A Bit of an Outing

Calling all garden loving cyclists!
This ride will be a gentle, 12 mile ride aimed at all levels with the emphasis on a sociable trip to enjoy the wonders of the garden of the Manor House in Ayot St Lawrence, which is open for just 2 days, raising money for charity through the National Garden Scheme.
We will meet in Southdown and head out to Ayot St Lawrence via Wheathampstead. (Full disclosure: Ayot St L is at the top of a moderate hill, but you are very welcome to walk it!) There we will be visiting The Manor House to explore their 6 acre garden and sample their tea and scones/cakes. PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE IS AN £8 ENTRY FEE.
We will return via The Slype and Mackerye End.
This ride will be longer than our usual outings to allow time to explore the gardens.

A pretty route through mainly country lanes.

We will be riding mainly on quiet country lanes with a few short sections of busier B roads

The important details: Please make sure that your bike is in a roadworthy condition with tyres well pumped (any concerns, we are meeting opposite Harpenden Cycles who will have a track pump if you need it). You will need a spare inner tube and tyre levers etc, or the means to be collected if you have a mechanical issue. Whilst we will be supportive in the event of a problem, we are not bike mechanics :) Helmets are compulsory. You will need £8 for admission to the Garden plus money for coffee and scones if desired.

First-timers welcome!