Sunday 24th June Brewers Fayre.
On another warm sunny morning with hardly any wind to speak off Sue and John left Braithwaite to collect tour points.
First objective was Beck Wythop to Wythop Mill, leaving the A66 onto what was the old road takes you onto the forest track part of Sustrans Sea to Sea.
After short ride on the track the pair had to dismount as it got steeper, only to remount as they emerged out of the forest canopy overlooking Ling Fell.
The track through the fields needed a lot of concentration before reaching the road for the mostly downhill ride to Wythop Mill.
A brief stop before the junction to take in the view overlooking Embleton and it was of again to High Side.
More downhill to St. Cuthbert Church where the pair turned left onto a private road, that climbs quite steeply before reaching High Side.
Leaving High Side the road continues to climb, before descending to join the Armaside road where the pair turned right towards Hundith Hill.
From Hundith Hill crossroads it was on to Cockermouth, turning left by the Lakes Centre for the climb through Parklands and onto the Brewers Fayre.
Already having arrived were Tracy, Brian, Dianne, Anita, Maurice, Tom, Steve and John R. followed by late arrival Dave.
After a good lunch members departed in different direction the Braithwaite duo left to continue to collect more tour points.
They set of up the A5086 to Paddle School where they turned left to Brandlingill and onto towards Mosser to take the road over Whinfell into Lorton.
Having ridden and walked in places, not like some members who a few weeks before had managed to ride over.
Leaving Lorton after a brief stop on the bridge it was on to Hopebeck for last obstacle of the day.
As the road climbed Sue got into her usual fast cadence being first to the gates as they made their way to join the road over Whinlatter.
The heat of the day made all the climbing more exhausted as they struggled up the last section of the pass that was followed by the welcome descent into Braithwaite.
Sunday 24th June 2018 Brewers Fayre, Cockermouth by Steve Lunt
Because Brewers Fayre position near Cockermouth is so useful to Solway members as a “meet up” and “jumping off” point – for the “meet up” today for lunch – members and riders came in from all directions.
John and Sue from Braithwaite (John has more blog on his route).
Steve L, John R, Tom B and Anita using the hub on Whitehaven harbour side as their regular meeting point set off up the cycleway north to meet the A595 main road at the Lakes College and rode up the cycle path along the A595 as far as the roundabout at Lillyhall and then turned right down to Branthwaite, then Dean (great downhill swoop!) to Eaglesfield and onto the A5086 Cockermouth road and left turn to take us to Brewers Fayre.
Sometime later and a route homebound: riders in our group heading back south; Steve L, Dave S, John R, Tom, and Anita took the A66 for a short stretch, soon turning into High Brigham road to get to Broughton Cross, Chapel Brow and onto the cycleway alongside the A595 south to Whitehaven.
John R cut off at Moresby Hall to get home fast.
Anita, Tom, Dave S, and Steve L rode onto the harbour at Whitehaven and (great suggestion from Anita!) a cup of tea/coffee at the Beacon and also a ice cream and cake? Later Tom and Anita rode via the Candlestick Chimney route to Kells and Sandwith. Dave S on to Corkicle and Steve L home at Padstow via Westlakes Science Park. Lovely day out (381/2 miles)
Wednesday 20th June Royal Yew, Dean by Steve Lunt
All meeting up in our usual spot at Brewers Fayre, Cockermouth: John R, Maurice, Dianne, Steve L, Tom, John and Sue M, Paul C and Maggie – Stewart also here but, of course, by car to the Royal Yew – he is improving well!
Setting off a little way down the A66 then a left onto a narrow road onto High Brigham Village then onto Chapel Brow and onto the old A66 and through Great Clifton to Workington and through Curwen Park to cross the A596 and onto the cycle path alongside the River Derwent and over the new Walkers/Cyclist Bridge over the river and into Workington and along the cycle path that eventually leads to Distington where the path rises to the level of the A595 road and then runs parallel to it beyond the college, Lillyhall until the Branthwaite roundabout junction was reached. Our right turn here took the the group on several downhill swoops to Branthwaite and onto Dean and the Royal Yew for Lunch!
