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Somewhere over the Rainow, way up as high, there's a land that I've heard of: Bowstonegate. You will have a panoramic view of seven counties from here, that's Derbyshire, Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire and Clwyd, since you ask. If the legends are to be believed, Robin Hood and his merry men used to restring their bows on the bowstones here. Yeah right.
The ride counts towards the
PARTY award
.
This ride will overturn any thoughts you might have had that Cheshire is a flat county. In only 55km there is a surprising amount of climbing which will earn you half an AAA point.
The ride starts from Bijou Cafe in Cheadle (you can use Costa instead on Sunday and Monday when Bijou is shut). Mention to Bob that you are about to ride Over the Rainow, but remember - no loitering. There might not be a pot of gold at the end of the Rainow 50, but Bob might get you a pot of tea.
There is Pay and Display parking at Massie Street, free on Sundays (but do check!). For free parking, try
Abney Hall
car park.
White Nancy, a prominent landmark celebrating the victory at Waterloo
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The return to Cheadle is mainly downhill through Disley, Hazel Grove and Bramhall.
Do not attempt this ride when there is any chance of snow. The B5470 is frequently mentioned in winter traffic reports, and that is never a good thing.
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