CTC Cambridge Blog

26 Jan: Thursday ride to Horseheath and Dullingham

2012-01-26T23:34:00.006Z

Edward writes: This Thursday it was the turn of Rupert to take the helm and lead us on our weekly jaunt into the countryside. At Hauxton eight cyclists met and the weather was true to the forecast; the rain overnight had abated and, although a little overcast, the promise was some sunny intervals and maybe a shower or two, and so it turned out.

We left Hauxton through Little Shelford and then on to Whittlesford where Mike B was waiting to join us at the lane that leads to the church and subsequently to the still newly built cycle path that leads to Sawston. We rode down Mill Lane, over the High Street and into Babraham Road and quickly on to the other new cycle path that leads to Babraham. We normally turn left at this point and go over the cycle bridge to Abington but Rupert needed to do some surveying of sorts. So on this occasion we turned right towards the A505, and this meant stopping to look at the route of the former railway which crosses here with a view, he hopes, of it becoming a cycle way. A little optimistic, I think.

Surveying

When we left here we came to the A505 and went along it for half mile or so to the point where you can branch off to get to Abington via Pampisford station. Again we stopped for a little more survey work. We now got going in earnest and made our way to the A1307 and crossed it into Hildersham and then turning right to take the road into Linton. In Linton we went via the recreation ground and came out on the main road through the village and back up to the A1307. It was over this road and the climb up to Hadstock which was followed by Bartlow. It needs to be recorded here that we crossed the route of the former Cambridge to Haverhill railway line seven times to this point. It sounds like a competition to see who can devise a cycle ride that crosses a railway the most times - must be a closed railway, though. Putting things railway behind us we could now concentrate on the main business of the day, cycling.

Which way?

After leaving Bartlow we then headed for Shudy Camps and already the skies had cleared and we were starting to get bright sunshine. After Shudy Camps it was Mill Green and to a junction with a sign that points to Horseheath, but not apparently the road to take and this led to some differences of opinions as to which way to go, Some turned the way the sign had indicated but had to turn back as that would have led to some distance on the A1307, thus justifying the decision of our leader that the correct way was his way. Anyway, it was but a short distance to bring us to the ever-welcoming Old Red Lion Inn at Horseheath. This was about 11.30 and twenty miles so a coffee break was especially welcome.

Leaving Horsheath

We curtailed our break to half an hour and were on our way again by mid-day. We left Horsheath and took in Streetley End, where Mike B wheeled off and headed for home, and then on to West Wickham. This took us on to the open road which leads to Carlton, but we turned off before Carlton and headed for Weston Colville. In this village we met Ian D and he joined us for the rest of the day. Now followed the most delightful part of the journey. The sun was out and Rupert had devised a stunning route round some of the lesser roads and the countryside really looked wonderful. To help matters along the breeze, such as it was, was nearly always on our backs. This took us all to quickly to Dullingham and our lunch stop at The Boot where Eva was already waiting.

Weston Colville

Between Weston Colville and Dullingham

After lunch the weather took a turn for the worse. We took the road via Dullingham station to head for the A1304, but on our way down we ran into a hailstorm which, with the wind now in our faces, was stinging our faces and we endured an uncomfortable ride. It was soon over and we then took the road to Swaffham Bulbeck which, it's nice to report had daffodils out. After Swaffham Bulbeck we headed for Bottisham where the ride ended as some turned towards Cambridge and others went home via the Wilbrahams and Fulbourn. Our thanks to Rupert for a well thought-out route. To this point we covered 38 miles. Edward Elmer

A run mapped on 01/26/2012

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22 Jan: Afternoon ride to Foxton

2012-01-22T19:26:00.004Z

Tina writes: Ten riders gathered at Brookside for what promised to be a sunny but 'breezy' ride. Neil was our leader this afternoon and took us down side streets emerging from Bateman Street onto Hills Road. Just before the railway bridge we turned left through the new CB1 development to pick up the guided busway heading south to Trumpington. Here we had our first taste of the wind which we were to battle with for most of the afternoon, as it seemed to come from all directions, but never from behind!

We took several right turns to bring us on to the DNA path as far as the Shelfords and then followed the road towards Whittlesford where Mike K suggested a slight detour to view some snowdrops in the 'grounds' of one of the substantial houses. Normally one might not expect to see snowdrops peeking through for another couple of weeks, but recent mild weather has encouraged early flowering.

From Whittlesford, we rode south crossing the A505 to Duxford and then straight over the crossroads at Ickleton, which could only mean one thing ... Coploe Hill. After the steady climb, we paused to re-group at the top for a photo courtesy of Lynn's phone. Instead of continuing up to Catmere End, we took a right turn (into the wind and uphill!), then left to Elmdon and right just past the church onto the Heydon road. We turned right on to the 'main' road towards Chrishall Grange on what should have been a relaxing downward sweep, but a stiff headwind, forced us to pedal hard to maintain momentum. Our route continued northwards over the A505 to Fowlmere, where John left us to return home to Royston, leaving us to battle our way up the open road to Foxton.

With some relief we turned into Illingworth Way where Sue and her husband Dave gave us a warm welcome. Several day riders had already arrived and were tucking into hot soup and we joined them, making around 14 people for tea. Sue had done us proud with selection of sandwiches, nibbles, cakes, chocolate biscuits (made by daughter Rosie) and piece de resistance - a chocolate and vanilla cake with a bicycle stencilled in icing sugar on top! We sat chatting and enjoying a well-earned rest, finally setting off again at about 4.15pm. It was still light and the wind had dropped considerably, as I cycled home through Fowlmere and Melbourn leaving the main group to return via Barrington, over Chapel Hill to Haslingfield and on to Barton and Cambridge.

A huge thank you to Sue and family for hosting tea and also to Neil for planning an interesting and scenic route today. Tina Filby

21 Jan: Ride to Boston and New York

2012-01-21T23:44:00.016Z

Nigel writes: I was in Boston today with my bike and was stumped for something to do, so I decided to cycle to New York. Well, not quite. But it was the prospect of being able to make that boast that gave me an excuse for today's solo ride.

I got up early and cycled in the dark to Cambridge station to catch the 0735 train from Cambridge to King's Lynn. Somewhere around Littleport the sun rose and by the time I arrived in King's Lynn it was light.

My plan was to cycle west into Lincolnshire, which meant the first thing I needed to do was to cross the River Great Ouse. I did this using the on the old "free bridge" a mile south of the town, from where I rode round to West Lynn on the other side. I had heard that there was a ferry from there to King's Lynn so I went and had a look. Rather to my surprise it was in full operation with a handful of passengers waiting to pay 80p for the short crossing. It's a passenger ferry but it appears to take bikes if they have room. I might try this on another visit. I took some photos and have written a page of information here.

The ferry from King's Lynn arrives at West Lynn

My initial goal was to ride to Boston, about 45 miles away. I took a meandering route though the West Norfolk Fens to Sutton Bridge. It was quite dull with a few spots of drizzle now and then, though very mild. The main feature of meterological interest was a strong headwind from the north-west, which was to make my progress to Boston and beyond slow and plodding.

Very flat, Norfolk

I reached Sutton Bridge and crossed the River Nene, another wide commercial waterway.

River Nene at Sutton Bridge

A glance at any map of this area shows how it is disected by a series of wide, canalised rivers with few crossings, which severely constrains the route-planning options. So although I was able to turn north and follow a quiet route through the Lincolnshire Fens near the edge of The Wash, I eventually had to turn back inland to cross the River Welland at Fosdyke.

The Lincolnshire Fens seemed a bit more prosperous and more attractive than the Cambridgeshire or Norfolk Fens. I'm not sure why.

Lincolnshire Fens

One of the best rainbows I have seen for ages

There's an old Lincolnshire saying that at the end of every rainbow you'll find a pile of sugar beet

Lincolnshire

Eventually I arrived at Fosdyle where I crossed the River Welland.

River Welland at Fosdyke

From Fosdyke to Boston I followed NCR 1.

Lincolnshire

At about 12.15pm, and after 45 miles, I arrived in Boston.

River Witham in Boston town centre

Boston Stump (St Botolph's Church)

I didn't stop in Boston. Although I it was lunchtime I wanted to press on and achieve the goal of today's ride: New York. This is a tiny hamlet about ten miles to the north, and to get there I followed the first few miles of the Water Rail Way, a pleasant Sustrans route which runs along the bank of the River Witham.

NCR 1 north of Boston, with Boston Stump in the distance

A few more miles further on, I arrived at my destination: New York Village. There's nothing here except for a 40mph speed limit on the B1192 and a few houses: just enough signs to allow me to spend a ridiculous amount of time taking photos of myself to prove where I had been.

It was now about 2.15pm and I had ridden 55 miles. It was now time to turn south for the long ride back.

I didn't fancy riding back to King's Lynn as that would have forced me to retrace my route via the bridges at Fosdyke, Sutton Bridge and West Lynn. I therefore decided to take a more southerly route, crossing the River Welland at Spalding (the first available crossing south of Fosdyke) and crossing the River Nene at Wisbech (the first crossing south of Sutton Bridge).

Fortunately I now had a bit of a tailwind (though not much) and my speed increased. By the time I reached Spalding it was dark and I turned on my lights. By now I had got rather bored of the endless fenland landscapes and it was rather nice the way that the darkness made the landscape seem much more intimate: nothing but me, my bike, the road, illuminated by my 975 lumen front light, and the reassuring glow of my Nokia N810 computer which I was using for navigation. I arrived at Downham Market station at 7.45pm, just in time to catch the 1948 train back to Cambridge. I was home soon after 8.30pm, having cycled 111 miles.

View this GPS track on a larger map

(Incidentally, Boston Massachusetts to New York, New York is 253 miles by bike)

King's Lynn to West Lynn ferry

2012-01-20T17:40:00.003Z

There's a regular passenger ferry between King's Lynn and the little village of West Lynn which faces it across the wide River Great Ouse.

The ferry appears to take bikes, though I haven't tried this. If you have, please add a comment to this page and tell us how you got on. The alternative route for cyclists via the old "free bridge" is about three miles.

There doesn't seem to be much about this ferry on the web, so when I was cycling through West Lynn in January 2012 I went to take a look.

There were some posters giving information about the service which can be seen below. For the benefit of search engines the important text is as follows:

The operator is S.N., Kingston Marine Services, The Pavilion, Ferry Square, West Lynn PE34 3JQ. Phone 07974 260639 and 01553 766029.

The service runs on Mondays to Saturdays. No service Sundays and Public Holidays.

Departures from West Lynn are from 7am to 6pm at xx00, xx20 and xx40, with a continuous service between 0740 and 0900 and between 1700 and 1800.

There's a free car park at the West Lynn side.

See the posters below for details of fares and a note about carriage of cycles.

Next to the landing stage at the West Lynn side is a modern building which includes a room with a small exhibition about the ferry and the area.

View King's Lynn to West Lynn Ferry in a larger map

Click on the photos below to see them in more detail.

19 Jan: Thursday ride to Toft and Gamlingay

2012-01-19T20:24:00.007Z

Edward writes: This Thursday only five riders met at Haslingfield Green, which was something of a surprise as the early morning rain had stopped and, although still overcast, very little wind. In Greta's absence it was the turn of Tony H to step forward and assume the mantle of ride leader. Although only five we set off towards Barton in very pleasant cycling conditions. In Barton we turned right towards Cambridge and when we had gone over the M11 we turned left and made our way towards Coton.

After Coton we quickly crossed the busy Madingley Road, over the A428 and into Madingley itself. We continued along the country lane until we arrived in Dry Drayton, and here we turned left to go back up to the point where the road crosses the A428. This brought us to Hardwick where we took the road to Toft. We should mention here the sorry state of the hedgerows in Hardwick, in fact the amount of litter in the hedgerows is nothing short of disgusting and a sad reflection on the authorities concerned, notwithstanding how it got there in the first place. Maybe next time we cycle through here a little pride in the village will be evident as it's so dispiriting to see this sort of thing. It was a pleasure to continue our journey downhill to reach Toft and the Meridian Golf Club.

Meridian Golf Club, Toft

At the golf club our numbers more than doubled and it was a pleasure to see a more regular sized Thursday group again, not only that the weather began to look more promising. The coffee break was very enjoyable, this being the first visit to this club for the Thursday group (maybe!). When we started again we went back into Toft followed by Bourn which took us on to the undulating stretch up to Caxton.

Between Bourn and Caxton

Along here the sun had got out thus making for very pleasant riding. In Caxton we crossed over our old friend the A1198 before starting the trip up to Great Gransden. From Gransden we made our way out to the B1040, which we crossed and this began a loop round Abbotsley which would bring us to Gamlingay via Gamlingay Cinques.

Gamlingay

Our lunch stop was The Cock, a pub we have often used before, and already there was Mike S and Bob a cyclist from Sandy. Whilst we were in the pub the weather outside turned a little unpleasant as one or two showers passed over. However, by the time an enjoyable lunch break was over the rain clouds had cleared and we were back to sunny spells. Our return journey took us through the Hatleys, again in bright sunshine, all the way to the Croydon and Arrington turning.

Between Orwell and Barrington

The sun over the countryside to our right gave a splendid view and reminds us of one of the many reasons why these days out are so enjoyable. After Arrington we went over the A1198 and into the Wimpole Estate which was very quiet, and then on to Orwell followed by Barrington and Chapel Hill and back into Haslingfield.

Haslingfield

Our thanks to Tony for a splendid ride. We covered 42 miles.Edward Elmer

View this route on a larger map

15 Jan: All-day ride to Saffron Walden, Thaxted and Ickleton

2012-01-15T17:47:00.011Z

Nigel writes: Today was forecast to be cloudy with occasional sunshine, and relatively cold, and so it turned out. I arrived at Brookside to find a good turnout of nine other riders for today's all-day ride. Adrian was our leader today, so I knew were in for an interesting and well-planned day. Adrian led us south out of Cambridge along Trumpington Road to Trumpington.

In Trumpington we turned onto the road to Great Shelford from where we continued to Sawston. As we passed through Great Shelford we were joined by Mick C.

In Sawston we turned left to Babraham and the farm track that leads to the foorbridge over the A11.

When we reached Great Abington we normally cross over the A1307 to Hilderham and take the back road to Linton. However on this occasion we stayed on the A1307 to Linton. This is a fast, busy road but fortunately there is a pavement cycleway, which is bumpy and narrow but perfectly usable.

In Linton we re-joined the road and turned right onto the B1062 which took us through Hadstock and Little Walden to Saffron Walden, where we stopped for coffee at The Temeraire.

Already waiting at the pub were Joseph, John S, Edward E, Phil and Linda. We spent about half an hour at the pub, drinking coffee and having a very sociable chat.

After coffee we said goodbye to Eva, Lynn and Edward, whilst Joseph, Phil and Linda joined us for the ride on to our lunch stop in Thaxted.

Since Thaxted is only eight miles from Saffron Walden we didn't head straight there but instead Adrian took us on a very pleasant loop along quiet lanes to the east via Radwinter and Great Samford.

Before long we arrived in Thaxted where we stopped for lunch at the Swan Hotel.

This was my first visit to the Swan Hotel. This is a large food-oriented pub (with rooms), and although quite busy was large enough for be able to eat together on adjacent tables, which was nice. The Sunday menu was geared towards full meals at around £9-10, and my own Chicken and Mushroom Pie was perfectly pleasant, though I suspect some of us would have preferred it if some smaller options had been available.

After our leisurely lunch we had about 70 minutes to ride to our 3.30pm tea stop in Ickleton. Adrian took a direct route via Debden and Saffron Walden. I thought that passing through Saffron Walden would give a confusing GPS track, so I decided to take a slightly longer route to the west via Newport and Arkesden. Phil joined me, and set an enjoyably fast pace for this short but hilly section.

We arrived at the cafe at Ickleton just after 3.30pm, only a short time after the main group. Also at the cafe was Julia and the afternoon ride, and between us we filled the cafe.

After coffee and cakes we turned on our lights for the ride back to Cambridge via Duxford and Whittlesford. The afternoon riders set a brisk pace, and I was home by 5.15pm, having cycled 64 miles.

View this GPS track on a larger map

12 Jan: Thursday ride to Ickleton and Barley

2012-01-12T20:35:00.008Z

Edward writes: Today normal service was resumed with the regular Thursday ride. The fair weather cyclists were out in force and shortly after leaving Hauxton we had eleven in the group. With Greta away the baton was handed to a band of volunteers to look after things in her absence. Today I was the ride leader.

We set off in reasonable weather, a bit breezy from the west but with the promise of a sunlit afternoon but accompanied by a drop in temperature, and so it turned out, but with the addition of one or two unpleasant showers, which would have meant nothing to those who braved last week's conditions. We took a fairly short route to Ickleton, going via Little Shelford, then Newton and back down into Whittlesford before turning to go over the A505. On reaching Duxford we took a route through the village and its back ways which took us by Duxford's second parish church, and the not often seen, St. John's, but sadly, few seemed to notice. We then went through the former Ciba-Geigy factory site, over the ford and into Hinxton and thence to Ickleton and the Riverside Barns. This is always a popular stop with its friendly and courteous service.

Here we were joined by Mike S and Tina, who unfortunately arrived with a puncture which, as ever, Mike C fixed in a time which was probably a little outside his record. In other words very quickly.

We left Ickleton and started the journey in earnest by taking the short cut across the fields to Coploe Road and the climb to the top and here we felt the full benefit of the stiff westerly wind coming across at right angles. After Catmere End we turned towards Littlebury Green but turning off just before the village to make another climb followed by the long descent to the Saffron Walden to Royston road.

We turned right here and into the wind and more climbs to arrive in Arkesden where we regrouped as the hills and the wind had spread the group out. Our next village was Clavering and this was followed by the least pleasant bit of the course - stiff head wind, hills and the threatening black sky finally produced the inevitable rain. Nevertheless, the group pressed on with fortitude and we finally reached Brent Pelham and the first hint that the skies might break and give us the sunshine predicted in the forecast.

We now took a slightly circuitous route through Meesden and Anstey and, as we turned, the wind was at last not dead set against us. After Anstey, we then headed for Nuthamstead where the countryside started to have a different look with sunshine and colour in contrast to the rather bleak outlook in the previous hour. After Nuthamstead it was but a little distance to Shaftenhoe End and Barley and the Chequers where many sighs of relief were heard.

