Tours & Events

 Summer Tour, 12 -19 June, 2026  The Shropshire Hills

    This comparatively small corner of south Shropshire where the English Plain meets the mountains of Wales is such an attractive region because a wide range of rocks builds up a scene of extraordinary variety , where the relation of scenery to geological structure is perhaps not better displayed than in any other part of Britain. The accommodation itself is situated in one of a number of parallel valleys between Church Stretton and Corve Dale. A short distance to the west lies the almost totally wooded Wenlock Edge whilst even closer to the east we find another(different) limestone ridge which, in turn, dips into another beautiful valley - Corve Dale which carries the 'B' road from Craven Arms towards Bridgenorth.

         The accommodation itself was excellent with all the facilities we could have wished for .Many different superlatives were uttered by each small group of staggered arrivals and we were staggered due the usual Friday and M5 traffic! Some of us were so late that Trev put back our customary first night meal by half an hour. Fortunately it did not detract from our enjoyment and we still arrived back to West Hope in daylight. One final word on the accommodation is that I, for one, would certainly be happy to stay there again.

Ride 1 Saturday June 13th 

     We set off from our accommodation through Hope Dale in the direction of Craven arms. The first part of this section was dominated  by  Flounders' Folly on top of Callow Hill. Considering we were following a valley it was surprisingly lumpy until we entered Craven Arms with it's busy main road. Having decided that it had little to detain us we shortly joined an old Roman road that used to link Hereford with Chester. After Clungunford we entered some delightful traffic-free lanes passing the ruins of Hopton Castle and the attractive villages of Bucknell and Leintwardine. The latter was chosen for our caffeine break - a delightful spot by the River Teme with no cafe but a pub and chip shop! 

     After our refreshments Jane discovered a puncture that was quickly resolved by Neil, our resident cycle-mechanic!, This meant that we could be on our way to enjoy a relatively flat section of tarmac alongside the river before the toughest climb of the day which took us up through the popular Mortimer Forest before an exhilarating two mile descent into Ludlow. Trev found a slight detour to lead us to a popular cafe by the river with lovely views up to the castle. We enjoyed another break in this very pleasant location.

     It was a bit of a climb up into the town which is considered to be one of Britain's loveliest with a harmonious mix of Medieval, Tudor, Stuart and Georgian buildings. Having also an eleventh century castle and one of the countries largest parish churches we all thought it was worth another visit. After negotiating the one - way system we followed the course of the River Corve through Stanton Lacey and then along a fairly busy B road for three and a half miles. Finally we entered the quiet Seifton Batch  ( name for a gorge like valley in this part of Salop) Within a mile or so we were back at West Hope where some people enjoyed the hot tub and we all catered for ourselves or in small groups for the evening meal.

Ride 2 Sunday June 14th 

    We turned right this time over the very wooded Wenlock edge which is a 'scarp' running from NE to SW . This remarkably straight cliff unbroken for many miles is formed by the outcrop of richly fossiliferous limestone of Silurian age. we continued on our hilly route to Church Stretton past a couple of small villages built mostly of the yellow-grey stones. Once again we crossed the busy A49 and the railway on the edge of this attractive town .Almost immediately we began climbing up the very steep minor road which takes one over the great bare mass of the Long Mynd  which stretches for about 6 miles to the west. I'm afraid that some of us, including me, had to push owing to being in the wrong gear e.t.c. The problem is that on such a steep gradient restarting is so very difficult. However once we had managed to climb up to the ridge the view was well worth the effort- especially back towards Hope Dale with the succession of ridges giving rise to a scene of extraordinary variety with the Clee Hills in the background. As expected the descent was steep and twisty and we were soon enjoying our first stop at the excellent hostelry at Bridges. With a YHA next door where Larry has often stayed on his journeys into Wales,  this place seemed almost idyllic! 

