Finding the Ilmington café is no longer open on Sundays, and the Mickleton café unwilling to take more than 4 people at a time, it was decided to head for Chipping Campden, which turned out to be just fine!
Eight started out at 8am and made the most of the stiff tail wind and early start by zipping north on the quiet A38 to the Odessa turning; then to Gotherington by way of the level crossing. We lost one rider here, abandoning due to fatigue (but he got home OK). Numerous motorcycles were encountered on the way to Prescot, where there was a meeting of like-minded souls. The seven without motors continued apace to Greet and took in the village, for a change – and jolly nice it is too, worth the small diversion.
Our route was still benefitting from the helpful wind, to Stanway and the fantastic lane to the main Broadway road. On reaching the metropolis we veered west to pass the station, resplendent with a diesel locomotive ready to go – quite impressive. From here is was onto the B road to Weston Sub-edge and then Aston Sub-edge. At last, we turned south and up the first climb to reach our new destination, 35 miles ad 10.30am. The Bantam Tea Rooms won the contract and we piled in, just as a heavy shower commenced: timing is everything!
Refreshed and fed at reasonable prices for the area, and the rain having passed on, there was some confusion in exiting the town: the leader was not confused, but the other riders were. No matter, soon we were on our way, further east and south – the wind now not at all helpful, as expected.
The lanes to Paxford, Aston Magna and Batsford were magnificent with clear views to the east and south. A long climb took us to Bourton-on-the-Hill. A skip along the A44, then more quiet lanes south and gradually west, taking in Donnington Brewery, Upper Swell, Lower Swell and Upper Slaughter. A sign to a ‘Deep Ford unsuitable for Motors’ was a ‘must do’: four gallant riders did, three took to the footbridge. The Japanese visitors were entertained, particularly by John W getting wet feet but managing to exit the water without overturning – a fine recovery. (PHOTO)
A further climb, gentle (relatively) took us onto the Cheltenham & County CC hardriders course. It was good to see a Red Kite fighting the wind and keeping a watch on us – presumably for any stragglers. Past the Cotswold Farm Park we took a left, another road with a Deep Ford warning: a long and narrow descent popped us out at the crossing: indeed, not suitable for bikes, either! This ford is based on loose rocks and quite deep. We all opted for safety and sensibility, taking the handy footbridge to cross the watercourse. (PHOTO) The car in the background also declined to try its luck! A steep climb emerged at Kineton and the Half Way House: a Donnington pub with excellent Donnington ales. We samples a few here and avoided another light shower. Did I mention timing? (PHOTO
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Time to head for home, time for two more fords: the first at the foot of the descent from the pub was taken with ease by all remaining 6 riders; then through a gated section and up into the wind to Roel Gate; from here a smashing gentle descent in the trees to Brockhampton and our final water splash at Sevenhampton – again all riders through without incident. AliG has now put this one to bed after a previous spill. Both these fords are concrete-based, but can be slippery, and you need to avoid the cracks!
The route home was somewhat challenging into the ever-persistent wind, but as there was no great rush it was not unpleasant.
81 miles; average 13mph. 0 rain; 1 level crossing; 2 gates; 4 fords.