Sunday 9th May Mungrisdale. by John Murphy
On a much warmer morning with a southerly wind seven members left Braithwaite they were Helen, Dianne, Tom, Roy, Stuart, Sue and John. With Sue on the front they made their way along the A66 cycle path towards Keswick. Negotiating their way out of Keswick the climbing started as they headed to Burns, to cross the A66 into Threlkeld. A brief stop for some to discard clothing was followed by the climb alongside the A66 to the White Horse Inn. Here they crossed the A66 again to drop down the hill where they turned right to Wallthwaite straight into a headwind. Rounding the farm buildings and with the wind coming from the right they climbed steadily seeing Tom and Stuart disappear up the road. On reaching Troutbeck they crossed the A66 for a third time, heading east to the Sportsman Inn where they turned left to Berrier. This was followed by more climbing through Berrier followed by a welcome descent to Chuckywood House (Dianne clocking 33 mph) were they turned left to Mungrisdale. Now into the wind again and looking for a place for lunch they continued onto Mungrisdale where they met Maggie and Stewart by the Mill Inn. They finally found a sheltered spot out of the wind on the gated road to have their picnic. Maggie and Stewart had parked at Braithwaite and cycled to Mungrisdale via the Sustrans route. Lunch over they continued along the gated road to Scales to join the cycle path to Threlkeld as rain drops appeared. With the rain getting heavier they made their way back to Keswick via the cycle track, then onto Braithwaite and parked cars
Sunday May 2nd Uldale by Dianne Moyes
Tom, Roy and Helen parked at Brewer’s Fayre then came round to my house for a 10.30 start. Sue and Paul arrived In time to say hello but were not planning to ride with the group. Their day involved coffee at the Distillery, a picnic overlooking Bass Lake and then, quite by chance, a tour of the train at Dubwath. The owners are looking forward to welcoming cyclists and could be open by late July.
We knew that Maggie and Stewart were ahead of us on the road but we didn’t catch up with them until the lunch stop in Uldale. We headed through Cockermouth and onto the Isel Road, then over Isel Bridge turning right then right again towards Bewaldeth. The day was chilly but the visibility was superb so we had wonderful views towards Skiddaw and the fells around Bass Lake. We crossed the Keswick to Bothel road and climbed through Bewaldeth stopping to enjoy the scenery. It was then onto the Ireby road before turning left up to High Ireby for a point. This was followed by a careful descent into Ireby and then the road to Uldale. Maggie and Stewart were just finishing their picnic lunch on a suitably long bench opposite one of the two cherry trees near the crossroads. The trees were just coming into flower but not quite at their best. Maggie and Stewart had come by a slightly different route but had included one of the tracks listed in the Tour Competition. They headed up to Mae’s Cafe to see if there was a table for 6 where we could all meet after our picnic. It was fairly busy but we were lucky and were able to enjoy coffee and cake in the chilly sunshine.
They left before us to go back via Overwater and then down to Castle Inn whereas we turned left at Overwater to then take the Orthwaite Road and into Bassenthwaite Village via Park Wood. Our route was then straight back to Cockermouth over Ouse Bridge and through Embleton. (28 miles)
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Wednesday 28th April Thirlmere by John Murphy
Again another good turnout for a Wednesday ride they were Stuart, Anita, John R, Tom, Dianne, Sara, Clive, Maurice, Sue and John. Starting from the Murphy household but not before Sue had offered coffee and biscuits to those who took up the offer. Before they were about to leave Sue and Paul arrived, turned out it was Sue's birthday so all wished her a happy birthday. Eventually they made a move realising Tom was missing, after a phone call it turned out he was at the old station in Keswick. Having located Tom they left Braithwaite along A66 cycle track to the old station where Tom was sat waiting. It was then along the new cycle track to Threlkeld, here Maurice and Tom took a different route under A66 and along the old track bed towards the quarry.
While the rest made their way through Threlkeld bumping into Sue and Paul again before meeting up with Maurice and Tom. With a following wind they made their way down the Vale to Thirlmere then over the dam to follow the road to Wythburn. Here they did a u-turn back to Dob Gill car park for lunch sat on some long tree trunks.
