The June Sunday Ride Out to Chew Valley Lake via Cheddar Gorge was a corker, and sadly, those who were unable to make it missed a real treat.
A better day could not have been chosen, with blue skies, a light wind and sunshine throughout. Geoff Brazier was the lead for the ride and although 22 riders had booked using the new registration system, 30 actually turned up and there were also 4 pillions.
Geoff had chosen a mix of roads to keep everyone on their toes and it was a route that several members of the group had never ridden before so that was a bonus. Some of the bends were amazing and one section from the A35 to Maiden Newton was on a single track ancient Roman Road where cyclists must have been surprised to be passed by so many motorcycles on what is normally a quiet road apart from the odd tractor.
The route then took us through Crewkerne to Ilminster and then across the A303 to Curry Rivel and Langport. Next was a very interesting road though High Ham and across King Sedgemoor. The road appeared to be fast, but the surface was so uneven that it felt a bit like horse riding, and it was easier for riders to keep their backsides off the saddle. Some riders rather enjoyed this part of the ride but others not so much, the latter included one whose can of coke burst in his top box creating a big sweet, sticky puddle in the bottom.
We stopped for refreshments at the Grain Store Cafe, part of the Somerset Rural Life Museum, which was welcome. There was a view of the Tor from here, but some were disappointed that the promised donkey rides, did not materialise. The museum appeared interesting, and a proper visit would be very worthwhile.
The next leg of the route took us to Cheddar and up through the gorge. It was slow going because of all the other summer traffic and holidaymakers but this enabled us to take in the fantastic rock faces and spot the climbers.
We arrived at Chew Magna Reservoir on time and most riders enjoyed a meal in the restaurant but those who opted for takeaway or brought sandwiches had more time to take in the amazing scenery. Regrettably though there wasn’t time for a group photo before we had to head on home on a route that took us via Sherborne.
All in all, a fantastic day out with good stops, great roads and amazing scenery. A day that was enjoyed by an impressive number of riders and pillions.
