An excellent turn-out at elevenses. Graham, Pam, Tony, Ray W, Steve D, Liz, Jill and Ed joined me for the ride, enough riders for two small groups to be needed. Bob, Maureen, Lilian and Terry went home.
We took a rather quirky route, skirting Shepperton and Ashford, and, after Stanwell, suddenly emerging onto the Heathrow Western Perimeter cycle route, which offers interesting views of the airport. A couple of miles later, and just round the corner, our arrival in Longford was like being transported back in time. The White Horse pub looked very inviting, providing you dodged the low beams, and we were very warmly welcomed. There was a very good range of food at all prices, including sandwiches and baguettes (unusual these days on a Sunday), and very attractive surroundings. We'll definitely be visiting again.
Sadly, we had to drag ourselves away before the band started their session! A mile or so north east we found Harmondsworth, a very attractive village (what a shame it would be if the third runway does ever cause these delightful places to be bulldozed). Tony Hopkins (whose birthday it was) kindly showed us the sights (the grave of the father of the Coxes Orange Pippin and the Barnes-Wallis memorial).
Just on the off-chance, we made a detour to the third attraction, the medieval long barn, fully expecting to find it shut, but, to our surprise, it was open and we were given a very informative guided tour by an English Heritage volunteer. Very interesting and highly recommended!
Then we struck out towards Sipson, and on south to pick up the Heathrow Eastern perimeter road towards Hatton Cross, passing an endless row of doomed BA jumbo jets on the other side of the road. The final distraction of the day was the rather surreal yew topiary at Bedfont church, then it was on to Walton Bridge and tea or straight home.
Many thanks to all for your company, to Graham for leading the second group, and to Tony for local knowledge.
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