Alford 16th September 2026

Cycling UK Louth's Wednesday Wander to Alford 16th September 2026...

Three happy and smiling members turned out for today's ride to Alford: Tim Newbery, John Rickett and Paul Linder (who'd already cycled into town from Alford). The weather seemed promising with dry bright even sunny conditions in the morning though with the chance of an afternoon shower. We were hoping to be back by 1.00 to 1.30 pm.

Heading off along Stewton Lane John noted that there would be some road closures next month. More potholes to fill perhaps. 

Onwards past the café at Froghall Fisheries (we may see if we can visit another time), a section of the A157 then took us to the intriguingly named 'Rats Pen Lane' heading to Authorpe. The wide road verges are a haven for a large variety of insects, mammals and wild flowers. The verges are within the 'Roadside Nature Reserves' scheme run by the Lincolnshire Wildlife trust in conjunction with Lincolnshire County Council, helping to preserve this example of unimproved grassland that was once widespread across the county.

A backwind resulted in a pleasant ride passing by Claythorpe Mill, where John confirmed the landmark Grade II listed Water Mill has been converted by its owners into a private family home. The old granary has recently been given full planning permission for conversion to a a private dwelling. The intention is to put the Mill on the market at some point in 2027.

We were spoilt for choice for refreshments in Alford but in the end plumped for the Café at 'Vintage at Hart' where we'd sit outside to enjoy the sunshine. Many thanks go to John who negotiated hot drinks and generous sized slices of cake from the charming owner, Claire. Lovely. Plenty of time to view the varied architecture of the buildings and converse with fellow diners and passers by, one couple bemoaning that when the toilets eventually open, it'll mean spending more than just a penny ... 40p to be exact. 

Bidding farewell to Paul on his short hop back home, Tim and John would take The Low Lane and then The High Lane through Well. The village takes its name from the spring line waters that rise to the surface here. Boggy marshes and chalk streams still exist today.

Beyond Rigsby and Haugh and following the boundary of the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the 'Top Road took us through Muckton before dropping down to the spring water filled pond at Little Cawthorpe, the source of the Long Eau.

Arrived back at the Leisure Centre at 1 pm having covered 30 miles. Thanks to all for the company.

Tim's 'Relive' Video: https://www.relive.com/view/vKv2V1WW74v