From Hatfield we started along often used paths to Welwyn Garden City. There we met the runners of the Welwyn Half Marathon and partly shared the path towards Cole Green with the first starters and/or fastest runners. This wasn't a problem at all, as they had a pace only slightly slower than us. After crossing the river Lea the first hill up to Bayford challenged us. Enjoying the rural landscape we continued to Brickendon and into Hoddesdon, where we crossed the Lea again at Dobbs Weir then another hill challenged us.
Judy and Jon were waiting at the cafe, which we hadn't used before, located at the
Ada Cole horse rescue centre at Broadley Common near Harlow. As well as horses and ponies, including some characters named Dolly and Elvis, there was at least one donkey. Yes, Del Boy was around, judging by the loud braying emanating from a nearby paddock.
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| A very sick horse |
The cafe was a useful find, very friendly for cyclists with indoor as well as outdoor seating. I think we'll be using it again as it's just the right distance from Hatfield when heading out towards Essex. But instead of doing that, we all decided a half-day ride was favourite and turned back.
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| Ronny leading Richard to school |
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| Haileybury College |
The weather was greyer and colder than forecasted until after breakfast, but then the sun was visible between the clouds and it became a nice day. On our way back from Ada Cole we passed through St Margarets, along Haileybury College, and through Hertford. From there we followed cycle route 61 along the old railway line between Hertford and Welwyn Garden City and then back into Hatfield.
Route:
Ronny 09/09/2018
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