Saturday 21 September 2013

21st September 2013 Balsall Bash

Not a bad morning for a ride.  The plan is to stick to the country lanes and do a big circuit taking in Chadwick End the cafe at Balsall Common.


Arty Farty

First half of the ride, struggled to find anything photogenic until this mirror appeared in the hedgerow. Normally used by householders as a safety device to give them warning of approaching traffic to their concealed drives, today it gives a chance for an arty farty picture with bike and rider.


La Delicia

15 miles into the ride, time for tea. La Delicia tea room in Balsall village centre has been visited before and always gave good value. Same today, tea and toast, nice bread and real butter went down very well. Only criticism was all the outside seats were taken so had to sit inside.


Balsall Common windmill

Took a slight detour along Windmill Lane to visit this windmill. This is a four bladed tower mill, built in 1826 on the site of a former mill. Originally, it was used to grind flour and animal feeds. In 1927, the mill was adapted to run by a diesel engine. It was closed in 1848 after the last miller died. It was restored in 1973/5 but again, fell into disrepair until purchased by the current owner in 2006. This grade 2 listed building is still being restored.


Lottery Cottage

Carried on towards Kenilworth along Hob Lane. About half way down is this place called Lottery Cottage. One can only presume that it was purchased after a lottery win. It looks newly renovated and is well kept. Note to self; get a lottery ticket later. The bike is leaning up against a 'staddle stone'. More about them if a better example crops up in the future.

A good ride today, a fraction over 23 miles. A personal best this week in terms of distance covered, 122 miles in all.

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