Have been on holiday for 10 days and consumed copious amounts of cream teas, dinners and wine. So felt a little bit unfit this morning for the first 5 miles climbing 440 feet from River level to Grey's Court, Henley. Actually a LOT unfit!
We parked at Mill Lane, Henley next to the river, and went over to Harpsden. Then rather than continue on this road, a new route for me was a right turn into Gillot's Lane, where the climb starts. Then left into Greys Road, eventually taking 2 Right forks and passed the entrance to Grey's court.
The route (takes a few seconds to open)
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| passing the entrance to Greys Court. |
Next a left turn, which took us over to Bix's Manor, where we crossed straight over the A4130. A left fork into White Lane, a steep downhill with an appauling surface, so was heavy with the brakes all the way down. Near the top of this road however, lovely views (below) which is apparently where hubby would like to build our "dream" house.
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| views from White Lane, Bix |
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| More views from White Lane |
AT the bottom of the hill, we took a short detour (at the7mile mark). to check progress on a old church which is being restored. It has made some slow progress with new window arches, since hubby last saw it. ( my first visit).
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| The old church at Bix |
We doubled back and road UP the Stonor Valley, where the fields were mostly now harvested. Its a steady climb, but not difficult. (But not nearly as much fun as riding DOWN the Stonor Valley!)
A tea stop at The Quince Tree (no cake!) Then another new route for me. The second big climb of the day to take us out of the Stonor Valley, up Bolham's lane to Turville Heath. I stopped twice for a breather, but cycled the whole way, so was feeling chuffed that I made it.
Then at last, the downhill run, and 25 mph down Doleden Lane, just stopped once for this view over the Turville Windmill, in the far distance.
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| A view from Doleden Lane of the windmill at Turville just visible on the top left . |
Next a right turn to Skirmett, and then Hambleden. The stream which runs through Hambleden dry today. First time, for a long time. It flowed all of summer last year.
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| The dry stream through Hambleden |
Crossing the river at Hambleden Wier, loads of ducks today.
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| Reflections at Hambleden Weir |
And a very busy day at Hambleden Lock. We waited several minutes to cross today, but spotted fellow Breeze cyclist Lottie out for a walk! We had a daft conversation shouting across the lock, before we finally caught up with them walking towards Henely.
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| nice timber boat waiting to enter the lock. |
A lovely ride and as ever, the effort to climb is rewarded by views and a big downhill at some point.
