2020 South West England and Monmouth

Saturday 29th August 2020                                      Day 1

It was extremely disappointing that it wasn’t possible to cycle the Land’s End to John O’ Groats adventure with my European friends because of the lockdown in parts of the UK and also there were travel restrictions for European nationals. If they were to come to the UK it would have meant that they would have to self isolate in the UK for two weeks before meeting with other people and also they would have to provide an address to the border control and stay at that one address. This of course wasn’t feasible so the trip was called off at the start of August. I really wanted a cycling holiday and had set my mind on south west England Cycle so I planned a route that would take me there in stages but driving the distance with cycle climbs of the B.I.G. National Challenge (Natacha) en-route. Starting at 07.45 I drove the M6 to the junction with the M5 and left the motorway at junction 6 and took the B4084 to Evesham. From there it was the B4035 from Worcestershire into Gloucestershire and to the village of Weston –sub-Edge for the first challenge. I parked the car at the edge of the village by a farm gate with space for one car  by the side of it then out with the bike and took Church Road by the side of the church, signposted Chipping Campden and headed for Dover’s Hill UKD 271, 30minutes climb. The first part is an easy section but after passing the houses the road rises and soon becomes steeper and high banks each side of the road as it winds its way up through an avenue of trees. At the top on the left is a National Trust sign indicating Dover’s Hill. The way forward from the road is across a well-worn field to a viewpoint with an orientation plate at the top and a great view north. From here back down to car, stopping at the book exchange red telephone box on the way, then through Mickleton to just before Ilmington where the climb to Larkstoke Hill starts. This is the most northerly section of the Cotswold Hills. It wasn’t easy to find and had to back-track from Ilmington to the only road heading south from before the village and parked up at a dirt lay by at a wide bend then to the un-signposted lane heading uphill. It was obvious really when a bunch of cyclists passed me as I bundled the bike out of the boot and they turned off on to the narrow lane heading up. It’s a stiff climb of approx 15% for about 2km to reach the top at radio masts. Much of the road has a central grass ridge so not well used by traffic. From here back to the car and I now had a long drive heading south west as far as Bath, about two hours drive with traffic hold ups at Stow in the Wold. First I took a peak at Broadway Tower having visited it last in the 1970’s – cycled the whole way then from home. At the time it was a peaceful place but now it’s a real tourist attraction and nowhere to park without paying and queuing so gave it a miss. I’ll cycle this area again in the future but driving here would be an effort. Police caes at the road entrance and didn’t want to find a ‘private’ place to park and walk and perhaps they observed me doing a quick entrance and exit to the tower area.

Continuing on, the route was the A44 then A424 through Stow – slow Stow- as I was caught up in slow moving traffic and breathed a sigh of relief to eventually reach open road again but still a lot of traffic but at least it was moving, sometimes too slow and I really wanted to reach Bath in good time to cycle and reach my planned destination for a night’s kip in the car. I took the A429 through Northleach and Cirencester then the A433 through Tetbury andA46 for Bath but turned off at Cold Ashton crossroads and the lane heading south on the Bristol road for Sir Bevil Grenville’s Monument. Just south of this and near a school was a lay-by so parked and out with the bike looking for Weston Hill. First of all I went down to Beckfords Tower and down to the city on a steep road then back up again and on to the left on Lansdown Lane and down to Weston realising just how steep this road was for the return ride back up. From the roundabout i stayed on the bike for the 20% climb, more difficult toward the end of the climb once past all the buildings. Weston Hill UKD 278 . It took me ½ anhour then back to the car and realised I neededpetrol. I’d driven almost 200 miles and needed a fill up quickly, and remembered there was a garage at Cold Ashton so rather than wate time around Bath, filled up there then on for the final climb in the Bath area, Prospect Place UKD 279. The best way to reach this and avoid confusion of city streets was to continue on the Bristol to Chippenham road then head south after passing through Marshfield and head for Batheaston. I parked up on a steep hill down on Bannersdown Road just short of the River Avon at West View Road then out with the bike and cycled down to the river then across to Bathford then first left on to Bathford Hill and began the climb. It’s certainly a steep climb up – first off up to the edge of the city and end of Bathford in Ashley Wood then back and first left up the continuing climb up Prospect Place and Farleigh Rise to Monkton Farleigh then back to car. From here I drove 32 miles into Wiltshire from Avon along the A4 through Chippenham and Calne to Avebury. After Calne I see the area of the white chalk horses for the first time and the first one on Cherhill Down on the rise up to Avebury. Lansdowne Column and the Cherhill White Horse are very interesting on the slopes of the downs. I didn’t stop at Avebury but passed through slowly to catch sight of the large upright stones along the road on this side of the village. The centre of the village is  encompassed by a perfect circle of ancient stones but I didn’t take the half mile turn-off to the centre as I wanted to complete my last climb f the day before dark.  From here 3 miles to Broad Hinton through Avebury and parked by the village hall. The pub in the centre was buzzing – everybody socially distancing. There was an hour or so of daylight left bundled the bike out and cycled  Hackpen White Horse UKD 280 2.3km, easy as far as Fiddlers Hill over the crossroads then steeply up 200 metres, a left bend then a right bend in front of the white horse and reached the top by a small car park where the Ridgeway intersects the climb. I left the bike and wandered up to the chalk horse for a closer look.