     A well graded climb carried us northward over Cothercott Hill to Pulverbatch and then much quieter lanes through the hamlets of Stapleton Little Ryton and Longnor before a couple of short steep climbs around the sides of The Lawley and Hoar Edge ( a little bit of off road before plunging down to the pub at Cardington). The few miles back to West Hope were relatively easy with little traffic until the crossing of Wenlock Edge. As this was quite a tough ride and we were a little late back, we had planned to have pizza at the Village Hall  as part of the Ellie's Run celebration unfortunately we discovered that the food had all gone so Julie kindly offered to pick up a take - away from the local Indian at Craven Arms,which everyone thorouhgly enjoyed at the large dining table in the accommodation.

 Monday June 15th

After a couple of days of quite strenuous cycling it was decided in advance to give our btms a rest by undertaking one of our, now, traditional all day hikes. The area chosen was a wild and unpopulated part of the county close to the Welsh Border - known locally as the Shropshire  Highlands. The main focus of the walk was the sombre and forbidding-looking ridge of the Stiperstones, 538 metres at the highest point which is unlike any of the other Shropshire Hills. The succession of serrated quartzite rock pinnacles that punctuate the ridge gives it an appearance more reminiscent of the wilder parts of Dartmoor or the Pennines and there is a definite feeling of remoteness and loneliness in this thinly populated area. 

     We arrived pretty much in convoy at the designated parking place and after quickly viewing the jagged crags piercing the skyline to the north which set off in a westerly direction towards the 'Bog'. Originally Graham was planning to walk as far as the most prominent group of rocks known as the Devil's Chair because he didn't feel able to manage the full circuit. However, Trevor suggested that he accompany us as far as the bog where he could rest at the cafe before returning to the car park to await our return .We gratefully met a rambler who informed us that the aforementioned was closed so he returned prematurely. We continued to view the old mine workings and discovered that  it was the Romans who first mined zinc around here which continued until the 1950s. After the field study centre we headed north to the hamlet of Tankerville and after a short bit of road we entered an enjoyable piece of woodland before dropping into the village of Stiperstones with its' most welcome pub. 

     Although there were a couple of steep-sided hills to our right it felt very much like we were entering the Shropshire Lowlands and that the Severn Valley was not too far distant. Most of us had lunch in this friendly hostelry before climbing to the formidable height of the Stiperstones' Ridge. The valley began quite gently with many houses and gardens to admire at but once we left them behind the contour lines got closer and closer until we finally reached the ridge at Shepherd's Rock. From here the views were magnificent as we edged along the rocky path past the Devil's Chair and Cranberry Rock. The route was littered with rocks and stones making progress somewhat arduous until we reached the green sward closer to the carpark. As we were buying BBQ provisions from the CO-OP in Church Stretton we decided to take the scenic route by the famous pub at Bridges and the Long Mynd! We were greeted by Kelly after her weekend in Cardiff and it wasn't long before Neil W, had the BBQ roaring and we managed to stay outside until everyone had eaten, Well Done catering staff!!

Ride 3 Tuesday June 16th

     This interesting car assisted ride began from the grounds of Powis Castle just outside the town of Welshpool. The town is situated close to where the mighty River Severn enters upon the Shropshire Plain after descending from the high ground of Wales. Although we began the ride alongside the pretty Montgomery Canal Trev thought that it would become too narrow for the dog carrier so we diverted up a steep, rough track which actually showed on the map as a reasonable road! Even though the first half of the ride was to be relatively flat there was always the hint of high terrain around. For example, as we pedalled gently through the lanes to the north-west of Welshpool we were accompanied on our right hand side by the striking mass of the Breidden (366m) with it's partner Moel-y-Golfa even higher at 408m. It was the former, however, really caught our attention due to the impressive terraces cut into it's NE side. This vista stayed with us as we headed along a low-lying narrow lane until we joined a busy 'B' road through Llandrinio as we searched for our first cafe stop. We were eventually successful in the rather straggling village of Crewgreen. This cafe-cum-pub was extremely busy and it also offered accommodation in the form of tents and lodges. owing to the lengthy wait most of us ate lunch or perused the surroundings which included a number of vintage cars.

