C&M Easter Tour 2026 - Pete's Sunday Ride

Sunday's ride was quite a contrast from yesterday's ride, heading east instead of north, which means we avoided most of the fierce hills and the tourist hot spots.    Instead we were treated to more gentle undulations and faster cycling generally on high ground, with great views into the distance of the surrounding countryside.  It had rained overnight and after a cold start the air was very clear, but the sun soon came out.

We passed to the north of RAF Fairford, a US air force base, and saw a few bombers taking off on their missions.   A sobering moment.

Pete warned us that no stops were planned and we would just take our chances.   Luckily, our chances were good and we found a coffee shop in the middle of nowhere, just the other side of Cirencester.  It was pretty busy but why everyone had come there on Easter day was a mystery.   We enjoyed good coffee and a snack, mindful that this might be our only stop of the day.

Brenda and Pete showing off their Irish tops

We looped the loop around Cirencester and started our journey back home, loosely following the path of the Thames from Kemble, which I'm told is near its source.   We passed many lakes, water-filled gravel pits, on our way back home in very enjoyable varied countryside, now with the bonus of a decent tail wind to help us speed along.

Cerney Wick lock

Pete treated us to another bonus of an unexpected gravel track for the last mile or so back to Lechlade.  Some people quite liked it.  And with half the climbing of Saturday, but a bit more distance at 48 miles, we were back at the hotel after another very enjoyable day out.

It has been a wonderful weekend of rides (a gravel ride and two different road rides each day) and the hotel, food and organisation has been superb.   Just great to spend a few days together with friends, riding and socialising, in a beautiful location.   Many thanks to Lilian for masterminding it and to everyone else who supported running such an enjoyable weekend.   Also to everyone who took and shared photos.

Evening sun at Lechlade

Here's a round-up of the non-cycling activities:

Index: Riding to the Tour · Saturday rides: Pete · Carolyn & John · Sunday rides: Pete · Carolyn & John · Mountain bike rides · Riding home