We were rejoined by Mike S who had taken a shorter route and he was just finishing his lunch when we all arrived. Ironically the best of the sunshine was while we were inside the pub. Following a good lunch the group dispersed a few a time but six of us then headed home the quick way down the A1368. This gave us time for one more puncture, this time to Brian M, and once again Mike C was on hand to effect a quick repair. This happened in Fowlmere and after this we detoured round Thriplow, on to Newton, Little Shelford and Great Shelford where the trip ended, having completed 42 miles. Thanks to everyone who attended. Edward Elmer.

View this route on a larger ma p

8 Jan: All-day ride to Cambourne. Woodhurst and Coton

2012-01-08T17:00:00.006Z

Nigel writes: I had a bit of a lie-in this morning, which meant that I didn't make it to Brookside in time for the 9.30 departure of today's all-day ride. In fact I didn't set off on my bike until about 10.30am, which allowed me just enough time to cycle directly to the morning coffee stop in Cambourne to catch up with the others.

So whilst the main group, led by Averil, took a roundabout route via Barton, Comberton, Toft, Longstowe, the Gransdens and Caxton, I took the direct route along the former A428. The weather was dull and overcast, with a slight westerly wind, and very mild. I arrived at Morrison's in Cambourne to find a large number of bikes parked outside, with some members in the supermarket cafe and others at Greens Coffee & Co around the corner. There was just time for me to have a quick coffee in the supermarket cafe before we all set off north towards our lunch stop.

Normally about half the group returns home after coffee, but today almost everyone continued on to lunch, about 15 riders in total.

Averil's route took us north through Knapwell and Conningston to Fenstanton. We then joined the busy A1096 St Ives by-pass and the slightly less busy B1040 to the Raptor Foundation at Woodhurst where we stopped for lunch at the cafe there.

After lunch I separated from the main group. Averil led the group east through Bluntisham to Earith and then south through Willingham before joining the Busway Cycleway to Cambridge and finally stopping for afternoon tea at the Coton Garden Centre.

I took a slightly different route with David W. We headed west and south to Houghton where we followed the Thicket Path to St Ives. It remained cloudy all day but the sun appeared for brief periods and we also had a few short outbteaks of drizzle, though these never amounted to much.

At St Ives we joined the Busway Cycleway which we followed all the way to Oakington. There we turned off to ride through Dry Drayton and Madingley, arriving at Coton Garden Centre at about 4.45pm. There I found Averil and the remains of the day ride, plus Ian and a large contingent from the afternoon ride, making about 17 in all. It was nice to see several new faces on both rides today.

After tea we returned home to Cambridge via the coton path. I arrived home at about 4.40pm, having cycled 56 miles.

View this GPS track of Nigel's route on alarger map

5 Jan: Thursday ride to Saffron Walden

2012-01-05T08:45:00.001Z

Rupert writes: Today was the sort of day that sorts the men from the boys (& girls). A rather strong and gusting wind and a threat of rain led to a mass "stay-at-home" today. Only three of the tougher nuts - David, Rupert and Mick - turned up at Haslingfield Green for today's ride. I won't embarrass the other regular Thursday riders by mentioning them by name...

Now three people is a bit of an awkward number. Just one and you can go home and nobody needs to know. Two requires a bit of collaboration. Three means you have a critical mass and a decision takes a bit longer. So we retired to David's house for a quick coffee to plan a new bad-weather route. We decided to head off to Saffron Walden, hoping to avoid too much of a battle with the westerly wind. It turned out to be a reasonably good decision: the sun came out and the roads were mostly OK. There were a few fallen branches and some big puddles but no major problems.

We took a fairly direct route via Newton, Whittlesford and Hinxton hoping for a second coffee at Ickleton, but were disappointed to find the cafe still closed (it reopens tomorrow). So we took the farm track over to the Coploe Hill road: this section was one of our few hard battles with the wind. But once on the road we had an easier ride and the usual great views as we headed through Catmere End and down into Saffron Walden. Here we were caught out by one of the unwritten club rules ("never visit the same lunch stop two weeks in a row") so we had to re-locate from the Temeraire to the Mocha cafe for a pleasant brunch. It seemed that our good luck was holding: we were inside during one of the few heavy showers.

Then back on the bikes to head back via Little Walden, Hadstock, Linton and Abingdon. The footpath across from Abingdon to Babraham gave us one of our few problems. The path was wet and slippery which made for difficult riding with the strong cross wind. David got caught out and slipped off taking a suitably dramatic tumble. So dramatic that I half-expected him to put his hand up and demand a penalty kick (thinking premier-league footballers here). But thankfully, no serious damage to man or bike.

Overall, I cycled a respectable 47 miles. Given the wind it felt like a bit more. But a good ride: well worth staying out to enjoy the best of an unpromising day. Rupert Goodings

4 Jan: Evening ride to Quy

2012-01-04T22:21:00.006Z

Nigel writes: This was intended to be a moonlit ride, but the sky was overcast and the moon was nowhere to be seen. The temperature was very mild but quite windy, and I wasn't surprised to find that the only person who turned up for this evening's ride was Nick J, who had suggested these monthly winter rides in the first place.

I suggested a loop through the fens, so we set off east out of Cambridge along the river and followed NCR 51 through Quy, Bottisham, Swaffham Bulbeck and Swaffham Prior to Burwell. With a strong tailwind we were positively blown along.

On the edge of Burwell I saw a cycle route sign "Lodes Way (11)" and decided to follow it along a road that I had never ridden along before. This took us north into Burwell Fen along a very bumpy farm road to meet the Lodes Way after about a mile. We then turned west for the journey back to Cambridge.

The ride back along empty fen roads and paths was directly into the wind, which was growing in intensity and noisy enough to make conversation impossible.

When we reached Lode we joined the B1102 to Quy where we stopped at the White Swan. We were just about the only customers in the pub but we were made very welcome and the food and drink were both quite good. I'd happily recommend this for a future visit.

Afterwards we returned back to Cambridge via Fen Ditton. We were again riding directly into the wind which was by now blowing quite a gale and it was a relief that we did not have very far to go. I was home just after 10pm, having cycled 29 miles.

View this GPS track on a larger map

1 Jan: Afternoon ride to Anglesey Abbey

2012-01-01T18:36:00.001Z

Conrad writes: I arrived at Brookside to find three other riders : Jacob, John and John from Royston. Today's coffee stop was in Cherry Hinton but Jacob and the others had already agreed on an alternative coffee stop at Anglesey Abbey, which would allow a longer ride to get more miles in. Jacob and John had decided on a route through Bottisham, Upware and the Fens up to Wicken Fen before coming back through the Fens and to Lode.

The weather was downcast to begin with but it started to rain when we reached the Fens. Thankfully, the wind was not that strong when we were cycling through the exposed Fens. although much of the surface was wet and muddy, which served as a useful reminder to me to re-attach my rear mudguards.

We reached Anglesey Abbey at 4pm and after some very welcome coffee and cake, we started on the ride back to Cambridge via Stow cum Quy and the Jubilee Cycleway. John had to catch a train back to Royston but Jacob and John were kind enough to follow me home to see the first Cambridge CTC member circa 2024 (actual date depends on prevailing club policy at the time). Conrad Chua

26 Dec: Social ride to St Ives (and beyond)

2011-12-26T01:07:00.009Z

Nigel writes: I found seven members waiting at Brookside for this morning's short social ride to St Ives: Rupert, Cathy, John, Julia, Steve, Jacob and Ian. The weather was cloudy but bright, and extremely mild. There was a steady wind from south-west but it was not cold, and we remarked that we had worn shorts on colder days than this.

Rupert led us across Parker's Piece and down to the river at Midsummer Common. We followed the south side of the river downstream to the Riverside Cycle Bridge, where we crossed over to Chesterton. After a short section through streets we met the river once more to follow the path along the north side out of the city.

On the river we passed a rowing eight and a few dozen walkers, but otherwise it was very quiet. A few miles further we reached Bait's Bite Lock.

Just beyond we turned west away from the river into Milton, where we rejoined the road south to the cycle bridge over the A14.

This took us onto Milton Road and the start of the busway cycleway which would take us all the way to St Ives, about 13 miles away.

Swavesey Church

The cycleway was quiet, with few other cyclists and not many pedestrians, except for the attractive section past Fen Drayton lakes which was busy with Boxing-Day strollers. It being Boxing Day there were no buses, either.

Before long we arrived in St Ives, which seemed quite busy with several shops and cafes open. As arranged we stopped at the Oliver Cromwell pub for a drink. Here we found Mike S waiting for us.

After a pleasant drink most of the group returned back to Cambridge along the busway cycleway. This would have made a round trip of about 35 miles.

View this route on a larger map

I, however, was keen to have a longer ride, to make the most of what was a very mild day. Together with Steve and John we rode the short distance to the Local Cafe in the middle of the town and had lunch. Afterwards John and Steve, too, returned back to Cambridge along the busway cycleway, leaving me to continue on my own.

On this non-social solo excursion I crossed over the river and joined NCR 51 through the Hemingfords to Godmanchester and from there to Huntingdon. Here I joined NCR 12 which I followed north to Alconbury. From here a series of empty lanes took me north through the countryside west of the A1 and then east to Peterborough. I had planned to follow the well-signposted NCR 12 all the way but according to the map this would have followed the A1(M) for some of the way, so instead I continued further north before heading into Peterborough via Haddon.

By the time I arrived in Peterborough City Centre it was 4.45pm.

Peterborough Cathedral gatehouse

I stopped at McDonalds for a warm Chicken salad sandwich and a coffee, which I ate on a bench outside whilst planning the long ride south to Cambridge. (The food and drink were rather good, and astonishingly cheap).

My route home was dominated by the wind. It had been windy all day. but for most of the time it had been wholly or martially behind me. However for the homeward journey I could not avoid riding directly into it.

I took a fairly direct route via B1095 and B1040 to Ramsey St Mary's and then along minor roads to Ramsey Heights and Upwood. The section between Pondersbridge to Upwood is about six miles, most of it along a completely straight road, directly into the wind. The only way to handle headwinds is simply to change to a low gear, put your head down, and be patient. During the day I would have been surrounded by flat fenland vastness, but in the dark it felt quite intimate with just me, my bright lights, and the surrounding darkness. Fortunately it wasn't in the least bit cold.

After Upwood I continued through Great and Little Raveley to Broughton. This changed my direction from south to south-east, and with an element of wind behind me I speeded up.

Broughton

I continued south-east through Woodhurst and Bluntisham and Earith, where I crossed the River Great Ouse and took the B1050 south to Willingham and Longstanton. This was the only road I had used all day with any significant traffic, and even this was light.

At Longstanton I met the busway cycleway once more, and from here, and with the wind behind me once more, I made a rapid return to Cambridge. I arrived home at 9.40pm, still feeling surpringly strong despite having cycled 96 miles.

Woodhurst

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22 Dec: Thursday ride to Reed and Orwell

2011-12-22T22:31:00.006Z

Edward writes: A glorious day and, in contrast to last Thursday, thirteen riders assembled for the start of our ride out to Reed and Orwell. This may have been seen as a final opportunity for a leg stretch before the Christmas period begins.

The start

We set off over Chapel Hill toward Barrington and were rewarded with the first of the day's many glorious views. The sun over the land down below in Barrington and beyond made the view look really wonderful. At the bottom of the hill we turned left and headed towards Foxton and the railway crossing where we waited for a train to go through. As we were crossing the road the gates came down again but this didn't prevent a white van driver making a risky dash through as the gates descended.

Foxton Railway Crossing

After Foxton we took the road to Fowlmere and, although the wind wasn't all that strong, it did make its presence felt over this stretch as there is no hedgerow protection. After Fowlmere it was out to the A505 which we crossed with relative ease and then the long incline up to Chrisall Grange. This was followed by the long climb up to the turnings for Elmdon and Heydon. This was an opportunity for the group to reassemble as we had become quite strung out during this climb. We now had the advantage of height as we were able to appreciate the views which were made even better by the bright sunshine - it hardly looked a Christmas scene but after last week's winds and cold nobody was complaining. Just after we passed through Gt Chishill Peter W's chain broke and, as ever, Mike C was quickly on hand to offer assistance. While the repairs took place the remainder carried on towards Barkway.

Great Chishill

In Barkway we turned right on to the road to Reed and, again with the bright sunlight, the ride was just an extremely pleasant experience. At Reed we stopped at the Silver Ball Cafe and were joined by Doug, Brian B, Mike S and Mike B, thus bringing our total to seventeen. No sooner had we arrived Mike C and Peter W followed us in complete with repaired chain.

Reed

After coffee we took the road out through Reed End followed by Therfield and the long descent down to the A505. This was probably the highlight of the morning as, again, the sunlit views over the surrounding countryside were a joy. Although the wind was against us for this descent it hardly mattered as our momentum downhill more than compensated. When we got to the A505 we travelled along it for about a quarter of a mile before taking the road which goes past Ashwell and Morden railway station. This then took us to Steeple Morden which then took us out to the road which runs between Guilden Morden and Wendy and thence to the A1198. This is quite a long road and luckily we had the benefit of a following wind, again adding to the pleasure of the trip. We joined the A1198 for a few yards before going on to the A603 for the run through Wimpole village and the turning into Orwell which was to be our lunch stop. Already at lunch were eight more of our club making for a busy time for the pub's staff.

This report goes no further than Orwell as many people wanted to make their own way home. This really was a ride for the scrapbook; we had the pleasure of a bright sunny day, great views, and for the most part the wind seemed to work in our favour. It goes without saying our gratitude to Greta for great day out. We rode 33 miles. The shortest ride on the shortest day! Edward Elmer

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2011-12-18T19:49:00.005Z

This sign was spotted on a ride recently. We never ride far before stopping for food and drink; an old joke often retold within CTC is that our club stands for "cafe to cafe."

18 Dec: All-day ride to St Ives, West Perry and Waresley

2011-12-18T18:05:00.008Z

Nigel writes: Today started cold and bright, with a chilly wind from the west. The approach of Christmas meant that I had plenty to do back home, and when I set off for Brookside I thought I'd just ride to coffee and then come back. In the event, and not for the first time, I ended up staying out all day. There was quite a good turnout at Brookside: Jim, Conrad, Adrian, Mick C, Richard B, Neil, Jim and Averil, our leader for today.

Our first stop today was St Ives for coffee, and as I had hoped Averil had decided to ride straight there along the busway cycleway. After a short discussion about the best route to get onto the cycleway I suggested heading down to the river, crossing over to Chesterton and then riding up Arbury Road and Northfield Avenue to join the cycleway at Orchard Park. Not the most scenic of routes, but the roads were quiet and the journey simple enough.

Once we reached the cycleway I think we all relaxed. Smooth, wide, traffic-free tarmac would carry us all the way to our coffee stop, about eleven miles away. A couple of miles further we passed a group of horses, reminding us that in addition to being an excellent cycleway this route was also a bridleway.

When we reached Oakington we were joined by Rupert, Cathy and Janice. As we rode along the weather began to deteriorate. We were riding into a gentle but persistent and cold headwind, and after a while it began to drizzle. For short periods the drizzle turned to sleet, and it became quite uncomfortable riding along with snowflakes blowing into the eyes. Fortunately it never got too bad, and the little patch of wet weather soon moved on.

We arrived in St Ives at almost exactly 11am. We stopped at Nuts Bistro and I ordered a warming bowl of soup.

By the time we left the cafe the weather had brightened up and the sun had come out. The weather had improved at just the point where each of us had to decide whether to return home or carry on to lunch, and I suppose I should not have been surprised to find that the majority of the group had chosen to stay on the ride. Perhaps we were all keen to get a few miles in credit before the excesses of the forthcoming holidays. In any case the sun was shining brightly as we rode over the town bridge towards Hemingford Grey.

Our route took us through the Hemingfords and then across the meadows to Godmanchester.

At Godmanchester we turned left by the "Chinese" bridge and followed the B1043 towards the Offords.

We were now riding into the wind and the sun had disappeared, making it now quite cold. Fortunately we didn't have very far to go. When we reached Offord Cluny we turned west towards Buckden, where a subway allowed us to cross the A1 without the need to use the busy roundabout close by.

After a couple of miles we found ourself riding below the high grassy dam at the eastern edge of Grafham Water.

We followed the southern shore of the lake for a couple of miles further before reaching West Perry where we stopped for lunch at the Harbour View restaurant. The car park was empty and there were few people around, so we were able to enjoy the best seats in the restaurant and confirm that it did, indeed, have a harbour view.

After lunch we turned south toward St Neots. Just before leaving West Perry I stopped to photograph a large map of the area. I thought this might be a useful reference in the future, so here it is:

Our route south from West perry took a route that I had not used before: a short section of private road past Littlehey Prison which took us onto a lovely narrow lane to Great Staughton. I'd happily recommend this route for future use.

A series of quiet lanes took us around Staughton Moor airfield to Bushmead where we turned east towards St Neots. On this occasion we had no need to visit the town centre so we reached Eaton Socon on the western side of St Neots we turned south and then east to cross the River Great Ouse on a new cycle bridge which had been opened only a few months ago. (Subsequent research tells me that this bridge is called the "Willow Bridge" and was opened in September this year).

The bridge itself is quite long as it needs to cross not just the river but the flood plain alongside. It is of ample width, and it was nice to see that the new cycle paths connecting to it on each side were wide and smooth as well.

This is a nice piece of new cycle infrastructure which provides a good alternative to the town bridge and which I look forward to using again. At the western edge a cycle route runs north along the river to Riverside Park. I will suggest we try it out next time we visit the cafe there.

At the eastern end of the bridge a cycle path brought us out in Eynesbury. We joined the B1046 for a short distance before turning off onto the quiet road that leads over Lily Hill to Waresley. It was now 3.15pm, and most of us stopped at the Garden Centre for coffee. About fifteen minutes later we were joined in the cafe by Jacob, who had been the only person on the afternoon ride. Steve G also joined us - he had ridden there directly.

After coffee we returned back to Cambridge along the direct route via Great Gransden, Caxton, Bourn and then along the B1046 into Cambridge. I was home by 5.30pm, having cycled 67 miles.