On the way back it started to rain but not much. Returning back down to the car in the village there are great views looking back to the chalk figure with a rainbow backdrop. I had a chicken salad and some wine in the car then drove on. I planned to reach the foot of my next climb for first action in the morning. I passed through Marlborough and it’s impressive Georgian architecture and wide main street; so wide cars could park in the centre of the town. I didn’t stop but passed through slowly and on to Hungerford and from Wiltshire into Berkshire. I stopped to buy a kebab and chips and a bottle of wine from the Co-op then drove along the lanes using my mobile’s sat-nav as it was now dark. I parked up for the night in Inkpen village at the solitary pub car park. Due to the pandemic the pub wasn’t open so I slept in the car at the car park for the night, phoned Ruth, had another Aldi salad and wine to ensure sleep would happen soon and nodded off, well off the road but it was only a quiet lane and very little traffic. I had driven 256 miles today from home and parked up for the night at 20.00

Sunday 30th August 2020                     Day 2

 Sleep was good through the night, only woke up once – and there was an outside toilet behind the pub. I thought it best to drive out of the pub and park in the village triangle. I asked a local to point out the way to Coombe Gibbet hill as it wasn’t signposted in the village. I had parked the car close to it. Early on the day I cycled to Combe Gibbet (Walbury Hill) NW from Inkpen 2.5km, S from Netherton 5km UKD 318 1 hour. I enjoyed cycling in unfamiliar countryside as the smooth chalk hills are so different from the ruggedness of climbs in the north or Wales. The lower slopes of Walbury Hill are gentle and no problem but it gets steeper towards the top. I cycled to the left at the top where there’s a memorial to the paratroopers who dropped behind German lines at the start of D-Day to secure positions and soften up the enemy, Prior to D-Day they had used the slopes of Walbury Hill as training ground jumps from aircraft. From here across to the higher hill where there was a large wooden pole. I didn’t know, having not read up on the area beforehand, that this was Coombe Gibbet – complete with the cross-piece of the gibbet. People were hung from here so that the local populace could be reminded of what happens when you break the law- a bit gruesome. To get here from the road it’s a well worn, wide stony track that’s possible to cycle as not steep. Back down to the car – and another red telephone box book depository – and this time I took a couple of books. From here on Hurstbourne Tarrant to the south along a pleasant quiet valley, and into Hampshire from Berkshire. There were plenty of cyclists along here and felt obliged to wind down the window to apologise for disturbing their peace as I was the only car for miles.

Drove south over to Hurstbourne Tarrant. From here rejoining the main road A343 10 miles then 10 miles south to Andover and 12 miles south to Stockbridge on B3057 1.5 hours. Winton Hill is part of Stockbridge, east of the small town and just a slight rise above it so that can’t be the hill. The road continues on to Stockbridge Down so took that to be the top for Winton Hill UKD 320 from Stockbridge 1.5km 1 hour  The car was parked at the smaller Stockbridge Down car park on the left, over the rise, 2 miles out from Stockbridge. From there I freewheeled down to the small town and noticed the Winton Hill road sign just before the foot of the hill. I went around the roundabout into the town where both the sides of the road were barricaded off to stop parking and aid easier social distancing. One feature of the town is the barred off stream running alongside the road on the left from the roundabout. On the other side of the road a few of the buildings have wooden balconies. We saw similar styles of building in Swellendam, South Africa but it’s unusual here. Up again from the roundabout to the top and I lifted my bike over a style to the left and rode up the grassy hill to the top of Stockbridge Down for the view, the other side of the small wood. From here to the car then took the road west to Salisbury.  

From Stockbridge A36 15 miles to Salisbury for Old Sarum UKD 283 Camp Hill 2.4km cycle on Amesbury Lane following River Avon. 2 hours

Before reaching the city I parked on Aldi car park to check the map and set the mobiles sat-nav voice for Stratford via Old Sarum then took the turn for Amesbury. Along the main road at Old Sarum parked up on the right, opposte the entrance then crossed the busy road for a short walk around the outer perimeter of the mound. There wasn’t time to waste exporing Old Sarum itself, that’s for the future. From the mound I could see Salisbury Cathedral. On from here then the next left for Stratford, skirting the northern edge of Old Sarum, another left and parked up in the village. It was a very warm sunny day as I bundled the bike from the boot and cycled over the Avon and took the next left for the climb to Camp Hill, the top itself just to the north of the junction meeting the main road. Nothing at the top, its just the climb that’s the interest, being a fairly steep winding road with a wide left bend to the top. Back to the car, then drove back to the bridge where I’d seen a bench by the river and enjoyed another chicken salad with wine.

Drove on from Salisbury along to Woodford on the Avon then west to Stapleford and the A36 north west 21 miles to Warminster along the Wylye Valley for Longleat 1hour. Passing through Warminster, parked the car at a lay-by between the town and the Longleat entrance roundabout, having tried first to park nearer to at a National Trust car park past the roundabout but this was full. I cycled through the entrance on the Frome road and followed Longcombe Road from A362 to quaint Horningsham village then back up the hill to the entrance road and found a road to the left of it where cyclists were going so I followed them as this is a parallel wide track.

