Six riders departed coffee for the appointed lunch stop at Bredon’s Hardwick. Descending towards the floods, the Captain was confident of a way through – having keenly observed other cyclists using the route. He was correct – although the lane to the B4211 was in a poor state with much standing water and copious amounts of debris.
Upton was soon gained and the direction of travel benefited from a helpful wind. Over the bridge to admire the lakes, and then across the A38 at the new large round-about. Fast progress to
Baughton and over the M5, then a right onto a little used but delightful lane – and turning southwards we encountered the breeze in our faces. Still, the rain held off and it was reasonable progress to Strensham and the tiny lanes into the heart of Twyning – passing the big rabbit leaning on the fence. Hopefully some know what I mean!
More sheltered lanes took us to the A38 at Shuthonger (such good village names!). Our battle with the wind resumed into Tewkesbury, the stretch over the causeway being particularly interesting. The water meadows were quite splendid.
A final mile or so of tailwind to the Cross Keys Inn took no time and we enjoyed a fine HPA – with one member on the gas.
The return home was unrelenting headwind, but not being in a rush meant it was more or less OK…Northway, Fiddington, more crossings of the M5 to Hardwicke, Boddington and Staverton. The Green Mile was peaceful; then to Down Hatherley, Frogfurlong Lane and Innsworth to enter the great metropolis at last. Actually the last 10 miles were quite exhausting! 58 miles, felt like 70.
TW