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15 Dec: Thursday ride to Hare Street and Puckeridge

2011-12-15T20:19:00.003Z

Edward writes: When we met at Greta's in Hauxton, it was to nobody's surprise that numbers were down considerably from our usual gatherings. In fact only six of us were ready to face the elements. It's possible, of course, that Christmas shopping had taken priority, or it may even have been the cold, drizzly and windy morning that put people off. Who knows? Anyway, nothing daunted, the six set off into Little Shelford, followed by the turning to Newton. After Newton we turned towards Fowlmere into the teeth of the wind. Fortunately we obtained some respite by taking the turning to Thriplow and gained the protection of the high hedges on this road. After going through Thriplow we went through Fowlmere and took the road to Flint Cross on the A505. This was easily the worst part of our trip. This road offers no protection and the wind was coming at an angle of about two 0'Clock, but this didn't upset Greta's speed. She seemed to be in fine form and led us at a very brisk pace up to Flint Cross. At this point one of our number left us which left us with just five riders.

After Flint Cross it was still into the wind and uphill but at least the hedgerows provided good protection and the ride wasn't too difficult. Once we got to Barley the wind didn't seem quite so vigorous and we made steady progress over this undulating stretch of road to Barkway. It was good to see the appearance of new hedge planting for a long stretch of this road, something to look forward to when it has established itself. From Barkway it didn't take too long before we arrived in Hare Street and the Tortoise cake shop for refreshments.

Unusually we were not joined by any other of our cyclists at coffee, but a group of three who had cycled up from Hertford came in just as were leaving. The next bit of the ride was by far the best of the day. The skies had cleared completely and we had blue sky and sunshine and what a difference it made to the winter scene. After leaving the coffee stop we soon turned right and took the road to Buntingford, but crossing the A10 just before the town itself, followed by the road to Aspenden. From here it was the delightfully rural trip through Westmill and Nasty, and by now we had turned and the wind was now in our favour, plus a sun-drenched countryside, cycling was suddenly a pleasure again.

From Nasty it was just a mile or two to Puckeridge and our lunch stop which became The White Hart rather than the Crown and Falcon. We decided to explore this pub as an experiment and very pleasing it was with a nice menu and very pleasant and welcoming staff.

During lunch the skies had become overcast again so it was decided to go back by staying on the B1368 all the way. With the wind on our backs we made rapid progress, especially the downhill stretch rom Barley to Flint Cross. We soon got back and the ride ended at 3 pm and having covered 47 miles. Despite the morning weather and some misgivings we agreed that the ride out had been worthwhile. As ever thanks to Greta for another good day out. Edward Elmer

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10 Dec: Ad hoc ride to Mistley Quay

2011-12-10T16:35:00.019Z

Nigel writes: Today I rode with Gareth from Cambridge to Manningtree and back. It was Gareth's idea: he was keen to to earn some Audax points and so planned this as a 200km ride under Audax rules. I was happy to tag along, not to earn any points but to gain an excuse for indulging in the club Christmas lunch the following day.

I left home at about 7.50am and cycled east out of Cambridge along the river and across the meadows to Fen Ditton, where we had planned to rendezvous at 8.15am. It had been a cold night, and I had to watch out for early-morning frost on the paths by the river, but the sky was clear and before long the sun was up and shining brightly down on us.

8.10am. Fen Ditton church bathed in morning sunshine

We set off east to Little Wilbraham (where I stopped to mend a puncture) and Six Mile Bottom from where we made the gentle but long climb to Brinkley. With a light breeze behind us and the warmth of the sun keeping us comfortable we made good progress as we continued via Carlton Green and Little Thurlow to Stradishall. Here, with 20 miles covered we stopped for breakfast at Tubby T's Cafe. Gareth ordered coffee and a bun and, rather to my surprise, asked for a receipt. He reminded me that on a DIY Audax ride like this he needed to produce proof that he had followed the route, and that submitting a cafe receipt, with location, date and time printed on it, was an easy way to do this.

I ordered beans on toast. The cafe was quiet so my breakfast was served quickly and we were soon back on our way. I agree with Gareth that when you're riding a long way it's best to avoid spending too long at the stops.

We continued east through Hawkedon and Hartest, where we climbed Hartest Hill which at more than 1 in 7 was the only significant hill of the day.

Hartest Hill - the steepest climb of the day

We continued east through Shrimpling and Bridge Street and after a short distance further we arrived in Lavenham, where Gareth made a token purchase from the co-up in order to obtain yet another receipt.

The pace so far had been comfortable, unlike the last time I rode a 200km Audax, helped no doubt by the gentle tailwind.

From Lavenham we followed the A1141 south-east to Hadleigh. Despite its A-road designation this was in fact a very quiet, pleasant road. At Hadleigh we stopped outside Greggs for a rest and for Gareth to buy another bun.

Mid-morning snack in Hadleigh

From Hadleigh we continued south-east along the B1070 to East Bergholt. We passed the sign to Flatford, reminding me that this is "Constable Country", though the only sign telling us this was the one outside the Constable Country Medical Practice. After a few more minutes we reached the bridge over the River Stour just north of Manningtree. This is the point at which an already wide river turns onto an even wider estuary, and there was definitely a feeling that we'd "reached the sea".

Crossing the River Stour at Manningtree

Close-up of Cormorant on the River Stour

After crossing the Stour we turned off towards Manningtree. This took us east along the south bank.

River Stour near Mistley with swans and a little flock of mostly sandpipers (but at least one of them is a curlew).

River Stour at Mistley

We rode through Manningtree, which I had thought of as just a railway junction but is in fact a small town and on to Mistley, where we stopped for lunch at the Mistley Quay Cafe. It was 1pm and we had covered about 57 miles: a little less than half-way.

Outside the cafe at Mistley

After lunch we set off west back for the long ride back towards Cambridge. Almost immediately Gareth began suffering from some kind of stomach cramp and was clearly in discomfort, and we made slow progress, not helped by the fact that we were riding back into the wind now. We pressed on carefully, through Dedham, Langham, Nayland and Boxted.

Track between Langham and Boxted

Near Nayland we crossed the River Stour once more. Our slow progress had meant that by now the sun was gettting low in the sky and would soon be setting.

Sunset over the (rather smaller) River Stour near Nayland

We continued west. As the sun set the full moon rose.

Full moon with a bite taken out of it. See Gareth's comment below for an explanation.

Gareth was still not 100% and although he was still riding at a very respectable pace it wasn't as fast as he would have liked and by the time we reached Bures it was quite dark. It was 3.50pm. We were now running behind schedule and there was now a definite possibility that we would not be able to complete the ride within the time permitted under Audax rules.

We stopped in a pub to warm up and discussed what to do. Gareth was clearly unwell but after briefly contemplating abandoning the ride and taking the train back from Bures (via Liverpool Street) he suggested we carry on west towards Sible Headingham and Finchingfield. We reached Finchingfield at about 5.45pm, where we stopped in The Fox for a drink and a rest. It was now clear that any hope of completing the ride had disappeared. We were going too slowly to complete the ride within Audax time limits and Gareth still wasn't feeling well. The plan had been to continue west to Saffron Walden and from there to Royston, from where we would return to Cambridge via Kneesworth. However we now agreed that we should continue to Saffron Walden and catch the train back to Cambridge.

We reached Saffron Walden at 7.35pm. The next train from Audley End was at 8pm, and I suggested to Gareth that he catch the train whilst I cycle back on my own to Cambridge. As I had rather expected, Gareth changed his mind and suggested he ride back to Cambridge with me.

Nigel resting at Saffron Walden before the final leg to Cambridge

Our mileage to this point was 103 miles, so to take things easy we eschewed our normal route via Catmere End and Coploe Hill and instead followed a fairly level route via Littlebury and Great Chesterford to Ickleton and from there along our usual route via Duxford, Whittlesford and the Shelfords back to Cambridge. I was home at 9pm, having cycled a very satisfying 120 miles. That's 193 km, so we didn't miss our 200km target by too much. Missing the Royston stop meant that Gareth's ride wouldn't qualify under Audax rules, but we were very close, and I had certainly achieved my own goal which was to allow me to eat a large Christmas lunch the next day without guilt. Gareth recovered from the ride and was able to be there as well.

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8 Dec: Thursday ride to Malton

2011-12-08T19:04:00.004Z

Edward writes:About a dozen cyclists assembled at Haslingfield Green for the start of today's ride in somewhat unpromising conditions. In fact we were faced by stiff westerly winds. However, we set off towards Harston and were stopped at the railway crossing to allow a train spraying the tracks to pass through.

We then made the climb and descent into Newton and there we joined the road to Thiplow and Fowlmere. After Fowlmere we turned past the RSPB reserve and for the first time into the wind and this was seriously hard work, and this was soon followed by the road in the same direction into Melbourn. This was clearly not to everyone's taste and progress was extremely slow. After Melbourn we turned through Meldreth before finding road to Malton and the Golf Club.

Harston

This was a welcome sanctuary, the more so because of the warm, friendly welcome we always receive there. The coffee and cake were most welcome, but after much deliberation it was most people's opinion that the ride should be abandoned as there would be little pleasure riding in those conditions. Consequently, most decided to go home by various routes and nobody went to the lunch stop at Hinxworth. Edward Elmer

Rides in January and February

2011-12-07T23:23:00.006Z

The January and February rides lists are now available. Yes, it's those drab winter months with a risk of bad weather and icy roads. So we've planned shorter rides and moved the Sunday tea stops closer to Cambridge. But all the routes can be extended if we get some nice clear winter days.

There are a few highspots coming up on the Sunday rides with two new lunch stops in February and a total of three home teas. The first home tea is at John F's at the end of January, and this is followed by home teas at Conrad's and at Julia's in February. Hopefully this will tempt most of you out - even if it does rain.

Meanwhile the Thursday rides carry on as usual. And there's a smattering of Saturday and Wednesday evening full-moon rides to round out the programme. So plenty of good opportunities to use those new lights you were given for Christmas...

Rides in January and February

2011-12-07T23:21:00.005Z

The January and February rides lists are now available. Read the highlights here.

7 Dec Moonlit ride to St Ives

2011-12-07T21:47:00.006Z

Nigel writes: Tonight was our second winter evening ride, held entirely in the dark. We'll be holding further rides once a month throughout the winter on a Wednesday close to the full moon. The plan this evening was to ride the full length of the guided busway cycleway to St Ives and back, following the opening of the final section last month.

I arrived at Brookside a few minutes before our 6.30pm start, which gave me time to take a photo of the Hobson's Conduit monument with the almost-full moon above. The faint white dot to the right (clearly visible on the larger photo) is Jupiter.

After a few minutes Jacob, Rob and Ian D turned up, and since I didn't expect to take many photos on this ride I asked them to pose for a quick picture. Again, the moon and Jupiter are clearly visible in the larger photo.

We set off towards Parker's Piece and down to Midsummer Common. We followed the river to Riverside where we crossed over on the new Riverside Cycle bridge. On the north side we were joined by Gareth and Pete H, making six in all.

We rode quickly through Chesterton to join the busway cycleway at its start on Milton Road. Once we joined the cycleway we were soon in darkness, with only our cycle lights to illuminate the way. From here it is about 13 miles to St Ives along the smooth, wide, traffic-free cycleway. The ride was uneventful, with a persistent headwind the only challenge. Fortunately it was clear and the temperature was mild.

We arrived at St Ives about an hour later, at 7.45pm. Compared with the blackness this seemed an oasis of brightly-lit excitement, and a choir of carol singers was singing in the middle of the town when we arrived.

The cafe we had been aiming to visit turned out to be closed, so we stopped in a nearby pub for coffee. After about 20 minutes we set off back to Cambridge. Rob hadn't been to St Ives before so we rode down to the bridge to show him the river.

The return to Cambridge was slightly easier than the way out, but we didn't race along but took the opportunity to ride three-abreast chatting. The whole route was very quiet and we only passed a handful of other people on the entire route. Compared with our normal rides along roads, this route is very quiet, easy and somewhat dull - but it is also very relaxing and stress-free, and one finds oneself back in Cambridge without having really felt you've gone any distance at all. I was home by 9.30pm, having cycled 32 miles.

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John Lumbers 1929 - 2011

2011-12-05T21:38:00.019Z

John and Greta in 2009

Greta Lumbers writes: "I would like to thank the club for their support during the last two years of John's illness. Especial thanks to all who gave up their Saturday to search for John and to Rupert for organising it. Thank you also for your lovely cards and letters remembering the real John. Cyclists are a special breed - an extended family"

An appreciation by the club of one of our most long-serving members can be found here.

4 Dec: All-day ride to Malton, Clavering and Ickleton

2011-12-04T17:51:00.006Z

Nigel writes: Rather unusually given the recent spell of sunny weather, today started as a typical dull winter's day. Not especially cold, but with a chilly wind from the south. However this didn't prevent about nine members turning up at Brookside for today's all-day ride. Our leader today was Adrian. On midwinter days like today we arrange to have our planned stops relatively close to Cambridge, and our planned morning coffee stop in Malton was only ten miles away, so Adrian took us there via a rather longer roundabout route.

We set off from Brookside down Hills Road.

Just before the railway bridge we turned left towards the station and joined the busway cycleway to Addenbrooke's.

At Addenbrooke's we turned onto the DNA path to Great Shelford from where we continued on the familiar route through Little Shelford to Whittlesford.

Just north of Whittlesford we turned north towards Newton from where we continued, via a diversion round Thriplow and Fowlmere, to Foxton. Here we crossed the A10 and the railway.

We continued to Barrington and Orwell from where it was just a short distance further to our coffee stop at Malton Golf club. When we arrived we found about half a dozen more members already there. This is one of my favourite coffee stops: the staff always seem pleased to see us and in addition to tea and coffee a good range of cheap snacks are available. I ordered coffee and beans on toast and we spent about half an hour there drinking, eating and chatting.

Afterwards about half a dozen riders returned to Cambridge, leaving about ten to continue on to lunch at Clavering Lakes. I needed to warm myself up so went ahead of the group and arrived at the Fishing Lodge about fifteeen minutes before the rest.

The small restaurant here is in a very nice location, and the food is quite good, but some of the staff here always seem a bit stressed and are not as welcoming as you might expect when £100 of business walks through the door.

Since I had arrived first, I finished my food first, and so after checking the route with Adrian I set off for Ickleton on my own via Arkesden, Duddenhoe End, Littlebury Green and Catmere End. By now the sun had come out and the dull grey morning had turned into a warm golden afternoon.

It was only about ten miles to our planned afternoon stop and it was only 3.15pm when I arrived at Ickleton Barns cafe. This is another of my favourite coffee stops, with a nice location, welcoming staff and some very satisfactory cakes. I was just finishing my cake when Adrian arrived with the remnants of the all-day ride, and Julia arrived with the afternoon ride.

Afterwards we all set off back towards Cambridge with the exception of Tina who was heading west towards Royston. I decided to keep Tina company for part of the way so we headed west along Grange Road Ickleton to Chrishall Grange where we turned north for Fowlmere. By now it was getting quite dark so I was able to try out the new extra-bright front light I had bought a few days previously. At Fowlmere we parted company: Tina continued west towards Melbourn and Royston whilst I followed the B1368 through Newton to Harston. I rode along the A10 for a couple of miles to Trumpington P&R where I picked up the busway cycleway all the way back to Cambridge station. I was just approaching the station when, rather unexpectedly, it started to rain quite heavily. Fortunately I was only a mile from home, which I reached just after 5.30pm, having cycled 66 miles.

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3 Dec: Introductory ride to Cottenham

2011-12-03T23:44:00.009Z

Julia writes: So much for popular demand... After our last Saturday ride, which saw no less than 14 riders at Brookside, and with the forecast being for lots of sunshine again, I expected to find a respectable number of people to be already assembled at the meeting point when Ian and I turned up just a few minutes before the official start time. But far from it. Had Ian not been the leader of this ride, I would have presumed I had got the time wrong and that we had missed the group - there was nobody at all waiting at our bench! OK, the morning had started rather dull and cloudy, but surely that would not put people off? Just as we were wondering whether we would indeed be on our own for this ride, we were joined by Averil - who was just as surprised as we were. Perhaps everybody else was busy with their Christmas shopping? We decided to wait a few minutes in case some people were just a bit late, and sure enough, a few more riders soon turned into Brookside and stopped near us. I did not know them and for a brief moment wondered whether they had indeed come to join our ride, but no - the racing bikes and sporty clothing soon made it clear that these were more "serious" cyclists, probably belonging to the Cambridge University Cycling Club.

So it was really just the three of us, but we did not let that stop us and set off for a lovely ride, along the river to Waterbeach and via Landbeach to Cottenham, where we stopped at the Community Centre for coffee and scones. On the way back we went to Westwick and Oakington, picked up the busway path and followed it all the way to the Science Park in Cambridge. I had noticed earlier that I had lost one of my gloves on the tow path by the river, so we then diverted via Milton, through the Country Park, back to the river and retraced our route past Baits Bite Lock to the Green Dragon bridge. The glove was found, and we were back home just after 1 o'clock. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and am looking forward to the next one. Julia Hochbach

Start at Brookside

Riverside - our whole group in the photo!

On the tow path near Fen Ditton

We passed Waterbeach church just before 11 o'clock

Arrival at Cottenham Community Centre

Community Centre interior

The busway between Oakington and Histon, complete with guided bus

Busway near Histon

Milton Country Park

The lost and found glove

2011-12-01 Thursday ride to Saffron Walden and Horseheath

2011-12-02T09:34:00.011Z

Edward writes: Today we met at Greta's house in Hauxton and probably to most people's surprise the weather was looking promising. The forecast two days earlier had suggested wind and rain for Thursday but we are quite used to these forecasts being wrong, and in fact conditions for cycling were near perfect, i.e. little or no wind and no rain with temperatures no worse than cool. In fact two riders were still wearing shorts. Also to mention another large group had assembled which, during the day, grew even larger.

We set out on familiar roads through Little Shelford and Whittlesford where we crossed an unusually quiet A505 to take us into Duxford. We passed through Duxford on the Ickleton Road and the climb up Coploe Hill.

Coploe Hill

Although a steady climb the panorama at the top is well worth the effort as we regrouped at our regular top-of-the hill assembly point. What follows is the fun bit with the long sweeping downhill and then the short climb up to Catmere End. With no wind to speak of riding was effortless as we sped down Chestnut Avenue to the B1383 and the run into Saffron Walden. All the chestnut trees have now all shed their leaves and hopefully they will be able to use the winter to recover from the blight that now afflicts them every year.