I was told this led to a bike hire point  but it also leads to an intersection behind the entrance gates and at the top of Park Hill. From here free-wheeled down Park Hill UKD 282   to Longleat House and stop for photos and along the level drive to the exit then return to Longleat House and climb back up the hill with views of the animals at the safari park down below to the left, mainly camels and rhinos. It’s a tough climb 2 hours total cycling.

(From the North: M4 (J18) – A46 towards Bath – A36 towards Salisbury. Longleat is just off the A362 between Warminster and Frome.)

From Warminster drove A350 19 miles to Shaftsbury to cycle Gold Hill UKD 286 0.2km. 1.5 hours. Here I in road a second fill of petrol at Tesco garage then parked on the edge of the town by the main road and made my way along narrow streets to find Gold Hill. First I kept the brakes on and carefully descended the cobbles to the bottom then physiched myself up to begin the climb. A girl was taking photos of buildings at the bottom so suggested to her that I was about to attempt to cycle the cobbles to the top of Gold Hill. I was hoping that she would have then she could send me the photos on Whats App!  She didn’t but when I reached the top I saw a guy taking photos of me so asked if he could send them on to me. He promptly did. Drove 28 miles south on A350 then south west on A354 to Dorchester 1 hour then 30 minutes heading north on A352 Sherborne road to Cerne Abbas and parked just off the main road at the viewpoint for the Cerne Abbas Giant. Cycle Cerne Abbas Giant UKD 287 2km 1 hour  From there into the village then up the steep hill through the woods to the right of the giant took a left turn at the top and along the lane to the caravan site on the brow of the hill that marks the top, back down again to the car and changed clothes as it was getting dark now and this was the best place to change. From there to Dorchester.

(Total 6 climbs today). I set the mobiles sat-nav to direct me to my accommodation as it was dark when I entered Dorchester Total 9.0 hours Overnight at Bay Tree House, 4 Athelstan Road. I was directed to a pub 10 minutes away on the Wareham road and ate well. I needed the bed tonight as two nights together sleeping in the car is not good. 

Total mileage 403 cumulative.

 Monday 31st August 2020                     Day 3

  Ten miles east to Wareham then cycled Purbeck Hill UKD 290 (09.30 to 11.20) from south of Wareham 1.5 hours 5.4km. My parking point was Grange Gate red telephone box (no books – it’s a working phone!) There’s parking at the woods there at the foot of Purbeck Hill. The rise is 25% up through the woods on the north side of the long hill but it’s not a long struggle. At the top the view is magnificent, taking in the whole stretch of coast from the Isle of Wight and the Needles with Poole Harbour and Hengistbury Head nearer to – then across the other way to Portland Bill.

