For the first Cycling UK ride following the second lockdown of the year, a small group of three cyclists gathered at Chichester Library for a ride to Wendy’s Cafe in Bosham Walk: Philippa Neville (leading), MaureenFlint and Ray Savage. The weather was cloudy and chilly but, initially, dry.
The group set off and made their way towards West Street and Westgate. Crossing over the roundabout at Westgate, they continued down towards the footbridge over the level crossing, to take them into Fishbourne Road East. The route then continued under the A27 and along the cycle path past Fishbourne Roman Palace and soon emerging onto the A259. A left turn was then taken down Old Park Lane providing much relief from the busy traffic.
At the first t-junction, the group turned left to go down Hoe Lane in a southerly direction. The road then bent round to the west to change into Smugglers Lane and north, changing into Lower Hone Lane. The group reached Shore Road just in time before High Tide obscured their way. Further along, everyone was greeted with the magnificent view across the water to the village of Bosham.
The route continued along Shore Road towards Bosham Quay. The water covered the road at this point, so everyone was forced to take instead the higher level footpath, walking the bikes as pedestrians approached.Bosham Walk was just a short distance from this point, and the group arrived at the cafe at approximately 2.15 pm where they met Roy Wasdell, who had cycled up from Emsworth.
Due to the Covid restrictions, the group was forced to buy takeaways and sit outside in the cold! Whilst sitting there, the rain started to come down and gradually got heavier and heavier. By the time everyone was ready to get back on their bikes, the rain had become torrential!
Needless to say, the route back to Chichester was as direct and quick as possible – straight along the A259 cycle path back to Chichester! The time of arrival back in town was approximately 3.30 pm.
Philippa
Bognor and Chichester Cycling UK 