After lunch some of the group wanted a direct return to Brewers Fayre; the few left, not in hurry to get home, decided on doing a little extra: this is where the fun started, for soon after leaving Dean in the direction of Ullock (seemed like a good idea!) we encountered the first road closure – the bridge parapet in the dip below the old railway cutting was being beautifully repaired/rebuilt (following a car bump we were told). After a “crack” with the men doing the work we travelled on in the direction of Pardshaw where just before the A5086 crossing – another road closure due to to the major water supply project ongoing. There was no-one around so the group gingerly walked with their bikes through the contractors fence – no big trenches to leap over thankfully! On to Pardshaw and having just entered the village – another road closure!! So another friendly chat with the men at work and this time they were engaged with expanding a sewage/drainage system for some new houses being built close by. Pardshaw is a long village, but no more hold ups: on to Pardshaw Hall then Brandlingill and soon emerging via Eaglesfield Paddle School onto the A5086 and back to Brewers Fayre at Cockermouth.
Good day out overall and interesting afternoon for Tom, Steve L, John R and John and Sue M.
Sunday 17th June Club Run Abbeytown.
On a dull morning seven members made it to the Brewers Fayre they were Dianne, Sue, Maurice, Steve, the two John's plus Paul just there for the chat.
After the usual beverage and route decided Maurice led the group out off the car park onto the A66 to join the old road into Brigham.
Leaving Brigham it was across the A66 to Little Broughton were the group split on the climb, regrouping again before reaching the A594, where they turned left to Maryport.
After the steady climb to Dearham this was followed by the fast descent into Maryport to join the A596 past Netherhall to join the coast road.
With Maurice setting a good pace approaching the golf course, a number of cyclist overtook the group taking part in the Lakesman Triathlon.
Switching from the road to the cycle path at the golf course and with side and tail wind the group made good progress, with Maurice suggesting a tea stop at the Allonby cafe.
Approaching the cafe spectators were out supporting the Triathlon giving everyone on a bike a large cheer, including the Solway.
Firmly seated in the cafe it was tea and coffee all round as supporters outside could be heard encouraging riders on.
Eventually the group made a move heading up the coast road to Dubmill where they turned right to Salta then onto Mawbray.
From Mawbray it was on through the lanes with a following wind passing Tarns Dubb on the way to Abbeytown for lunch, to find Tracy and Brian who had ridden to Skinburness.
Joining the Solway for lunch was Bob McLean well known to the racing members an avid grass track rider and coach to Beacon Wheelers.
Lunch and chat over Maurice eager to get started led the way out of Abbeytown into the wind heading for Westnewton.
At Aikshaw they joined the B5301 that took them into Aspatria where they crossed the A596 to Arkleby, here the group stopped for some to done waterproofs as dark clouds threatened.
Back in the saddle with Maurice on the front the position he had commanded since leaving Abbeytown a good place to have him when the winds blowing in your face.
It was on through Gilcrux turning left at Greengill, followed by the drag up to Tallentire where the group split up Dianne decided to carry on leaving the rest to regroup.
Having regrouped it was on to join the A594 for final miles back to the Brewers Fayre and parked cars.
Wednesday 13th June Allonby Cafe by Steve Lunt
Meeting up today at what is now our “usual table” Brewers Fayre, Cockermouth was Maurice (who had been out on his bike to collect Tour Competition points already and had to return home due to other commitments), Dianne (back from France), Tom, Steve L, a new member (just joining) Dave, John and Sue M, Paul and Sue C (but not riding, and Ivan on his E-bike.
We set off down the A66, up to Brigham, then Broughton Cross, Chapel Brow. At this point new boy Dave had to fix a puncture on his mountain bike – but he soon caught up and rejoined at Chapel Brow Roundabout. On to Stainburn, through Curwen Park, and onto the riverside cycle path as far as the dockland entrance and still on a quiet cycle path – northwards to Maryport and through the harbour and onto Maryport Promenade. Through the golf course and crossing the coast road onto the cycle path to Allonby and it's welcome teashop for lunch.
Meeting there Paul and Sue C and an old cycling colleague known by some of the Solway – Bob Mclean, who is a committed cycle collector; interesting character who had spent many years doing grass track racing and training youngsters.
After lunch and a good chat it was homewards now – as soon as we left the shelter of the cafe we hit a strong head wind. Quite a slog away from Allonby but turning down the Outerside road gave us a little relief. This took us on to Gilcrux and the long drag up to Tallentire then to use the A594 and then the fast run down into Cockermouth and through the Parkland Estate to the Egremont Road to Brewers Fayre.