At the top of Purbeck Hill there’s a wide grassy area for parking, flying a kite or riding a bike. I did the latter. I enjoyed the views up here so much that it was worth exploring further so continued on along the ridge then down the other side to East Lulworth village. It even has a red telephone box book exchange point! I didn’t take anything. Back up the hill and helped a girl reattaching a chain who told me she couldn’t get back on the bike on a hill. Told her to cycle down a few yards then turn around in the road – now that’s a good idea – it worked. Further on along the ridge I took a right for Tyneham village that’s just the same as it was in the 1940’s. It even has a telephone box! This time it’s a grey one as in the 1940’s. This village is inside the military training area and when manouvers happen tanks roll through here. Back up the steep hill then over the top and back down to the car. On the way down is an interesting large house in its own grounds just before Creech Bottom. From here back to Wareham and drove 10 miles west to Weymouth. On the way stopped to look at the white horse and rider called the Osmington White Horse. Drove on over causeway but this took awhile as there was plenty of traffic passing through Weymouth. Most of it though was heading for Weymouth . I was passing through to Portland Bill. Traffic over the causeway was plenty though. Just over the causeway I found a parking spot near the marina to cycle Portland Bill, Verne Hill UKD 289 1 hour 2.5km. From Victoria Square, next to where the car was parked, the climb begins gradually along Fotuneswell and much steeper at Verne Hill Road to the left where I turned off on to this much quieter road leading to the top. It’s narrow with parked cars all along the road to the right so hoped no traffic was coming down. I was fortunate and reached the sharp right bend on Glacis, in front of the Victorian prison gate. From here to the right its open ground with a farm zoo ‘Fancys Farm’  the left. From here along New Ground along the edge of the hill with views across Chesil Beach and Portland Harbour. Along here are information boards on the area around including the history of quarrying Portland stone. At the end of the road and at the highest point at Priory Road there’s a ring of upright Portland stones opposite The Heights Hotel. From here I took the main road, New Road, back down to the causeway and my car. From there it was an 18 mile drive on B3157 west to Abbotsbury. I had some problem parking here and felt sorry for the people who live in this pretty village that have to put up with the volume of traffic passing through on the narrow road. There were even lorries threading their way between the old stone cottages so close to the road. I found a place just beyond the village then cycled to the junction for Martinstown. This took me to Hardy Monument UKD 288 1.5 hours 6km up and along a pleasant lane to Black Down with great views over to Weymouth and a group of ships leaving port. Over a crossroads then a short way to the tall monument in memory of Vice Admiral Sir Thomas Hardy, a commander at the Battle of Trafalgar, great views of the coast from the top. The road isn’t particularly steep, the steepest section was leaving Abbotsbury. From here back to the car and drove the coast road to Bridport with plenty of views along the coast from the ridge heading down to the town. From there heading north through Broadwindsor’s confusing one-way road system through the small village. On past the Perrot villages and joined the main road at Haselbury then slowly on looking for East Chinnock for the next climb. I parked in the village and found the next climb on my list starting opposite the large church on the main road.  Cycled Chinnock Hollow UKD 285 1km from East Chinnock 30 minutes from the A30. The rise up here short but steep passing through a literal hollow as the road is an overgrown cutting with high banks of rock and tree roots, trees jutting out of the rock. The way up is through a dark canopy of trees to an open clearing and to crossroads at Odcombe. Back down to the car and on through Yeovil then north 18 miles to Compton Dundon just south of Street. Parking up in the village and had to ask at the village pub the way to Admiral Hood Monument UKD 284 from Compton in SW or Butleigh Wooton in NE. 2 hours as there was no indication of how to get to the monument on Windmill Hill. The turn was to the right by a white house at a small road junction. From here a short way then a left turn and up a steep rise through a tree lined shade to a wider lane at a ‘T’ junction. I took the left – but should have been right as soon found out so back along and headed for Butleigh as I knew this was the other way to the top. Just before the descent spotted a gap of two large stones and the beginning of an overgrown path and could see the monument through the dense canopy of trees and wheeled the bike the short distance to the monument in a clearing. It wasn’t well kept; just some thrashing away at the tall grass around the monument. Admiral Hood wouldn’t have been well pleased. On top of the tall monument is a ship. From here looking north there is a gap through the trees heading directly to Glastonbury Tor which is clearly visible in the distance. I followed the lower path down through the undergrowth to rejoin the lane climbed up and back to the car. I changed from cycling clothing and put on warmer clothes for sleeping in the car later. My next climb would be from west of Taunton in the morning so now I took the road heading west through Somerton and Langport at dusk and into Taunton just as it was getting dark. I searched for a pub where I could buy a meal but nowhere where I could leave the car so passed through and found a good pub at Wilton on the edge of the town. Here I enjoyed a mixed and two Guinness to help me sleep. I had no intention of driving on and slept at the pub’s car park well away from the road. Some wine in the car brought on sleep quickly enough.

 Drive to Taunton, 30 miles A30 to Chard, A358 north to Taunton. A38 Wellington. 1 hour Total 9.5 hours (Total 6 climbs) sleep in car

09.00 to 20.30 Total mileage 538 cumulative

 Tuesday 1st September 2020               Day 4

 Awake early and used the pub’s facilities as it was open for breakfast but I didn’t succumb but would eat later – still full up from last night! I parked up on Barnes Mead Road, Wellington then cycled Monument Road to Wellington Hill and over the M5 then steeply up the hill, especially the final section where there are sharp road bends to the crossroads at the Devon boundary. From here a right turn for a short way then a right turn into the woods and cycled under the avenue of trees in a dead straight line that led to the Wellington Monument UKD 296  1 hour 3.1km. at the highest point on the Blackdown Hills. The monument is undergoing restoration currently and is covered completely with scaffolding so it resembles something like a Cape Canaveral  moonshot. It was disappointing so must pay a return visit after it’s completed next year. From here driving along the A38 heading for Exeter and stopped off to have breakfast just before the fast road to the south west. I was soon in the Exeter area but then wasted too much time looking for the road heading north away from the city. It would have been better if I had taken the lane through Huxham and Stoke Canon on to the Tiverton road from theA38 and reached Cowley without having to pass through the city but as usual with city streets I was confused and lost! I was directed from a garage and set my mobiles sat-nav that took me through the centre of the city. I parked up by the road join for Tiverton and Barnstaple roads and took the small road to the right from that roundabout - Wrefords Lane that led to Hilltop Riding School and Secret Garden Cafe at the top of Stoke Hill / The Pike UKD 297 1.9km. 2 hours in Cowley north of Exeter. A gradual climb past the houses to begin with then away from the houses the road narrows and becomes steeper to the top. The top itself is to the right from the road junction. From here my south west England tour really began. Drive 42 miles to Salcombe. 1.5 hours – but 3 hours with a visit to Brixham

