A Rally at the Winking Man – February 2025

From Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd February 2025, we enjoyed a fantastic rally at the Winking Man pub, situated along the scenic A53 in the Staffordshire Moorlands. The Winking Man is a well-known stop for walkers, bikers, and travellers exploring the Peak District, named after a nearby rock formation on The Roaches that appears to "wink" as you pass by.

Photo Credit: Scott Wanless

Our rally kicked off on Friday as ralliers arrived and settled in, with many taking advantage of the welcoming atmosphere of the pub that evening. With a great selection of drinks and hearty pub food at reasonable prices, it was the perfect place to start the weekend.

Saturday brought an opportunity for ralliers to explore the area. Some took to the hills, enjoying the stunning walking routes that the Staffordshire Moorlands have to offer, while others visited the nearby market towns of Leek and Buxton for a more leisurely day out. The crisp February air and breathtaking scenery made for a great day outdoors.

Photo Credit: Denise Barber

In the evening, all ralliers were booked in for a meal at the pub, where we were treated to delicious food and excellent service. The night continued with a karaoke disco, providing plenty of entertainment and laughs as ralliers took to the mic and danced the night away. The Winking Man proved to be a fantastic venue for both dining and socialising.

Photo credit: Tilly Penn

Due to predicted high winds on Sunday morning, Flag was held on Saturday night. It was delivered by Howard Moorby, his first since joining the Committee, allowing everyone an early getaway on Sunday while still giving us the chance to gather, reflect on the weekend, and express our thanks. Marshals Scott, Helen, and TJ Wanless, along with Co-Marshals Rick, Katy, and Fraser Unwin, did a fantastic job in organising the event. Fourteen units attended, including a guest unit from the Cheshire Centre.

Photo Credit: Tilly Penn

Overall, the weekend at the Winking Man was a great success. The pub’s warm hospitality, the stunning surroundings, and the fantastic company made for a memorable rally. A big thank you to everyone who joined us, and we look forward to our next adventure together!