DIY to Grittleton BtoB Route Check

Ride Details

Series 5 Audax Season 2023-24, Ride number 5

Ride Stats

Ride Notes

After finding that the route for my longer ride won’t ‘work’ I decided to take another route to Grittleton (nr LD/Chippenham services on M4) via Bradford-on-Avon and Corsham.

It rained overnight but when I set out it had passed over and, although it was somewhat overcast with wet roads, it was a lovely morning. The usual run to Cheddar Gorge went well, as did the climb. Mecifully, I was able to to navigate through the road closure on the Priddy to A39 road.

I really like the route from the A39 through Stoke St Michael to Mells, and by now was making really good progress. Beyond Mells I was in uncharted territory on the way to Bradford apart from a small section at Rode. The roads were really mucky and when I got there not much seemed to be open, apart from The Lock Inn where I had a much needed coffee and breakfast Ciabatta. Oops… the WhiteHill climb was straight up as soon as I left the town and cafe legs plus the brekkie did not help my form! Next time I’ll stop after Bradford.

Rolling to Grittleton via Corsham went well and I then turned for home. By the time I was nearly back at Bradford I was starting to flag - there was a nice farm coffee shop (Merkins Farm) at 126km, so I stopped there. Much hilarity ensued when I shared this on WhatsApp!!!???

The main road route back to Wells was, frankly, horrible. A nagging SW wind and my aching legs didn’t help, but I was wishing I’d taken a more scenic route. I had to pull over for a break and a bar and I decided to stop again at Costa in Wells, figuring I should go #FullValue with a third stop. After the coffee and Tiffin I felt much better, and rolled back via Snake Lane, Mudgely and the Poldens with another lovely sunset as I arrived home.

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