     The ride back was more interesting and MORE hilly! In fact we climbed almost immediately up Kempsters Hill which was quite steep in places. There were many climbs on this part of the route but it was the last one which afforded us the best view. I had not realised but we had climbed almost to the summit of the Long Mountain(408m). This famous landmark, along with the aforementioned Breidden, acts as sentinels as one enters Welshpool from the east. The descent was thrilling as we plunged down into the outskirts of this busy little town. We managed to negotiate the tea-time traffic but by the time we had climbed back up to the castle grounds we were too late to gain entry. Never mind, Mike enthusiastically regaled with all its' history and collections etc! It was a fairly uneventful return journey to West Hope where we all chilled and self catered. It was certainly a harder ride than I had imagined.

Free Day Wednesday June 17th

   We all did our own thing.

Karla, me, Neil, Wendy and Graham explored Ludlow which included a two hour guided tour.

Neil Smith met an old cycling pal now living in Worcester and completed a 35 mile off-road ride.

Bonnie did something similar. 

Trev, Sue and Kelly did a strenuous hike up through the Cardingmill Valley to the top of the Long Mynd.

Mike, Larry, Julie and Mike T enjoyed a pleasant day on and around the Severn Valley Railway beginning at Bridgenorth.

The now famous 'cheese and wine' buffet was held in the dining room - a big thank you to all our caterers! 

Ride 4 Thursday June 18th

     Trevor certainly saved the best one to the last - well if not the best definitely the toughest and the longest. We set off towards Craven Arms via the much mentioned ' batch' and the B road. This might have been easier than Saturday's start but the rest wasn't! the back lanes to Bishop's Castle were very scenic but we began to climb almost immediately and everyone was ready for their caffeine break at the very lively Herbie's Cafe which we shared with a group of motorcyclists. Most of us had brunch here and it certainly began to lie heavily as we climbed out of this small, attractive town. The climb seemed endless which was not surprising as we were climbing onto the famous Kerry Ridgeway! Just before the Bishop's Moat we plunged down and crossed the main road and we were soon heading up into another group of hills- the Shropshire Highlands passing just to the south of the Stiperstones which gives you an idea of the terrain! In stark contrast to the spectacular ridges east of Church Stretton some of this region appeared rather sombre and unpopulated where abandoned lead mined have somewhat scarred the landscape. There was even a couple of miles before a jovial farmer informed us that our favourite pub at Bridges was only a few miles distant. The friendly barmaid hailed from Norfolk and it turned out that Bonnie used to work at the same riding stables as her - amazing!

   With the reverse of the Long Mynd looming we girded our loins for the ascent which we managed quite well. The views from the top were spectacular with the Wrekin to the left the Malverns to the far right and the succession of ridges straight ahead with the Clee Hills forming the backdrop. The last few miles was a bit of a shocker as it was much hillier than we had anticipated. I think everyone was pleased to see West Hope after the final climb over Wenlock Edge. It was a quick shower and then out again for our traditional end of holiday meal, at a lovely pub in the village of Dorrington, called the "Dorrington Horseshoes", great meal friendly efficient staff which was enjoyed by all and rounded off the holiday perfectly.

Friday 19th June going home day

  The final day and we had to vacate the accomodation by 0930am, so much activity packing & loading cars & bikes + making sure we left the farm house as we found it. A last check all round by Trev  making sure we had no breakages and all was spick & span. With a last goodbye to everyone, with Kelly heading back to Telford the shortest trip home, Karla & Neil heading north to Cumbria, & the rest of us heading south back to the west country.
    What a wonderful week had by all lots of sun & no rain in a beatiful part of the country.

  Dave

   For a collage of pictures click on link: https://jalbum.net/a/2174994

    First, well done Trevor for choosing an excellent venue. I know we've been there on a couple of other occasions before, but this time it was perfect! The blue room was just right - the food and service was excellent and, considering the group size, even the plates were hot! On a visual level, there were great views and people were looking very festive. 

    That all said, it was the atmosphere that struck me instantly, everyone seemed pleased to see each other and there was much reflecting on our shared history. It is pleasing that past members such as Julie, Mike, Jean and John still participate in these functions and their presence never fails to enhance the occasion. Even the non-cyclists such as Jane, Wendy and Gary, Niccy, Pauline and newcomer Wendy Jones contributed towards the ambience.

