We had perfect conditions for our ride on Sunday - nicely sunny and warm, but not too hot. We didn't have many takers this time as several regular riders were away, but our select group set off from Hatfield to warm up on Digswell Hill.
Passing through Old Welwyn we paused to admire (and discuss the history of) the fulling mill. We were not certain what fulling was and why the energy of a whole mill is needed to do it. Bafflement wore off climbing up the very pleasant track through Danesbury. Passing the Folletts' residence we descended to Stevenage fringes and were soon in the network of cycle paths. No one could call this an attractive route, but at least it's flat. Old Stevenage isn't too bad and we were soon out through Wymondley and into Baldock.
The cafe here, where we paused for a snack, was criticised on our previous visit for serving soggy toast. Something must have been said - it was perfectly crisp this time. We needed to head east from Baldock and took the track to Wallington and then through the rolling open countryside to Sandon. By the time we got to Buntingford time was getting on. We decided to pause for a lunch stop at the very pleasant Fox at Aspenden instead of continuing to the planned venue. And very nice it turned out to be - not to busy either.
From there return trip via Dane End was fairly straight forward, though we split into groups depending on home destinations.
Richard 20/05/2018
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