8th February 2026 - Ride to Walker's Snack Bar - Ian Cain

On the 8th of February 26, our ride was to a favourite coffee stop, Walker's Snack Bar just off the Barton Mills roundabout where the A1065 meets the A11. Unlike the previous week, it was a mild and dry morning, encouraging eight riders to get their bikes out and risk the still damp roads.

Our route took us along the edge of the Fens, where the roads aren't badly affected by subsidence and not too many potholes either. We rode past the US Air Force bases at Feltwell and Lakenheath and close to Mildenhall. I always think that this area is influenced by the American presence; many of the businesses target that market, especially in Brandon.

The snack bar was busy; it's a popular spot for bikers, and there's a car park nearby for walkers in the forest. We met with Roly Batchelor, who had come in his car since he is not yet able to ride his bike after a small motorcycle "incident" when he broke his leg. It was nice to see him in good spirits and out and about. He hopes to be back on his bike when the better weather comes.

We all enjoyed various types of food and drink (I can recommend their homemade fruitcake) and stood around chatting as middle-aged men do. Once the world had been put to rights, we set off in various directions for home. I was with a small group who headed for Swaffham via Brandon. There is a level crossing in Brandon at the bottom of the High Street, and it was closed for a train to cross as we got there. The queue back up the High St. was amazingly long. We were able to filter towards the front of the queue, and even then seemed to wait a long time before a small train finally appeared. Apart from that, it was an easy ride home to King's Lynn.

Thanks to all who turned out; it was nice to see you all, and thanks to Dave C for leading a group.

Ian Cain