Saffron Walden

We enjoyed a leisurely coffee break at the Temeraire and some still found it warm enough to sit outside on the patio. It has to said that this patio is a nice little sun trap. After coffee we went through Saffron Walden by the side of the common and turned into Ashdon Road for the steady climb up to Ashdon itself. With the additions to the group at coffee we had split into two groups for this section of the journey. At Ashdon we turned towards Bartlow where soon after we crossed the A1307 to take us on the climb up to Webb's Road which leads to Streetly End and thence to Horseheath which was to be our lunch stop.

Bartlow to Streetly End

Again our numbers increased and for some reason many people seemed attracted to their smartphones and mini-video cameras. With so many people maybe an apt way to talk to someone out of hearing distance. Lunch was very enjoyable; the Thursday group has often used the Old Red Lion Inn as coffee stop but this is the first time we've stopped here for lunch and we were not disappointed. After lunch we set off by retracing our route back to Bartlow which then took us back over the A1307 and into Linton and onto Hildersham.

Towards Streetly End

As is often the case the opposite of the growing throng in the morning is followed by the group diminishing in size as people make their own way back home. After Hildersam we went into Great Abington followed by the footbridge over the A11 into Babraham and along the splendid cycleway into Sawston. Here the last remaining half dozen riders went through Sawston to the Spicers railway crossing, along the cycle way to Whittlesford and then on to Little Shelford and Hauxton where the ride ended. As ever thanks to Greta for a good ride, thanks to the weather forecasters for getting it wrong again! Distance covered: 40 miles. Edward Elmer.

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27 Nov: Afternoon ride to Fordham

2011-11-28T15:57:00.003Z

John writes: Five riders departed from Brookside at 1:30 p.m. It was a perfect winter’s cycling day with sun, scattered cloud and the strong westerly having moderated to a force 3 or 4. We slowly winkled through crowds of pedestrians, dogs etc. over Parker’s Piece and Midsummer Common to the Cam. Thence via Stourbridge Common to Fen Ditton, past the Ancient Shepherds pub (where the ride leader (RL) first learned he was to be a grandfather) to Quy. We made rapid progress past the quirky and expensive Missing Sock through Bottisham and Swaffham Bulbeck. The B1102 was as trafficky as usual – shame about shops opening on Sundays - but we were able to use the pavement/cycle track and go through Swaffham Prior village.

A short break where we crossed the Devil’s Ditch afforded a magnificent view across the fens to Ely cathedral shimmering on the horizon, whilst Jacob mended a puncture caused by a flint.

After passing through Burwell we continued onto Heath Road before turning, at Jacob's suggestion, onto a quiet concrete track which took us past Gravel Pit Farm towards Exning. Jacob had an onboard video camera with him and took this short video:

This diversion confused RL’s GPS but we soon found the rural road through Snailwell to Chippenham. This fine road through horseracing country was well-wooded and quiet.

Adrian, escaping from the all-day riders, met us here. The huge privately owned Chippenham Park grounds are well worth visiting: it is open 3 or 4 days a year under the National Gardens Scheme: the ugly house is not open to the public.

At Chippenham village, our farthest Easterly point we turned into the wind, which had moderated further, towards a magnificent setting sun to arrive at Simpson’s at 3:45 p.m. just as the all-day cyclists were leaving.

After generous portions of cake, huge sausage rolls and tea we set off homewards. It was now dark so lights were required and the temperature was falling rapidly. A day-old finger nail moon had risen over Cambridge. Steve and Seb, fortified by the sausage rolls, sped ahead on their drop-handlebar machines whilst the three J’s including another John pursued them on their straight-barred mounts. But a few regrouping pauses kept us all in touch until the A14 tunnel where the group fragmented to their various homes. RL retraced the route through Fen Ditton and across Stourbridge Common: Ursa Major and Cassiopeia were clearly visible despite the ambient light from the city.

This was a brisk ride of about 38 miles. John Ferguson.

Saturday morning introductory rides in December

2011-11-28T11:19:00.021Z

By popular demand, an additional Saturday morning introductory rides has been arranged for Saturday 17th December. Join us at Brookside at 10am for a ride to Burwash Manor, Barton, where in addition to refreshments at the tea rooms there will be an opportunity for some last-minute Christmas shopping!

27 Nov: All-day ride to Newmarket, Lackford and Fordham

2011-11-27T18:24:00.007Z

Nigel writes: Today started dull, windy, dry, and very mild, but the sun soon came out and bathed us in constant sunshine all day. Quite a contrast to the last Sunday in November last year, when both rides were cancelled due to ice and snow and the pond at Brookside had ice floating on top.

I arrived at Brookside to find a dozen riders waiting to set off. Tom was our leader today, and led us south-east out of Cambridge along Cherry Hinton Road and Fulbourn Road to Fulbourn.

The wind was from the south-west and was quite strong. Fortunately we were heading east, which meant we had a tailwind for most of the morning.

From Fulbourn we took the road to Great Wilbraham and Little Wilbraham.

At Little Wilbraham we turned onto the long road east to Six Mile Bottom.

At Six Mile Bottom we continued up the hill in the direction of Brinkley. This was our first climb of the day, but the tailwind meant that it didn't really feel like climbing at all. When we reached the cross-roads half-way up the hill we turned left towards Dullingham and from there continued to Newmarket. We arrived at our planned coffee stop at the National Horseracing Museum just after 11pm to find quite a few members already there.

The staff at the museum were friendly and welcoming, even inviting some of us to wheel our bikes through the museum so we could park them in an inner courtyard.

Morning coffee on an all-day ride is always a sociable affair, and today was no exception, and everyone sat in animated conversation for over 45 minutes before Tom suggested it was time to move on.

About ten continued on to lunch leaving the others to return back to Cambridge. We left Newmarket on the road to Moulton. This is a gentle climb with horseracing gallops on both sides of the road, and with the sun now shining brightly there were fine views of the town behind us.

With the wind still behind us the climb to Moulton was hardly noticeable. At Moulton Gareth and Rupert cycled over the medieval packhorse bridge, with the rest of us riding through the dry ford alongside.

Since we had spent such a long time over coffee Tom took us a fairly direct route to our lunch stop: east to Gazeley (photo below), north to Kentford where we crossed under the A14, and then north-east to our planned lunch stop at Lackford Lakes. This is a nature reserve run by Suffolk Wildlife Trust. This has a pleasant visitor centre but we were disappointed to discover that it offered little in the way of refreshments beyond tea, coffee and muffins. Most of the group had brought sandwiches and was happy to stay, but five of us was looking for something more substantial and so continued the short distance to Flempton where we stopped for lunch at The Greyhound.

After lunch the two groups reunited once more and continued onwards to our planned tea stop in Fordham. We were now riding west, into the wind, and although the wind had subsided compared to earlier, our pace was significantly slower than before.

We retraced out earlier route to Cavenham and then turned north-west to Tuddenham. From there we continued to Red Lodge. Along the way Gareth suggested a shortcut along a byway, and three of us decided to join him, leaving Tom and the others to continue along the road.

Just beyond Red Lodge we crossed over the A14 on a footbridge.

A short distance further on we were reunited with Tom's group and continued on towards Freckenham from where it was just a short distance further to Fordham.

There seemed to be some confusion about the best way through Fordham to Simpson's Garden Centre and Rupert, who led this section, was apologetic that he had taken us on a roundabout route. However the GPS track shows that route we took was in fact pretty direct. We reached the garden centre at about 3.15pm. This was my first visit to the cafe here, and I found it perfectly pleasant, with a small selection of reasonable quality cakes.

After half an hour we were ready to leave, keen to make as much use of the declining daylight as planned. As we left we saw John F and the afternoon ride arrive.

From Fordham back to Cambridge the most direct route would have been straight down the B1102 all the way to Quy. However no-one was keen on this and we took a longer but much more pleasant route via Burwell and the Lodes Way.

By the time we reached the bridge over Burwell Lode the light was declining fast. There seemed to be a lot of people about with cameras, and on the bridge itself there were several people waiting with tripods. When we asked why they told us they were waiting for bats.

We continued along the Lodes Way, over the new bridges across Reach Lode and Swaffham Bulbeck Lode until we reached Lode itself. We crossed over the B1102 to Bottisham where we joined the cycle path alongside the A1303 to Quy. Our route into Cambridge took us through Fen Ditton and across Ditton Meadows and Stourbridge Common. I was home before 6pm, having cycled 72 miles.

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CTC Cambridge in the 1930s

2011-11-26T22:29:00.016Z

A selection of photos taken in the 1930's by club member Donnex Claydon have now been published on this website. They show how active the club was in the 1930s, and what fun its members had.

John Lumbers 1929 - 2011

2011-11-25T10:53:00.013Z

An appreciation by the club of one of our most long-serving members can be found here.

19 Nov: Saturday morning ride to Fen Ditton

2011-11-21T23:16:00.006Z

Julia writes: The forecast for today was for sunshine after a dull start, and this is exactly how it turned out. It was bright and sunny already when Parul - a friend of mine who lives in Hitchin but had stayed over for the night especially to come on the ride - and I set off from home, so I expected at least ten people at Brookside. And I was not disappointed: A total of 14 riders had assembled at the start, including some regular Saturday riders and a few more guests. Ian, our leader for today, asked non-members to fill out the guest entry forms and I took a group photo before we set off just after 10 o'clock.

We went south on Brookside, crossed over Trumpington Road and went on to Newnham via the little green called the New Bit. Ian had planned a clockwise mini circuit to the west and north of Cambridge, avoiding the popular tow path by the river near Chesterton, which was very busy with walkers, cyclists, dogs and spectators as a rowing race was taking place this morning. As we went on along the cycle path on Barton Road and then took a right turn into Grange Road, people were happily chatting, and nobody noticed that suddenly the last three riders of the group had stopped as Rob from Linton had a problem with his rear wheel. I stayed with him while he readjusted things, not least because I had volunteered to be the "back marker" of our group. Having a person at the back who makes sure that nobody gets left behind is a good idea in a large group. The general rule is: If you can see your back marker, everything is OK. If you can't, there may be a problem and somebody may have been left behind, so slow down or stop. Of course this means that ideally the person at the back should be easily visible amongst the crowd, so that the leader can spot them with a quick glance back over his or her shoulder. I was quite the opposite in my inconspicuous grey and brown outfit, so it is no surprise that Ian did not notice that I had gone missing. It took a little while for Rob to get his wheel sorted out, by which time the group had gone out of sight and I wasn't sure which way to go as we tried to catch them up. A quick phone call with the leader brought the main group to a halt and us back on track, and before long we had caught them up just off the Coton footpath, on the way up to Madingley road. After this little incidence we decided that Kathy in her bright yellow coat would be a far better back marker, and everything went smoothly after that.

We crossed over the main road and continued on the secluded little paths through the observatory up to Huntington Road, then via Girton towards Oakington. We turned right on to Park Lane where we picked up the guided busway.

We followed the smooth tarmac path along the busway as far as the old railway station in Histon and from there went on to Impington and over the A10 bridge which comes out in Butt Lane in Milton. We turned right off Milton High Street and went along Fen Road to the river path, then right again and to Baits Bite Lock. Kathy went straight home from there, leaving 13 of us to carry or push our bikes over the bridge by the lock, and continue our way on the path up to Horningsea Road.

I had used the stop at the lock to nick Peter's Super Galaxy for a test ride, leaving him to carry on with my Kingpin. Both bikes are made by Dawes, but could hardly be more different from each other. A nearly 30-year-old, heavy little folding bike on 20 inch wheels with 3-speed hub gears vs. a modern, high-spec and lightweight touring bike. Even though the Super Galaxy wasn't quite the right size for me (I felt a bit too stretched out on it), I certainly enjoyed the quick and smooth ride that the light and stiff frame delivered, as well as the neat gear shifters, which are integrated with the brake levers. If I ever wondered why people would spend well over £1000.00 on a bicycle, here was my answer. The last few minutes of the ride flew by, and we soon arrived at Green End in Fen Ditton where we stopped at our home for the usual coffee, tea and cakes. This was the first time I served tea in the fabulous giant tea pot which my house mates had given me as a birthday present earlier this year. It holds about 12 cups of tea and is hand painted with the names of a selection of classic British bicycle brands - perfect for CTC occasions! I was so busy eating and chatting that I completely forgot to take a picture of the crowd in our kitchen and dining room, so here is just a still life, featuring some flowers, left over cake and said tea pot.

Soon most people were on their way back to Cambridge, making a total distance of 16.5 miles. Meanwhile Ian carried out some impromptu repairs on Annie's bike in our back yard - another Kingpin, dating back to 1969, which once belonged to Annie's mum and has been well used over the past 40 years. It always makes me happy to see vintage bikes like this still used and loved by their owners.

It seems like the Saturday rides remain popular, so could well continue for a bit longer! Watch this space. Julia Hochbach

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John Lumbers 1929 - 2011

2011-11-21T15:58:00.003Z

Cambridge CTC is very sad to hear of the death of John Lumbers. The funeral will be on Thursday 24th November. More information can be found here.

17 Nov: Thursday ride to Newport and Clavering

2011-11-17T19:54:00.006Z

Edward writes: This Thursday we met at the green in Hauxton rather than at Greta's. Today we left Hauxton with twelve riders, including Greta, who led the ride to Newport and then Mike took over from there. We were also joined by Edward who was visiting from Worcester DA. This is his second visit to us, the first time during the summer, and we extend a welcome to him. The day was overcast, not cold and with the prospect of some sunshine by the middle of day. Also, and importantly, hardly any wind.

We left Hauxton and followed the road through Little Shelford, to Whittlesford where we crossed the A505 which, unusually, was not in the least bit busy. This brought us into Duxford and then to Ickleton for the climb up Coploe Hill and our regular regrouping spot at the top of the hill.

By now we had some sunshine and the views across the surrounding countryside were really good, so long if you ignore the motorway. When we got going again we were able to enjoy the fast downhill before the final climb up to Catmere End. After this, and a bit more climbing we descended to Wendons Ambo and the nice little road through the village, over the railway to briefly join the B1383 for the run into Newport and our coffee stop. Some went to the nursery at R & R Saggers whilst others went to Dorrington's on the main road.

After coffee Mike took over leadership and we headed for Wicken Bonhunt and the next village was Clavering and our lunch stop at the lakes.

We decided on an early lunch so that we had options in the afternoon. In fact we left the lakes at 1pm and as we were leaving we met Bob and Myrtle who were eating their lunch on the grass verge at the entrance to the lakes. At this point those that wanted to get back early left us and took a more direct route back. The remaining five then took the road to Langley Lower Green and followed the quiet and narrow roads through Little Chishill and then making a right turn so as to climb up to Gt Chishill. Next up was Heydon and Elmdon from where we able to enjoy the descent down into Ickleton.

Once again we went through Duxford, over the A505 and back into Whittlesford. As we were a bit early we looped round Newton and Little Shelford before arriving back in Gt Shelford at 3.15 after covering 43 miles. Our thanks are due to Greta and to Mike for leading this ride. Edward Elmer

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John Lumbers 1929 - 2011

2011-11-14T09:41:00.009Z

Cambridge CTC is very sad to hear of the death of John Lumbers. John was one of our leading members who had been associated with our club for as long as most of us can remember. John was a lifelong touring cyclist. He helped run the club for many years and led countless cycle rides both locally and all over the world. He led local rides for Cambridge CTC as recently as 2009. Our thoughts are with his family and particularly his wife Greta.

Funeral information

The funeral will be on Thursday 24th November at 11am at Hauxton Church.

The committal will take place at the church. Only the funeral directors will
accompany the coffin to the crematorium.

After the funeral, everyone is invited to a tea and coffee gathering at the
Red Lion pub in Grantchester.

Family flowers only. We understand there will be a collection for charity.

Greta has specifically asked for people to attend in cycling gear, so club members will be riding from Cambridge as follows:

Depart from Brookside at 10:00 am.
Pass front of railway station at 10:10am.

Ride via the busway cycleway, DNA path, Great and Little Shelfords, arriving at Hauxton at approx 10.45am.

After the funeral we will ride on to Grantchester.

If you plan to go to the Grantchester Red Lion gathering afterwards, it would be helpful if you let Rupert know (contact details here) so he can pass an estimate of numbers to the family.

13 Nov: Afternoon ride to Waresley

2011-11-13T20:38:00.001Z

Nigel writes: I hasn't been planning to go for a ride today, but the weather today looked absolutely gorgeous and I knew I just had to get on the bike to enjoy it. So I cancelled my plans to spend the day at home and turned up at Brookside at 1.30pm to find eight others already waiting. Jacob was our leader this afternoon. He led us south down Trumpington Road to Trumpington where we turned off to Grantchester.

The weather was clear, sunny and very mild. With just a light breeze it was as good a November day as you could hope for, with the low sun picking out the autumn colours and casting long shadows on the ground.

From Grantchester we took the road through Canteloupe Farm to Haslingfield.

As we passed Haslingfield Village Green we paused to to inspect the Joan Wooldridge Memorial Seat, since not all members had seen it yet.

From Haslingfield we set off west through Harlton and the Eversdens to Kingston. Just beyond Kingston we joined the B1046, but only for a few hundred yards before turning off south onto an unsurfaced byway which we followed for about two miles before rejoining the same road just south of Longstowe.

Photo: Gareth Rees

This was a beautiful route, though rather bumpy and muddy in places and I think we were relieved to reach tarmac once more.

From here onwards the group fragmented somewhat, though I suspect we all took the same route to Waresley. Gareth was in the front group who had time to visit the windmill at Great Gransden.

Photo: Gareth Rees

I reached Great Gransden at about 4.15pm. We were only 1 mile from our planned tea stop. Since this closes at 4pm so there was time for a loop via Abbotsley and Lily Hill first. I found myself riding on my own during this section, with one group ahead and one group behind. Lily Hill was, as always, lovely in the late afternoon sunshine. Although I'm not the greatest fan of the countryside west of Cambridge, the immediate vicinity of Waresley stands out as a little oasis with its undulating landscape, pretty lanes and the village itself hidden in trees.

The other reason I like Waresley is the Waresley Park Garden Centre, which I reached at about 3.45pm. The advance group was already there, and Jacob's rear group joined us about ten minutes later. There was also quite a large group from the all-day ride, plus one or two who had ridden there directly.

