The Chocolate Chainring ride

Seven intrepid riders met for the 9.30 departure from the Waterend Barn in St Albans on a day when the weather forecast was less than positive for precipitation. However we set off in cool but not really damp weather to head north via Sandridge and Ayot Green, where we saw a beautiful display of early daffodils in the cemetery. Passing through Rabley Heath we noticed the Robin Hood and Little John pub seemed to have expanded their outdoor and sheltered seating areas so maybe it's worth looking at that pub for a future lunch stop. Down the hill and into Woolmer Green we went for a first visit to The Secret Truffletier cafe at Lessiters chocolate factory. Not much of a secret as it was almost full as we arrived. Happily we managed to bag a table and ordered some drinks. The cakes and chocolates looked delicious and we were pleased that they gave out a "free" chocolate (worth just about £1 each!) with every hot drink ordered. A super place to come to on a cold first day of spring day! As we were a bit late leaving we beelined south via Burnham Green, Tewin and Letty Green before cutting the planned ride short and missing out Essendon and The Candlesticks Hills, by using the Cole Green Way into WGC, then the Alban Way to reach our lunch stop at Harpsfield Hall. Here we found Mike J who had driven there rather than face the inclement weather. A great day out and not nearly as wet as forecast!