was grey, drizzly and not very warm at Redes Mere. The ducks seemed just as comfortable on the wet road as in the lake. Everyone arrived in good time: Clive, Liz and Ivan in the Landie, Jim and Trev together, George and myself in our own cars and mad keen Mike on his bike from Knutsford.

We were soon into the swing, chatting and cruising along the green undulating lanes, passing close to Gawsworth Hall before our first sharp climb to Sutton Reservoir. A ‘Quiet Lane’ out of Sutton Lane Ends had front wheels going light, and no breath for chat. Layers were removed at the top. There was no rain now, nor wind, and we were truly limbered up. Just as well as semi- serious climbs approached, including a hairpin past Haddon Farm. The Hanging Gate pub was perched attractively on the edge of the steep hillside: a desirable destination for a warm summer evening’s drive with the top down!  Left and steeply up into lovely territory, and then a welcome surge down with Ivan speeding and banking like Agostini as the narrow lane threaded between the hills.

Winding gently up, Wildboarclough is delightful as ever: sheltered, peaceful and remarkably easy riding amongst these severe slopes. The musical sound of the brook accompanies us towards our lunch stop at Bottom of the Oven. The Stanley Arms has a welcoming roaring log fire, but we settle snugly in the room reserved for us in the back. A lovely lady takes our photograph, for Cheshire Life I presume, but apparently she has just been persuaded to help us out! Food, friendliness and beer are spot on.

We are soon on our way again, with an immediate slog up to the main Macclesfield to Buxton road. We then hurtle exhilaratingly down past Lamaload Reservoir. If a car comes around the corner now, you’d need forearms like Popeye to brake in time. There are five arrows on the map for this short stretch; unfortunately the last one is up. We cross the B5470 and continue sailing downhill in the direction of Bollington, stopping to take in the fine views across Cheshire. White Nancy is perched like a penguin at the north end of Kerridge Hill, and beyond that, Alderley Edge. We turn right under heavy braking, and reach picturesque Pott Shrigley before long. This is bailout time for anyone suffering, as our proposed late coffee destination is about ten downhill minutes away. Everyone votes, somewhat surprisingly, (Jim and I can almost smell the coffee and feel the waiting soft sofas), to continue towards Lyme Park via the last long and hard climb of the day- through The Brickworks and onto Bakestonedale Moor. A short fast stretch around the hairpin at Charles Head follows, and then a high speed left in the direction of Disley.   

Photographs by Ivan Davenport

We enter Lyme Park via a rocky track and across a wooden bridge to reach East Parkgate. As we enter we see The Cage on a hill to our right and ride closely past a large number of beautiful deer. We reach Lyme Hall, the largest in Cheshire and the setting for the BBC’s adaptation of  Pride and Prejudice. Liz’s thoughts immediately turn to Mr. Darcy in a wet shirt! We leave down a wooded path to West Parkgate, and turn uphill with views over Stockport and Manchester. A stop to admire the old Coffee Tavern built as a library at the time of Queen Victoria’s Jubilee. Past Shrigley Hall, up round the corner, and right into a delightful ‘secret lane’ which ends by snaking steeply down a cobbled route between Bollington’s stone houses. 

Coffee and cake at the Waterside Café in the impressive former cotton and silk thread producing Clarence Mill, alongside the Macclesfield Canal.

We set off for the last lap, passing under the canal and then the impressive viaduct of the Middlewood Way, a disused railway cycle path which we must sample another time. It’s a good job I didn’t let the troops know that we could have substituted some undulations with a very pleasant, and more importantly, flat, few miles! Through wealthy Prestbury and up a final tough little climb, then lovely little lanes, past Henbury Hall and back to the cars.

It was a relief that we all coped, because it was a testing route, but everyone genuinely seemed to enjoy the ride, and I was really pleased that it had been worth their effort. I certainly appreciated the group’s support, and their excellent company on the day. A special thanks to Jim for his pre–ride scouting assistance and sound advice. 42 glorious, challenging miles. 

DH

17th May 2012: Warmingham (mod)

David M, Ray and new rider Roy from Runcorn met at the Ice Cream Farm in cold, wet, dreary conditions.  Fortunately the weather relented to dreary as we headed off east into the headwind for Bunbury and Alpraham.  We then continued to Church Minshull and on towards Warmingham and Hassal Green.  The intention was to ride on to Malkins Bank, but a few miles beyond Warmingham David M suffered a late reaction to last Tuesday's remedial massage and had to stop for 10 minutes to recover.  In the circumstances, we retraced to the excellent Bears Paw at Warmingham for a super lunch, having covered 25 miles from the ice cream farm.  