A great day out, but changeable weather now! (34miles)
Sunday 10th June Post House Deanscales.
Another sunny morning with very little wind Sue and John left Braithwaite without Roy who was doing a tour of Eastern Scotland.
The first two miles were along the old road through Thornthwaite on what has become a badly potholed road.
Having avoided the potholes it was onto the A66 that was rather quiet going through the duel carriageway, on reaching Dubwath they continued along the A66.
Going up Emblton bank it was a case of avoiding the cat eyes and drain covers that are awkwardly placed inside the white line.
Leaving the A66 at the roundabout west of Cockermouth it was onto the short cycle path to join the old road to Brigham.
At Broughton Cross the pair turned left to Greysouthen to follow the lanes towards Calvo bridge, leaving the road a sign greets you saying Private Rood.
Having negotiated the gravel track to the bridge it was about turn to follow their wheel tracks, being stopped by a couple in a Range Rover and told it was a private road and only a footpath.
On leaving the private road a wooden sign says (Footpath to Calvo Hall), still following their wheel tracks to Greysouthen it was then onto Eaglesfield and Deanscales.
Arriving late, including Dave Swift, only to find sat round the table were Maurice, Steve H, Tom, Steve L, Stewart and Maggie outside in the sun were Tracy and Brian.
After a good lunch Sue and John out to collect tour points were joined by Maggie, Tom, Steve and Dave, the rest left on four wheels.
Leaving the Post House the first objective was Mosser Church perched on top of a hill that had some gasping for breath.
Point in the bag it was back down the hill to tackle the track over the fell to Loweswater, Dave not liking rough tracks decided to carry on to Mockerkin and home.
More climbing that had three having to dismounting, while Sue and Tom continued to turn the pedals stopping to wait on the top.
The view from the top was worthy of the effort and with all the good weather the track was dry and ride able in places.
On reaching the road Tom and Steve said goodbye heading back to Whitehaven over Fangs Brow while Maggie, Sue and John headed to Lorton via Thackthwaite.
With the option of going over Whinlatter Pass and collecting more points Sue and John decided otherwise and carried on to Embleton with Maggie.
Saying goodbye to Maggie the duo made their way to Dubwath to join the A66 for the final miles back to Braithwaite.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 6th June.
Starting from Braithwaite were Maurice, Tom, Steve, Maggie, Sue and John, having arranged to park cars at Roy's although he was going to Scotland.
On arrival they were surprised to see Roy ready to join them on the ride he had got as far as Edinburgh only to breakdown.
With the weather continuing to be warm the group led by Maurice made their way into Keswick to take the valley road out of town.
The group split on the valley road to help the traffic flow that was rather busy probably something to do with the time of day.
Turning left at Seatoller it was on to Seathwaite to find the river completely dried up although water was still flowing down Sour Milk Gill.
After brief stop and it was off to Stonethwaite for Maggie to collect a tour point, plus a quick tour of the Hamlet having been on Radio Cumbria that morning.
Back in the saddle it was on to Grange where the group split on the climb past Manersty to regroup at the top overlooking the lake.
It was now mostly downhill to Portinscale for lunch at the Chalet to meet up with Sue and Paul who had arrived by car.
Over lunch the main topic of conversation was the Tour of Britain finishing twice on Whinlatter, while they sat outside making the best of the good weather.
After lunch Maurice and Roy headed back to Braithwaite leaving the rest to get more miles in heading for Newlands Church, stopping at Little Town farm on the way for more coffee.
Another point for Maggie making that five for the day as they headed back to Braithwaite, having been a sunny day with slight easterly wind.
Sunday 3rd June Mawsons Cafe, Seascale by Steve Lunt
John R, Tom B, and Steve L from different directions met up together at the Harbour side Hub in Whitehaven and set off northerly to meet up with the “Braithwaite bunch”, Sue and John M, and Roy which was just beyond the Howgate district. At this point we all set off south on the cycleway to pass by Lowca, Parton, Whitehaven, Egremont, Thornhill, Beckermet, Sellafield along the usual cycle routes and then down to Sellafield Station at which point the fun begins on the sandy track (locally known as the Cinder Track) between the Site Fence and the sea front. After negotiating the sharp twist and slope onto the track and the recently damaged part of the track from the last storm, which was just after the rail bridge and next to the river, then along a level track incorporating quite a few obstacles, surprises and bicycle traps (soft sand holes) – all good fun I think!! Then we met “I want to alone” Maurice, already riding home having done his own ride to Wasdale Lake and had already eaten at Mawsons Cafe. Finally the track ends in Seascale car park and our long awaited lunch stop.
