Twelve riders left King’s Square in uncertain weather. Rain jackets or not? Rain jackets won and we set off in rain to Matson and Sneedham’s Green. The wayside daffodils looked rather sad lacking sunshine but the rain stopped to give way to drizzle as the group sped through Stonehouse to join the cycle path to Dudridge. The path was leaf and mud free with only the constant noise from the bypass to mar the bliss.
At Dudridge the Captain stood on the disused platform hoping for a dry ride to Nailsworth but the last train passed many many years ago. It was back on the bikes only to tangle with runners and dogs. The good condition of the path made the ride enjoyable despite the drizzle.
The group arrived a bit wet, but not cold, at the crowded Canteen where tables were found in this quirky cafe.
Some returned to Gloucester but five tackled the long and sometimes steep Horsley Valley to reach Nympsfield. At the top of Frocester hill police tape revealed a white van “parked” at the bottom of a ravine, a warning to descend Frocester with caution. A change of lunch stop because of poor weather took the group to the Three Horse Shoes at Frampton where the sun had come out. The refurbished Inn is a “wet” pub, no food. It is cosy and welcoming and reminded me of the Pelican. After lunch the group enjoyed a strong tail wind all the way back to Gloucester.
Miles 46 1919 feet climbing.
AG
Rain jackets or not?
