Windmillers are very familiar with the north west corner of Essex. Some, indeed, call it home, and hardly a month goes by without the peloton visiting Saffron Walden, Thaxted or Finchingfield. So it’s always good to get out and explore the further reaches of the county, in particular, its many inlets and estuaries, courtesy of Martin, who swears he’s from Sussex but who seems to have native knowledge of these parts.
Most years Martin organises a bike ‘n boat trip to Brightlingsea, but it’s been nigh on three years since he took us to Heybridge Basin, a visit of mixed fortunes with Mike, poor chap, ending up in hospital, and Maurice, lucky man, trousering a £20 note he found lying in the road.
So, looking forward to a long overdue and, hopefully hospital-free, return visit, eleven Windmillers gathered at The Square and Compasses in the tiny hamlet of Fuller Street ready for Martin to lead us coastwards. The route took us along quiet roads hedged with early summer flowers and, it seemed in no time, we were pulling in at Heybridge Basin where we sat on the terrace of the Lock Tearoom overlooking the Blackwater Estuary. What a delightful spot.
The return leg commenced with a two mile ride along the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation Canal to Maldon and along its bustling High Street.
Not far from our destination we paused to admire the beautiful village of Terling, once famous for its International Trifle Festival, though that, alas, seems to have lapsed in recent years.
Back at the pub we cooled off with some excellent beer and enjoyed a very convivial lunch.
For the record the peloton comprised: Andrew, Brian, Graham, Iain, Jeremy, MartinB, MartinW, Paul, Rach, Rod and Simon – and our thanks go to Martin for organising such a splendid trip.
Brian
The Windmill Cycle Club 