National Weekend Guided Drives Saturday 29th September 2012

[neil-yaj396]

Just a taster of what is in store. Don't forget that you need to book the drive separately if you are just coming for the Saturday, and have not booked any of the accommodation packages via Harvey, in order to get your guide book and plaque.

Guided Route 1 – Hotel to the Peak District (Blue John Cavern & Buxton) returning via Jodrell Bank (approx 85 miles).

Summary

This route takes you to the Peak District via the B5470, a spectacular drivers road, then down to Buxton, the capital of the Peak District. An interesting Victorian Spa town with many pubs, restaurants, shops and cafes. You then head back West via the A537 'Cat & Fiddle'. A route considered by motorcyclists as the equal of the Isle of Man TT Circuit. Unfortunately the Department of Transport appear to agree with them and have recently installed average speed cameras to enforce the 50 MPH limit. Hopefully this won't spoil your drive on another great road!? The route ends at the massive Jodrell Bank radio telescope on the Cheshire plain.

Blue John Cavern; a large Peak pot hole accessible via steps. Entrance is £9.00 adults, £7.00 Student/OAP, £4.50 under 15's, £25.00 family. Alternatively enjoy the spectacular view from the car park with a cup of tea!

Buxton; as above a charming Victorian spa town. Lunch or shopping?

The Cat & Fiddle Inn; a large moorland pub giving it's name to the famous motorbike route. Possible lunch stop.

Lovell Science Centre (Jodrell Bank); Visitors centre includes a walk round these massive telescopes. Adults £6.50, Child/OAP/Student £4.50, family £20.00.

Guided Route 2 – Hotel to Chester via Jodrell Bank returning via the Cheshire Countryside. (approx 75 miles)

Summary

This route takes you to the ancient walled City of Chester via the Lovell Science centre, returning via the countryside of South Cheshire. The route is designed to be less prescriptive with the prospect of omitting Jodrell Bank and the possibility of diverting to Oulton Park Race Track and Beeston Castle.

Lovell Science Centre; as above.

Oulton Park; no events scheduled on this week but possibly worth a visit.

Chester; the route suggests utilising the Park & Ride facilities as the City has a slightly complicated road system and some roadworks at the moment, but feel free to drive in and find parking. You will then need to make your way back to the B5130 to resume the route. Chester is a historic Roman city, very much York in miniature, with numerous attractions and top rank shopping.

Beeston Castle; an English Heritage monument built on a rock escarpment with views of surrounding Cheshire. Adults £5.70, Children £3.40, Student/OAP £5.10.

Hope this has whetted your appetites!