Return was by the usual route through Bostock & Whitegate to the Shire Horse Cafe (v. expensive!!).  The party then split with David M returning through Cotebrook to Oscroft, and Ray guiding Roy back through Eaton to the Ice Cream Farm.  Total distance 55m.  Roy seemed to enjoy himself and is to join us again, as and when his shifts allow.

DM

10th May 2012: Ellesmere (mod)

Followed the A team into massive headwind until approx 4 miles from Ellesmere, then turned left to Ellesmere and the Red Lion for excellent pensioner lunch.

Returned through Welshampton (one of my favourite roads) with massive tailwind over the moors and through river valleys to Malpas for quick brew in fire station cafe.  Then more massive tailwind to collect car from garage in Tarporley.  Downpour in last 5 minutes before Tarporley which ensured that I got home drenched, but who cares after an excellent 60 miles round trip.  Seems like I can now almost handle the distance of the stronger riders, but not the speed yet.  5 weeks to the Alps: should just make it in good shape.

DM

10th May 2012: Gobowen (brisk)

Eleven met at Hildegard’s, but Andy & Bryan were only there for the coffee. (Hope you find your feet soon Bryan).  Clive kindly had a route programmed heading south into the wind, all the way to Gobowen.  The run to lunch was punctuated twice (punctured is more apt) as we passed through Sutton Green to Bangor, where the first of a series of pics was taken by yours truly. (PIC 1)

Bangor on Dee

First puncture

First puncture was at Hindford, where Brian’s new mini foot-pump impressed the natives with its efficiency. (PIC 2)  Lunch was unusually taken, NOT in a pub but at the VERY efficient Derwen College on the southern outskirts of Gobowen.  Main courses were ordered from the waitress and arrived in less than 2 minutes.  A new CER record for speed: well done the students.

Photographs by Brian MacDonald

After lunch, we headed north along the towpath of the very sunny and pleasant Llangollen canal, over The Chirk Aqueduct.  (PIC 3) 

Chirk Aqueduct

We then achieved another CER first by attempting to by-pass the town by cycling through the 412 yard long Chirk Tunnel.   We cycled about 5 yards into the tunnel before deciding that we were grown men and should be sensible and walk.  Exiting the tunnel we had a fast run north as far as the very smelly Rubbish Dump at Jonestown. (PIC 4) Here George had to have a puncture and show us his patented rain proof seat cover, an upmarket carrier bag.  I must point out that all the punctures were fixed in record time by the expert re-tyreing of Ray. (Is there such a word?)  Well done Ray.

With all the stopping and starting, it was decided that afternoon tea should be taken at the very lovely Erddig Hall, voted the UK’s “Favourite Historic House” in 2007.  Suitably refreshed, we all set off for Chester and when we reached Wrexham Rugby Club, Trevor deviated off to Farndon.  A very pleasant CER 50 miles, with 3 punctures and two new records set.

BMac

3rd May 2012: Warmingham (mod)

David M had a moderate route planned, of which the main feature was "out against the brisk east wind and get blown home".

Dave Heath was the first to volunteer for a shorter day, followed in rapid succession by Mike, Trevor, George and Liz.  We set out over Cotebrook, and then followed a series of lanes past Calvely school, through Church Minshul and then to Hopley House farm Cafe.  On arrival at the cafe we were greeted by an ominous silence and large banner that proclaimed that the cafe had been shut (due to red tape) since February 4th.

Nothing daunted, we then set off to Warmingham where Mike remembered there to be an excellent pub: The Bears Paw.  Pub is excellent, beautifully refurbished, friendly staff and served us an excellent meal.  Definitely one for future visits!

Return was via Middlewich, Bostock and "the bridges" to Whitegate.  Stiff hill out of Whitegate led to more excellent lanes (including Shays Lane) and then the Shire Horse Cafe (now known as Ray's Rest following his bonk out on a previous ride) for a cuppa.  There are two secret roads on the return from this cafe.  We opted to climb up the A49 to secret road 2 past the small lake and deep ravine before returning to Rose farm via Cotebrook.  A round trip of approx 40 miles in the cold but dry May weather.

DM

3rd May 2012: Holmes Chapel (brisk)

There were a lot of us at Rose Farm and since Dave M had planned a shorter moderate ride, the rest of us (Ivan, Ray, Tony, Dave P, Brian Mac, Andy, Martin, and I) set off bound for Swetenham.  Out the back of Tarporley and on to Ruston and Oulton Park we ride until we access the Whitegates Way to sunny Winsford.  We exit on to part of NCN 5 bound via my eponymously named hamlet, to access the canal towpath into Middlewich.  Here a local reports “thorns on the towpath” so, as Ray and I have had recent punctures, we abandon the towpath and quickly re-route around the town thanks to the auto re-route function on Martin’s Edge 800.  As we cross the M6 the clouds appear and the sun disappears.  The forecast is for rain.  At Brereton Green we ignore the NCN 71 signs, since we have been bitten before on this very rough farm track, and so skirt around it to access Ivan’s ancestral home (he wishes) and through the lovely Dane valley to pop up via The Quinta into Swetenham proper. 

