Well done to the Woosehill Ladies Cycling Group today. All 5 of us managed to meet up for the first time in months. We transported our bikes in 5 cars to meet at The Pet Barn, Sonning Common to start our ride. I seem to keep pushing you a bit more, but you all seem very capable. Lynne had new wheels, and chain, fitted since last week and she was flying today 😀
We headed initially to Kidmore End, then around the back of the church and soon turned right into Mill Lane, with its horrible potholes, and that nasty little kick at the end as we arrive to cross the A4074. Then downhill for about 1.5 miles to Mapledurham. Wheee.
Some of the ladies had not been to Mapledurham Village before, so we did go all the way down for a look... then half way back up the hill again to continue our route.
 |
On the way down the hill.
|
 |
At the bottom where we need to turn back
|
 |
Selfie timer mode
|
 |
Roses still in flower as we look through to the Waterwheel
|
Turning left as we come part way back uphill, this view to our left.
Turning left towards Goring Heath, I spotted this white crop field. Not quite sure what it is , but probably a "catch crop" ie green manure to feed the soil for its main crop next year? Could be Buckwheat?
Shortly, we turn right onto the B471 towards Crays Pond, then over to Goring Road, where we turn off left and down the long hill into Cleeve area of Goring. We decide to drop down to the towncentre to use the loos, and also a quick look at the lock which Andrea had not seen. Lock a bit disappointing today with a few bits of maintenance going on. Also they have started to rebuild the old house which went on fire a year of more ago, behind the lock.
 |
| Views at South Stoke |
 |
Martina taken by Andrea
|
 |
ME.. by Andrea
|
Passing through South Stoke, we turn when we see a sign to the village shop, but stop short of this bridge, and turn back. (should have kept going!)
 |
The shop is up there somewhere!
|
We go under the next railway arch to bring us back to the main road and across into Woodcote Road heading to Ipsden.
 |
The ladies in the distance, as I photograph the roadside flowers. Left at
the next crossroad, passing the airfield |
Passing Braziers Park, Martina has a problem with her chain, so stops for a moment, pushing up hill, then its fine as she gets back on. This view to our left.
 |
yet more of these dull animal feed crops at Brazier Park
|
Right turn now at the crossroads, and after a gradual start, Garsons Hill gets steeper. I feel like I nearly make it today, but it still beats me. As I stop for a breather, Andrea is ahead chasing two other lady cyclists.