After tea we all rode back to Cambridge, with the exception of Tina who was heading south to Royston. Gareth offered to keep her company for the first part of the ride and I decided to come too. So whilst the main group headed back the direct route, which I expect was via Great Gransden, Caxton and Bourn., Tina, Gareth and I headed off in the opposite direction towards Gamlingay.

At Gamlingay the three of us turned left onto the road to Hatley St George. The light was now fading fast and the temperature was dropping rapidly. All three of us were wearing shorts, which demonstrated how mild the weather had been, so I think we were glad we didn't have very far to go.

Before long it was completely dark, and we were almost at the top of Croydon Hill when I heard a loud bang followed by a loud hissing. Tina had hit a pothole in the dark. Remarkably both tyres were flat almost immediately. Roadside repairs took about fifteen minutes: Gareth fixed the front wheel whilst Tina fixed the back, and we were soon on the move again.

Just a little further, at the junction half-way down Croydon Hill, our ways parted. Tina continued down the hill towards Wendy whilst Gareth and I turned left towards Croydon. (It was fortunate that Tina hadn't had that puncture a little later, since mending two punctures on one's own in the dark would be distinctly dispiriting for anyone).

Gareth and I rode back through Croydon and Arrington to the junction with the A1198, where we turned through the back gate of the Wimpole Estate. We rode through the grounds of Wimpole Hall, past the front of the house, and out on the other side. Our route then took us through Orwell, where Gareth stopped to take off his hat and I took the opportunity to take a photo of the floodlit church.

The final part of our ride home took us through Barrington, over Chapel Hill to Haslingfield, north to Barton and then into Cambridge along the A603. I was at home by 6.45pm, having cycled 46 miles.

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13 Nov: All-day ride to Biggleswade, Old Warden and Waresley

2011-11-13T20:00:00.004Z

Paul has sent in two photos of today's all-day ride. These were taken during the afternoon between Cardington and Old Warden. The stationary one shows the group that did the outbound loop via Prior Country Park, Bedford: others took a short cut via Copple and Northill en route to the Shuttleworth Museum at Old Warden for a late lunch.

Photos: Paul Dover

12 Nov: "The Norfolk Nips - 1" 100km Audax

2011-11-12T17:37:00.010Z

Nigel writes: Today was the first of three 100km Audax rides that start and end in Hellesdon, a northern suburb of Norwich. Ian D rode this event last year in thick fog, and was keen to ride it again - if only to see what the route looked like under normal conditions. He kindly offered Gareth and me spaces in his car to get there.

Our rendezvous point was at 7am at Brookside in Cambridge, where we loaded our bikes and ourselves into Ian's car for the drive to Norwich. We arrived at about 8.30am, in good time to collect our brevet cards and route sheets and enjoy a cup of tea before the start of the ride at 9am.

Today's event was organised by Keith Harrison and Sue Gatehouse in the name of an organisation called "NorfolknGood Audax", which despite the mischevous name provided an exceedingly well-run event from beginning to end.

Since there were well over 100 riders we were sent off in small batches a few minutes apart. I left in the first batch, with Gareth and Ian in later batches.

The weather was dull and cloudy, with the sun not making much of an appearance all day. It was very mild, however, and completely dry, and with hardly any wind it was nevertheless a pretty good day for a cycle ride in November.

The first part of the ride took us north to the coast. We were almost immediately out of the city and onto empty lanes, and although we were climbing gently I kept up a good pace from the start. In fact I was overtaken by only a dozen or so other riders during the first hour or so. However after the first info control at Weybourne I heard voices behind me, and a large peloton swept by.

I spotted Gareth somewhere in the middle and decided to catch them up and catch a ride at the back. It took me about five minutes to catch them up (I had stopped to take photos) but once I had done so I was able to relax. I had forgotten just how much shelter from the wind a peloton gives you, and as the group sped along the coast road towards Sheringham it was easy to keep up and enjoy the exhilarating ride.

The speed didn't slacken as we continued through Cromer and a succession of small seaside villages: Overstrand, Sidestrand and Trimingham. In fact the pace got even faster for the final mile or two before we reached Mundesley, and the first staffed control point of the ride. It was 1.10pm and we had cycled 61km (37 miles). As we relaxed with a cup of tea in the Jonet Cafe opposite, I recorded that my moving average speed was 28.8km/s (17.9mph) which for me is very fast indeed.

Gareth was keen to get moving again, though before we set off there was time to admire the beach behind the cafe and watch the waves.

After Mundesley the peloton separated into smaller groups and Gareth and I found ourselves riding as a group of two. We continued along the coast road, past the gas terminal at Bacton and the surfers' beaches at Walcot to arrive at a further staffed control point in a community hall in Happisburgh. It was 11.59am and we had covered 72km (45 miles). There were free refreshments available, but as we had left the cafe less than half an hour earlier we didn't stay for long and were soon on our way.

Our route now turned inland, back towards Norwich. I had only 34km (21 miles) to go back to Hellesdon, but Gareth was planning to ride all the way back to Cambridge as a "DIY Audax" so had not yet reached the half-way point of the day. Despite this, Gareth continued to set a brisk pace and as I began to tire I probably spent a less than my fair share of time at the front.

We arrived back in Hellesdon at 1.24pm. That's 106km (66 miles) in less than 4.5 hours, which Gareth thought was his fastest 100km ever. It certainly was mine.

After getting our Brevet cards stamped we collected cups of tea and bowls of soup and sat down for a rest.

After about an hour Ian arrived - he had taken the ride at a normal pace and had stopped for lunch in Sheringham. At about the same time Gareth set off with a companion for the long ride to Cambridge, with an expected arrival time of 9pm.

Ian dropped me off at home in Cambridge just after 5pm. I had ridden 66 miles.

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10 Nov: Thursday ride to Wimpole and Gamlingay

2011-11-10T20:38:00.006Z

Edward writes: This Thursday, when we met at the Joan Memorial Seat in Haslingfield, it was overcast, no wind and the prospect of a decent forecast. When we left Haslingfield we had fifteen cyclists and this soon became sixteen, and in order to lessen our impact on traffic we spilt into two groups and headed off to Harston. At Harston we turned right and went along the footpath which runs beside the A10. The hedges beside the path had recently been flailed and this may have been the cause of the three punctures we were to have during the day.

After being held at the railway gates in Foxton we turned towards Fowlmere where the road lacks hedges and the wind can be quite strong here, but today we didn't have to contend with the wind and we progressed at a leisurely rate.

Foxton station

In Fowlmere we had puncture number one and this happened to Jacob, but with Jim's assistance it wasn't too long before they got under way again and rejoined the rest of us at coffee.

Fowlmere

From Fowlmere we went past the RSPB reserve and then turned towards Melbourne and Meldreth and then made the turning to Orwell via Maldon.

Meldreth to Orwell

After Orwell we joined the A603 for the trip through Wimpole village and onto our coffee stop at the Layzee Dayz transport cafe. The second group arrived to find the first group enjoying coffee outside on the patio and this being 10 November, another reminder of the high temperatures we are still enjoying. By now our numbers had grown again, probably too many to count, but the staff in the cafe coped admirably with the sudden influx of customers.

Coffee Stop

After we got everybody underway again, and still in two groups, we carried on further up A603 to the point where it joins our old friend the A1198 (we cross it so many times). From here it was Wendy where we had puncture number two and the unlucky person was Peter. He was riding with us for the first time and we extend a warm welcome to him and hope joins us for future rides. Again, the puncture was soon sorted out and we progressed on our way to Guilden Morden where we caught up with Bob and Myrtle and our group increased in size yet again. It was very apparent that a great deal of oil seed rape has been sown yet again with many, many fields growing it, so next spring might be a testing time for those that suffer from its effects. Also nice to see is how immaculate the fields look after they have just been drilled. After Guilden Morden we crossed the A603 and then went into Wrestlingworth where we followed the road near to Cockayne Hatley and then onto the B1040 for the run into Gamlingay and our lunch stop at the Cock public house. Earlier Greta had wisely rang ahead to warn them that a large group was heading their way and they were well prepared for us, and in fact we all enjoyed a good value-for-money lunch. Just to mention numbers again we think we had a maximum of twenty-two riders with those that joined us in Gamlingay. Greta is becoming a modern-day Pied Piper.

Towards Wrestlingworth

After lunch we set off with considerably fewer riders as not all were coming back to the Cambridge area. Our route back was to the Gransdens but before reaching them puncture number three struck and the victim this time was Mike B but luckily Mike C was on hand to resolve this one. This proved a bit more tricky as it was a difficult to remove the thorn. We all reassembled at the point where we cross the A1198 to go down to Longstowe, Bourn, Kingston, the Eversdens and down to the A603. After this it was Harlton, Haslingfield, Harston and Hauxton where the ride ended.

This was a good day out: the sun made efforts to get out and when it did it did wonders for the autumn leaves as the countryside takes on a more autumnal appearance. Thanks to Greta. We covered 46 miles. Edward Elmer

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9 Nov: Moonlit ride to Barton

2011-11-09T21:50:00.006Z

Nigel writes: Although our regular Wednesday evening rides have officially finished for the winter, there's clearly still a demand from members for a mid-week post-work ride and pub stop. Tonight's ride was the initiative of Nick J, who last night sent an email to the members' email list suggesting that tonight, with almost a full moon, might be a good evening for an informal ride after work. I agreed, and turned up at Brookside at 6.30pm to find that I was one of six riders ready for a short evening ride into the darkness: Nick, Gareth, Jacob, Rob, Ian D and me. The weather was dry, clear and mild, with only a slight breeze from the south.

We had a short discussion to agree on a route and decided to head south through the Shelfords to Whittlesford before turning back north to Newton. There we would resist the temptation to stop at the Queen's Head and instead turn south to Thriplow and Fowlmere. From there we would turn back north, cross over the A10 to Shepreth and on to Barrington. A climb of Chapel Hill to Haslingfield would allow us to arrive at the White Horse in Barton before the kitchen closed.

I think we were all in the mood for a fast ride so we took the loop at a relatively fast pace with Gareth usually at the front. Nick and Jacob were usually just behind, with their bright front lights flooding the road ahead with illumination and making it easy to see the way ahead.

The combination of moonlight, quiet roads, mild weather and a nice fast pace made tonights ride much more enjoyable than might have been expected given that it was completely dark.

Haslingfield Church

Broken Spoke

As we passed Haslingfield Church Nick stopped with a broken spoke. Fortunately he was able to perform some impromptu wheel balancing and we were able to continue to the White Horse in Barton in time to order both food and drink. Afterwards we returned back to Cambridge via Coton. I was home at about 9.30pm, having cycled just under 30 miles.

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New committee for 2012

2011-11-06T20:52:00.004Z

At our AGM on Sunday 6th November a new committee for 2012 was elected. More

6 Nov: CTC Cambridge AGM

2011-11-06T20:45:00.007Z

The AGM of CTC Cambridge was held on Sunday 6th November 2011 at Hauxton Village Hall. Members may obtain minutes from the secretary. A new committee was elected:

President: George Rich
Vice President: Peter Rowell

Chair: George Rich
Secretary: Nigel Deakin
Treasurer: Jim Bamberg
Runs secretary: Rupert Goodings

Assistant secretary and welfare officer: Bob Billingham
Assistant runs secretary: Greta Lumbers
Membership and promotions officer: Julia Hochbach
Assistant membership and promotions officer: Ian Wright

Committee members:

Tom Howes
Chris Emerson
Cheryl Granville
Richard Broomfield

Honorary Auditor: Bob Norman

5 Nov: Saturday morning ride to Bourn

2011-11-05T23:59:00.001Z

Tina writes: Seven riders assembled at Brookside on a misty, autumnal morning to ride out to Bourn, three new riders – David, David and son Finn, Erika (on great new bike!), Julia and Ian. There is really only one circular route which can be ridden clockwise or anti-clockwise and Tina had chosen the latter leading everyone through town, where we paused for a photo outside Kings’ College, down Garrett Hostel Lane to cross the river and onwards to the Coton path, now strewn with fallen leaves.

From Coton we turned up the hill along the cycle path, past the American Cemetery at Madingley where it started to level out. Unusually for a Saturday morning, we all seemed to be of similar pace, with no-one trailing and no-one wanting to rush on ahead (apart from Julia to snap some action shots!)

We continued along the ‘old’ A428, crossing the new A428 just visible through the fog below and then turned left down to Bourn.

At David’s suggestion we detoured via Caxton End, where three more daring members of the group rode through the ford, while the rest of us took the safer side path option.

We arrived at the Abantu cafe at about 11.15am and after checking out the cake selection, settled for cosier inside seating area. Service was rather slow, but the Christmas Crumble cake was definitely worth waiting for!

After a leisurely break, we left at about 12.05pm and set off on the return journey along the B1046, past Bourn Golf Club and through Toft, Comberton and Barton to join the A603 cyclepath. David and Finn left us at the Grantchester roundabout and the rest of us continued back into the City arriving at Brookside around 1pm. Hope everyone enjoyed the morning and that new riders will join us again one Saturday or maybe Sunday morning. Total distance: 20 miles. Tina Filby

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Photos 1, 8 & 11 by Tina Filby. Remaining photos 2,3,4,5,6,7,9,11 by Julia Hochbach.

3 Nov: Thursday ride to Lode and Newmarket

2011-11-03T20:24:00.005Z

Edward writes: This Thursday started off overcast but very mild, and as is often the case, the forecast of bad weather of only two days ago did not materialise. This didn't put off any of the Thursday riders who probably realise by now that this is South Cambridgeshire and we don't do rain even if it's forecast. Thus we had another good turnout in Hauxton and by the time we reached Anglesey Abbey grew again to maybe fifteen or sixteen cyclists. Doug was once again at Greta's house having cycled up from Stevenage to join the ride, and of course would have to cycle back at the end of the ride.

Anglesey Abbey

This week, by way of a change, we went through Great Shelford towards Lime Kiln Hill and then took the road over the Gogs to Fulbourn. A good hill to get the heart beat into a good rhythm. After Fulbourn we took the road to the Wilbrahams and then over the A14 and A1303 into Bottisham. For the Thursday group this made a nice change as we don't often come this way. Once through Bottisham it was down to Lode and Anglesey Abbey for our coffee stop. This is a pleasant stop but provided a sharp price comparison to the volunteer ladies at Swavesey of last week and their home made cakes.

Off Heath Road Burwell

As has been mentioned the group had nearly doubled in size but we were all able to sit down and enjoy our cake and coffee, the Abbey not being so busy at this time of the year. When we started again we went via Swaffham Bulbeck and then Swaffham Prior where we turned off the main road and went to Reach and then Burwell. Although this was quite a breezy day we seemed to have a back wind for most of the trip until we went along Heath Road which leads out of Burwell to Exning when it blew from our right hand side. It's a pity that most of the hedges have been eliminated from this area as this would have given us much needed protection. At Jacob's prompting we turned off Heath Road and took a delightful off road route (see photo) with fine views and this took us into Exning; this was much better than going by road. After Exning we made our way into Newmarket via Hamilton Road which skirts the racecourse and then to our lunch stop at the Horseracing Museum.

Road Works

After lunch we started again about 1 pm, bearing in mind we have less daylight now, and headed out of Newmarket by taking the road to Dullingham. Outside Dullingham we turned left and made our way across country to join the Brinkley to Six Mile Bottom road and enjoyed the fast down hill to the level crossing, the A11 and the road to the Wilbrahams. By now the group had shrunk in size as riders dropped off at various points to head back to Cambridge, including John F and Jacob who did their usual off road bit to Great Wilbraham. Next was Fulbourn, back over the Gogs the way we went out in the morning, but this time going through the hospital to take the DNA cycle way back to Great Shelford and then on to Hauxton where the ride ended. Our usual thanks to Greta. We covered 47 miles. Edward Elmer

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1 Nov: Senior ride to Orwell

2011-11-02T12:43:00.003Z

Peter writes: Vic called at my place about 10.00am and we decided to ride to Great Gransden Shop for coffee, via Cambourne and Caxton. When we reached the Bourn turn we left over the bridge. There was a lady cyclist with a trailer, in front of us as we went down the far side of the bridge. She turned acroos the road and took the old farm road into Cambourne. We decided to follow her as she would know that route into Cambourne. As I had not been that way before, I had no idea where we actually were in Cambourne. Eventually we came to a sign “Back Lane”, which I recognised. We carried on to the Police Station and then left and right to the High Street. We then took Crowdene Lane to Caxton.

Crowdene Lane

We did a right and left into St Peter's Street and Gransden Road. Arriving at the shop we bought our coffee and met a couple of cyclist's. One of our club members and the other a local man with a recumbent. After coffee we proceeded to Little Gransden and the road toward Gamlingay, turning left at the top of the hill toward Hatley St George. Down Croydon hill to the main road then left to New Wimpole and Orwell. We met up with George, Clive and John for lunch, being joined later by Adrian and Mike S. After lunch I went home via Barrington, Harston, Haslingfield and Harlton. At Harlton, I looked up a former member of the computer group (which I have organised for the last 23 years) and had a long chat and cup of tea with him. After that I carried on through Comberton to home.

I had cycled 34 miles.

30 Oct: Emitremmus audax

2011-10-30T21:56:00.002Z

Gareth writes: An ‘Extended Calendar Event’ is an award that Audax UK offers to encourage people to cycle to and from events instead of driving. The idea is that you treat your ride to the start and back from the finish like stages of an audax, with controls and time limits and so forth, and you get the points for the extra distance you do. In particular, you can turn a 100 km ride (which doesn’t get any points) into a 200 km ride (which does).

So when I noticed that it was just over 50 km from home to the start of the ‘Emitremmus’ (a 100 km audax from Stevenage), I thought I’d give it a go, even though it meant setting out at 07:00 to get to Stevenage for the 10:00 start.

This morning I had a really convincing dream in which I woke up to discover that my alarm clock had stopped working and I had overslept, and that anyway it was pouring with rain. Clearly my subconscious didn’t want to go cycling.

The hill by Royston golf course, early morning.

I took the A10 direct to Royston (it’s pretty quiet early on a Sunday), and then up the hill by the golf course to Therfield, and down through Kelshall, Sandon, Cromer, and Walkern (this bit become quite familiar as I cycled it three times). It was slow going with the wind in the south-west, but I got to the Sailing Centre at Fairlands Valley Park with twenty minutes to spare.

