On a mild but rather dull day a substantial group formed for the outing to Cirencester, the capital of the Cotswolds. Sixteen set off on the traditional route, along Painswick road and Nut hill, Fiddlers Elbow and Sanitorium road (Captain showing his age!)., then Birdlip and Brimpsfield. On the climb out of the dip we suffered our first issue – a broken chain. Luckily our mobile mechanic had the correct spare parts to effect a repair.
To some concern we then took the interesting road down to Caudle Green bottom, where the only way out is up (must be a song there somewhere…) – and the Captain led the way up to Syde with the intention of bagging another church. However the sight of an owl was a delight and a distraction, as was a shipped chain on the steep hairpins, meaning the church slipped by unnoticed. A letter is to be sent to the Ordnance Survey, as the map indicates just one ‘arrow’ – when at least two are warranted.
Regrouping at the top, allowing for some who had taken to walking, it was onwards with a difficult wind to the Highwayman pub, then Winstone. Eyebrows were raised as the leader unusually followed a sign to our destination, Cirencester. However, usual Wooldridge service was restored as the group then turned for Duntisbourne Abbots and the closed road. Not really closed, as it turned out, as the weak bridge easily took the weight of our group. A massive bank of snowdrops was still a grand sight as we climbed up to the church, only to drop back to the river and the long ford. Here two brave (foolish) soles made a failed attempt to ride it – but soon quit and joined the rest on the narrow path alongside. Still, it gave good entertainment. The President, renowned for fording, was not one of these two! Nor the Captain – both having experience of this particular water feature. From here it was plain and fast sailing down the Duntisbournes to Cirencester. Our junior rider’s machine was making some disturbing noises and tips on the remedy were given.
The selected coffee stop, Fora Coffee, was gained a little later than planned. An interesting venue, with good service and prices: but is this a 70’s coffee bar or an evening dancing club? Both, it seems!
Fully refuelled and rested, and joined by Nev, a group of eight set off for lunch. Adjustments were required to the electric bike as well as clearing out a build-up of mud from close fitting mudguards delayed the set-off slightly. The last of the gremlins! South to Siddington and then west to Ewen, Kemble and Tarlton. A surprise left to Rodmarton and then north with a largely helpful wind took us to Frampton Mansell, for a brief encounter with Malcolm G, on four wheels and returning from time keeping duties. Daneway and Miserden were soon passed, and we pressed on to The Royal William for a late rest.
56 miles, dry and breezy, wih the occasional felled wall.