Sunday, 01 November 2015
John writes: Perfect cycling weather encouraged 7 riders (Jacob, Kate, Mike K, Neil, Simon, Stan and Sue) to join me for the experimental winter start time of 1pm.
The early morning mist had cleared and we enjoyed warm sunshine and no wind. What a change from the rain and gales which had marred many of our summer rides this year.
Kate had arrived with a soggy rear tyre but there was no puncture. Mike having assisted with the inflation we headed South on the DNA path past Addenbrookes through the Shelfords and crossed the A505 at Whittlesford. Here we had a short pause to remove surplus clothing and then took the direct route to Ickleton.
Another pause for a drink and the mandatory photo at the top of Coploe Hill; thence we (all but Stan who had to get back early) continued to Saffron Walden via Catmere End and Audley End House.
Coploe Hill
Saffron Walden was very trafficky but we were soon heading East (the sun no longer in our eyes) on the Radwinter Road which I found surprisingly steep uphill. At Seward's End we left the Radwinter Road and took New House Lane to Red Oaks Hill. This lane is a magnificent cycling route winding its way past farms and colourful Autumn trees. We met not one vehicle on this stretch. From Red Oaks Hill it was a quick descent to Ashdon and the Museum arriving at 3.28pm. Here we enjoyed a fine al fresco tea at this unusual historic location.
Leaving Ashdon at 4pm the rapidly setting sun persuaded us to take the direct route back to Cambridge via Linton, Barton and Abington, crossing the A11 by the footbridge into Babraham, and Sawston. By Stapleford it was quite dark but we were now in the City lights. I was home at 5.45pm having cycled
37 miles.
John Ferguson
1 comments from old website
Tuesday 3rd Nov 2015 at 12.22pm
I think new house lane should also become more mandatory when heading out that way, I think I have only cycled along that lane about 3 times in 18 years with Cambridge CTC Thanks John for a good route and booking good weather.
mikenny