Today was International Women's day, with the theme 'Accelerate Action' (and the pose of the arm showing strength)
We set off in one group, as we were just the right number, and we trundled off through the lanes towards Delamere.
I took the ladies down a favourite lane (just because of the name, but it also has a super viaduct) 'Dark Ark Lane'. It does include a small hill, but also a great downhill, before turning left to head through Delamere Forest.
You pass under another viaduct, just as you enter Delemare properly, although not as pretty as the other one. Just after this bridge there is a building on the right, now an Outdoor Education Centre, which used to be the Youth Hostel (YHA). I paused to reminisce about a Christmas party I came to here, when I was 15/16 and had just started riding with the Ledsham Family Section (forerunner to Two Mills cycling group).
We continued through the forest among trees not quite bursting into life, but which can give lovely reflections in the mere's.
The 'b' road along from Hatchmere to Delamere station has a terrible road surface at the moment, meaning much of the time I was riding on the 'wrong' side to avoid quite serious potholes (note to self, must report these); but we landed at the station cafe safe and sound.
Everyone was sitting outside, it was actually warm enough (in March!) so this meant we could not all sit together. Sarah and I sat with two gentlemen - father and son, who were having a trip out from Frodsham as his son was visiting - they had enjoyed a scone each but were heading on to lunch somewhere further into Cheshire. It can be nice to share your table and meet others, to swap stories and plans. We wished them a nice day as they headed off.
Delemere was very busy, on the track from the station through to the now huge car parks and new visitor centre; but shortly after that you leave the crowds and follow a pleasant route through to the bottom of The Yeld hill. The cafe here is closed (again) which is a shame (we were last here May 2022). Following forwards, this little lane has apple orchards either side and is a lovely sight in later April when the apple blossom is out.
We continued to Kelsall, and along 'Flat' lane (stopping to check out the Weetwood Brewery, which serves coffee but not food, may be a venue for next year?) before dropping down to Oscroft, Waverton and a short pause in Christleton (more flowers - the wonderful crocus display!).
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