More cyclists than you can shake a stick at.

An unusual machine, near Aston.

I haven’t seen so many cyclists since the Skyride last year—there were more than 300 names on the entry list just for the 100 km ride (there was also a 68 km ‘Lite’ version), and a huge queue of people signing up on the day. The organization was very smooth, with volunteers stamping cards at all the controls. The Old Swan Tea Shop at Hare Street had set up a stall selling cups of tea, doughnuts and bananas, and the Women’s Institute were selling cakes at Therfield.

The Old Swan Tea Shop set up a stall selling cups of tea and doughnuts.

I thought that with so many cyclists on the roads I’d be able to find someone going at the same speed as me, but somehow it didn’t work out that way because of all the hills. If I could keep up with someone on the downhills, then I’d lose them on the uphills, and if they could keep up with me on the uphills, then they’d burn me off on the downhills. But I did manage to draft a group from Sudbury CC for a few miles.

On the B1037 near Chrishall.

It was nice to see the cycle paths of Stevenage—there’s a network of separated cycle paths along the majority of the main roads, with grade-separated junctions. A bit confusing for the visitor because of complete lack of signage, but it’d be great if you lived there. (So why is the modal share of cycling so dismal?)

Near Great Chishill.

As I left Stevenage for the ride home, it was getting chilly and there was a gentle rain. Since I was retracing part of the route, I met some of the tail-enders coming the other way. The time limit for the 100 km ride was a very generous eight hours, so none of them would have been in much danger of being out of time. The very last rider was a poor chap walking his bike up the steep bit between Kelshall and Sandon in the gathering gloom with a rainy 22 km to go. I hope he made it.

I was pretty tired on the way back—I’m not sure I’ve ever climbed Chapel Hill so slowly. But every journey comes to an end, and I was home at 18:25, having cycled 214 km (133 miles). Wildlife spotted: a pair of red kites, a pair of muntjacs, and a vole.

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30 Oct: All-day ride to Waresley and Hinxworth

2011-10-30T16:59:00.008Z

Nigel writes: The clocks went back this morning, so we had an extra hour in bed - a small consolation as we enter the season of cold mornings and dark evenings. This particular morning, however, wasn't too bad. It was cloudy and dull - and we didn't see much of the sun all day - but surprisingly warm considering the time of year. Even the steady wind was quite warm. There were nine of us at Brookside for today's ride, including Tony our leader.

Tony led us west out of Cambridge along the Coton path to Coton and up Madingley Hill to Hardwick.

We joined the old St Neot's Road which we followed west until the turn to Knapwell.

We turned north for a big loop which took us through Knapwell and Connington before turning south-west to Hilton, where we stopped to admire the Turf Maze.

We continued south-west to Graveley, directly into a steady headwind which was to keep us company for most of the day.

At Graveley we turned directly south, first to Croxton, where we crossed the A428, and then to Waresley, where we arrived at the garden centre at about 11.20pm. As usual, there were several club members already in the cafe including Adrian, Doug and Mike S.

After coffee several riders turned back to Cambridge leaving about seven to continue on to lunch in Hinxworth. Adrian, Doug and Mike finished coffee first and set off on their own towards lunch, leaving Tony, Rupert, Conrad and me to follow on later. Tony had planned a 24 mile route to lunch but since it was already 11.45am Rupert suggested we ride straight there. The direct route through Gamlingay, Potton, Dunton and Edworth wasn't very long, so despite a steady headwind we only took an hour. We arrived at Farrowby Farm, Hinxworth at 12.45pm, ahead of Adrian's group who joined us a few minutes later.

Farrowby Farm is a real farm, and my bike was parked next to a field full of young pigs.

After lunch we continued in two groups. I remained with Tony's group of four, which was heading east towards our tea stop in Ickleton. Meanwhile Adrian's group made their own way back to Cambridge.

Our first stop after Hinxworth was Ashwell, where we briefly stopped to inspect the "Ash Well". This is a rather attractive pond in a sunken hollow in the middle of the village, surrounded by trees (some of them, presumably, ash trees). The spring here forms the source of the River Rhee, which is one of the tributaries of the Cam.

From Ashwell we turned south - and back into the wind. This took us up into the chalkland of north Hertfordshire. We crossed over the A505 and continued to Sandon, Kelshall and Thirfield to Reed. We were now riding through a much more undulating and intimate landscape than further north, much more attractive than the flat, quiet but rather bleak landscape of Huntingdonshire and Bedfordshure which we had been riding through until now. As we rode along we encountered dozens of cyclists riding the other way. These were riders on the "Emitremmus Desrever" 100km Audax from Stevenage to Saffron Walden and back. Along the way we spotted Tina from our club.

When we reached Reed we paused briefly outside the (closed) Silver Ball Cafe to have a drink and for Rupert to have a sandwich. Unfortunately Tony hadn't noticed that we had stopped, so he carried on without us, and althouhh we followed on after a few minutes we didn't see Tony again.

From Reed we were riding with the wind behind us, and we made rapid progress to Barkway. After a short distance along the B1368 we turned off towards Shaftenhoe End and the switchback climb to Great Chishill.

From Great Chishill it would have been a short and pleasant ride to Ickleton, our planned tea stop, but the three of us decided to head straight back to Cambridge instead. We continued through Heydon towards Chrishill Grange. When we reached the turn for Elmdon we came across Simon P and the afternoon ride, who had just climbed up from Chrishill Grange and were waiting for the final member of their group to join them.

Simon's group continued on south for a loop through Littlebury Green and Catmere End whilst Rupert, Conrad and I carried on home via Chrishill Grange, Duxford, Whittlesford and the Shelfords. I was home by 4.30pm, having cycled 77 miles.

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27 Oct: Thursday ride to Swavesey and St Neots

2011-10-27T22:48:00.005+01:00

Edward writes: Despite a none too promising morning eleven riders, including Jo who was riding with the Thursday group for the first time, came to our new meeting place in Haslingfield. This was very gratifying as we had lost the sunny days which we have all enjoyed up until now. There was a little rain but soon after we began to ride this stopped. We have to mention the wind, the ever present feature of this summer's cycling - there was none. Greta was away this week so Mike took over the leadership role.

Luckily our start was not up Chapel Hill but rather through Harlton and over the A603 to go through the Eversdens, Kingston and Bourn. This was enough to get the blood flowing and get everyone warmed up. At Bourn we carried on through the village to find Cambourn on our left and then over the A428 and take the immediate turning for Knapwell and then Boxworth. After this it was very quickly over the A14 and we soon found ourselves in Swavesey. This was our coffee stop at the increasingly popular Bethel Baptist Chapel. We received our usual warm welcome from the village ladies who this time represented the village fete committee. This is a really good stop - coffee and home made cake for £1.50 - some bargain. In Swavesey we also welcomed Jim, another rider new to the Thursday rides.

We couldn't stay here all day so we set off again and retraced our steps a little before taking the road to Fen Drayton and the edges of Fenstanton before going back over the A14 and taking the road to Hilton. Despite the dreary weather there is always something to appreciate in the countryside. The autumn trees still have plenty of colour in them and make vivid contrasts with each other. Not quite the spectacular sight when the sun is out but worth seeing nonetheless. Next up was the fairly long stretches between Graveley and Toseland where we made good progress with the light breeze on our backs and then onto the main road leading into a very busy St Neots and the Ambiance cafe which was our lunch stop, arriving about 1 pm.

After a good lunch, especially good for some, we started out again at 2 pm and made our way over the common and took the road to Abbotsley and on to Waresley. After Waresley the rain returned and was heavy drizzle all the way home. We went through the Gransdens and onto Longstowe and Bourn. The group split here, some going home via Comberton and Barton and the remainder going back via Kingston and the Eversdens. We got back to Haslingfield at 4 pm having covered 53 miles. Our thanks go to Mike for a splendid ride. Edward Elmer

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23 Oct: Afternoon ride to Saffron Walden

2011-10-23T23:14:00.002+01:00

Conrad writes: 10 riders, including Josh who was new to the club and David whose last club ride was in 1984, were at Brookside for today's afternoon ride to Saffron Walden. It was perfect weather for cycling except that we would have to contend with a strong headwind for most of the outbound journey.

The first part of today's route was quite straightforward --- out on Trumpington to the Shelfords and Whittlesford. It was quite clear that the headwinds would be a major factor in today's ride as the group became strung out and splintered into smaller groups on the long exposed stretches of road between Shelford and Whittlesford and progress was slower than usual. At Duxford, Josh turned back to attend a 4pm appointment back in Cambridge and we continued on to Elmdon, where Lynn, who had arrived at Brookside 5 minutes late but managed to catch up with us at Shelford, also turned back.

It was a relief to pick up speed going down Essex Hill before we took the pleasant country lane up to Duddenhoe End. Here, I gave the riders a choice :- take the direct off-road Roman Road which would have shelter from the headwinds, or stay on the road to Langley Upper Green. I had tried the offroad route on Friday and found that it was a wide, passable track with some loose gravel and stones. On account of my poor off-road skills, I did have to get off my bike and walk on some short stretches, particularly a dip in the track where a stream would flow if there was sufficient rainfall. In any case, Steve G, Mike K, John and Cheryl took the Roman Road, while Mike Sleep, Neil, David and Simon followed me on a loop through Langley Upper Green and we joined the offroad group just before the left-turn to Stickling Green.

From here, it was a quick ride along the rolling landscape through Arkesden, Wenden Ambo (where we met Mike Stapleton cycling in the opposite direction) and onto SaffronWalden. We arrived at the Temeraire at 4:40 pm which was a credible time given the strong headwinds and climbs we had done. There were already 10 riders from the all-day ride enjoying their coffees in the glorious sunshine.

The slow service meant that we only left the pub at 5:15 pm, by which time the day-riders, along with Mike K, Simon and John, had already left for Cambridge. I led the remaining riders back to Cambridge via Little Walden, Hadstock, Linton (where there were some glorious views of the water tower in the sunset), Balsham and Fulbourn. I arrived home at 6:45pm, after cycling 46 miles. Conrad Chua

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Notice of AGM

2011-10-23T20:09:00.005+01:00

The Annual General Meeting of CTC Cambridge will be held on Sunday 6th November at 5pm, at Hauxton Village Hall. A tea will be served at 4.30pm. All committee posts will be open for election, and all members are invited to stand for any of the posts.

23 Oct: All-day ride to Horseheath, Sible Hedingham and Saffron Walden

2011-10-23T18:49:00.009+01:00

Nigel writes: October has been a superb month for fine weather. Although it is now definitely autumn, and there has been no repeat of the record-breaking temperatures of the start of the month, the past week has seen an unbroken succession of clear, sunny days. Although today wasn't expected to be quite as sunny, it was clear that we were going to have yet another lovely day, and so it proved.

I found eleven other riders waiting at Brookside for today's all-day ride. Perhaps we were all feeling that the fine weather couldn't last and we needed to make the best of it. Tom was our leader today, and he led over Hills Road bridge and down Cherry Hinton Road to Fulbourn.

At Fulbourn we turned towards the Wilbrahams and the road to Six Mile Bottom. When we reached Six Mile Bottom we crossed over the A1304 and climbed the hill for about two-thirds of the way towards Brinkley before turning right by the woodland cemetery onto the lovely lane that follows the ridge to West Wratting.

We continued to West Wickham and after a few more minutes arrived at Horseheath, where we stopped at The Red Lion for coffee.

Already waiting outside the pub were Geoff, Adrian and Doug, and after a while Mike S turned up, making a total of sixteen at coffee. I wandered into the bar to order coffee to discover that the landlord had already spotted us and that staff were already preparing tea, coffee and plates of cakes for us. As always, this is a really nice place to stop for coffee. The landlord and staff make us feel welcome and the food and drink is very good value. We spent about half an hour sitting on the sofas chatting (and agreeing on the inevitably of the All Blacks winning the rugby World Cup).

About ten of us carried on towards lunch in Sible Headingham. Tom's route was fairly straightfoward: south through The Camps and Helions Bumpstead to Finchingfield, then east through Withersfield to Sible Headingham.

Just after Finchingfield we were overtaken by a couple of club cyclists, who called out a cheery greeting as they sped past. I was still feeling full of energy from the two cakes I had eaten at Horseheath, so I decided to latch on behind them and see how long I could keep up. Normally when I do this I soon have to give up and drop back, but today we were reasonably well matched and I was able to ride along with them, chatting pleasantly, for quite a few miles. They turned off south towards Halstead just as I was beginning to tire, and I completed the final few miles to Sible Headingham on my own. I found the Corner Cafe, ordered my lunch (£3.99 for a huge baked potato and beans) and sat outside to wait for my meal, and the other riders.

This was the first time the club has visited this cafe, and we were pleased to discover that it is entirely satisfactory: an adequate menu, friendly, and excellent value. No doubt we will come back here next year.

After lunch, just as we were planning to leave, Gareth arrived. We waited whilst he ate a quick coffee and bacon toastie and explained how he had just been for a ride with "another cycling club" before cycling down to join us. As a result, whilst the rest of us were on 40 miles so far, Gareth was on 60.

Before long we were on our way. Tom took us north out of Sible Headingham and then west, though a series of enchanting quiet lanes, to Great Bardfield.

This area is rather annoyingly on the junction of four adjacent OS maps, which made it necessary for Tom to stop periodically to make sure we were on the correct route. But it didn't matter: it was sunny, it was warm, and the area was beautiful and quiet.

From Great Bardfield we continued through Thaxted and Debden to Saffron Walden, where we arrived at The Temerarire at about 4.30pm. Here I ordered a coffee and a large slice of carrot cake, and we sat outside in the sunshine to await the afternoon riders. After a few minutes Conrad arrived with about eight others. Whilst they queued up to order coffee the all-day riders got ready to leave.

Our route back to Cambridge took us past Audley End house and along Chestnut Avenue to Catmere End. We followed the ridge over Coploe Hill before dropping down to Ickleton and the road through Duxford and Whittlesford to the Shelfords. We joined the DNA path to Addenbrooke's before turning onto the busway cycleway towards the station.

As we rode along the super-smooth busway cycleway I realised my front tyre had gone soft. I had a puncture. Fortunately it only took a few minutes to change the tube and re-inflate, and I was home by 6.15pm, after having cycled a very enjoyable 82 miles.

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20 Oct: Thursday ride to Saffron Walden and Puckeridge

2011-10-20T23:08:00.009+01:00

Edward writes: Today was gloriously sunny, although cold early on, and importantly very little wind, and this encouraged another large turnout when we met at Greta's house in Hauxton. Maybe this would be the last opportunity for an invigorating ride in good conditions before winter and the shorter days are upon us. This large group set off towards Whittlesford where we were joined by Mike B and then on to Duxford after negotiating the A505. After Duxford we rode to Ickleton and up Coploe Hill where we stopped to regroup. The views over the field under the strong sunlight were very special and what little wind there was blew a little harder here and reminded us that it was still a cold day.

Coploe Hill

Catmere End

On our way again we climbed to Catmere End followed by the long descent down Chestnut Avenue and its suffering trees to the A1383 before turning past Audley End Mansion and on to Saffron Walden for our break. Quite a few of us sat outside on the patio sheltered from any wind and felt warm in the sun. The group at this point had grown to 18 as Bob B had now joined us.

After coffee we left Saffron Walden and headed towards Debden but not actually reaching the village as we turned right and made our way to Widdington. Unfortunately two or three of the leading riders went on to Debden and had to be retrieved by Mike whilst the main group carried on. After Widdington we descended to the road running beside the M11 and turned right to head towards Ugley and the A1383 which we travelled along for about 400 metres before taking the turning to Rickling Green and Rickling where Rupert and Eva left us. We then climbed up to Berden followed by the Pelhams and the long run down to Braughing through particularly rural and sunlit countryside. We arrived at our lunch stop in Puckeridge just after 1pm having covered 37 miles. We were soon joined by Mike and the others and we were at full strength again.

Lunch stop

The Crown and Falcon is a very pleasant stop with good food and very friendly service and we finally left at 2.20 pm. After lunch the group took on a very different complexion with only five riders taking the official route home and the others having to be home early or wishing to go off-road. The remaining five went out of Puckeridge and into the village of Standon, followed by a short but stiff climb to Wellpond Green and through wonderful country lanes before reaching Little Hadham and crossing the A120, the crossing where you are advised to expect a long wait! We got across and shortly after we turned right to make for Upwick Green. Although just outside Bishop's Stortford and close to Stansted Airport we felt as if we were in the depth of the country cycling in narrow lanes and it was extremely pleasant. We then rode through Farnham and onto Munuden where we all did a little scrumping as we found a walnut tree with plenty to glean.

Scrumping

After gathering as many as we could we set off again going through Clavering. Just before Clavering Malcolm left us as he needed a shorter route home so as to get there before dark. We then followed a familiar route home via Langley Upper Green where the road bisects the cricket field. Fielders on the boundary have the road between them and the wicket so it's as well these are quiet country lanes. After Langley it was Duddenhoe End followed by a fast descent and a slow climb up to Elmdon. After this it was all downhill, going through Chrisall Grange, Duxford, over the A505 and back to Hauxton at 5.10pm with a total distance of 67 miles. Edward Elmer

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Christmas Lunch - Book Now

2011-10-19T21:18:00.020+01:00

The annual CTC Cambridge Christmas Lunch will be on Sunday 11th December 2011 at Bourn Golf Club. This is the same venue as last year so we can be sure of a fine meal and a most enjoyable time. Three courses are £19.95, two courses are £16.95. The club will pay the service charge. To book your place please print the menu here, make your selections and send it with a cheque to the address given by 26th Nov.

The senior cyclists' group will have an additional Christmas Lunch on Tuesday 13th December 2011 at The Chequers, Orwell. Two courses are £10. To book your place please see the menu here and send your selections and payment to the address given by 4th Dec.

16 Oct: Afternoon ride to Caxton

2011-10-16T21:08:00.001+01:00

John writes: Glorious weather tempted six riders to slowly winkle their way from Brookside, through crowds of pedestrians, cyclists and dogs, to the Pye Bridge and across the Cam to join the GBW cycle path at Orchard Road East. At Longstanton Jim, a first-time rider with CTC and to whom we extend a warm welcome, invited us to inspect his large and productive allotment.. After a 20 minute halt and generously provided with sweet-corn and apples by Jim we continued beside the GBW to Swavesey and through this straggling village to Fendrayton. The ride-leader was pleased his Garmin, found the foot/cycle path to Fenstanton church, past the King William IV pub and under the A14. The pub had been a welcome lunch stop on his recce.

