Halfpenny Green airfield

More strong and stable leadership from John and Hilary, this time with a very low turnout: just three of us on a longer ride to Halfpenny Green airfield (a change from the published destination, which was Stourport).  Quite a hilly route, in beautiful countryside and with fine clear weather, so that we could enjoy lovely views from high points on the boundaries of Staffs, Worcs and Shropshire. We had coffee at Wolverley and lunch at the café at the airfield, from where we could see (and hear) light planes taking off and a helicopter taking customers on short joy rides. 

The route is here. 

Woodgate Valley

As Jane described it, John P provided strong and stable leadership  for our group of 13 on a ride to Woodgate Valley.  The weather started off warm and sunny, but by the time we were back at Rowheath the wind had got up, and we were grateful there had been no rain from gathering black clouds.

The route is here.

Sarehole Mill

Richard led a group of fourteen riders on a 12 mile ride via the Stratford canal and Cole Valley route to Sarehole Mill.  We've passed the mill on previous rides, but this was the first Gentle Cycling visit to the cafe, which opens at 11.00 in summer and is free to enter  (there is a charge to visit the mill).  For more information, see Sarehole Mill.

The return route was via Kings Heath, Highbury Park and the Rea Valley route.  

Weather cool and showery.  Some rewarding sightings of herons and goslings.

Waseley Hills country park

John T led 17 riders to Waseley Hills via the Rea Valley route and Balaams Wood, returning via the climb up to Frankley Beeches, then Bartley Green Reservoir and Merritts Brook path through Manor Farm Park.  Weather cool and damp but generally dry.

The route is here.

Two rides today

(i)  Eleven riders on the usual Saturday ride, led by John T to Sainsbury's at Maypole.  The route was via West Heath Park and Hawksley, Primrose Hill, then a loop via Grimpits Lane and part of Redhill Road, and down Crabmill Lane to Sainsbury's.

Return via back roads and Brandwood Cemetery and Brandwood Park Road to Stirchley. 

The route is here. 

(ii)  Nine riders on an enjoyable longer ride in the quiet lanes south of the city, led by John P.  Coffee at the Priory Cafe at Stoke Prior.  Some challenging hills on the way back, especially Mearse Lane in Barnt Green.  Weather unseasonally cold.

The route is here.