Sunday 15th December 2024 Manhoc ride to Rudyard Lake

Taking in the best of Cheshire, starting from Poplar Services to the Lake. It was a complete circle there and back, with lunch by the picturesque waters. There was to be a ride on the exciting Christmas narrow gauge railway again, but some children got there before us and it was fully booked??  There were only three of us for the last ride of the year, and we wondered where our compatriots were, as the weather was just a fresh 12 degrees and not a raindrop in the sky. A good short winter’s ride out and thanks to Gary for the lead through his home county.

Manhoc ride to Glasson Dock Sunday 1st December

This was the ride cancelled from last Sunday, due to bad weather nicknamed ”Bert”. Following the finish of heavy overnight rain which finally stopped and dried from first light, the day saw a glimmer of sunshine, and ended with the temperature rising to a hot 15 degrees, with not a rain drop. The roads were so quiet and had been washed clean; it was perfect biking heaven. Taking in the best biking roads through the Forest of Bowland, with the fantastic vistas over moor tops onto the Fylde Area for a hearty lunch stop at the popular Dalton Arms, Glasson Dock, huge smiles embarrassingly donned our faces. With full stomachs the ride continued south into the dimming winter afternoon light and homeward bound, continuing onto the back roads past Garstang. The final departure with waves  “bye-bye” was at Preston north.  Another great Manhoc day’s ride out and surprised there were not more of us.

AD-HOC ride - the Ring of Red

On November 10th, we joined thousands of motorcyclists who were riding the entire M60 loop.

The ride was a show of support for Remembrance Day, where we remember all those who fell defending our freedom.

Dressed in red we met similarly adorned motorcyclists at Birch Services on the M62 near Heywood, before doing an entire lap of the city region's orbital motorway. Traffic delays were kept to a minimum by only releasing small groups each time.

Our gang initially met up at Gregs at Pilsworth for early coffee and cakes on the unfortunate all wet day conditions although this did not dampen us and the enthusiasm of the thousands of riders who we met at Birch.

At the finish we all departed to dry off and as you see somebody was very fortunate to have their bike cleaned when they got home!!!

Manhoc ride to White Scar Cave

Sunday 3rd November 2024 was a circular route taking in the best biking roads through the Trough of Bowland, starting from Rising Bridge at 10.30am BB5 2SB. This included the fabulous “up and over” the moors road with “vistas to die for”, from Slaidburn, over Great Harlow, then turning right for Clapham. Then it was onto the A65 for Ingleton for lunch at the caves. We were hoping to take a look at the UKs longest show caves, with their stunning chambers and waterfalls, but after a hearty lunch, and the weather continuing to be sharp and dry, more biking was definitely the priority – maybe next time.  With time now on our hands, the proposed route changed, so it was up to Hawes and a stopover for coffee and cakes. Finally, across to Sedbergh and down to Devils Bridge for final hugs (but no more coffee and cakes as the Butty Van was shut – Oh no!!!) then a ride back home for all. Thanks to all and another great fun Manhoc ride out.

Manhoc ride to the Anderton Boat Lift

On a beautifully clear but slightly cold morning, the group set off to take in the best biking roads in Cheshire with lunch stop and look at one of the “seven Wonders of the Waterways”. On arrival with a quick coffee & cake, a tour was arranged that included a short river Weaver trip with a very informative history talk of the Northwich salt mining and wild life. Then the boat entered the actual Anderton lift, a unique engineering giant, three storey iron edifice, exciting ascending us to the higher canal 50feet up. It was then time for an excellent lunch at the nearby Stanley Arms, hugs and goodbyes and a nice evening final ride homeward. A change from the normal Manhoc ride out including a very interesting tour of the fascinating Victorian wonder.

And the video.

