South Ormsby Estate 15-01-2023

Cycling UK Louth’s ride to South Ormsby Estate and Donington on Bain

Sunday 15th January 2023

Early morning rain and near gale force winds had cleared as predicted by 9.30 am and by the time members were pedalling away from the Meridian Leisure Centre at 10 am skies were brightening with pleasant sunshine breaking through the clouds.

Joining Ride Leader Tim Newbery were Alan Hockham, John Rickett and a very welcome guest appearance from Fletch Bradley. Fletch always gives us such encouragement on our Facebook posts. Paul Linder had indicated he would meet up with us en-route to South Ormsby.

Battling headwinds and sidewinds progress was never the less steady with Fletch managing his fixed wheel with ease. Tim had guessed that we would join forces with Paul at South Thoresby but instead we were greeted with warm smiles at Muckton Bottom.

The Great Eau at Belleau Bridge was once again flowing freely, evidence of the spells of wet and windy weather over the last week. Passing through what are now small hamlets of South Thoresby (Thorir's settlement') and Calceby ('Kalfr's settlement'), it’s interesting to think that these were once busy, well populated villages in medieval times.

Arriving a little after 11 am at the Sheepdip Paddock we were looking forward to complimentary hot drinks from the Walker’s Cabin. However, even though the South Ormsby Estate website and Facebook page had indicated it would be open, the doors were padlocked shut. Hopefully this is just a temporary closure. It would be Paul who would rescue the situation and cheered us all up as he unpacked a large homemade apple cake from his carrier. Delicious Paul and many thanks. Star baker of the day!

Paul and Fletch would now make their separate ways home which would leave Tim, John and Alan to continue along the attractive Bluestone Heath Road through the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds. As always, stunning views from the viewpoint at Ferrals Plantation. We were also privileged to see deer roaming the South Ormsby Estate and a variety of birds of prey to include common buzzard, red kite, kestrel and sparrowhawk.

Continuing along the Roachstone summits of Belchford Hill, Rosin Hill, Gaumer Hill and Pewlade Hill (151 m ASML), a swift descent would follow with Hall Lane taking us through Stenigot. Caution was required on the tight bends with loose stones and gravel on the roads. Appropriately, Stenigot’s name is derived from the Norse meaning ‘stony place’.

Turning increasingly sunny, a pleasant ride was now enjoyed to Donington on Bain with a reward of refreshments at the Black Horse Inn. We had been booked in and indeed were well looked after.

Departing at 1.30 pm, a decision was made to tackle the ‘undulating’ Welsdale Road. A good test for Alan’s pedal assist. Climbing once more to the Bluestone Heath Road, we stopped briefly at Flint Hill to admire the majestic views of Louth’s St. James’ Church Spire.

Arriving back at the Leisure Centre at 2.15 pm having covered 33 miles, there was plenty of time for a final cup of coffee and an amiable chat discussing all things cycling. Today’s top temperature a respectable 7 Degrees Celsius, average for the time of year.

Many thanks to all for their company, especially to Fletch who’s welcome to join us any time and to Paul for the apple cake.