Eight left the square, and it soon became aparent that we had two racehorses with us. We let them go at Birdwood, and settled down for a relaxed pace. Although the weather wasn’t as sunny as forecast, the forest looked stunning with spring growth. Even the climb up to Sling didn’t feel as onerous as usual on such a nice morning, and the plunge down to Biggsweir Bridge was as enjoyable as ever.
The sun briefly came out at coffee, encouraging the removal of some layers for the delightful climb up “St Arvan’s Wall”. After crossing the Severn Bridge, we picked up a tail-wind along the lanes to Berkeley where we made a second refreshment stop. Just as we approached The Ship, one rider declared his saddle was slipping down, and he would have to stop. I struggle to believe it was coincidence!
A fabulous and thoroughly enjoyable ride. Given the weather forecast for the rest of the week, we were glad to have made the most of today’s weather.
79 miles, 5,300′ ascent @ 14.8mph.