Ride report by Mark M
After a very wet and windy Friday, Saturday was as forecast, dry, sunny, cold and with a noticeable north westerly wind.
Andrew, Mark and guest Ian met at PC before heading through Baconsthorpe to Edgefield to pick up Neil. Then it was Briston, Stody, Bale and Hindringham, where Ian left us to continue his loop back to Holt. From Hindringham we went to Little Walsingham and then a hard slog up to Egmeer, followed by an easier ride down to South Creake. Then the work started again with the climb up Bloodgate Hill, past the Iron Age Fort to Syderstone, then more climbing through Coxford Wood before the road levelled out at the wind turbines. From here it was easier going as we skirted the east side of Hougton Park, up to Great Bircham and a busy Bircham Windmill.
Andrew managed to bag a table on the sunny side of the sheltered courtyard, where we enjoyed both the warm sun and the good food.
As it was the final weekend of the season for Bircham Mill, Mark felt he should have one last Big Breakfast and it didn’t disappoint.
There were a number of other cyclists at the Mill and out on the roads, making the most of the great weather.
Heading back via Little Barwick to Stanhoe, turning for North Creake and enjoying the long descent into the village, before the long climb out of the village up to Holkham’s Triumphal Arch. Then to Wighton, Binham and Langham. On the road to Wiveton Mark’s front tyre became very soft and we had to stop to add some air, which got him back to PC. So according to Mark, that doesn’t count as a puncture as no tire was removed or had to be plugged!
From Wiveton it was straight up the hill to Salthouse Heath, the wind may have been behind us but it was still hard work. Then an easy run to High Kelling where Andrew turned for home while Neil and Mark continued to the final split at Red Barn Lane.
PC to PC was 65.5 miles at an average 14.8 mph
Riders: Andrew B, Neil Mc, Mark M and Guest Ian.
Upcoming Rides –
Wednesday 2nd October – Lily’s Tea Room, North Walsham
Saturday 5th October – Station Café, Reepham
Routes for rides on the website under Dates and Destinations: https://nnwheelers.co.uk/club-runs/
Visit the Clubs Runs Gallery for larger and more photos: https://nnwheelers.co.uk/club-runs/club-runs-photo-gallery/
North Norfolk Wheelers 