Some 15 of us out today on what was the hottest day of the
year so far, around 17deg, with many of us regretting that we were wearing too
many winter layers.
The destination was The White Horse at Wokingham Without,
located in the narrowing stretch of open country between Bracknell and
Wokingham town. It’s an area rarely visited by us because getting past
Bracknell and Bracknell Forest can be problematic, with most roads very busy. Today
we were in luck because the B3034 to Binfield was closed, but open to cyclists,
which reduced the traffic flow.
Lunch at the White Horse was served quickly, though today
they were serving only sandwiches and chips because British Gas were excavating
the gas mains in the road outside.
Return was on a surprisingly quiet route through Bracknell,
avoiding the town centre and the busy outer ring road, using a combination of
cycle paths and residential streets.Tea was at Upper Halliford Squires, where we sat outside in
the afternoon sun, another 2017 first, and the staff were happy for us to stay
even after their 5pm close.
44 miles, all of 1,400ft of climbing, moving ave 13mph, 1,500 calories, 1 puncture.
Many thanks to Colin for back marking, always clearly visible
in orange, Geoff for group photography, and to all for their corner marking and
their company.
