Horncastle

Cycling UK Louth Ride - Sunday 27th June 2021.

Today should have been Reg’s ‘Birthday Ride’ to Horseshoe Point’ but that’s had to be postponed. Get well soon Reg! Instead, Tim Newbery would lead a ride to Horncastle.

Joining Tim at the Meridian Leisure Centre in Louth were Chris Owen, John Ambler and Rob Cook. Apologies had been received from Reg Bagshaw and John Rickett.

Our initial route out of Louth would take us across the A16 and onto Raithby. Always a pleasure to view the Church of St Peter and the chalky clear waters of Tathwell Beck that runs nearby. A bit of a climb now up to the Bluestone Heath Road but at least we were helped by a moderate north east wind. Now a brief rest alongside Pewlade Hill and with an altitude of 151 m (495 ft) we had great views back across to Louth and indeed all the way to the coast.

A fast descent at Red Hill (though not too fast in case of unexpected loose gravel) and a sharp turn at the bottom of the hill to take us to Asterby and Goulceby. ‘Colchesbi’ or Goulceby derives its name from the first major settler in the area, ‘Kolkr the Dane’. As the settlement expanded his ‘Eystri’ or eastern lands became known as Asterby and its clear now as to the origin of the local pronunciation ‘Ey-sterby’. Along to Watery Lane which would take us directly to The Three Horseshoes Pub and ‘Jam Jars Summertime Café and Bistro'. A good deal of effort and money has been spent upgrading the camping and glamping site and it was pleasant to sit a while in the garden area. Coffees all round and Chris thoroughly enjoyed a generously sized scone with jam, butter and cream.

Having watched a band of showers pass close by, time to make a move and the relatively short hop south to Horncastle via Hemmingby. Rob managed the descent of Green Lane without pedaling once! Upon reaching the Louth Road, Rob would make his way to Fulletby to enjoy his picnic lunch (tasty fish sandwiches) whilst Tim, Chris and John headed into Horncastle town centre and to ‘Just One More Bike Café' for a much-anticipated bacon bap. Indeed, John being ravenous, chose the large bun which included egg and mushrooms. Very nice they were too and John gave a very high rating. Interesting to find out that in addition to seating outside in front of the shop and a number of tables indoors, there was also a sizeable seating area outside at the back of the shop. Well worth a return visit.

Although on the cool side (temperatures at this point only 15 degrees Celsius), we all enjoyed a ride along the Viking Way and Lincolnshire Wolds Way to Fulletby, where we would find Rob waiting for us. Chris would depart home from here having by now already completed 32 miles whilst the remaining riders re-grouped for a descent of Nab Hill. Here too we were wary of poor surfaces but on this occasion the re-dressing had been well bedded in. Continuing along Fulletby Lane to Tetford we were glad to enjoy some fine scenery and, on our route so far, plenty of bird life with sightings of a number of wagtail and even a stonechat.

The nor’easter strengthened as we continued to South Ormsby, Calceby and South Thoresby and so by the time we reached Claythorpe a decision was made to take the opportunity of a final cuppa. The staff apologised for a delay in the service but had indicated that they had been very busy. Final decision of the day. Back home via Muckton or Authorpe and the Carltons? In the end the choice was decided by the toss of a coin. Tails! Authorpe and the Carltons is would be.

Arrived home at ten past four, close to the original estimated time. 44 miles covered with an altitude gain of 640 m (2100 ft). Temperatures now up to 17 degrees Celsius. Many thanks to all for a very enjoyable day out.

Next week: New York to Boston. Ride Leader Mike Gray. Detailed joining instructions to follow.