I headed off along the A38 over Haldon Hill then headed for Torbay along the A380. Passing over Kingkerswell Hill and remembering past times when I’d cycled from Dartmoor to Torbay I had passed over here, the difference was a bit disheartening. What was once a pleasant main road and not too busy and safe to cycle was now a nposy dual carriageway – almost motorway. I was so glad I had enjoyed this road in the past and certainly wouldn’t cycle it now. How can Torbay put up with such a huge influx of visitors? I continued on and parked up on Hunters Tor Drive, Galmpton and cycled into Brixham to go and admire one of our favourite holiday haunts briefly, a 1o mile circuit to see the waterfront and return. Again the traffic was heavy so there were delays but once out again and on my way to Salcombe through Totnes and Kingsbridge the traffic was moving freely. From Totnes heading south the road is narrow but there was only light traffic and a pleasant approach over high ground down into Salcombe. I parked on St Dunstans Road hill at the end of the main road then cycled out down steep Sandhills Road to Cliff Road, smiled at the name of a cafe passed – The Winking Prawn. Sure the prawn didn’t wink when it was picked. Along Moult Road to South Sands where there were plenty of bathers but all keeping their distance. From there I began the climb I came for;

Overbecks UKD 303 1.5 hours 0.7km. It’s a tough 24% climb over a short distance. I wheeled the bike after reaching the top and walked the paved path along the outer wall of Overbecks to admire the view along the coast then walked to the entrance. There were no visitors, business wasn’t good and because I’d cycled they allowed me in free – I didn’t ask! Had a look around the grounds conaining many exotic plants and trees and took in the view from the terrace. From there back to the car, following an old gentleman from the house in an equally old car descending the hill at 5mph! Not really bothered as the scenery along the road was great. Back up Cliff Road to its junction with Bennett  Road and a stiff ride back to the car. From here my plan was to drive through the South Hams via Modbury, 26 miles via Kingsbridge to Plymouth to reach the final climb of the day from Callington to Kit Hill in Cornwall but it wasn’t to be because of serious delays  due to a fatality on Tamar Bridge, the only way out to Cornwall from Plymouth without going a distance north to Tavistock – but then, as I heard on the car radio, there was a serious accident before Tavistock so it would have meant a long drive up to Princetown on Dartmoor then across from there. At first I wasn’t aware of the bad news at the Tamar Bridge so joined the crawling queue for an hour as it slowly approached the river crossing. Switching the radio on before reaching the diversion sign on the last road away from the Tamar approach came to realise the situation so followed the diversion for the next crossing point at Tavistock only to discover on the approach to Yelverton of the second serious event before Tavistock and the road was closed. I sat for a while and prayed. What now? Then I heard on the radio that the Tamar Bridge crossing had been cleared so then a fast return to Plymouth and followed all signs for Liskeard and over the bridge where the traffic had now cleared so quickly on along A38 and took the road for Looe and Polperro A387. I phoned the B&B to say I might not be there for 20.00 but in reality it didn’t take so long, arriving at 19.30. It was dusk at Looe and dark on arrival in Polperro. I soon found the accommodation at Penrhyn House Hotel, The Coombes, Polperro. 08.00 to 19.30 Mileage cumulative total 712 miles. I ate at the Three Pilchards Inn by the quay in the evening. Tables were spaced apart, one way in and separate way out and hand cleanser provided.  (Total 3 climbs) Total 11.5 hours

