15th August 2013 Shipston Slog

Shipston Slog is a bad title, it wasn't a slog at all. Mainly because, the 19 miles back to base, we had a tailwind which helped tremendously. Today was a jaunt out with the Emergency Services Cycling Club and we met at Andy's house at Southam where he promised us an interesting, fairly flat route. The wind was coming from the south west and that is the direction we headed in.

Northend closure

Left Southam and headed out through Bishops Itchington, Northend, Radway Tysoe and down to Shipston. There was a road closure sign up as we entered Northend but, being cyclists, we ignored it and came across this digger guarding a trench across the road. Nobody with it, so we picked our way through only to find two workers having tea and sandwiches on the far side of it. Luckily they had a laugh and a joke about it.

Upper Brailes

This is five of the group powering into Upper Brailes.  A quick regroup and then down Fant Hill, nearly 300 feet into Shipston itself. Pity the road surface was rough, we could have enjoyed the trip down more than we did.

Shipston Gyratory

A quick regroup on this pleasant spot, together with this sheep made out of ice plants. Nearby is a sundial commemerating 50 years since the end of WW II. Only a few hundred yards to the tea stop. Andy and Di relaxing in the background.

Shipston Tea Stop

The Bakery in Sheep Street was our half way destination. We arrived at lunch time which was not a good time as the place was nearly full. Andy and I bagged the table outside which was very pleasant and joined the rabble inside when there was space. Good service, very nice home cooked food, and it replenished our energy for the ride back. We can recommend this one.  Just a pity that all the lardy cake had been sold. Next time. By coincidence, met a colleague in there, from years ago, who was in the area walking. Small world.

Rose Cottage

A real chocolate box picture this one. Couldn't resist it. This was on the Shipston to Whatcote road.

Underneath the spreading chestnut tree

A last little break before the final push to Southam. This was in the centre of Little Kineton, just outside Kineton itself. A nice bit of shade this was. With the wind behind us, it was quite muggy and a quick break was appreciated. From left to right, Ian, Di, Ian, Graham, Andy and John.

A good ride today. I achieved a personal milestone, the most miles done in a single session, 42.2, a mile more than previous. What was pleasing about today, no apparent adverse affect on my knees!