Club run reports - 18th May

Category 3 ride led by Ian Bembridge

Something a little different this week. We decided to start from the free car park in Wheathampstead so that we could focus on riding in the Chilterns rather than riding to the Chilterns. So, Graham, Brian, Peter and Ian headed west from the start up the hill past the Brewhouse.

The climb out of Redbourn up Gaddesdon Lane is always a pleasure, but the second Strava hill climb out of Nettleden set the tone for the day, with Peter and Brian doing battle on each of the bigger climbs to see who would win the hill stage title. Unlike the Tour de France, there was no prize money available for our day out!

We ventured around Ashridge, as the only way through Ashridge is off road via the golf course, before the parts of the Chilterns seldom travelled by Hertfordshire Wheelers began with a left turn at Aldbury. As the green hills loomed before us, we crossed the A41 and used those expensive gears that we have all paid for to complete the climb to Wiggington. Through forests to Cholesbury, followed by stunning views across the Chiltern valleys made the ride worth the effort, before the drop back to habitation through Wendover Woods.

We made the Meads Farm café stop before the 11:30 breakfast deadline, to enjoy the breads and cakes baked on site. It was no surprise to find this place was full as the quality of food and drinks is excellent, at reasonable prices by today’s standards.

The ride back was on more familiar roads, but we did witness a “Distinguished Gentlemen’s” motorbike ride. Brian managed to snap a shot of a bunch of them trying to fix one of the bikes at the side of the road…..does that sound familiar?