Wednesday 2nd September 2020                  Day 5

 A good night’s sleep and before breakfast cycled Longcoombe Lane heading north from the village, a steep single track road and no traffic as it’s just a farmer’s road. Back down and cycled the main road to the top of the hill and approach to the village and by then it was time for my breakfast slot at 08.30. Afterwards I rode down to the quay then up to Talland Hill UKD 302 1 hour 0.9km to the left of the waterfront, a very steep 25%+ climb to the caravan park at Carey Park. For all the good scenery in the area there is nothing to take a photo of at the top, it’s only a mucky field! The attraction is the climb itself. Back down to the car at Penrhyn House then drove off heading for Callington to catch up on what should have been yesterday’s final climb. Driving 24 miles throughLooe and Liskeard to Callington then took the second right turn on the Tavistock road for Harrowbarrow and parked up. This is the foot of the climb for Kitt Hill UKD 301. 1.5 hours Callington Road, east of Callington in Harrowbarrow, mainly a narrow farmer’s road but almost level then just before Callington village an acute right turn on to A390 for a mile on a busy road uphill so cycled the footpath then north east off that on to a lane signposted Kit Hill and a steep rise, further on a final left  and steeply up to the top where there’s a tower and viewpoint as the hill is higher than all around between Dartmoor and Caradon Hill on Bodmin Moor. From here back to the car the same way then drove back through Callington and Liskeard and headed for St Austell, 20 miles. This was a mistake as the traffic was so busy and progress was slow so turned off north at Lostwithiel on B3268 for Bodmin but left before reaching there and on to the A30 at Lanivet and followed the A30 dual carriageway and fast road to Redruth. I despaired when I saw the huge amount of traffic moving at a snail’s pace heading back east. It was the only way back and I would have to join that queue later. On top of that it started raining for the first time and I was in two minds whether to carry on for my most westerly climb just before Land’s End or postpone and cycle it again in the future but then I thought – it’s an awful long way just to cycle one short climb, even if it could be matched with others in the area – so I carried on. Traffic was horrendous leaving Penzance heading east and here was me like a lemming heading west to join up with that long traffic jam later. By-passing Penzance and still raining I took the Land’s End road and parked up in a small housing estate in Sennenayed for the rain to stop, then rode down to Sennen Cove and had a look around the small harbour, had a photo taken and posed in rain jacket then began the climb up Cove Hill UKD 310. Then the rain stopped. I put the jacket away and cycled up the steep hill from Little Bo Cafe at the foot - dry. Great view looking back down. It’s only a short climb but very steep, especially the first section. Back to the car and made my way back to Penzance to join the A30 queue – but there wasn’t one – it had cleared! It was amazing! (Should i be surprised? Prayer changes things. There was an open road the whole way so now I re-planned. I knew that the climb from Redruth should be possible, plenty of time. From Redruth drove theFalmouth road to The Fox & Hounds on the A393 at Comford and left the car at the pub car park and cycled south west on A393 then took the second right turn to Buller Downs UKD 309 1.5 hours 4km. Most of the way it was high open country. I headed for the TV mast. The road is a pleasant country lane with only one turn at a ‘T’ junction to head right to the top. There’s no landmark except the transmitter mast but that’s far away from the road. Back down the same way and rejoined the car to head for another climb between Wadebridge 56 miles away and Bodmin but this was a long distance away but should be able to achieve it before nightfall and find the accommodation later. Along the A30 and eventually the A39 turn to Wadebridge. I set my mobiles sat-nav for Burlawn. From Wadebridge and passing the final house the road narrows considerably and drops sharply and into a thick wood that after a few miles realised was a forest! I was a bit apprehensive having never been here before. What was I letting myself into? I came across cyclists which made me feel more comfortable – there must be something here! There was barely room for the width of the car and hope I didn’t meet oncoming traffic. The only people met were two other cyclists after parking my car in a farm gateway past the top of the climb. I met them at the top of Bishops Wood UKD 308 1 hour 0.5km and asked them to take my photo with my phone. From there they went and I carefully freewheeled down the 25% hill to the water depth marker at the ford and bottom of the hill. The road is uneven and also wet after the rain earlier so a difficult climb up. The climb though short is a real challenge and would be better challenged with a mountain bike.Once at the top I saw the car park at the top on the right. I wish I’d seen that earlier rather than risk it and leave the car in a farm gateway. Earlier I had first tried to park in a farm driveway but was told off by a lady toff who rasped out to move –ya. So I did. When I arrived back at the car in the farm gateway another lady passed me as I was about to push my bike back into the car. She told me that I shouldn’t park there as the entrance was constantly in use by farm traffic. Fortunately there was none while I was cycling but assured her that it won’t happen again as I’ll use the car park at the top of the hill and told her I wasn’t a local and wasn’t aware of the car park or would have used it. “Make sure you do, next time!” she said. There won’t be a next time – too far from home. I set my mobiles sat-nav to tonight’s accommodation at Trehellas Country House Hotel, Washaway, Bodmin but it seemed to lead me into different directions but probably I had misunderstood the instructions. I was on my way towards Polbrock on the Ruthernbridge road but then the sat-nav sent me into Bodmin then back into the forest again to Burlorne for the road up to Washaway and as I emerged on to the main road my accommodation was on the other side of the road to the left and it was just beginning to get dark. I didn’t want to be on those narrow lanes in the dark. The set meal with wine was excellent and good accommodation. Guests and staff were very friendly