Soon after Dave Swift cycled in (after using the main roads to get there) to join us.
For the return journey – having already braved the track beside the sea for tour points – it was decided to use alternative quiet roads if any could be found.
Setting off from the village centre we arrived at the crossroads on the outskirts of Seascale (locally known as “Moffats Corner) where the new cycle path to Gosforth starts and seemed a sensible way to go!! However we believed we may have come across a shorter route via Calder Farm taking us onto Calderbridge: the sign post was marked up with a cycle route 52, so we took it.
It was stony, slow and rough and very soon a shout from Dave S indicated he wasn't going any further and turned to return to the main road – along uphill hike with a bike we later learned. The rest of us pressed on slowly and gingerly: full marks to Sue M who is usually nervous of shale and gravel. Eventually we got to the end of the long track where it exists onto the A595 just after passing Ponsonby Church and not far from Calderbridge.
We waited for about 15 minutes hoping to see Dave S on the main road, but no Dave, so we pressed on rather puzzled and anxious now as he had admitted earlier that he had left his toolkit at home. No Dave appeared so Sue and John M and Tom rode on to Whitehaven and ice cream on the Harbour side – yummy!
Steve L having branched off at Westlakes, made for home and swapped bike for car to try and locate Dave at his house or on the main road locally, but to no avail.
Soon after six o'clock a call from Dave S confirmed all OK. He had had a puncture just after leaving us – walking uphill to the Gosforth/Seascale junction where a kind lady cyclist came to help with a tyre lever or two. New tube in and after inflation – all OK and Dave on the road to Gosforth for a brief respite and admiration (Dave's of course) by a cyclist passing through. All this resulted in his late arrival home but he did take on a salutary lesson: never carry your bike tool in a removable container.
A long and unusual day out!! (431/2 miles)
On another warm sunny morning with hardly any wind to speak off Sue and John left Braithwaite to collect tour points.
First objective was Beck Wythop to Wythop Mill, leaving the A66 onto what was the old road takes you onto the forest track part of Sustrans Sea to Sea.
After short ride on the track the pair had to dismount as it got steeper, only to remount as they emerged out of the forest canopy overlooking Ling Fell.
The track through the fields needed a lot of concentration before reaching the road for the mostly downhill ride to Wythop Mill.
A brief stop before the junction to take in the view overlooking Embleton and it was of again to High Side.
More downhill to St. Cuthbert Church where the pair turned left onto a private road, that climbs quite steeply before reaching High Side.
Leaving High Side the road continues to climb, before descending to join the Armaside road where the pair turned right towards Hundith Hill.
From Hundith Hill crossroads it was on to Cockermouth, turning left by the Lakes Centre for the climb through Parklands and onto the Brewers Fayre.
Already having arrived were Tracy, Brian, Dianne, Anita, Maurice, Tom, Steve and John R. followed by late arrival Dave.
After a good lunch members departed in different direction the Braithwaite duo left to continue to collect more tour points.
They set of up the A5086 to Paddle School where they turned left to Brandlingill and onto towards Mosser to take the road over Whinfell into Lorton.
Having ridden and walked in places, not like some members who a few weeks before had managed to ride over.
Leaving Lorton after a brief stop on the bridge it was on to Hopebeck for last obstacle of the day.
As the road climbed Sue got into her usual fast cadence being first to the gates as they made their way to join the road over Whinlatter.
The heat of the day made all the climbing more exhausted as they struggled up the last section of the pass that was followed by the welcome descent into Braithwaite.
Sunday 24th June 2018 Brewers Fayre, Cockermouth by Steve Lunt
Because Brewers Fayre position near Cockermouth is so useful to Solway members as a “meet up” and “jumping off” point – for the “meet up” today for lunch – members and riders came in from all directions.
John and Sue from Braithwaite (John has more blog on his route).
