Tetney Lock

Tetney Lock, Sunday 8th August 2021.

Today’s ride would be to Tetney Lock, with an opportunity to view Louth Canal's final lock which divides the freshwater canal from the saltwater Haven.

After some pretty mixed weather during the week, the Meteorological Office had issued a ‘yellow’ warning for thunderstorms but we hoped we would be back home before the onset. Meeting up with today’s Ride Leader Tim Newbery, were Alan Hockham, Chris Owen (who had cycled in from Cleethorpes), Rob Cook, John Rickett and a friend of his, Neil Parnham. A warm welcome to Neil!

Apologies had been sent by John Ambler who was at home celebrating his wife’s Birthday. Happy Birthday Celia.

Initially setting off to Keddington, the brisk westerly wind meant that we made excellent progress to the Cockeringtons. These hamlets date back to at least medieval times, the name ‘Cocker’ being a Celtic River name which pre-dates the name for the River Lud.

Onwards through Howdales and along Saddleback Road to Skidbrooke. It was near here that Rob commented on the abundance of round bales in the newly harvested field.

A turn to the north would now take the group across Mill Bridge, one of numerous crossings over the drains in these coastal marshlands, many of which are tributaries of the Eau.

Next, a short section of the A1031 to lead us to Appleby’s Ice Cream Parlour at Conisholme. Time for refreshments. The Parlour has benefited from a welcome makeover and there’s now ample outdoor seating. Special thanks to Rob Cook who, as had previously promised, treated Tim to multiple scoopfuls of (honey) ice cream. Much appreciated and enjoyed! The kitchens were closed so no bacon butties; just as well John Ambler was not available on the ride today.

The skies occasionally darkened and we encountered a couple of fleeting slight showers but otherwise a straightforward journey and we soon approached Church Lane for our turn off to take us through Grainthopre. Neil informed us that John once lived here and a fine village it is too although, sadly, ‘Watts For Tea’ is now closed permanently.

Along Butt Gate and onto the sea dyke where most of us followed the route through Marshchapel’s West End. An attractive diversion off the main road passing golden fields of corn and barley which for the time being disguises the characteristic bumps of the salterns which one once dotted this ancient sea bank and Medieval shoreline.

A short hop and we arrived at ‘The Crown and Anchor’, Tetney Lock a few minutes before opening time and Chris would head back home at this point. With time in hand, Tim had the opportunity of having a look at the fishing ponds (a former tile works) and the ‘New’ road bridge which replaced the wooden bridge over the old sea canal. The Crown and Anchor dates to the 17th Century and would become a favourite watering hole for the crews of the barges and Humber Sloops that once plied their way from the coast to Louth along the ‘navigation’ (the canal operating from 1770).

The pub’s outdoor seating area has also undergone a ‘makeover’ with covered areas to the rear and occasionally the front. It’s obviously now very popular with the locals as although we arrived early, there were already a number of people waiting for the doors to open. Initially quite a queue at the bar but the staff worked hard and it wasn’t long before food and drink were ordered. Neil would look forward to a pint of Cornish ale whilst Tim plumped for a pint of Rhubarb beer (tried and tested the last time he was here nearly 2 years ago). The club have indeed visited the hostelry a number of times over the years and it’s interesting to be reminded of members also enjoying a drink here in 2013.

Refreshed, watered and fed, and now feeling a little chilled, time to set off for the return leg. This time into a brisk headwind all the way to Tetney Blow Wells where the chalky artesian water comes to the surface. A turn to the south gave some respite to the brisk winds and luckily it wouldn’t be too long before we reached Fulstow and Double Tunnel Bridge.

Rob would leave us at Fulstow whilst the remainder of the group would head back to the Leisure Centre for a final cup of coffee and a chat. Many thanks to John for the refreshments. We arrived dry and in good spirits but we were watching closely the dark threatening clouds which were gathering over Louth and only a few minutes after our arrival heavy showers gave the area a drenching. Great timing.

Many thanks to all for the company. Good to have had Neil on board and we hope he enjoyed the day. 33 miles covered for the Louth contingent, rather more for John and 43 miles for Chris.