Hockenhall Platts

Photograph by Ivan Davenport

 

The plan was to lunch at the Swetenham Arms but after looking at the prices on-line, I have decided to continue to the George & Dragon in Holmes Chapel.  Here we enjoy waiter service and a very leisurely Pensioners Special lunch as we gradually roast in the conservatory dining area.  Martin’s had enough and heads for home solo.  Taking the back rough lane north via Hollins Farm, the rest of us track towards Cranage and via Lach Dennis to Davenham.  Here I employ the Dave M route via Vale Royal golf course and through Whitegates, Cotebrook and back to Utkinton.  Here we briefly meet Dave H in his car going home, and as Brian climbs the hill back to his van, we fancy a coffee at Okells.  We finish off the route back to Chester via Hockenhall bridges with around 80 miles on the odometer.  Well it didn’t rain and the 50 miles round route turned out to be well worth the effort of cycling it.

CA

26th April 2012: Llandegla

I was somewhat surprised that, given the forecast and the locale, 10 lost souls turned up at Hawarden for an obviously wet ride out over the Clwydians.  After temporarily warming ourselves in the Gallery café, Jim suggested a route towards Llandegla and Martin suggested the Plough as a lunch venue.  A done deal then: so we ten (Martin, Ray, Dave H, Jim, Ivan, Paul, Mike G, Colin, Tony and I) led by Jim, set off through Ewloe and Northop bound.  It was damp but not unpleasant, but after Soughton the rain did not disappoint us.  We ground up the hill towards Gwernaffield taking a right to Cadole and Loggerheads.  At the main road Jim was planning a left and a right until Martin described the plethora of hills in prospect so thinking better of it Jim offered Martin the lead to navigate the group towards Llanarmon.  Along the main road towards Llanferres we go as the rain pours down.  We take the ever-rising river of a lane off the Rhydtalog road into the hub of Llanarmon and then the also ever rising lane towards the head of the Nant y Garth pass. The lunch venue is nearly in sight as we turn left, and down through and out of Llandegla and onto the A525 and the Plough. 

The CER lunch booking secretary (aka Liz D) had thoughtfully booked ahead to reserve ten places.  Well quiet it was and quiet it stayed since I believe we were the only patrons at lunch.  The Pensioner Special was enjoyed and tasty it was, but could have been hotter, especially the coffee!  Nonetheless the Plough is a useful addition to the lunchtime venue listing.  Ivan was itching to go as it had apparently stopped lashing it down and Mike G decided to leave us here Prestatyn bound.  A false dawn it was as the rain recommenced as we nipped up the lane across the road and onto the A5104 to the Rhydtalog crossroads.  The route back took us on the back lanes through Treuddyn, passed Leeswood Hall and to Llong.  It was early, so as I was leading after lunch, a few miles were added in as we “enjoyed” drenched lanes almost to Hope and then the reverse route back along Lower Mountain Lane to Bilberry Wood. A few of us fancied coffee at Hawarden Farm shop whilst others had had enough and took to their cars for home.  Only 38 rainy miles today, and a few hills, but in a strange masochistic way still enjoyable.  As I arrived home with 55 meagre miles on the clock, the heavens opened, but this time I had beaten the rain to it!

CA

19th April 2012: Llyn Brenig

The car park at Ruthin Craft Centre was a hive of activity as 14 of us met for this year’s first special ride.  The plan was to leave Ruthin heading for Lady Bagot’s Drive and then on to Cyffyffliog and the long climb up to the moors before descending to Llyn Brenig and lunch in the lakeside café.  The route was as spectacular as expected and while the wind was stiff at times we only had a few spots of rain.  The highlights were of course Lady Bagot’s Drive with its garlicky bluebell woods and tumbling peaty river.

Bryan ran out of steam at the top of the long climb out of Cyffyffliog and decided to return to Ruthin and the Craft Centre.  Thanks to Tony for accompanying him safely back down.

The moors above Brenig were still quite wintery and as Dave Heath punctured we cut the corner to avoid the tracks around Llyn Alwen.  The riverside track by Pentrellyncwmr was another beautiful undiscovered spot for all but the leader.  A belter of a climb took us to tracks in Clocaenog: all very rideable and with long views across to the Arenigs.

Photographs by Dave Hill and Alan Jeffs.

The lane descent down to Bontuchel was in a sorry state but wide tyres and good skills saw everyone reach the bottom without incident.  Some took a coffee at the Ruthin Craft Centre before heading for home.

We all made it round successfully.  I enjoyed the lead, loved to show everyone some of my favourite tracks, lanes and countryside.  Thanks for the opportunity to do so.

DHill