Back in the saddle they followed their wheel tracks back down the Vale where they turned left to Shundraw and on through Keswick to parked cars at Braithwaite. An enjoyable day except for the cold wind. (31 miles)
Monday 26th April 2021 Seacale by Maurice Cowley
Again the day was very promising with sun and very little wind Maurice met Tom at Maurice's home for coffee at Thornhill and then to try again to do the full Seascale run. This time Maurice was riding Tom's E-bike.
The route again took them past Thornhill and through Beckermet to emerge on the A595 just before riding through Calderbridge which took them onto the busy A595 to drop down to go through Gosforth and onto the road to Santon Bridge. On the way from Gosforth the view to the left of the Wasdale fells was very picturesque, On climbing part way up the Irton Brow and turning right towards Irton Flats they stopped to see if the cafe was open but unfortunately it was not but they sat on the cafe seats outside out of the wind and had a chat with a drink from their flasks.
After leaving the cafe area they carried on down the Irton Flats to Holmerook and onto Drigg where they decide to have another stop at the Drigg Station Cafe for coffee again out of the cold wind and chatted to a local couple who also had stopped for refreshments.
Now it was onto Seascale to stop for dinner on the sea front and again chat while watching a young lady go for a swim in the sea after her run, She said the sea was quite exhilarating and it was warm, we didn't believe her.
After lunch it was back on the bikes and along the cycle path to Gosforth and the A595 back to Thornhill where Maurice returned home and Tom rode onto Whitehaven.
Sunday 25th April Ennerdale. by John Murphy
On a sunny but cool morning Dianne, Tom and Roy set off from the Brewers Fayre to meet Sue and John who had cycled over Whinlatter, in Lorton. After a brief chat the group finally left Lorton with Sue on the front heading for Thackthwaite with the road surface constantly getting worse, stopping briefly at Foulsyke to admire the view. Although the roads were rather quiet there were plenty of cars parked by Loweswater and on the top of Fangs Brow. Once over the top of Fangs it was mostly downhill to Lamplugh this was followed by more climbing passed Felldyke to Cross Rigg. Stopping on the top to regroup, the view overlooking Ennerdale and the surrounding mountains were magnificent. The descent into Croasdale was taken with caution turning right at the bottom towards Ennerdale, just before Ennerdale they turned left to the lake. Finding a suitable place by Lake Outfall they sat down on the grass to have their sandwiches to be joined by Johnny. After lunch and heading back towards the road Tracy and Brian appeared on their way to meet up, having had lunch in the Fox and Hounds. After lengthy chat with both of them, with Tracy waving he phone about taking photos and videos. Finally the group set of heading for Ennerdale while Johnny headed towards Croasdale back home. On the climb out of Ennerdale the group split only to regroup in Kirkland where they decided to go to Ennerdale Brewery for a coffee. Finding a table outside they sat down in what seemed a well organised venue with a large marquee if it rained or otherwise. After a slice of cake and coffee they set off again to join the main road as far as the Ullock turning. It was then through the lanes via Dean, Deanscales to Eaglesfield, where Sue and Paul were just setting off for a ride. Stopping for a brief chat, before continuing on to Paddle School where Dianne, Tom and Roy joined the main road back to Cockermouth. That left Sue and John to make their way back home to Braithwaite, via Southwaite, Embleton, Dubwath and the A66.
Friday 23rd April 2021 Seacale by Maurice Cowley
The day was very promising with sun and very little wind Maurice met Tom at the Park Head Inn just outside Thornhill, Anita was going to meet them at Seascale to ride back with them.
The route took them past Thornhill and through Beckermet to emerge on the A595 just before riding through Calderbridge which took them onto the busy A595 to get to the hill just before dropping down to the outskirts of Gosforth.
They stopped just outside The Red Admiral Pub to look at Maurice's back wheel which had been damaged on a couple of previous runs. The decision was for Maurice to return home and Maurice afraid it was going to collapse completely rang for his wife, Shirley, to come and pick him up which she did and they then drove to Seascale to meet the other two.