Steve L, John R, Tom B and Anita using the hub on Whitehaven harbour side as their regular meeting point set off up the cycleway north to meet the A595 main road at the Lakes College and rode up the cycle path along the A595 as far as the roundabout at Lillyhall and then turned right down to Branthwaite, then Dean (great downhill swoop!) to Eaglesfield and onto the A5086 Cockermouth road and left turn to take us to Brewers Fayre.
Sometime later and a route homebound: riders in our group heading back south; Steve L, Dave S, John R, Tom, and Anita took the A66 for a short stretch, soon turning into High Brigham road to get to Broughton Cross, Chapel Brow and onto the cycleway alongside the A595 south to Whitehaven.
John R cut off at Moresby Hall to get home fast.
Anita, Tom, Dave S, and Steve L rode onto the harbour at Whitehaven and (great suggestion from Anita!) a cup of tea/coffee at the Beacon and also a ice cream and cake? Later Tom and Anita rode via the Candlestick Chimney route to Kells and Sandwith. Dave S on to Corkicle and Steve L home at Padstow via Westlakes Science Park. Lovely day out (381/2 miles)
Wednesday 20th June Royal Yew, Dean by Steve Lunt
All meeting up in our usual spot at Brewers Fayre, Cockermouth: John R, Maurice, Dianne, Steve L, Tom, John and Sue M, Paul C and Maggie – Stewart also here but, of course, by car to the Royal Yew – he is improving well!
Setting off a little way down the A66 then a left onto a narrow road onto High Brigham Village then onto Chapel Brow and onto the old A66 and through Great Clifton to Workington and through Curwen Park to cross the A596 and onto the cycle path alongside the River Derwent and over the new Walkers/Cyclist Bridge over the river and into Workington and along the cycle path that eventually leads to Distington where the path rises to the level of the A595 road and then runs parallel to it beyond the college, Lillyhall until the Branthwaite roundabout junction was reached. Our right turn here took the the group on several downhill swoops to Branthwaite and onto Dean and the Royal Yew for Lunch!
After lunch some of the group wanted a direct return to Brewers Fayre; the few left, not in hurry to get home, decided on doing a little extra: this is where the fun started, for soon after leaving Dean in the direction of Ullock (seemed like a good idea!) we encountered the first road closure – the bridge parapet in the dip below the old railway cutting was being beautifully repaired/rebuilt (following a car bump we were told). After a “crack” with the men doing the work we travelled on in the direction of Pardshaw where just before the A5086 crossing – another road closure due to to the major water supply project ongoing. There was no-one around so the group gingerly walked with their bikes through the contractors fence – no big trenches to leap over thankfully! On to Pardshaw and having just entered the village – another road closure!! So another friendly chat with the men at work and this time they were engaged with expanding a sewage/drainage system for some new houses being built close by. Pardshaw is a long village, but no more hold ups: on to Pardshaw Hall then Brandlingill and soon emerging via Eaglesfield Paddle School onto the A5086 and back to Brewers Fayre at Cockermouth.
Good day out overall and interesting afternoon for Tom, Steve L, John R and John and Sue M.
Sunday 17th June Club Run Abbeytown.
On a dull morning seven members made it to the Brewers Fayre they were Dianne, Sue, Maurice, Steve, the two John's plus Paul just there for the chat.
After the usual beverage and route decided Maurice led the group out off the car park onto the A66 to join the old road into Brigham.
Leaving Brigham it was across the A66 to Little Broughton were the group split on the climb, regrouping again before reaching the A594, where they turned left to Maryport.
After the steady climb to Dearham this was followed by the fast descent into Maryport to join the A596 past Netherhall to join the coast road.
With Maurice setting a good pace approaching the golf course, a number of cyclist overtook the group taking part in the Lakesman Triathlon.
Switching from the road to the cycle path at the golf course and with side and tail wind the group made good progress, with Maurice suggesting a tea stop at the Allonby cafe.
Approaching the cafe spectators were out supporting the Triathlon giving everyone on a bike a large cheer, including the Solway.
Firmly seated in the cafe it was tea and coffee all round as supporters outside could be heard encouraging riders on.
Eventually the group made a move heading up the coast road to Dubmill where they turned right to Salta then onto Mawbray.
From Mawbray it was on through the lanes with a following wind passing Tarns Dubb on the way to Abbeytown for lunch, to find Tracy and Brian who had ridden to Skinburness.