    As usual Trevor brought everything together with aplomb - a mixture of humour and sincerity and I enjoyed composing a simple song with I hope included most of us. I'm afraid that I was too late for it to be nominated for the Xmas Number 1, have that one on me Kylie!!

P.S.

Even though we are getting older there is no doubting the relevance of an occasion such as this, finally, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, with special good wishes to our members with ops pending! 

 David

 Click link for some pics: https://jalbum.net/a/2160886

Extra:  Click on other links for a couple of videos from Dave's shindig on the Wednesday evening , click on picture to play:

https://photos.app.goo.gl/E1tjyYiZjmVw7V6G9

https://photos.app.goo.gl/XVypdxN8CC8Soxqg9

          Participants: Trevor, Sue,Kelly, Dave, Niccy, Neil & Wendy, Larry, Mike, Sue E. & Bueno the dog                           

Summer Tour to Aberystwyth 21st to 28th June

Saturday 

     After leaving the M4 at Newport and taking the scenic route through Abergavenny and the upper Wye Valley we were treated to some splendidly rugged hill outlines as far as Rhayader. However, it was soon after picking up the A44 at Llangurig where it crosses the watershed between the tributaries of the Rheidol and the Wye that suddenly we caught a glimpse of the topography that would be our stamping ground for the next week. Lacking the craggy mountains of Snowdonia further north this part of mid-Wales consists mostly of hills much smoother in outline rather like a broad olive green plateau. On closer inspection one could just about discern shallow rocky gorges with bright clumps of gorse and heather adding richness to the colouring. Furthermore, hardly any habitation could be seen apart from the occasional farm building along the road. The almost complete lack of roads made one wonder where we would be able to cycle.

     This is certainly an area different to any other we have visited and it was only as we came within 7 or 8 miles of Aberystwyth that we began to see a few villages and hamlets and, of course, lines of communications. Even our accommodation appeared remote although it was only a short distance from the town. There were a fine collection of renovated farm buildings and although only about a mile from Cardigan Bay one wouldn't have guessed unless you climbed the  steep hill which sheltered us from the prevailing wind. Incidentally the accommodation was excellent as you will no doubt see from the many accompanying photographs.

     After settling in we were soon heading off into 2 cars (courtesy of Trevor and Neil) to The Halfway Inn at Pisgah. It was very busy with a good atmosphere and decent food. Well done Trev for finding it!

Sunday

     A poor forecast led to a major change of plan. Instead of the scheduled ride it was decided that a communal walk into Aberystwyth would be favourite - especially with the expected rain. The coastal path proved to be challenging enough for some with the high winds and the very steep final drop onto the floodplain of the River Ystwyth. It was a quick detour by the ruined castle and into the town centre for coffee. We headed towards the sea front where the waves seemed quite boisterous. At the end of the prom at the foot of Constitution Hill we saw that the Cliff railway was in operation and we all decided it was worth an £8 return trip! The view from the top was impressive in spite of the dull weather. Some of us went into view the camera obscura and donate to the RNLI and watch the mini railway.

     As we arrived back on terra firma the rain was threatening  so a quick nip into Lidl for food shopping and the heavens opened! Fortunately  Larry found a Wetherspoons where we could overlook the mainline railway station. We walked back along the riverside path to Rhyd-y- felin and then up through the lanes back to our farmhouse. According to some devices we had clocked up about 10 miles! 