Cumulative mileage 901 miles 09.00 to 20.00

Thursday 3rd September 2020             Day 6

 Tintagel Castle UKD 307 2 hours 6.5km. 10 miles to Camelford, 7 miles to Tintagel and return. From Tintagel Castle, S.E. through Tintagel, Regatta, Trewarmett, Penpethy to B3263 at Tintagel brewery. Drove B3314 20 miles to Tintagel.  It was very low cloud, misty and raining. Far from the perfect weather for cycling but 200 miles from home I have to make the best of. In the future I might come this way again but I really wanted to have a bash at this climb. From the main road A39 drove to the highest point at Tintagel Brewery  near Penpethy and parked up at the entrance, bundled the bike out of the boot then freewheeled down to Tintagel Castle. The mist was so bad that I couldn’t make out the castle on the promontory, but I was here at the end of the road. I went down on the footpath and clicked into the bottom gear for the climb back up on the road. At the castle entrance I was asked by a rain soaked guide if I wanted to go in and replied that it really wasn’t worth it and was only here for the climb back up again to Camelford . She gave me a strange look. No wonder, we’re a strange lot us cyclo-climbers! I cycled back to the brewery with no road turns, just a continuous road to the top, passing through a couple villages. From Camelford I stopped off at the King Arthur labyrinth for quick look at the shop then drove on along A39 to the coast at Wanson, 25 miles to Millook. The weather was dy now. Parking at the beach at Wanson Mouth it’s a steep climb up through the gorse for a kilometre to the top. Only one turn at the hotel part way up the a left to continue up to Millook UKD 306 1.5 hours Foot of climb at Millook Haven and heading south west to Dizzard. At the top of the climb there’s an indication for a 40% drop on the other side. Maybe this should be included in the Natacha list as a second side. Driving on from here along the A39 for 38 miles to Clovelly. 1 hour. I turned off at Clovelly Cross and parked just outide Clovelly before the car park so I could have easy access to return to the main road later. Freewheeled down the steep hill to the village and the coast, 25% gradient and straight into the prescence of the coastal ranger but didn’t realise who it was at first.  “Any hills around here?” I asked “ No it’s all flat” he said flatly. “You need to wear your mask as it’s crowded with all you tourists” No problem, on with the mask. I took a few photos of the picturesque village hemmed in by the steep cliffs then began to cycle the 0.6km Clovelly to Donkey Stables UKD 305 1.5 hours and return from harbour to the top at Clovelly Cross. The same ranger came back down the hill in his landrover as I was struggling up. “You made me come off!” “Ah there’s plenty of traffic coming down yur” he said, but the only traffic allowed is for those staying at the beach hotel – which is small. The way up is tough, very steep and at least 25% but a short distance so calls for total commitment to stay on the saddle knowing that the pain is short! At the top is a red telephone box exchange library! Great – this time I did succumb. From here along the A39 again, Drive 35 miles to Woolacombe A39 then A361 from Barnstaple.1.5 hoursThrough Bideford to Barnstaple. There was no problem passing through here as the signs were clear enough for Ilfracombe. I passed over the wide estuary of the River Taw by a wide bridge then an easy 10 miles to Mullacott Cross and the first indication for Woolacombe and the alternative coastal resort to Ilfracombe. Four miles along here then parked up at a restricted area allwing me one free parking. That was enough time. Out with the bike and cycled Challacombe Hill UKD 304 1.3km 1.5hours.From Woolacombe head heading north east. It was obvious where it was as from the resort cars were seen slowly ascending the hill, many perhaps going to the caravan park up there. It’s a steep road up between the short grass and gorse area to the top. I returned to car and shopped for a warm pie – a proper tidy oggi, and also a bottle of wine. That was my late afternoon meal – not all the wine though! On from here back to Barnstaple then headed south east on the A377 to Colleton Mills on the main road then west and cycled Burrington Balls Hill UKD 295 2km 1 hour. A parking space on the east side of the crossroads here  then cycled west from Colleton Mills on A377. Along here to Golland Lane. I tried this road but ends up at a farmstead! Go right here and reach the top along a pleasant country lane but no real challenge as no more than 10% climb. There’s another way up from Winswood that would include a 25% climb. I went down part way to the brook and returned to Burrington Balls and returned back to the car the same way. From here back to the A377 heading north for two miles at Kings Nympton Station then off to the right on B3226 for South Molton, an interesting large village with a centre containing Georgian buildings. From here I needed the Simonsbath road but the accommodation was in High Bray, I reached High Bray but it wasn’t  there and dusk was approaching. I set the mobiles sat-nav  and wwas to go back to Rabscott near South Molton and take the road further east and almost parallel and sure enough I was there. I was also on the correct road for Simonsbath the following morning. Some confusion at the B&B as the owner thought he had double booked but after a while he was sorted. He was really Covid conscious but that was good. All precautions were taken. A good night’s stay and good to chat with the other guests who were from Norfolk

Total 10.5 hours. (Total 4)   Accommodation: Chancery House, Molland Cross,

Highbray. Mileage cumulative total 1043 miles Total 9 hours (Total 6)

Friday 4th September 2020                    Day 7

 A really good filling breakfast to set me up for the morning. A little rain but soon went off and parked in Simonsbath by a disused farm gate, bundled out the bike for ExePlain and cycled to top and return 1 hour, an easy ride. There were hunters up here with their 4x4’s and sleek horses. As I was cycling up a toff in red tunic riding down said “easier my way on a horse” and I replied “Yes but my mount does exactly what it’s told, no fighting back” as he was having some problem with the reins. I came to the same cattle grid reached last year up from Lynmouth so now I’ve cycled both sides of the BIG. On from here a short distance through Exford on B3224 to Wheddon Cross for Dunkery Beacon 1 hour and cycled the south side, an easy ride and no steep gradient. I couldn’t risk cycling the track to the Beacon itself at maybe a mile away, and in my opinion should be ridden with a mountain bike because the path is stony with troughs and also large stones at that. I saw mountain bikers there as I walked part of the path. From Wheddon Cross down to Dunster and parked up at Carhampton to go bike on the bike and explore. I cycled the town then back to the car and headed east on A39 coast road then right on the A358 from Williton 2 hours 60 miles for the Quantocks climb cycling the very steep 1.3km Crowcombe Combe UKD 294. 1 hour  18 minutes 0.8 mile 14.00 to 15.15.

