It was a perfect morning for cycling, bright and still although a bit cold to start with. Five set off for Broadway Tower, using the A38 to Tewkesbury to try to achieve our destination on time. We caught another group in Kemmerton, and the two groups enjoyed some fast fun on the descent to Beckford, where we left them to continue out route to Alderton, while they went to Ashton-under-Hill.
The speed had been generally high, and the group enjoyed working together on the flat lands. However, as we came through Wormington, one rider pointed out our destination, perched high up on the Cotswold Edge. The group immediately slowed, as they realised that the edge would have to be climbed soon. So it proved, with the small chain-ring being needed for the first time as we climbed to Snowshill and on to Broadway Tower for coffee. It is a beautiful spot, with views across the Severn valley to the Forest and Malverns.
The return route was more hilly, with a constant stream of ups and downs, before the plunge down Castle Hill to Winchcombe. Tired legs were evident as we climbed Prescot Hill, but all made it back together, after a very enjoyable morning out.
65 miles, 3,300′ ascent @ 16.3mph