“Gary’s B roads Blast” 11st September 2024

Gary's B-Road blast was taking in the best biking roads in the North Yorkshire Moors.  Starting from Mac’s at Rising Bridge, Haslingden, at our earlier start of 10am. It was up to Slaidburn and onto to Hawes – then the famous “Buttertubs Pass” to Nateby then east. However, before the Pass at Hawes, the weather was not as kind as forecasted and we were greeted with a very heavy, hill mist and talking to other bikers over lunch, our route over the tops was not advisable -“you just cannot see a thing”. So, change of plan, after lunch, and continuing with the theme of B roads blast, it was all “B” roads west to the Lancashire coast – onto Sedbergh, Devils Bridge for ice creams, and The Bourne Inn at Knott End for more cakes and coffees. Another great Manhoc ride out.  It was a bit wet on the final run home, otherwise warm and dry all day enjoyed by all.

Here's a little video of ManHOC at Devil's Bridge.

Manhoc ride to the Shropshire Hills 11th August 2024

- It was an early start of 10am from Pops, as our shepherd, with recommendations from Rich, had arranged a new large circular tour heading south to include the B roads of the Shropshire Hills. It was hot, dry roads and no hint of rain.  The 10 rider gang headed down the famous bikers A49 to Shrewsbury, where further down the road was to be lunch at a beautiful posh pub, The Riverside Inn. Disappointed - no food, as they were fully booked, but allowed us drinks on the riverside patio by the River Severn.  Heading onwards, now into the scenic flowing hills, we entered into the next village, Knighton, and found a quaint small village pub. What a find -The Horse and Jockey, with a great menu. It was now onto the serious stuff where biking could not get any better!!!  Now on the B country roads, where the roads flowed, with bend after bend, and one incline after another. If you had time you could look up to enjoy the gorgeous countryside vista.  After these perfect biking roads through the hills, it was up on into Welshpool and onto Macs outside Whitchurch for final coffees, cakes and hugs. Definitely, a very outstanding days riding and greatly enjoyed by all. 

Here's a little video of ManHOC riders doing what they do best - eating.

Manhoc ride to Squires Cafe

Five members joined the ride to the famous Squires café near Leeds. We made steady progress over the moors and through Holmfirth. Then joined the motorway near Barnsley. Then Garys navigation system started to go wrong and we found ourselves travelling into Leeds with road signs for Manchester. We doubled back and got back to the motorway and got back on track to Squires café. We joined the long queue for food, and after a look around the shop and the bikes we set off for the journey home.

Garys navigation was having a bad day today. Instead of heading to Waverley, we found ourselves in York and in slow traffic. We managed to get back to the A59 and onto the original route. Mark invited us round to his house near Colne for a drink and then we all headed home.

A lovely ride was had with great company. But Gary needs to get that navigation fixed before the next ride.

June 30th Manhoc ride to Yr Hwb

Four bikes joined the trip to Yr Hwb, in Wales. Translated into English, it means The Hub. It’s a very good café on the outskirts of Bala.

Waterproofs were needed as we headed down the A49 and onto the A534 for Wrexham. The rain had stopped by the time we got to Broxton, and after a quick coffee stop, we headed for Wales. From Ruthin we travelled down the twisty B5105 to Cerrigydrudion and then the B4501 towards Bala.

On arrival at Yr Hwb, the café was closed. So we headed for the café near the lake for lunch. Following Richards suggestion, we headed south for Dolgellau and then north on the A470. We found some more twisty B roads to Ffestiniog and after refuelling at Betws y Coed we rode over the Denbigh moors and onto Mold. After a refreshing drink in Mold, we went our separate ways. Thanks to everyone for your company and I look forward to seeing all on our adventure.

