27th April 2025 - Ride to International Bomber Command Centre - Ian Cain

A nice morning and 11 riders turned out for a ride to the International Bomber Command Centre high on the southern edge of Lincoln. As usual we rode in two smaller groups to keep things simpler and safer, both groups taking routes across Lincolnshire. Once off the A17 the roads got more interesting and a pleasure to ride on.

My group were enjoying the ride until we got to a busy T junction where two of us got out before the other three. Although we waited further down the road, we managed to miss each other so the two of us continued on to the IBCC. More good roads, well surfaced and dry, ideal for motorbikes.

On arriving we headed immediately to the cafe for coffee and cake as usual and after that wandered around the site. It's an interesting place, the main memorial is a metal structure the size of a Lancaster's wing standing upright and dominating that part of Lincoln's skyline. There is a steel memorial wall listing the aircrew who died along with individual memorial stones commissioned by families lining a pathway. There is also a temporary display of thousands of ceramic poppies with the shape of a 2nd World War bomber on the middle. From the memorial is a spectacular view across Lincoln to the cathedral on the other side of the Witham valley.

The rest of the gang still hadn't arrived by the time we were ready to leave, apparently they stopped for a break at a garden centre cafe on the way. They all arrived eventually after we had left.

Everyone got home safely after an enjoyable ride to a destination that is well worth a visit. Thanks to everyone for their company and to those who lead groups.

Ian Cain