Our fickle navigator had decided to forego studios in favour of dahlias. We started off with a loop to Ellenbrook along the Alban Way, and we nearly gathered up a seventh rider. We had stopped to sort out waterproofs and a lady cycling by stopped and asked for our group info.
A breather at Nast Hyde Halt, shall we cycle to Cornwall? Not today, we pedalled along Wilkins Green Lane and then cut back through to the Alban Way on the little byway, making the most of the dry summer conditions under our wheels.
Over to Highfield Park, the apples are early this year, already lots of windfalls in the orchard. Then we made fairly directly for Ayletts and once there made fairly directly for the Dahlia Cafe.
Our fabulous-ness got us some lovely feedback from a lady whom we had passed on the A414 path. As you do, we had rung our bells to alert her to our presence and had slowed down to come by. She came over to tell us that she had appreciated our courtesy.
Once we had had our coffee, we headed over to the Dahlia Marquee. The spectacular display had transport as its theme "Way to Go" and cycling was well represented.
We carried on to the Dahlia Field, stunning.
And then we popped in to Butterfly Corner.
Back to Fleetville via Highfield and the Camp cycle route. We may have spent more time on coffee and floral sensations than we spent on cycling, and we still didn't take in all the wonders of the autumn festival, which runs until 15th September. More details on Aylett Nurseries website.
We have another September ride date, so get browsing the Open Studios programme and come up with suggestions for the 21st.
Our recommendation for next weekend, no organised ride, but as part of Heritage Open Days there are displays and activities at Smallford Station on the Alban Way. Colney Heath WI are providing light refreshments. More about HODS event here and more about the station here.
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