Sunday 9th June 2024 to Richmond Castle

Starting from our usual Rising Bridge Macs at an early time of 10.00am. However, on arrival the heavens opened and another round of coffees were ordered. An hour later it was clear and sun on the horizon, and it was back on the bikes and up and over the moors to Skipton. Then up, into the North Yorkshire Park onto the twisting route to Kettlewell, Leyburn and Richmond, ready for lunch at the castle (just take a look at that photo of that fab cake shop for lunch and Rich’s glee)!! With its breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales, Richmond Castle fully deserves its place as one of the finest tourist attractions in North Yorkshire. The castle was originally built to subdue the unruly North of England and is one of the greatest Norman fortresses in Britain. The visit included an interactive exhibition of the castle history before taking a peaceful stroll around the secluded Cockpit Garden. Parking was free in the delightful cobble square, full of interesting small shops.  The weather continued to be excellent and the return ride was west, continuing over the beautiful Dales to Hawes, and then it’s that great road to Settle and on to Macs at Clitheroe for final coffee, cakes and hugs. A great day’s ride only to be drenched on the way home from Macs! – you can’t be lucky all day!!

Sunday 19th May 2024 to Lake Vyrnwy

Starting from our usual Poplar Services, but with an earlier departure of 10am. Heading down the lovely A49 to Whitchurch then across on the A495 into the heart of beautiful North Wales on the twisty roads to the scenic Lake, for a hearty lunch by the water. Riding there without a stop, we were ahead of schedule.  So, following a debate it was a change of plan.  It was decided that we would ride lake side north, then over the tight narrow road over the Moel Y Geifr valley – fab, brill scenery but hairy! – (now known as “Richard’s pass”) to Bala. Time for a fuel stop, then it was back on normal winding roads over the moorland mountains to Corwen for afternoon coffee and cakes. The route continued to Llangollen and on into the fast country roads to Mac’s, just outside Whitchurch, for final coffee and cakes and hugs. A glorious day’s riding with surprising temperatures of 19 degrees and hitting a max when we got to Bala of 27 degrees – and without a hint of rain or wind – perfect biking weather and day.

Sunday 28th April 2024 to York Railway Museum

Starting from our usual Rising Bridge Macs, at 10.30am, its was up and over the tops via Harrogate to York on the beautiful A59. Forget the previous day’s actual poor weather forecast, for, though it was cold, the roads were dry the only slight rain of the day was when we approached York. Our Shepherd found a free bike park and again it was free entry to the Museum - being home to iconic locomotives and an unrivalled collection of engineering brilliance, to celebrate the past, present and future of innovation on the railways. There was much to see.  Following a good lunch, it was then back on the bikes via Thirsk and through the Yorkshire Dales to Leyburn for a coffee stop. Now late in the day the beautiful evening sun donned the skies and we had one of the best parts of the day on our Shepherds favourite fab roads from Leyburn, back through Kettlewell and Grassington.  Final stop was A59 to Macs at Clitheroe, for final coffee, cakes and hugs. Another great Manhoc ride out thanks to our Shepherd’s route.

Manhoc ride to Stump Cross Caverns Sunday 7th April 2024

Starting from our usual Rising Bridge Macs at 10.30am, it was up and over into the Yorkshire Dales, in great weather, via Skipton, onto Greenhow Hill for our lunch stop at the Caverns. A visit to the caverns was a must and donning our safety helmets and torches, we headed down 65 steps to the spectacular limestone formations. The passageways leading to the open areas, in parts, were quite tight.  We were treated to fascinating structures, which our guide told us were still evolving.  The cave system is between Wharfedale and Nidderdale in North Yorkshire with one mile open to the public, but extending 4miles.  Formed 5000000yrs ago, and discovered in 1860. Above ground we now found it had been raining but it was straight back on the bikes.  The return route continued over the great biking roads of the National Park, past Bolton Abbey and back onto the A59 to Macs at Clitheroe, BB7 9WF, for final coffee, cakes and hugs. A fun educational ride.

