10th October 2013 Willoughby Wander

Autumn has arrived. Quite a big drop in temperature today although the sun was shining brightly first thing. The wind is cold as well, coming from the north east. Out with the ESCC today, although only three of us could make it. Started at Andy's house in Southam and headed out to the transport cafe on the A45.

Dahlias

Left Southam and went out through Bascote and Long Itchington. Leaving there, on Stonebridge Lane, saw these dahlias outside a farm. The picture does not do them justice, it was a lovely bit of colour on this cold morning. Down the lane the wind was straight in our faces.

The Rose Inn

This is the only pub in Willoughby. Never been in, but the Willoughby website makes it look an attractive place to go for a meal.

Willoughby Cafe

After heading into the wind for almost 17 miles, time for a break. This is a proper 'olde worlde' transport cafe. Good grub, can recommend the cheese on toast. On the A45, this would have done a roaring trade before the motorway system was devised. Still, seems to get its regulars in, and the cyclists.

Lower Shuckburgh

This is the Church of St John the Baptist, built in 1864 in the Gothic style just off the A425 which runs through the centre of the village. The village was mentioned in the Doomsday Book and lies between Southam and Daventry. Leaving here, we went on a gated road to Priors Marston. A bit of a drag over the hill, but with the stiff wind behind us, it wasn't too bad. Thanks to Andy for going ahead to open the gates for John and me.

31.5 miles today. Didn't enjoy the last 7 from Priors Marston to Southam. Into a headwind and the road itself was not too inspiring. Glad to get back to Andy's for home made fruit cake and a cup of tea.