Well, we made it and early too. Arrived in Henley at about 2:30 this afternoon after a superb days ride.
Really the best way to see a city (if possible) is along the canal by bike. I would never have believed that Reading was so ace!
We ended up right in the centre where an Italian food fayre was in full swing, bought bread and stinky cheese for our hosts in Henley (one of whom is Italian by birth) and then cycled on, leaving the Kennett and Avon and joining the river Thames just outside Reading.
After this, the scenery all gets a bit surreal as we move into millionaire country. One house even has it's own railway around the massive grounds. It has to be seen to be believed! Every house has it's own boathouse at the bottom of the garden, most with stupidly expensive looking powerboats moored up and appearing unused.
Cath and I discuss whether we could live like that and the decision is a 50/50 split. Me, yes, Cath no.
Of course with that kind of disposable income I would have been dead years ago and Cath would have the biggest allotment on the planet Earth!
Wildlife was pretty good today too, sandmartins living in the canal banks in the centre of Reading, a couple of nightingales and even a cuckoo! Red kites are as common here as buzzards are at home in the
Blackdowns.
Ha! I feel a real sense of achievement having cycled 100 miles AND enjoyed it. Where next?
Anywhere without hills is the answer.
Tonight? Well tonight is the Henley allotment society annual river cruise along the Thames. I know nothing of gardening and will surely stick out like a sore thumb amongst the local 'hooray Henry' gardeners, but no matter as our generous hosts Keith and Marissa have invited sister Mary Anna along too and she isn't fussy about ones social standing or background!
Shall I photograph and blog that too?
Oh yes, I think so don't you?
Current Pain Rating: 3
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