North Sea Observatory July 2022

Sunday 24th July 2022.

Following requests, our ride today was to the North Sea Observatory at Chapel Point, one of the jewels in East Lindsey’s crown. We had been promised a largely dry day with spells of warm sunshine. Top temperatures 26 degrees Celsius, tempered by a strong SW wind gusting to 30 mph.

Meeting up with Ride Leader Tim Newbery at Louth’s Leisure Centre were John Rickett, John Ambler and Paul Linder. We would hope to meet up with Alan Hockham at Claythorpe Mill.

Fighting a brisk headwind steady progress was made through Little Cawthorpe and Muckton. Considering this was the first weekend of the school holidays, roads were relatively quiet and the ride to Claythopre Mill was enjoyable. Great to see Alan waiting for us and to be greeted with a friendly smile. A breakfast menu was available and John Ambler tucked into a large bacon bap whilst Tim favoured the sausage sandwich. A perfect spot to sit awhile and we were surprised to see so much water flowing through the mill stream.

With John Ambler returning directly to Louth, our route would follow cycle route C4 to Well, although on this occasion forgoing visits to the churches at Haugh and Rigsby. Well Lane which follows the boundary of the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB is always a joy and no exception today.

Next on our itinerary was Willoughby, not only of historic importance as to the birthplace of Captain John Smith but also, as John Rickett pointed out, being an important junction on the Louth, Mablethorpe and Willoughby Railway Loop. The line was finally closed on 3rd October 1970.

Turning east past Ashley’s Field airport, we had a wind assisted ride all the way to Chapel Point and the North Sea Observatory. This would be Paul’s first time here whilst others had visited within weeks of its opening in 2018. The £2 million project was designed to be the gateway to the area's Coastal Country Park, providing information, hosting exhibitions as well as including an art space, a cafe, public toilets and 'National Coastwatch'. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and attracts large numbers of summer migrants. In August and September thousands of swallows and house martins roost in the reedbeds.

Today however we were hoping for some refreshment. Usually packed out, we were pleasantly surprised to find tables inside and outside available soon after arrival. Great service all round and luncheon was much enjoyed sitting in the warm sunshine.

‘Chapel Point’ derives its name from a chapel at Mumby Chapel dedicated to St Leonard of Noblac (Mumby Chapel was washed into the sea in about 1570) whilst in more recent times it was an important part of the coastal defences in both World Wars. The WWI pillbox was converted into 'The Sentinel' but has long since been demolished.

Our return route had to be altered due to a road closure at Mumby where we bid farewell to Alan but a steady ride to Woody’s Bar at Woodthorpe was uneventful and we arrived ahead of schedule. Many thanks to John for the coffees, much welcomed.

It was now the turn of Paul to bid farewell, with Tim and John arriving back into Louth at about 4 pm having covered 50 miles. Temperatures had risen to a very warm 28 degrees Celsius with winds gusting close to 35 mph. A great day out and thanks to all for the company.