Monday

     Pengraidaw is ideally situated for making use of the cycle route based upon the old single track railway from Aberystwyth to Carmarthen. Free wheeling down the narrow lanes towards the small village of Rhyd-y-felin we were full of anticipation for a day's cycling in unfamiliar territory. The surface of the Sustrans route was perfect as we rode along side the River Ystwyth . The surface deteriorated somewhat after crossing the busy A487 but was more than compensated by the fine wooded scenery. The 2 mile arrow straight section was pleasantly interrupted by conversation with an American couple who were undertaking a major tour. Further along we encountered a rather bloodied compatriot of theirs who kindly warned us of a dangerous low lying branch. Apparently he tried to avoid it but failed to allow for the upturn of his bar end. We met the rest of the party just before leaving the trail where we were caught out by the steep gradient so much so that at least 3 of us had to get off and walk. Hindsight is a wonderful thing but if we had detoured three quarters of a mile to the north to the tiny village of Llanafan  we would have encountered the first WI hall in Britain! We all now familiar with the saying educate a boy and you educate a man but educate a girl and you educate a family. Llanafan also held the last of the magic mushroom festivals in 1982! Once we has adjusted to the  new elevation of a pleasantly wooded lane which took us through to our coffee stop at Pont-Rhyd-y-Groes on the B 4343. Mention should be made of this road which is the last one trending N-S for many a mile- this being the boundary of a particularly mountainous track. In fact for a quarter of the map there is only one minor road. these are the Cambrian mountains, not only the sources of the two aforementioned rivers but also of the Teifi and the Towy which enters the sea as far away as Swansea.

      The coffee stop was most interesting being a well equipped self-service cafe with an honesty box. It had a rather musty smell but it  had it's own stage at one end. We set off after a much talked about break up the B road in the direction of Devil's Bridge but soon turned left on an unclassified  road into the hills with much ancient mining activiites ( during the 17th century copper, gold, silver and quicksilver were all mined here) One such site seemed to house loads of modern Landrovers this tract of land was quite desolate with rather poor pasture with patches of bogs and a number of small lakes it was almost a relief to reach the A 4120, albeit for only a half a mile or so before plunging down a steep narrow lane to eventually cross the Rheidol Steam Railway and enter the valley. What a transformation it being covered with a multi-coloured patchwork of fields before heading back through the lanes we made a slight detour east to view the modern dam on the Rheidol to control the flow of the river thus alleviating distress further downstream. Two major rivers converge on Aberystwyth in a relatively narrow gap between two sets of uplands. Trev had plotted a route which avoided all roads in the town and led to a pub on the edge which allowed us a relatively traffic- free route back. 

     After refreshments we skirted a narrow gap between Pendinas  and the sea which followed the trackbed of the railway line. This was a pleasant end of a good ride and we only had to negotiate the climb back up to the accommodation . Sue E. and Niccy drove into Aber' and were able to park right by the sea, after a browse amid the shops they explored the castle ruins which they found were more extensive than they had first thought. After buying some more supplies they headed back to base. 

Tuesday

 Car assisted to Rhayader

      We left the free car park at about 1145 and set off towards the mountain road towards Devil's Bridge but quickly turned right on a delightful country road which ran along the right bank of the infant Wye. We passed a number of farmsteads and the odd cottage but otherwise we had the road to ourselves and I couldn't even hear the traffic on the main road which more or less ran parallel to the main A487.Although it was only 10 miles or so it seemed to take quite a while to reach Llangurig where we had our much anticipated caffeine break. as it was lunch-time most of us had something to eat thus causing much finger tapping! Unfortunately Kelly noticed her Mum's back tyre was flat so the delay was extended. 

     Eventually we set off along the A44 in a westerly direction and much to our delight we turned left onto a smooth, narrow lane leading past the campsite. We noticed a sign saying that it was unsuitable for motors after 4 miles. The 4 miles was so tough owing to the steep gradient that when we eventually came to the deterioration we had forgotten about the warning! It was here that we met a pleasant farmer who asked us to close the gate and also informed us that  his son farmed the land around our farmhouse accommodation! Well! the surface was horrendous with a tiny bit of tarmac broken up here and there with a massive rut on both sides, this went on for a number of miles until we finally dropped down into the Ystwyth Valley and the minor road leading back towards Rhayader. Although we shared this road with a number of motorists, it being the only road in the area, it was lovely cycling with views all around. After all we were in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains and it was totally different to the previous day's ride. As time was moving on rather quickly Trevor decided to forego the detour around the Elan Lakes and we carried on to the top of the pass and had a long free wheel down almost to the cars. This was a shame but nevertheless everyone really enjoyed this ride. 

