Having ridden through Avonwick and California Cross we decided to explore a circular route near Ringmore recommended by the Heritage Coast. First on the list was Blackberry Lane, which turned out to be too muddy even for the mountain bikers. We stopped half-way along for lunch in a peaceful glade before struggling on through the mire.

The tarmac route through Ringmore to Challaborough beach proved much more interesting. We spent some time walking around on the fascinating coastal rock formations before climbing out of the bay by way of the easterly road through Bigbury. It was during the descent to the Aveton Gifford tidal road that Arthur, a recent recruit to the sport, lost control on a bend and found himself in the mud! Fortunately no real damage was done.

We had planned a well-earned tea stop at the Avon Mill cafe near Loddiswell, but when we arrived we were dismayed to discover that it was closed for the winter! If we wanted refreshments we’d just have to ride all the way to South Brent - and of course that’s exactly what we did.