I drove back up Crowcombe Coombe and over to Nether Stowey. At the top it’s an open clearing where people were walking and picnicking. North east from Crowcombe Church  drive 60 miles to Bristol; 2 hours. Total 3 hours

Over Severn Bridge to South Wales 1 hour, into Chepstow. I had the idea of taking a look at Weston Super Mare but the roads south of Bristol were so busy so decided to head straight for the Severn Bridge and arrive in Chepstow and good time in order to cycle my first climb in South Wales before the end of the day. I left the car at Castle Road car park, just under the castle and would leave it there for the night. For the last time today I bundled the bike out and cycled out past the racecourse and took a right on to Penterry Lane to Penterry Church, both under the radio masts of Gaer Hill then back to the main road, up a step section to the turn for Gaer Farm then up there on a quiet road to UKD 425 Wyndcliff / Gaer Hill 7km from south at Chepstow, start at Bridge Street on north side of Chepstow. Becomes Bank Street then at The George turn right on B4293 Welsh Street then A466 at roundabout (third turn off) heading north. Later turn off left in same direction on to lane as the A466 bends to the right, then left at Eagles Nest car park. Later a right turn at crossroads on to Penterry Lane to top 1.5 hours Total cumulative mileage 1139 miles

Beaufort Hotel, Beaufort Square, Chepstow NP16 5EP £45 with breakfast

Total 8.5 hours. Overnight. (Total 2)

Saturday 5th September 2020               Day 8

 After a good breakfast I set the sat-nav which took me along a maze of lanes through Gaer-llwyd and Pen-y-caemawr to Llantrisant. From Chepstow B4235 heading north west for Abergavenny 15 miles then at A449 Newport-Monmouth road head south for Newport only as far as Llantrisant - 3 UKD 424 Wentwood Ridge. West of Chepstow, half way between Chepstow and Newport near A449. Llantrisant village then east of A449, heading south-south-east to Pen-y-Cae-Mawr 1 hour 3.3km. Parked just north of the village church at a pub car park at the foot of the climb then up to the National Trust area of Cadeira Beeches. The way up is a tree covered road with occasional glimpses across to the area around Newport. At the top are forest walkways. Drove north on A449 Monmouth road then NW on A40 to Abergavenny 15 miles then A465 Merthyr Tydfil road 3 miles only to Govilon village 1.5 hour

Returning to the car and drove through Usk with its interesting Georgian clocktower and square then following the river to Gilwern west of Abergavenny off the busy dual carriageway then the lane west to Goftlon / Govilon, parked for the next climb.

UKD 423 The Tumble. From A465 south west of Abergavenny. At east side of Govilon village leave A465 0n B4246. Over river bridge, sharp left then right bends on B4246 to top where road from Llanellen comes in from the east (left) 1 hour

The road rises through a wooded area then a clearing for half the distance up. There’s a height marker at the top for cyclists giving the detail of gradient and height. A top is a small lake. Back to the car then drove from Govilon further on west on A465 for 7 miles to Gilwern then right turn on Brecon road A4077 to Crickhowell 30 minutes to begin UKD 403 Cefn Onneu from Crickhowell on road A40 then A4077 in the village road west (Hillside Road) from The Vine Llangattock, later a left turn at fork off Hillside Road at Bethesda Chapel 7.4km then left on B4560 to top 1 hour. Parked up by a chapel in Llangattock over the River Usk. I took the wrong road at first heading south to Hen Castle and after asking a local was back on the correct road heading west and steeply up the side of Craig-y- castell following the Cwm Onneu valley upstream to the road junction with the Brecon to Bryn Mawr road then took a left a short distance to the windy top. I met two other cyclists there who had come along the Brecon road. They were on a long tour north-south across Wales and carrying panniers. Back down again the same way with the Sugar Loaf mountain ahead of me. Filled up with petrol again at Crickhowell the tried to take the direct road for Talgarth heading north, however the road was closed. Drove on further west Bwlch on the A40 Brecon road then headed north  through Llangorse which was now taking all the traffic which would have taken the direct road so consequently the narrow street through the village was clogged up with the two way traffic and long tail backs. Eventually through the village and passed through Talgarth to reach Hay-on-Wye at 17.00. Just in time to have a look around a couple of Hay’s well known bookshops before closing and a quick meander round the town. I noticed a fish and chip take-away so would be there later after completing my final climb. I drove on a short way to the head of the valley to cycle south side of Gospel Pass UKD 400 and return. I parked up at the large car park of the Hay Medical Centre, bundled my bike out of the car boot for the final time on this trip and cycled out along Forest Road to climb the western side of Black Mountain to the Gospel Pass. I had the saved the best to the last as this is a glorious climb that begins along a hedged road in low ground and gradually climbs to an open clearing then high moorland with the heights of Lord Hereford’s Knob and Hay Bluff either side of the road. A memorable event was meeting a young couple at the top who had taken their shiny new motor bike out on its first long trip and were enjoying the scenery at the top. We had a good conversation and we all, posed for photographs. It was a chance meeting and glad that I could have some good photos at the top.

After about half an hour we were all on our way down again. They took a left part way down for the road to Glasbury and Talgarth and was taking some great photos of the sunset over the Brecon Beacons. It was perfect timing and arrived back at the car at dusk. I changed into warmer clothing for the long drive home. I bought fish and chips and ate just over the border  at the large Co-Op car park. Although now in England the Co-Op has its hoardings in Welsh and English. From here I took the Hereford and Leominster road and a bit confused in the dark when I reached a barrier at a planked bridge and had to put a pound in the slot to raise the barrier over the River Wye crossing then A4153 to A438 Leominster then A49 home 3 hours via Ludlow, Shrewsbury or via A479 from Crickhowell then north-west through Hay on Wye A438 Weobley, Leominster then A49 to home 4 hours. Total 9 hrs

(Total 4 climbs) Total cumulative mileage 1303 miles at home