It’s a good few years since I last ventured out to the Swan at Henny Street (not to be confused with the Hen at Swanny Street), but everything looked friendly and familiar as I joined eight other riders on the banks of the River Stour, just South of Sudbury, for our Mayday outing.
A bit of a rarity for a Windmill ride these days was the opportunity to ride as a single group of 9. Initially northwards on the delightful (and very popular) Valley Walk on the disused Sudbury-Cambridge railway line.
Back on the road, the repeating theme seemed to be flowering wisteria and beautiful old flint churches.
After a few photo calls, we pitched up at the White Hart Inn, Boxted (inevitably run by another of Maurice’s old mates), for coffee and cake (or possibly a sneaky pint).
For those that wanted it, there was a stop off to view vintage cars.
For others, the Swan beckoned and it was back on bikes for more churches, wisteria and some surprising little hills.
The pub was doing a roaring trade when we arrived back, with customers enjoying the warm sunshine and the river. We had a perfect outside table spot reserved from which to watch the world go by and to enjoy great beer and food.
Thanks for Maurice for organising and to everyone that supplied photos, allowing me the luxury of having to write very little !
Graham, Rod, Chris, Andrew, Maurice, Alan, Keith, Martin B, Simon
The Windmill Cycle Club 