Now half-way to the tea-stop and we sped against a strengthening NWly wind towards Hilton and Graveley. En route we met an assumed escapee from the all-day ride (Rupert) dashing Easterly. At Hilton Steve made a bee-line for the tea-stop and, at Graveley, Jacob followed suite, predictably by an off-road route.

Now with a favourable wind we cycled Southerly. On the left lay the well-wooded Croxton Park and on the right was the fine view over the Ouse valley towards St. Neots. The westering sun was now low on the horizon and clouds had rolled in with the breeze. Ahead a distant hot-air balloon was visible. Waresley church poked its quirky spire above the trees. This section of the ride is amongst my favourite Cambridgeshire routes. It was especially attractive owing to the fine weather and surprisingly light traffic. On the outskirts of Abbottsley we turned left, sped through Great Gransden to Caxton and the Cross Keys, reached at 5'o'clock and after 30 miles of cycling.

This was the ride-leader's first visit. Reunited with Jacob and Steve and meeting two other CTC riders (names unknown to me) we enjoyed a splendid tea. After a short stay Jim returned to Longstanton independently and the five remaining riders set off to Bourne where Mike S's recumbent machine amused some small children. Thence through Toft, Comberton and Barton. At Newnham, reached 10 minutes before sunset, we dispersed to our various homes: one rider, another John, going to catch a train to Royston.

The total distance was about 40 miles which, given the shortness of the days, should be maximum for an afternoon ride at this season. There were no punctures or other breakdowns. John Ferguson

Rides in November and December

2011-10-16T17:11:00.002+01:00

The November and December runs lists have now been published. Read about the highlights of our autumn rides programme here.

16 Oct: Morning ride to Woodhurst

2011-10-16T16:40:00.007+01:00

Nigel writes: I joined today's all-day ride just for the morning. The day started clear and sunny, but quite cold - a lovely morning but an intimation of cold days to come. Averil was our leader today, and she led our group of seven riders north into the centre of Cambridge and then west over the river.

We weaved our way through West Cambridge, picked up Paul in Storeys Way, and continued up to Huntingdon Road which we followed as far as the turn to Girton. We cycled through Girton and on to Oakington, where we joined the Busway Cycleway for a short distance. Ahead of us on the cycleway we found Bob, who joined us.

After riding along the cycleway for a couple of miles we reached the B1050 which we joined and followed through Willingham and all the way to Earith. This was a relatively busy road but there was nothing we could do to avoid it as Earith offers the only crossing point of the Ouse between Ely and St Ives.

At Earith we turned west onto the A1123 which we followed for about a mile as far as Bluntisham (below).

At Bluntisham we turned off the main road onto a minor road which took us west to the Raptor Foundation near Woodhurst. This is a specialist wildlife park for birds of prey, with a cafe that was today's designated morning coffee stop.

This was the first time the club had visited this place, and I am pleased to report that the coffee was very good and the cakes large and inexpensive. Already in the cafe we found four further club members.

After coffee the the main group led by Aveil continued to lunch in West Perry beside Grafham Water, and afternoon tea in Caxton. With the sun still shining brightly in a clear sky it had warmed up considerably. However I needed to return back to Cambridge and so four of us did so via St Ives, Fenstanton, Fen Drayton and the Busway Cycleway. I was home by 1.15pm, having cycled 42 miles.

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Cycling holiday in 2012

2011-10-16T16:32:00.004+01:00

(Update: this holiday is now sold out with 18 members taking part)

Club member Adrian Lee is organising a week-long cycling holiday in South Wales in September 2012. All members are warmly invited to join him. More information.

Rides in November and December

2011-10-16T08:00:00.007+01:00

The November and December runs lists have now been published.

Clocks go back on Sunday 30th October, and our start times and tea times are changed to compensate. Our Sunday rides become slightly shorter, but don't forget to bring your lights on these winter rides.

On Sunday 6th November we have our AGM ride which combines an afternoon ride, a home-made tea and our annual formal meeting of the group, and offers a chance to meet a lot of other club members. Later that month, on Sunday 20th November, our rides end with a home tea in Cherry Hinton provided by Conrad.

We have our Christmas lunch ride on Sunday 11th December (black tyres if you want to be formal). No rides are planned for Sunday 25th December as it is Christmas day, but we plan a special "easy social ride" on 26th December - this will follow the newly-completed (we hope) busway route all the way to St Ives.

The Wednesday evening rides have now finished, but by popular demand our short Saturday morning rides have been extended into November, with rides on 5th and 18th November.

15 Oct: Saturday morning ride to Barton

2011-10-15T22:48:00.006+01:00

Tina write: Eight riders (Bob, Julia, Ian, Nigel, Jan and two Simons) gathered for a Saturday morning ride westwards. Tina led everyone down Fen Causeway and across Lammas Land to pick up the Barton cycleway alongside the A603, where we settled into a leisurely pace chatting and enjoying a blue-sky morning, more summer in temperature than autumn.

We turned left in Barton and followed the straight road past radio telescopes down to Haslingfield, where we paused on the village green to admire "Joan’s seat" and also to test out the Millenium sundial (second photo), which proved extremely accurate.

Just out of Haslingfield, we turned left to Harlton and stopped to inspect another millennium monument at the crossroads – this time a plaque with information about history of local area, resting on a carved triangular stone plinth depicting a maypole, agricultural images and modern radio telescopes. (We explained the maypole tradition to Jan, originally from New York.) After Harlton, we crossed the A603, turning immediately left to the Eversdens and then onwards up Claypit Hill, for great views over surrounding countryside. Verges ablaze with wild flowers earlier in the year, now only sheltered the occasional scabious and purple knapweed, though at the field borders, mild weather had encouraged poppies to produce a second flush.

Turning right on to the B1046, we headed back towards Cambridge, through Toft and Comberton, arriving at Burwash Manor Barns at about midday. We sat outside for about half an hour in the warm sunshine chatting and enjoying a selection of cakes and scones in no hurry to move on. Even the Wales’s Rugby World Cup semi-final defeat couldn’t take the shine off such a glorious sunny day!

We quickly covered the straightforward three miles back into Cambridge, arriving back at Brookside at about 1pm, having cycled nearly 19 miles. Tina Filby

More photos below.

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Photos 1 & 2 by Tina Filby, photos 3 - 10 by Julia Hochbach.

13 Oct: Thursday ride to Haverhill and Kedington

2011-10-14T10:23:00.005+01:00

Edward writes: This Thursday another large body of cyclists assembled at Greta's house in Hauxton. The weather looked promising, although overcast the dreaded wind which has plagued so many rides this summer was not showing its hand today. Anybody out cycling the previous Tuesday would appreciate would appreciate that. Today we welcomed Beverley who was joining us for the first time and hope that she enjoyed the ride and will come along again.

We started on our familiar route via Little Shelford and up to Whittlesford where we took the turning at the church to join the now newish cycle route to Sawston and again from Sawston to Babraham. In Babraham we joined the farm track which leads to the foot/cycle bridge over the A11 to Gt. Abington. Sadly the giraffe has been removed so we were unable to make our regular visit to him so we pressed on through the village, over the A1307 and the back roads past Hildersham and Linton, bringing us back to the A1307. We now entered hilly territory, going through Bartlow followed by the turning to Shudy Camps and then on to Haverhill for our coffee and cake break.

It was midday by the time we had finished coffee so Greta modified the route so as get us to our lunch stop in Kedington by about 1 pm. In fact we took the road to Kedington and then across the A143 to Great Wratting where we turned right and arrived further along the A143 which we crossed and did a loop which took in Barnardiston and back along the A143 before turning back to Kedington for our lunch stop.

Waiting for lunch required a good deal of patience and lengthy conversations before we finally got under way again at 2.40pm. As we had lost so much time it was decided we should take the shortest route home; thus we went through Great Wratting again, the Thurlows, Great Bradley and on to Brinkley. From here it was all downhill as we sped to Six Mile Bottom, over the railway, the A11 and on to Fulbourn before going over the Gog Magog Hills and into the hospital site, the DNA path to Great Shelford and finally to Hauxton having covered 54 miles. Thanks to Greta for organising another good ride.

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12 Oct: Evening ride to Barton

2011-10-12T21:16:00.006+01:00

Nigel writes: I had originally intended to end the evening rides at the end of August, but they proved so popular this year that people didn't want them to end, so Gareth organised a few more with an earlier 6pm start. Tonight was our final ride. It was cloudy and dull, with a touch of moisture in the air, but there was no wind and it was quite warm. Five riders turned up at Brookside for this evening's ride, not bad given the time of year, and we picked two more up along the way.

Gareth was our leader this evening, and took us south out of Cambridge across Grantchester Meadows to Grantchester before turning back north towards Coton. From here we continued north to Madingley. With sunset at 6.15pm, by the time we reached Dry Drayton it was quite dark.

From Dry Drayton we turned south to Hardwick. We then turned west for a loop via Caldecote, Kingston, the Eversdens and Harlton to Haslingfield, where we stopped to inspect the new Joan Wooldridge Memorial Seat on the village green.

By now it was 8.40pm, so we then made a quick ascent and descent of Chapel Hill before continuing to Barton where we stopped at the White Horse. This is a pleasant pub with excellent cycle parking and a good range of hearty pub snacks. It was still quite warm so we sat outside with our drinks, eating cheesy chips, and having half an hour's pleasant conversation, before returning to Cambridge.

I was home just before 9pm, having cycled 28 miles.

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11 Oct: Seniors ride to Dullingham

2011-10-12T12:18:00.005+01:00

Peter writes: I met George at the Park & Ride site at Newmarket Road, taking the National Cycle Route 51 to Quy, Bottisham and Swaffham Bulbeck.

Cyclists' Bridge beside the Road Bridge, Bottisham to Swaffham Bulbeck

We had a strong tail wind (think headwind on return). We usually stop at the Green (War Memorial) for coffee, but on this occasion I decided to stop at the Church where there are two seats in the Churchyard (and it was out of the wind). After coffee we carried on over the A14 crossed the Newmarket to Cambridge road and at the A11 to Newmarket road we turned right then left to Dullingham. When we arrived at The Boot, John was already there and we were joined later by Vic and Adrian. After an excellent lunch we started on the return journey (head wind of course). We retraced our route to the Newmarket to Cambridge road then turned left to Bottisham and Quy. I arrived home about 3.45pm, I had ridden 21.8 miles from and back to the Park & Ride site.

Thursday rides: new start point

2011-10-10T22:56:00.011+01:00

For many years the departure point for our Thursday rides has alternated between Haslingfield Church and an address in Hauxton.

Starting in October, those rides that start in Haslingfield will now assemble on Haslingfield Village Green, by the Joan Wooldridge Memorial Seat. (For a map see here).

Saturday rides extended into November

2011-10-10T22:49:00.002+01:00

Our short Saturday morning rides have been extended into November in response to popular demand. See the rides lists for details.

Cycling holiday in 2012

2011-10-10T12:14:00.017+01:00

Club member Adrian Lee is organising a cycling holiday from Friday 14th Sept to Friday 21st Sept 2012. All members are warmly invited to join him. This week-long break will be based in Dyfed in South Wales, in a large house which will sleep up to 20. More about the house. For more details please phone Adrian on 01223 565834. Please make your bookings (with £25 deposit) by the end of October.

6 Oct: Thursday ride to Ashwell and Sandy

2011-10-07T03:25:00.004+01:00

Edward writes: This Thursday was a stark contrast to last Thursday and far more seasonal weather and emphatically rammed home by a stiff wind which was to accompany us all the way to Sandy. This morning things were different: we met at the green beside Haslingfield Church where David has had a seat erected in memory of Joan. This is a wonderful tribute to Joan and this will be our meeting point on all future rides from Haslingfield. It was particularly nice to see Bob and Myrtle who, although not riding, came over for the start of our ride.

Our ride started with a climb up Chapel Hill and into Barrington where we turned right to go to Orwell and into the teeth of the wind and progress was slow requiring one or two stops to keep the group together. After Orwell we rode along the A603 until the turning to Wendy and thence to Shingay. Again, a long stretch of headwind riding until we reached the Steeple Morden turn followed by our coffee stop in Ashwell.

The stop in Ashwell was a welcome break and we sat on the little green to enjoy our cake and coffee/tea. After leaving Ashwell we took the road to Eyeworth. This is a long four mile ride and fortunately the wind came from over our shoulder in the angle between 8 0'clock and 10 0'clock. It was also interesting to note that the new hedge on this road has been planted so as to protect from the west - good to see an outbreak of common sense! After Eyeworth we crossed the Potton road and made for Dunton and then for a little way along Carthagena Road where we entered off-road territory. This was at least a mile through woods so should be of interest to the off-road boys. This brought us out on the road which leads into Sandy where we had our lunch break.

After lunch, at Gunn's cafe in the town centre we retraced our route out of Sandy to arrive at Gamlingay. As can be imagined progress was rapid with the wind behind us. In fact in the next hour of cycling we covered seventeen miles. Our route after Gamlingay was Gransden and Longstowe followed by Bourn, Kingston and the Eversdens. We quickly arrived back at Haslingfield, Harston and Hauxton where the ride finished. In football parlance a ride of two halves, the afternoon felt like a well-deserved reward for the all the effort expended in the morning. As ever our thanks to Greta for another good day out. We covered 49 miles. Edward Elmer

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2 Oct: Afternoon ride to Hare Street

2011-10-02T21:37:00.001+01:00

Who would have thought that the hottest Sunday ride of the year would be in October? Not me, but thanks to a high pressure system parked over Europe and pulling in air from the Mediterranean, that's how it turned out. We had two new riders this afternoon, and they couldn't have picked a better day to join us.

The bridge where a spur of the guided busway crosses the railway near Addenbrooke's. The tower of the Church of St Mary and St Michael, Trumpington, is visible in the distance—just over a mile away.

Mike led us to Long Road, where a new path runs down to the left and joins the guided busway, providing an alternative way to get onto the DNA path. From Great Shelford we went through Whittlesford and Duxford, and took Grange Road across the top of the airfield. There was a strong south-westerly wind, making the going pretty slow. We lost a couple of riders: Steve turned back to do some gardening, and Howard didn't fancy the idea of cycling back in the dark (though he was a bit pessimistic about our speed: in fact, we made such good progress on the way back that it was still twilight when we reached Cambridge again).

The B-17 heavy bomber "Sally B" coming in to land at Duxford.

Climbing the hill to Chrishall.

Mike had an ambitious plan to get to Hare Street via Langley Lower Green, Meesden and Great Hormead, but the wind and the heat defeated us, and we went the (mile-and-a-half) shorter way via Heydon, Shaftenhoe End, and the B1368 through Barkway, getting to the Old Swan Tea Shop just on time. On the road from Barkway we met the day ride coming the other way.

After tea and cake we took the scenic route via Anstey and Nuthampstead to Barley, and then B1368 all the way back. With a tailwind and heading downhill, we made good time, and were back in Cambridge at about 18:45, about ten minutes after sunset. Probably the last Sunday afternoon ride where lights were not necessary (next week sunset will be at 18:19).

I drank a couple of pints of water when I got home. It had been hard work in the sun, but well worth it.

Memorial to the 398th Bombardment Group of the United States Army Air Force, by the Woodman pub in Nuthampstead. The aircraft depicted is a B-17.

29 Sep: Thursday ride to Horseheath and Stradishall

2011-09-30T09:05:00.006+01:00

Edward writes: The last few days of September and astonishing temperatures, probably better than anything we have experienced all summer. This meant another large turnout for the ever popular Thursday ride. This week we met at Greta's, and after setting off we made our way via the familiar route to Whittlesford from where we took the still relatively new cycle path to Sawston and thence to Babraham. Here we took the farm track which leads to the foot/cycle bridge over the A11 and then to Great Abington. However, we had a small delay whilst Jim's puncture was fixed, also an opportunity to draw breath and take on water as by now the temperature had risen considerably.

From Gt Abington we made the first of our three crossings of the A1307 going via Hildersham through Linton and over the A1307 again. We now headed for Bartlow, turned left and back over the A1307 for the third and last time. This took us on the rural route to Streetly End and finally to Horsheath.

At Horsheath we took our coffee break in the ever-poular Old Red Lion Inn where we are always made to feel welcome. As is often the case we were joined by other riders and our group had expanded to eighteen or twenty. We all sat outside and enjoyed a very leisurely break and it was probably with some reluctance when it was time to start cycling again. When we left Horseheath we briefly retraced our route and then made for West Wickham after which we turned right to take the road to Thurlow. The road to Thurlow and beyond right up to the A143 is delightfully rural - very narrow and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and again a chance to observe the rapidly change fields as they are prepared for another year. After we joined the A143 it is but a short ride to our lunch stop, namely Tubby Ts. Some sat outside to enjoy the sun whilst others preferred to sit inside as by now the sun was extremely hot.

After a relaxed lunch we started again and found ourselves in gorgeous country lanes including the wonderfully named Trotting Horse Lane and finally arriving in Great Bradley. Our next destination was to be Malcolm's, and to get there we went back to Thurlow and back along the roads we had come out on in the morning and then turned to Carlton. At Malcolm's we all sat out in the garden and took tea and a specially baked cake from Gwen. Our thanks to both Malcolm and Gwen for their unfailingly generous hospitality.

When it was time to go we went via Brinkley and then the fast descent to Six Mile Bottom, over the A11 and then into Gt Wilbraham and Fulbourn. At Great Wilbraham some of our group left us to get back home into Cambridge and the remainder went via Fulbourn, over the Gogs and then into the hospital site, onto the DNA path to Great Shelford and then to Hauxton where the ride ended. Thanks to Greta for a memorable day out and we wonder if it's possible to get any more days like this before summer finally ends. We did 55 miles. Edward Elmer

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28 Sep: Evening ride to Stow-cum-Quy

2011-09-28T22:41:00.000+01:00

We had two new riders this evening: Charlie joined us at Brookside, and his friend Chris joined us at the Newmarket Road Park and Ride. I hope they'll come again.

