We set off from Poplar, with a great turnout of 11 riders and 2 pillions, for the second ride of the year. Taking in a full circle in North Wales on the best biking roads to the final destination stop at the Falls. However, at Corwen, which is just before Betws-y-Coed and the Falls, we approached the posh Rhug Estate farm shop & grill, where we initially stopped for coffee only. But, after seeing their excellent menu, couldn’t resist trying it out! With stomachs very full now, it was back on the bikes with a short ride to the Falls where some ventured in. Return, was back to Betws for afternoon coffee and cakes with some good exciting back roads that our Shepherd had only just discovered (A544 wow!!) The return route included Denbigh and Mold. It was a completely dry day with hints of spring sun. Another fun Manhoc rideout, and not forgetting a warm welcome to our new pillion Janet.
To Pately Bridge - 9th Feb
Manhoc ride Sunday 9th February 2025 to Pateley Bridge, which took in a full day’s circle of the North Yorkshire Moors, on its best biking roads. The lunch stop was at Wildings Riverside Café, Pateley Bridge, with great homemade meals, as recommended by Andy. A hearty welcome was given to our new member Andy, riding his new black Goldwing – and, as noted by Rich, that’s now 5 Goldwings in the club! The day’s weather was generally poor, but with stunning scenery as always over the moors. Good road surfaces with glimmers of sunshine and a slight mist, not stopping the gangs’ enthusiasm. There was a further coffee and cake stop at the Kingshead at Leyburn, before heading south for a final stop in Colne at Macs. An excellent fun day’s riding with full tummies.
To Yonderman Café (or not) - 19th Jan
We left Poplar services onto very damp roads. So the pace was much slower than usual. Everything was fine until we got Macclesfiel and the route to Whaley Bridge. The road was closed due subsidence, so we re-routed and went over the Cat and Fiddle.
It was cold with icy fog and patches of ice on the road. I decided not to aim for the Yonderman and turned towards Leek, and the Flash café.
After a lovely meal and chat with some Peak district rangers, we left in opposite directions, with Mark and Dave going back into Buxton and heading for Stockport, while Richard and Gary headed for J&S via Leek, Congleton and Winsford.
After more drinks and cake, Richard and Gary went their separate ways home.
A great day was had with great company but not so great roads.