     For the return journey by car we decided to use the same mountain road which we had just cycled along and were amazed to find how far we has actually cycled along this road only an hour or so ago. We had planned to stop at the Half-Way Inn for a final drink before going home but unfortunately it was closed! Needless to say we were too late to prepare the barbeque so it was take-away fish and chips all round!  Whilst we had been having a great day cycling Sue E. and Niccy had been communing with nature at 'The Magic of Life Butterfly House ' at Cwm Rheidol where they had been encouraged to get close up and personal with the inhabitants! it was a very enjoyable visit set against the backdrop of the Cwm Rheidol reservoir enhanced by a sight of the Rheidol Valley Steam Train on it's passage up to Devil's Bridge.

Wednesday

Communal walk from Borth 

We took two cars and after negotiating the road closures we arrived at the free car park at Borth. We set off north along the main street which, owing to the rise of continental holidays, we felt had seen better days. We turned in past the Zoo which had the unfamiliar name of Animalarium until we reached the designated path following the River Leri. This path was dead straight relieved by views of wildlife on the water to our right and the station and Youth Hostel to our left which elicited whoops of delight from both Larry and Mike. Several of the party received bites to their exposed parts! On reaching the swing bridge we turned in a westerly direction to link up with the road again as it entered the sand dune area, this was once an island. We were all looking forward to refreshment at The Boardwalk cafe within the Holiday Park. The poor girl serving us all was very over-worked and there was a shortage of milk, discovered by Sue E! After our lunch Trevor led the main party to the Visitor Centre overlooking the Dyfi (Dovey) estuary whilst Dave and Niccy climbed the dunes where Niccy had a swim. Joined by the rest of the group who were paddling along the water's edge we all made our way back to our cars but not before seeing the impressive submerged neolithic forest  and a stop at the cafe of which the least said the better! At least Dave managed to squeeze in a couple of songs lol!

A quick shop in Aber' and then it was time to fire up the barbeque! Neil need a stirling job on this, sort of assisted by Dave. Trevor was otherwise engaged as Kelly had a mishap with her car keys, however that was solved and the evening ended well with a tasty barbie and a good ol' sing song! 

Thursday

S.E from Pengraidawr via Mynydd Bach and Llanrhystyd

Sue B's sister and brother-in-law had indicated that they wished to cycle with us on Thursday so Trev set about plotting a suitable route which didn't cover too much familiar ground. We followed Monday's route  along the old railway line to just past the low hanging branch where we changed direction on a very interesting off road section before finally heading west on a variety of pretty lanes. Meanwhile Mike had decided to leave us to find a flatter route back but taking in Monday's coffee stop at Pont-rhyd-y-groes. We weren't sure how flat Mike's route was but our next climb was very steep and long past the Gaer Fawr Hill Fort up onto the A485 rounding two significant  bends at Moelwyn and Lledrod where we turned off to do some more climbing 'round the shoulder of Mynydd Bach which is Welsh for small mountain..This relatively small tract of land is the highest in this part of Wales and it's western edge was probably an ancient cliff line when the sea-level was higher. This wave cut platform had very little agricultural use consisting mainly of  poorly drained rough pasture. However had we have continued on the main road in a southerly direction we would have been cycling along the famous Sarn Helen - Sarn meaning causeway which appears in many parts of Wales. That wouldn't have happened because it was also the course of an old Roman road, much finger tapping and toga talk!! The route from here to the lunch stop was fairly gentle as we eased our way downhill to the narrow coastal plain and the very welcome sight of Llanrhystyd's church tower and the Golden Lion pub. Such was the delight of this watering hole it was decided that it should become the venue for our farewell meal on Friday night.

Neil led us back using his reliable sat nav but not before delivering us into some pleasant but hilly lanes via a tricky manoevre off the main A487 just before a sharp bend. We crossed back over this same main road 4 miles south of Aberystwyth. It was easy going being mainly downhill past the road leading to the much advertiised Morfa Bychan campsite. Next was the modern glamping site where we encountered Niccy walking back towards our accommodation following a ramble. We enjoyed an excellent day's ride with almost  30 miles covered we were back in time to prepare our planned cheese and wine which really turned into a rather lavish buffet! Jane and Geoff stayed on after the ride which added to the convivial atmosphere. 

