14 April 2019: Hatfield to err...... Hertford

It was the first 9 a.m. start of the year which turned out to be a freezing cold but bright day. We took a familiar route from Hatfield through Welham Green and headed east through Bayford where we were overtaken by a group of Verulam riders. Several cyclists came in the opposite direction displaying numbers on their bikes with some even wearing shorts! We had trouble in passing through Hoddesdon where an almost endless convoy of cars delayed our crossing the roundabout on the A1170. Passing through aromas of Rye Meads sewage works we turned sharp right after the level crossing into Roydon Marina. Noting two familiar bikes already parked outside the renamed Boatyard Cafe we were delighted to meet Steve & Jackie who had cycled directly from their home.

The new-style cafe was a bit slow delivering the hot food and then as we prepared to leave we were surprised to see hail falling. By the time we got going again it was nearly 11.45 so on the way to Perry Green a new route was planned to loop round to Hertford for lunch instead of the planned Sawbridgeworth stop. The weather improved such that Ronny felt the need to have a quick sunbathe at Helham Green!

Ronny catching the rays

As we approached Barwick Ford we noticed a newly erected sign that was difficult to interpret. Cyclist's "what" have to use the footbridge? Note that HCC are responsible for education in the county.

Cyclist's?

HCC literacy?

After crossing the old A10 road we passed through Sacombe Park where Ronny took the interesting photo below of Neil. We made it to the Six Templars at 1.20 for lunch before cycling back along the Cole Green Way. As it had been so dry we thought we'd give it a try for the full length starting from  Hertford football club. There was evidence of resurfacing but, unfortunately it looks as if it is still going to be a so-called hard packed surface that will deteriorate again in the winter rains.

Double take?

It was an interesting ride and we did three off-road sections today that were very rideable in the dry conditions. The adapted route worked well and we were all back home by about 4pm. The Hatfield to Hatfield length was about 48 miles.

Carol