Stourhead via Shearwater & Sutton Veny

Approx 30miles of lovely country lanes, taking in the beautiful lake at Shearwater, the views of rolilng downs of Sutton Veny, the hills of Horningsham and the quiet of Kilmington. Starting out in the pretty village of Horningsham, we'll have a climb out of the village before we settle on the straight, flat road to Longbridge Deverill.  We'll take an early left towards Crockerton and coast downhill to the vast fishing lake at Shearwater before heading up hill slightly towards Crockerton and the other Bath Arms in the area. We'll cross over the A350 at Crockerton and take a quiet lane towards Sutton Veny - this is a long steady uphill but we'll pace ourselves till we take a right then a right again and head back on the flat towards Longbridge Deverill.  There's a petrol station here - perfect for a regroup and snickers if anyone's flagging. Then it's back over the A350 and along a single track lane all the way to Maiden Bradley along a lovely undulating road with wonderful views of rolling fields and hills away in the distance.  Across the B3092 at Maiden Bradley and onto the sweeping roads of Kilmington for our final push to the tea stop at Stourhead. National Trust do the best teas for a thirsty cyclist and at this point we'll have cycled 20miles.  A well earned rest will be due. Once we're all fueled up, it's back on the bikes for the final 8 miles back to the Bath Arms in Horningsham. We have the option of a BIG downhill at Gare Hill, followed by a loooooong slow descent back to the pub or stay high via Kilmington and sail back into Horningsham with a swooping downhill. I'll take a vote on the day. This is a 30mile ride with some hills - nothing really steep but some gradual long ascents.  It's certainly doable, I think, by anyone who's ridden with me before and I'll always wait for anyone who slows on the climbs (like me!)  We'll ride at about 8-10miles per hour. Please remember togive your bike the ABC check before you leave; Air, Brakes, Chain and bring a spare tube incase of puncture.  Some layers for the warmer weather are a good idea but keep your knees covered - it was nippy today despite being 8.5degrees.   You'll need money for cake and tea as well. Any questions, please text me on 07779 121228 or email on [email protected] Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday.  Caroline