Wednesday Wander to Woody's 21-01-2026

Cycling UK Louth’s Wednesday Wander 21st January 2026

Following on from an abortive ride to Farmer Brown’s last Wednesday, another attempt was planned for today. Farmer Brown’s has recently had a bit of a makeover so we were looking forward to our first visit in many a month.

Meeting up with Tim Newbery at Louth’s Leisure Centre were Steve Croton and Paul Linder having already cycled in from the Alford area, whilst John Rickett had made his way from Fotherby. All looked so promising with a wonderful sunrise earlier in the morning. Weather apps (various) had however all indicated steady rain by 11 am. 

With Tim being reminded of the route, we were soon heading to Keddington and the Cockeringtons. By the time we arrived at Manby Crossroads the first drops of rain were starting to fall and so it was time to don waterproofs. The brisk southeasterly wind was also strengthening. Up to now we’d met a few solo cyclists but from here on in, it seemed that hardly a soul had ventured out of doors.

Onwards to Gayton Top and Withern where we met up with Alan Hockham. He’d already been working this morning and had another job this afternoon but there was just time to join us for a short ride in between.

With rain becoming persistent Tim suggested taking an unscheduled break at Woody’s Restaurant and Bar at Woodthorpe; apologies to those set on Farmer Brown’s. Hot drinks and a variety of refreshment were enjoyed over a long chat. We were also greeted by the owner, Mrs Stubbs who had remembered our previous visits. Interesting anecdotes of her life in the area, the setting up of the war memorial and the fact that the restaurant and bar were once part of the telephone exchange.

Sitting comfortably in the conservatory, the rain could now be heard noisily bouncing off the roof. Steve, Alan and Paul therefore decided on direct routes home (having already pedalled quite a distance) which left Tim and John to return to Louth via Claythorpe. The waters of the Great Eau were flowing fast and freely through the mill race with pond waters starting to flood the grassy banks.

Wind assisted (a real bonus) Tim and John arrived back at the Leisure Centre by 1 pm to enjoy one final coffee. Here’s hoping for cyclable weather on Sunday for the ride to Market Rasen. 

Tim’s fly through video: https://www.relive.com/view/vrqozxJj1K6