It was a beautiful evening for a ride: warm but not too hot, with clear skies. We took NCN51 out to Bottisham, and then turned through Lode to join the Lodes Way. I wasn't sure if we'd be fast enough to make it to Burwell, or whether we'd have to bail to Reach, but we were across Bottisham Lode by 19:00, so there was time to take the long way round. And I'm glad we did: there was a deer running through the crops, and a barn owl swooping low over a ploughed field. The sunset was quite spectacular, with a display of crepuscular rays and cloud shadows.

On the bridge over Burwell Lode at 19:17.

With the rush hour over, I thought it'd be easiest to go directly from Burwell to Stow-cum-Quy via the B1102, and we reached the pub a few minutes late. The air stayed warm enough to sit outside without a jacket. A very pleasant 30 miles.

27 Sep: Seniors ride in Thetford Chase.

2011-09-28T12:12:00.005+01:00

Peter writes: Once more, we decided to have a car assisted ride in Thetford Chase (postponed from the previous Tuesday). We arrived at the Forestry Offices at Santon Downham about 9.45am. The last time we went there the parking was free weekdays but charged for at weekends. They have now scrapped the charges at weekends.

We started out from Santon Downham at 10.05am, going North to pick up the Harling Drove (East, about 1/2 mile). We made good time, on a very pleasant sunny morning, to A11/Peddars Way Rest Place where we had bought coffee and used the toilets. This part of the ride had taken us 70 minutes in which time we had encountered about 10 motor vehicles, three of which were Forestry Commission Trucks. In three miles of hard surfaced road (Harling Drove) we encountered one car (that's how quiet it is).

On Peddars Way

Moving on, we rode the Peddars Way to the Brettenham to Bridgham road, turned left to Bridgham and took the right hand lane to the sandy lane which leads to the minor road to East Harling. Turning left at this point, we proceeded to Middle Harling, East Harling and Larling. We arrived at The Angel just after 1.0pm, ready for a pint and lunch. Not a cheap lunch but excellent quality and quantity, we usually struggle to finish it.

After lunch, I enquired of the Landlord about a lane beside the pub which passes under the A11 to Larling Church. I was told that it is OK except in the Winter when it floods under the A11. We then took this lane (off road) and turned left when we got to the Church Road, leading us to the B1111. We then returned to Santon Downham via Great Hockham, Wretham and the Harling Drove. In all we had cycled over 32 miles many of which were off road with very little traffic on the road sections and very, very quiet when off road. Coupled with a beautiful sunny day we had a great day out.

25 Sep: Day ride to Nuthampstead, Green Tye and Royston

2011-09-25T18:53:00.019+01:00

Nigel writes: Today turned out to be one of my best rides of the year. Despite the fact that it's now officially Autumn, today started warm and sunny, and was to remain warm and sunny all day despite a steady breeze from the south-west. I arrived at Brookside to find plenty of others ready to enjoy the sunshine: Julia, Ian, Lynne, Peter H, Jackie, Joseph, Averil, Adrian, Gareth, Tony and me.

Tony was our leader today, and led us south to Addenbrooke's, where we turned south onto the new Francis Crick Avenue.

We then left the road and joined the DNA path to Great Shelford.

From Great Shelford we followed the familar route through Little Shelford and then south to Whittlesford and across the A505 to Duxford. We continued to Ickleton where we left the completely flat Cam valley and started the long climb up to Elmdon.

After Elmdon we continued to climb, first to Heydon and then to Great Chishill at a dizzy altitude of 148m compared with 21m in Whittlesford.

Having attained the highest village in Cambridgeshire the only way was down, in this case to Shaftenhoe End where we turned left towards Nuthampstead. The final few miles were absolutely gorgeous: quiet narrow lanes weaving through the woods, with the sun casting dappled shadows across the road.

When we got to Nuthampstead we stopped for coffee at The Woodman. Waiting on the grass in front of the pub we found a group of members who had ridden there directly, including Greta, Doug, David, Stuart and Mick.

This pub has become a regular coffee stop but this was my first visit. We were the only customers, but once they realised we had arrived the staff seemed welcoming enough. We ordered coffee and asked for biscuits, which rather bemused them but a packet of hobnobs was soon obtained. We sat outside in the sunshine enjoying its lovely quiet location.

After coffee, as usual, several members headed back to Cambridge, leaving a slightly different group to continue on to lunch in Green Tye. Gareth, who had taken a longer route to coffee, announced that he was going to take a longer route to lunch as well, and I decided to join him. Stuart came with us as well. Gareth set off at a rapid pace, and despite quite a strong headwind from the south-west the three of us took the twenty miles to lunch at quite a rate.

Gareth led us to Anstey and through all the Pelhams: Brent, Stocking and Furneaux before turning east for a loop via Manuden and then south and back west to Little Hadham. We crossed the A120 and continued south to Much Hadham, where we turned left onto a narrow lane down to a ford. This was shallow and clear so we rode across confidently.

After the ford, a short climb brought us to Perry Green and then to Green Tye, where we stopped for lunch at the Prince of Wales. The rest of the group was already there eating lunch.

After lunch the group split yet again, with several riders heading off on their own leaving Gareth, Tony and me to continue on to tea in Royston.

We'd had quite a leisurely lunch so we took a fairly straighforward route to Royston. We set off more or less directly west. This took us to Barwick where we encountered our second ford of the day. This was rather deeper and longer than the earlier ford at Much Hadham, and only Gareth dared to ride through.

After safely navigating the ford we continued west, under the A10 and on to Dane End where we turned north. We continued through Haultwick, Ardeley, Cromer, Rushden, Sandon, Kelshall and Thirfield, finishing with a very fast tailwind-assisted descent down to Royston. We arrived for tea at Tina's house exactly on time at 4.30pm. Together with a well-attended afternoon ride there were 22 of us in total.

We sat in Tina's garden drinking tea, eating excellent sandwiches and sampling delicious cakes.

After tea we all returned back to Cambridge. We set off north along the A1198 which we followed as far as Kneesworth. There we turned right to Meldreth. With a strong tailwind supporting us, the whole large group made rapid progress but when Gareth came past at speed somewhere beyond Kneesworth I decided to chase him. We picked up Steve for a while, who generously gave us a tow through Meldreth and Shepreth before dropping back on the road to Barrington. Gareth and I carried on over Chapel Hill to Haslingfield and, with the tailwind allowing us to ride surprisingly rapidly for such a late stage in the ride, on to Barton where we joined the Barton Road cycleway back to Cambridge.

I was home just before 6.30pm, having cycled a very enjoyable 86 miles.

Photo 6 by Gareth Rees.

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23 Sep: Thursday ride to Reed and Hinxworth

2011-09-22T20:47:00.011+01:00

Edward writes: Today we had good weather for cycling - no rain forecast, skies sometimes overcast and sometimes sunny. Inevitably there was the breeze which has been a feature of this summer's riding. Twelve riders met at Haslingfield Church and this included another three new riders to the Thursday group. Tony (yes, another Tony), Mike, who used to ride with the club about twenty years ago, and Lynne who has been out on the Sunday rides. We very much welcome them all and hope to see them again.

As this was a fairly large group we thought it prudent to organise ourselves into two groups so as to minimise our impact on traffic. We left Haslingfield and made our way to Harston and crossed the A10 (busy) and went over the hill to Newton and turned right to head for Thriplow. We took the back road through Thriplow and rejoined the main road leading to Fowlmere. After Fowlmere we took the long drag out to the A505 at Bridgefoot. Once over the A505 we were into the steady climb up to Barley (always better coming in the opposite direction!). We stopped briefly to regroup and then it was the undulating road to Barkway where we turned right to Reed. This road is always a pleasure as it offers such splendid views over the surrounding countryside and reminds us of the pleasures we have in not just cycling, but to enjoy the rural scenes about us. It's also interesting to observe the changing fields which only a few weeks ago were full of their crops, and now they are being prepared for next year's crops. At Reed we took our coffee break and were joined by Doug, Brian B and Adrian.

After coffee Lynne and Rupert left us and the remainder took the delightfully rural route via Therfield, Kelshall, Sandon and Wallington. This required another crossing of the A505 allowing us to make our way to Ashwell but not before we spotted two Buzzards circling over the fields. From Ashwell it was the relatively short ride to Hinxworth and Farrowby Farm which was our lunch stop where we were joined by Mike S.

After lunch we retraced our route back to Ashwell and then turning to Steeple Morden, Littlington and Bassingbourn. Progress was rapid as we now had the wind behind us and we had to stop once or twice to allow for re-grouping. After Bassingbourn we crossed the A1198 and made for Meldreth, Shepreth, Barrington and Foxton.

Once over the railway and the A10 it was up to Fowlmere again, Newton and Hauxton where the ride ended after covering 57 miles. Once again our thanks to Greta for another splendid day out. Edward Elmer

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18 Sep: Afternoon ride to Gamlingay

2011-09-18T23:39:00.005+01:00

Conrad writes: I was about to leave my home at Cherry Hinton when the heavens opened to such an extent that I had to put on my rain jacket (my refusal to put on the rain jacket during the ride itself would prove to be an issue of some concern among the other riders later on in the day). So I was surprised to find 11 other people at Brookside (Mike K, Tina, Gareth, Paul, Neil, Mike Sleep, Lynn, John, Steve G, Howard and Simon).

As it happened, the rain had stopped by the time we set off from Brookside. Today's tea stop was the Cock Inn in Gamlingay and I led the group on a direct route through Barton and Comberton with a detour down Church Lane to avoid the hill at Toft. We then crossed the A1198 and cycled through Longstowe.

Just before Little Gransden, the rain returned with a vengeance and waterproofs were hastily put back on. Mike Sleep left the ride soon after this point as we cycled through the Gransdens, up the little road to Waresley and then onto Everton. Here, I offered the riders a choice :- either continue with me (with the possibility of more rain along the way) or turn left and proceed straight to the tea stop where they would be 45 minutes early. Tempting though it must have been to go into a warm dry pub, everyone decided to soldier on.

We then went down the short 14% descent into Tempisford, with a brief stop at the level crossing to wait for an East Coast train to pass, and crossed the A1. By this time, the sun had reappeared, making the journey over the narrow bridge into Blunham particularly beautiful. Going through Blunham, we turned into the cycle path that runs next to the old railway line and emerged in a residential part of Sandy.

Just after the roundabout in the centre of Sandy, we turned left and cycled up Sandy Lane, which is a forest path that runs parallel to the main road into Everton.

By this time, it was getting late and we had to push on to Gamlingay where a huge rainbow was there to welcome us. At the Cock Inn, we found Nigel and Mike S, the only survivors from the day ride, who had been waiting for us patiently since 4:30pm.

After tea, most of us went back via Croydon Hill (our second steep descent for the day), Orwell and Barrington. Gareth went ahead, followed by a small group, while I stayed in a small group with John and Tina. At the bottom of Croydon Hill, Tina turned south to go home to Royston and we caught up with Mike Stapleton who was putting on his rain cape at the side of the road. Sure enough, the rain returned as we turned into Orwell. I did not fancy another extended spell of cycling in the rain so I left Mike and John and sped up to Chapel Hill where I was surprised to find Mike K and Paul waiting at the top for any stragglers. After a brief consultation, we decided to return via Cantelupe Road and Grantchester Meadows, stopping only to mend Paul's puncture.

I reached home at 1930, quite late for an afternoon ride, having cycled about 50 miles, including three descents of 10% gradient or more. Conrad Chua

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18 Sep: Day ride to St Neots, Bedford and Gamlingay

2011-09-18T20:06:00.018+01:00

Nigel writes: Today started clear and sunny, with a cool crispness in the air: a perfect early Autumn morning. Waiting at Brookside I found Jerry, Jacob, Averil, John F and Jim, our leader for today. Jim briefly explained the route he had planned for today, and then we were off.

Our route took us right through the centre of Cambridge, along King's Parade and left down Senate House Passage. As we rode along we passed numerous race marshalls gettting ready for the Chariots of Fire relay race. Fortunately the event had not yet started, so we made easy progress.

We turned onto Trinity Lane and then onto Garret Hostel Lane, which took us over the river and west out of the city centre.

Soon we were on the Coton path and out of the city. By now we were all warmed up and with the sky completely clear of clouds we remarked how glorious the weather was.

From Coton we continued to Madingley and Dry Drayton before turning south towards Hardwick. There we joined the old A428 (is there a better name for this road?) for about a mile before turning off south to Highfields and Caldecote. Here we picked up the B1046 but soon turned off to Bourn, Caxton and Great Gransden, where we turned onto the lovely little lane to Waresley. This is quite a litany of place names but in fact I paid little attention to the route as I rode along, engrossed in conversation with Jim and the other riders. The first hour or two of any day ride is always very chatty and today was no exception.

At Waresley we turned onto yet another lovely little lane: the road over Lily Hill which leads ultimately to St Neots. There we stopped for coffee at the Market Cafe in the Market Place in the middle of the town. Already sitting in the sun outside the cafe we found Greta, Rupert and about half a dozen others from the club.

After coffee the majority of the enlarged group set off back in the direction of Cambridge, leaving a small group of Jim, Tony P, David W, Averil, Mike S, Doug and me to continue on to lunch in Bedford. The route west from St Neots is always very nice, involving a quiet road under the A1 that leads to Duloe.

From Duloe we continued to Staploe and then along a short loop along tiny lanes to the south through Honeydon and Rootham's Green before turning back north to Bushmead Cross.

We turned west towards Bolnhurst, crossed over the B660 and along a mile or two of farm track between Mount Pleasant and Greensbury Farm.

At Greensbury Farm we rejoined the tarmac, which on this occasion took us along a graceful avenue of trees.

It was now time to head south to Bedford for lunch. We continued south, crossed back over the B660 at Ravensden and then into Bedford along a series of minor roads. By now the sky had clouded over and we had a few minutes of rain, but it didn't amount to much and the usual tactic of donning full waterproofs had the desired effect and the rain soon stopped.

At about 1.20pm we arrived at the Priory Marina pub, where we stopped for lunch. Already sitting outside we found Mike S and Doug, who had taken a more direct route, as well as Chris who had cycled independently from Sawston to rendezvous with us. After a while Bob and Myrtle turned up - they had come directly from Royston. There had been some concern about whether this pub was a suitable place for lunch: it seemed OK to me, with quite nice food but no cheap options at weekends. However it didn't have much character: despite its location beside a lake, there was no view of water or parkland from our tables outside, and we might as well have been anywhere. As we sat eating our lunch, the drizzle returned but we were able to stay dry under our umbrellas.

After lunch, with the drizzle now passed, we rode south past the lake and through the country park.

We continued south-east to Cardington and rode past the huge airship hangars at Cardington.

A few miles further on we reached Old Warden, where there was a huge steam rally in the grounds of the house. We then turned north-east to Moggerhanger and Blunham where we joined the NCR 51 railway path which we followed for about a mile to Sandy. From Sandy we climbed up through Everton Woods to Everton and at about 4.20pm arrived in Gamlingay. By now I was getting tired and ready for a cup of tea at The Cock, our planned tea stop. I was the only one in our small group to do so, and everyone else carried on straight past the pub and headed home.

In the pub I found Mike S. We had a pleasant chat whilst we waited for the afternoon ride to arrive. They were rather late, so when Conrad and the other riders eventually arrived at 4.50pm I was gasping for a cuppa. Fortunately the landlord at this popular tea stop knows how to look after us, and when tea eventually arrived there was plenty of it. There was thirteen in total at tea, a welcome return to normal numbers after last week's disappointing turnout.

After tea we all returned back to Cambridge. We had a bit of a tailwind, and although I was now getting rather tired, I was able to make rapid progress.

Our route home took us through the Hatleys, down Croydon Hill and then through Croydon and Arrington to the back gate of Wimpole Hall. We ride through the grounds, past the front of the house, and out through the front entrance. From here we took the familiar route back via Orwell, Barrington, Haslingfield and Barton back to Cambridge. I arrived home just after 7.10pm, having cycled a very satisfying 88 miles.

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17 Sep: Ride to Bury St Edmunds

2011-09-17T19:41:00.000+01:00

Conrad suggested that it would be a fun day out to ride to Bury St Edmunds to see the start of Stage 7 of the Tour of Britain. But there were not many takers: Conrad and I were the only two to set out from Cherry Hinton at 07:30, and then we met up with Tony at Little Wilbraham.

Early morning sunlight through the trees, near Stetchworth.

We planned to go through Gazeley and Higham, but I made a wrong turning at Ashley, so we went through Ousden and Hargrave instead, rejoining our route at Little Saxham.

Tony on the road to Ousden.

The church of St Nicholas stands by the junction at Little Saxham, with its distinctive round tower. According to Mortlock’s Popular Guide to the churches of Norfolk and Suffolk, the lower part of the tower is Saxon, and the bell tower at the top is Norman. There’s certainly a discontinuity in the architecture here, with distinctive Roman (semicircular) arches at the top.

Church of St Nicholas, Little Saxham.

Having benefitted from a tailwind, we got to Bury St Edmunds around 09:15, and found our way through the maze of one-way streets to the start of the race, by the Abbey Great Gate. The square was jammed with people, team buses, race cars, sponsors’ vehicles, cyclists and spectators. In the narrow streets of Bury, people were lined up three deep against the barriers, and it was hard to get a view of the riders as they set off slowly. I held my camera as high above my head as I could reach, and got some photos. (I could see nothing myself!)

Team NetApp setting off on stage 7 of the Tour of Britain.

We took a longer and more leisurely ride back, taking some lovely narrow lanes south of Bury toward Hartest. As we descended the last hill before Hartest, there was a loud bang! from behind me: Conrad’s inner tube had burst through a gap left by the tire, where the bead had separated from the tread. This took a while to repair, and Conrad didn’t trust the tire to stand full pressure any more, so it was with a rather soft back wheel that he continued. At Denston, we were caught in a rain shower, but it was only a small shower, no more than three or four miles across, so we were able to ride out from under it and make our way damply to Stradishall for a welcome lunch at Tubby T’s.

On the way back, near Great Thurlow.

The strong westerly wind made the last section a bit of drag, but by about 14:45 we were back in Cherry Hinton having done nearly 70 miles. But it was such a nice afternoon that I put in an extra loop to Coton and Swavesey, and then back along the busway to make it up to 101 miles for the day. Thanks to Conrad for organizing the ride.

Update: Ian Driver, who was marshalling at the start of the race, took some photos that are a lot better than mine.

Start of stage 7 of the Tour of Britain. Photo: Ian Driver.

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