Joining the Solway for lunch was Bob McLean well known to the racing members an avid grass track rider and coach to Beacon Wheelers.
Lunch and chat over Maurice eager to get started led the way out of Abbeytown into the wind heading for Westnewton.
At Aikshaw they joined the B5301 that took them into Aspatria where they crossed the A596 to Arkleby, here the group stopped for some to done waterproofs as dark clouds threatened.
Back in the saddle with Maurice on the front the position he had commanded since leaving Abbeytown a good place to have him when the winds blowing in your face.
It was on through Gilcrux turning left at Greengill, followed by the drag up to Tallentire where the group split up Dianne decided to carry on leaving the rest to regroup.
Having regrouped it was on to join the A594 for final miles back to the Brewers Fayre and parked cars.
Wednesday 13th June Allonby Cafe by Steve Lunt
Meeting up today at what is now our “usual table” Brewers Fayre, Cockermouth was Maurice (who had been out on his bike to collect Tour Competition points already and had to return home due to other commitments), Dianne (back from France), Tom, Steve L, a new member (just joining) Dave, John and Sue M, Paul and Sue C (but not riding, and Ivan on his E-bike.
We set off down the A66, up to Brigham, then Broughton Cross, Chapel Brow. At this point new boy Dave had to fix a puncture on his mountain bike – but he soon caught up and rejoined at Chapel Brow Roundabout. On to Stainburn, through Curwen Park, and onto the riverside cycle path as far as the dockland entrance and still on a quiet cycle path – northwards to Maryport and through the harbour and onto Maryport Promenade. Through the golf course and crossing the coast road onto the cycle path to Allonby and it's welcome teashop for lunch.
Meeting there Paul and Sue C and an old cycling colleague known by some of the Solway – Bob Mclean, who is a committed cycle collector; interesting character who had spent many years doing grass track racing and training youngsters.
After lunch and a good chat it was homewards now – as soon as we left the shelter of the cafe we hit a strong head wind. Quite a slog away from Allonby but turning down the Outerside road gave us a little relief. This took us on to Gilcrux and the long drag up to Tallentire then to use the A594 and then the fast run down into Cockermouth and through the Parkland Estate to the Egremont Road to Brewers Fayre.
A great day out, but changeable weather now! (34miles)
Sunday 10th June Post House Deanscales.
Another sunny morning with very little wind Sue and John left Braithwaite without Roy who was doing a tour of Eastern Scotland.
The first two miles were along the old road through Thornthwaite on what has become a badly potholed road.
Having avoided the potholes it was onto the A66 that was rather quiet going through the duel carriageway, on reaching Dubwath they continued along the A66.
Going up Emblton bank it was a case of avoiding the cat eyes and drain covers that are awkwardly placed inside the white line.
Leaving the A66 at the roundabout west of Cockermouth it was onto the short cycle path to join the old road to Brigham.
At Broughton Cross the pair turned left to Greysouthen to follow the lanes towards Calvo bridge, leaving the road a sign greets you saying Private Rood.
Having negotiated the gravel track to the bridge it was about turn to follow their wheel tracks, being stopped by a couple in a Range Rover and told it was a private road and only a footpath.
On leaving the private road a wooden sign says (Footpath to Calvo Hall), still following their wheel tracks to Greysouthen it was then onto Eaglesfield and Deanscales.
Arriving late, including Dave Swift, only to find sat round the table were Maurice, Steve H, Tom, Steve L, Stewart and Maggie outside in the sun were Tracy and Brian.
After a good lunch Sue and John out to collect tour points were joined by Maggie, Tom, Steve and Dave, the rest left on four wheels.
Leaving the Post House the first objective was Mosser Church perched on top of a hill that had some gasping for breath.
Point in the bag it was back down the hill to tackle the track over the fell to Loweswater, Dave not liking rough tracks decided to carry on to Mockerkin and home.
More climbing that had three having to dismounting, while Sue and Tom continued to turn the pedals stopping to wait on the top.
The view from the top was worthy of the effort and with all the good weather the track was dry and ride able in places.
On reaching the road Tom and Steve said goodbye heading back to Whitehaven over Fangs Brow while Maggie, Sue and John headed to Lorton via Thackthwaite.
With the option of going over Whinlatter Pass and collecting more points Sue and John decided otherwise and carried on to Embleton with Maggie.