Carrog Station on the Llangollen Railway Line Sunday 17th March 2024

Starting from our usual Poplar Services at 10.30am. Carrog Station is set close to the village of Carrog, in Denbighshire, with its 17th century Dee Bridge, river and mountain vistas and traditional pub. Meticulously, delightfully restored station rebuilt by volunteers, as it was in the 1950s, here can be found a place where time has stood still.  Our route was down the biking A49, right at Whitchurch and onto the winding Holyhead Road to this attractive station cafe. Unfortunately, it was closed, so we made our way to their timeless Grouse Inn. Excellent menu and tables overlooking the picturesque river and bridge. Back was over the Welsh hills, passing Wrexham, but we were running early so “off route we went”, and found some very interesting backroads, which eventually led to and found the Poacher at Chirk for final coffees, cakes and hugs. The weather was very kind with a bit of sun.  It was an excellent, part sunny ride, but no trains to be found!

The World of Wedgewood Sunday 25th February 2024

Starting from our usual Poplar Services at 10.30am sharp, on a cool morning with bright sunshine, as we had an interesting visit to make. It was great to see Rich, without this walking sticks, recovering well after his knee op, waving us off with a tearful eye. Heading south, on great roads through Knutsford, Macclesfield, and over the tops via Leek onto Stoke on Trent. Our lunch and visit at the very posh Wedgewood complex, the gold award winning tourist destination, where there is a multi-experience 45 min. tour. Return ride continued on further excellent roads, winding via Nantwich and Middlewich with a popular stop at The Raven, for final coffee, cakes and hugs. A day without any chance of rain and a great turnout of members with a very welcome for our new ones. Another excellent Manhoc ride out plus another great route from our Shepherd.

Monyash Sunday 4th February 2024

Starting from our usual Poplar Services at 10.30am and just as our last winter ride out, it was only a slightly shorter route than usual, as the days are getting longer. On the road, the gang headed south through Knutsford over the bike heaven, Cat and Fiddle pass, into the Peak District and onwards to the antiquated Old Smithy Café for hearty lunch, in Monyash. Return ride continued on more excellent roads in the southern area of the National Park to Leek, with a coffee and cake stop at the Royal Oak pub, just beyond Rudyard Reservoir.  Then, it was a change of plan, as time was on hand, so our shepherd took us up to Macclesfield on the great twisties to Alderley Edge and then back to Pops for final coffee, cakes and hugs. A good, fresh day’s riding with some quite strong gusts high on the moors. Another fun Manhoc day's ride.

And the video.

Sunday 14th January 2024 ride out to Café 59

Starting from our usual Rising Bridge Macs at 10.30am and as our last winter ride out, it was a shorter route than usual. On the road the gang headed over the great top roads for the bikers Café on the A59, just after the turnoff to Bolton Abbey. But wow, it was a cold one at 3 degrees but with the wind chill it felt much colder, but it was dry with good riding conditions. That was apart from the dangerous low penetrating winter sun, if caught in your eyes you were blinded. After a welcome heartly hot lunch, we decided, (very sensible for Manhoc – look we can do it sometimes!!) to shorten the route due to conditions and ignored riding up the narrow country roads to Pateley Bridge, so kept on the biking roads to biking roads to Long Preston, onto Gisburn, then back to Macs at Clitheroe for final coffee, cakes and hugs. A good fresh day’s riding and no one would not have missed it.

Here's a video taken and processed by our film gurus Rob & Stacey.

Sunday 17th December 2023 Manhoc ride to Rudyard Lake

On a dry winter’s, part sunny, day with a surprising 12 degrees, the gang of 10 riders and 2 pillions headed off from our usual Poplar Services at 10.30am. It was a shorter than usual ride and we headed south via Sandbach and Congleton to the scenic lake where the narrow-gauge steam lakeside station café was the planned lunch stop - but it was closed! However, with a 10minute walk following the railway track, across the lake bridge, we found a welcome at the other café, were we consumed quite large tasty breakfast barms and drinks. Return, was again a shorter run to beat the early winter darkness, but this time via Chelford and back to Pops for final coffee, cakes and hugs. Excellent cheshire biking roads and greetings were given to 3 new riders. Another great Manhoc ride out.