Daphne led today's ride to Stratfield Saye. I cycled to meet up with her and Susie at Linda's house and we met up with Vanessa at Part Lane. Nine mile ride open today after 8 months of roadworks. Shame, since its been perfect to cycle along there with no traffic! By coincidence we bumped into Karan and Lucie who were cycling on their way to Beech Hill, and with the news that Wellington Farm Shop has reopened (hurray!), although tables need to be pre booked. Daphne had phoned around a few pubs to find out if any would be open today for coffee, and the only option was The Wellington Arms at Stratfield Turgis, so we gave it a go. (first time)
Route
I took my Hybrid today, as our route took us over Eversley Ford, and through Bramshill Plantation. From Mattingley, we passed Daneshill School.
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| Views of poppies from Bottle Lane, nr Stratfield Turgis |
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| Getting late in the season now for signs of red poppies. |
We had the Wellington Arms to ourselves for our coffee stop, and all very Covid friendly with signage, sanitiser etc. Quick service, and apart from the traffic noise of the A33, a pretty garden to sit in over looking a a field. Not sure if they do cakes, as no one asked.
A little loop around Stratfield Saye estate, and then returning via Barge Lane, where we stopped for me to photograph the old lock on Barge Lane.
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| Roadside thistles on Barge Lane |
Now, under the A33 on Bull Lane, and next to Risley Village Hall car park, we take the track (which I have only walked before). Its narrow and a lot of nettles this time of year, but doable. This is part of the Devil's Highway, and after a track, improved to a tarmac lane, crossing School Road, and emerging on School Lane, not far from Thatchers Ford. We just missed these mutts having their swim.
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| At Thatchers Ford |
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| No way Jose!. We'll go through the field instead |
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| The faff at the gate to make our way through the field to the pedestrian bridge over Long River. |
Finally, up to Farley Hill on Ford Lane, joining Sandpit Lane Lane, then down Bunces Shaw. Through Arborfield, where Vanessa left us whilst we cut through California Park. I returned by Nashgrove Lane etc.
Thanks to Daphne for planning today's route. Good to see you all.
