Having avoided the rather pricy bacon sandwiches at the café, four riders set off into the spring sunshine. The route, made up largely on the hoof, took in some little used roads – little used by anyone as we hardly encountered a vehicle until Eastnor.
First up was the hamlet of Munsley with its ancient oast houses and a modern ‘grand design’ to get you thinking. The twisty-turny road meandered to a descent to the Bosbury road. Here it was straight across, followed by a cunning left turn – to avoid the climb to Wellington Heath, but also to add some beautiful miles to the route. A church high on a hill was spotted – of course, our road had to venture up to it where a Coronation party was in full swing. This was the village of Coddington, famed for its vineyard – well worth a visit.
Our road meandered north-ish, eventually popping out on the Bosbury – Colwall road. Here we headed south and a few miles later the Captain insisted on a diversion to the Colwall church and lane beyond: why? Because we could! From here it was to Petty France and the steps up towards Ledbury. The main road to the Hollybush pass was as rough as always – time Herefordshire got to grips with it! The ascent saw us catch Nev, having been on the Newent ride. Over the top and left to then enjoy the superb descent of the common to join the Pendock road. The scenery was quite splendid and the yellow of the gorse resplendent in the sunshine.
Another diversion to Hill end (road closed, but for no good reason) soon saw us arriving at the appointed destination of The Farmer’s Arms – a favourite. Good cider and beer was enjoyed by all as we reunited with Nev, having skipped the Hill End treat.
The route home was as ‘direct’ as the Wooldridge goes, and made for a very pleasant finale to a great day out. 65 miles.