Friday

     From the outset Mike and Larry had been promoting the idea of riding the Rheidol Valley Steam Railway to Devil's Bridge and back Interest gathered momentum as Sue E, Wendy and Neil and Dave and Niccy all decided to join them. Sue and Trev felt it was unsuitable for Bueno so they planned a forest walk. The Rheidol Valley station with it's museum proved a nice taster of things to come!  What an enjoyable journey with wonderful views and nostalgic rhythm and smells. Just before arriving at Devil's Bridge we saw the Rheidol Falls looking rather depleted due to the lack of recent rainfall. An hour at Devil's Bridge gave us just enough time to view the three bridges and admire the power of water in the chasm and grab a quick cup of coffee! The return journey was equally pleasant and we all felt it worthwhile. 

Our evening at the Golden Lion passed pleasantly and we returned to the farmhouse (key crisis!) and reluctantly commenced packing as we had to vacate the premises by 10 the following day. 

Saturday

      A good holiday wasn't marred by the usual Saturday traffic jams and in fact we had a very easy journey back! 

Thanks to Trevor and Sue for the selection of accommodation and the organization of an excellent itinerary! 

  Dave

Having trouble inserting my collage of pictures for the tour so click on following link;   https://jalbum.net/a/2147089

Click on link for pictures:   8 Items 

Another new venue this year is deep in the South Hams at "The Church House Inn," Rattery. 19 of us gathered for this festive occasion with a couple of absentees for one reason or another. Glad Julie & Mike made it up from Looe; nice to see them at least once a year. We all finally assembled in this lovely garden room of the pub, a couple of late arrivals as usual, Bonny on her long trek from Meavy & Andy E., who could not get out of bed in time for a midday lunch. It was rather noisy at first as we were sharing the room with other diners, but we managed to finally drive them away. We eventually got down to eating what turned out to be a wonderful & tasty meal, if not a little filling for those of us who had three courses; I suppose the pints of beer didn't help.

  I got up to give a little chat & reflect on the events of the year, i.e., the name change of the club + our summer tour in the Welsh Brecons, which we were blessed with wonderful weather. Also looking back at our day on the beach & dip in the sea fully clothed for some of us, I forgot to mention my Sue's excitement of the frolic only to discover when stepping back onto the beach that she still had her mobile phone in her pocket, an expensive swim. Bonny, not satisfied with the shallows, decided to head out into the Bristol Channel, heading for North Devon, + we will never forget the sight of Graham B. in his underpants.

Anyway, a very successful Christmas lunch, which everyone enjoyed.

 Trevor

 Clink link for pictures: https://photos.app.goo.gl/3ztKFaj9ZxiGTy1c9 

Exploring Ireland on Two Wheels: A Journey to Remember

From September 7th to 21st, 2024, I finally embarked on an Irish cycling tour I’d been dreaming about for years. Cycling solo was tempting, but the costs were just too steep, so I set off with two great companions—Mike and Sue.

The Journey Begins
We kicked off our adventure by driving from Pembroke to Rosslare, with our three bikes safely strapped to the cycle rack. The return fare came to £639—a small price for the convenience and freedom of the open road.

Week One: Discovering the Heart of Kerry
Our first week was spent at a comfortable apartment nestled in the heart of Kerry (off the Tralee-Castleisland road) for £664. This location was perfect for exploring the nearby Dingle Peninsula and the stunning hills right behind our lodging, where every ride offered a new perspective on Ireland’s rugged beauty.

Week Two: A Tapestry of Irish Charm
Our next stop was near Skibbereen at a delightful, renovated Irish cottage affectionately known as the Chocolate Box (£408). From this charming base, we ventured to explore quaint towns and scenic routes through Durrus, Bantry, Schull, Mount Gabriel, and Coomacullen. Remarkably, the second week turned out to be even more spectacular. We enjoyed almost perfect weather—with just one rainy day during our visit to Killarney—and the countryside was breathtaking. The locals we met along the way added to the magic, offering warmth and a welcome smile at every turn.

This cycling tour was more than just a physical journey—it was a deep dive into Ireland’s stunning landscapes and warm culture. I’m already dreaming of my next adventure on two wheels!