The group actually numbered six, but for various reasons, some joined en route, some left early and Tony Allcock was on the other side of the camera for this shot.
So far as we know we were the first cyclists to complete this ride, so unless anyone else claims the title we hope to appear in the next issue of the Guinness Book of Records (perhaps!).
A cool and cloudy morning, but not bad for cycling and the sun came out later, contrary to the forecast.
We set off Northwards along the towpath of the Erewash Canal, noticing big improvements to the surface and the signing since our previous visit.
Much to see along the canal, as you would expect - lots of boats, canal-side gardens, locks and a variety of water birds, pairing up for the forthcoming nesting season. As we paused for a look at the Bennerley Viaduct, a flight of swans flew over with necks outstretched. A wonderful sight.
The trail stays alongside the canal all the way to Langley Mill, where a new ASDA Supermarket has been built, and therein a nice cafe where we had lunch. A jacket potato with lots of salad was only £1.95. Not bad value in these expensive times.
The return journey followed the derelict Nottingham Canal running parallel, and not so far from the Erewash Canal. Although unlikely to see boats on it's waters again, the Nottingham Canal has much to commend it. Several sections contain water with lines of bulrushes which are a haven for wildlife. Unfortunately, the path is poor in places, having rough surfaces and some mud, which did not suit the 16" wheels on my Dahon folding bike. (Memo - mountain bike next time).
The signed route took us through Bramcote and Beeston on the West side of Nottingham, where, for the first time we were out of sight of water. Very pleasant off-road cycle paths through this urban environment though and we eventually arrived at the Attenborough Nature Reserve with lots more water and we re-gained the banks of the River Trent on the Trent Valley Greenway, much improved recently.
From far away we could see the steam rising from the cooling towers of Radcliffe-on-Trent Power Station and with the setting sun sparkling on the water, we sped (figuratively speaking) back to Trent Lock, completing a circuit of 31 miles.
A great day out and thanks to Clyde for planning it and leading the way.
See Clyde's account with more photos on the Erewash Blog.
4 comments:
I thought of you, what a lucky crowd with the weather, and wished I could have been there. I have no doubt it was a fabulous ride and a perfect start to the season, Les ever optimistic with his choice of stead.
Enjoyable read especially the mouthwatering food critique.
Like the background fitting for a rural pursuit such as Rangering.
Oo..er easily confused with Rogering a totally different but equally strenuous activity!
sounds like the route I used to do many years ago during my time at Nottingham Trent University (I also once rode Nottingham to Cannock and back along the canals)
But back then it was mainly unsurfaced canal paths
Is it possible to plot the route, on google earth or something, so I can follow and see how things have changed?
Yes, certainly. We will have a map of the Erewash Trail on the Blog shortly, and also summaries of more favourite rides.
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