Saying goodbye to Maggie the duo made their way to Dubwath to join the A66 for the final miles back to Braithwaite.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 6th June.
Starting from Braithwaite were Maurice, Tom, Steve, Maggie, Sue and John, having arranged to park cars at Roy's although he was going to Scotland.
On arrival they were surprised to see Roy ready to join them on the ride he had got as far as Edinburgh only to breakdown.
With the weather continuing to be warm the group led by Maurice made their way into Keswick to take the valley road out of town.
The group split on the valley road to help the traffic flow that was rather busy probably something to do with the time of day.
Turning left at Seatoller it was on to Seathwaite to find the river completely dried up although water was still flowing down Sour Milk Gill.
After brief stop and it was off to Stonethwaite for Maggie to collect a tour point, plus a quick tour of the Hamlet having been on Radio Cumbria that morning.
Back in the saddle it was on to Grange where the group split on the climb past Manersty to regroup at the top overlooking the lake.
It was now mostly downhill to Portinscale for lunch at the Chalet to meet up with Sue and Paul who had arrived by car.
Over lunch the main topic of conversation was the Tour of Britain finishing twice on Whinlatter, while they sat outside making the best of the good weather.
After lunch Maurice and Roy headed back to Braithwaite leaving the rest to get more miles in heading for Newlands Church, stopping at Little Town farm on the way for more coffee.
Another point for Maggie making that five for the day as they headed back to Braithwaite, having been a sunny day with slight easterly wind.
Sunday 3rd June Mawsons Cafe, Seascale by Steve Lunt
John R, Tom B, and Steve L from different directions met up together at the Harbour side Hub in Whitehaven and set off northerly to meet up with the “Braithwaite bunch”, Sue and John M, and Roy which was just beyond the Howgate district. At this point we all set off south on the cycleway to pass by Lowca, Parton, Whitehaven, Egremont, Thornhill, Beckermet, Sellafield along the usual cycle routes and then down to Sellafield Station at which point the fun begins on the sandy track (locally known as the Cinder Track) between the Site Fence and the sea front. After negotiating the sharp twist and slope onto the track and the recently damaged part of the track from the last storm, which was just after the rail bridge and next to the river, then along a level track incorporating quite a few obstacles, surprises and bicycle traps (soft sand holes) – all good fun I think!! Then we met “I want to alone” Maurice, already riding home having done his own ride to Wasdale Lake and had already eaten at Mawsons Cafe. Finally the track ends in Seascale car park and our long awaited lunch stop.
Soon after Dave Swift cycled in (after using the main roads to get there) to join us.
For the return journey – having already braved the track beside the sea for tour points – it was decided to use alternative quiet roads if any could be found.
Setting off from the village centre we arrived at the crossroads on the outskirts of Seascale (locally known as “Moffats Corner) where the new cycle path to Gosforth starts and seemed a sensible way to go!! However we believed we may have come across a shorter route via Calder Farm taking us onto Calderbridge: the sign post was marked up with a cycle route 52, so we took it.
It was stony, slow and rough and very soon a shout from Dave S indicated he wasn't going any further and turned to return to the main road – along uphill hike with a bike we later learned. The rest of us pressed on slowly and gingerly: full marks to Sue M who is usually nervous of shale and gravel. Eventually we got to the end of the long track where it exists onto the A595 just after passing Ponsonby Church and not far from Calderbridge.
We waited for about 15 minutes hoping to see Dave S on the main road, but no Dave, so we pressed on rather puzzled and anxious now as he had admitted earlier that he had left his toolkit at home. No Dave appeared so Sue and John M and Tom rode on to Whitehaven and ice cream on the Harbour side – yummy!
Steve L having branched off at Westlakes, made for home and swapped bike for car to try and locate Dave at his house or on the main road locally, but to no avail.
Soon after six o'clock a call from Dave S confirmed all OK. He had had a puncture just after leaving us – walking uphill to the Gosforth/Seascale junction where a kind lady cyclist came to help with a tyre lever or two. New tube in and after inflation – all OK and Dave on the road to Gosforth for a brief respite and admiration (Dave's of course) by a cyclist passing through. All this resulted in his late arrival home but he did take on a salutary lesson: never carry your bike tool in a removable container.
A long and unusual day out!! (431/2 miles)