Meanwhile Tom carried on his ride to Seascale via Holmerook, Drigg and Seascale for lunch on the sea front with Maurice. Shirley and Anita. It got rather cold which cut down the time chatting etc. so Tom rode back to Whitehaven with Anita and Maurice and Shirley drove back to Thornhill.
Wednesday 21st April, The Melbreak Hôtel to Maryport by Dianne Moyes
Rather a lot of us gathered at The Melbreak Hôtel, Chapel Brow for a 10.30 start. Maurice, Tom, Roy and Stuart were already into their drinks when John and I turned up, closely followed by John and Sue. Then a bearded stranger arrived which turned out to be club member Brian Dixon who had ridden from Whitehaven to see us. Paul and Sue came for a chat too but were not riding. Just as we were lined up to leave fairly promptly, John Rowell appeared, so there were 10 riders in total.
We took the usual route to Workington and then via Curwen Park to follow the cycleway past Northside and Siddick Pond, round Flimby then to our destination the Fish and Chip shop by Maryport Harbour. There was still a cool north wind so we were a bit protected by the buildings as we sat on the wall overlooking the harbour - see photo taken by Stuart. Brian headed straight back to Whitehaven from there with the wind on his back, the rest of us continued along the Prom and onto the cycleway to Allonby as far as the Crosscanonby turning. We turned right through the village and up to Crosby then made our way to Dearham where every road in the village was being dug up. We crossed the main Maryport to Cockermouth Road and headed for Broughton Moor, there Stuart and I took the Papcastle road to Cockermouth while the others crossed over to Brigham and back to their cars near the Melbreak. Another lovely dry spring day.
Sunday 18th April. by John Murphy
Starting from Silver Meadows Dubwath on a cold overcast morning were Dianne, Helen, Sara, Sue, Maurice, Tom, Roy and John all on e-bikes apart from Tom.
Also joining them at the start were Maggie and Stewart who joined them for the short ride to the Castle Inn, while the rest crossed the A591 to continue up the hill towards Uldale. Once on the top and regrouped it was all downhill through Ireby and onto Boltongate having just crossed the River Ellen. Leaving Boltongate it was onto Mealsgate to cross the busy A595 to Fletchertown where they followed the road to join the A596. After a short distance they turned left to Crookdake to collect a tour point on their way to Blennerhasset, where they stopped for their packed lunch by the River Ellen. Sat socially distancing some sat at a picnic table while others sat by the river in a cold breeze unlike the previous day when it was warm and sunny. Setting off again they headed along a badly patched up lane to Fitz Farm where they turned left to Threapland. This was followed by a steady climb to the A595, here they crossed over to negotiate the lanes through Sunderland to Isel Bridge. Stopping on the bridge to look in the river for fish or any wildlife that might appear was not to be. Leaving the bridge behind was followed by a short steep climb where Dianne and Sara turned right back to Cockermouth. While the rest continued back to Dubwath and parked cars, leaving Sue and John to carry on back to Braithwaite.
Friday 16th April by Stuart Pike
Met at The Melbreak for coffee and craic in the warm sunshine before Maurice lead us on our merry way via Gt Cliffton and Stainburn. In Maryport we had fish and chips sitting next to the harbour. I suggested taking an off-road route back and to my surprise it got supported! It got a little muddy in a couple of places but generally it was dry and dusty. But once we arrived at Broughton Moor Maurice who was nursing a couple of missing spokes and a resulting buckled rear wheel was having no more of it and we headed back on the black top towards The Melbreak.
Riders:- Roy, John, Tom, Maurice, Stuart 21.5 miles - a very enjoyable trip out.
Wednesday 14th April. by John Murphy
Starting from the Melbreak on a sunny morning were Sue and John but not before having a coffee outside the Melbreak soaking up the sun. The garden to the side of the hotel was all set out with tables and wet weather bubbles that were being constructed.
Leaving the hotel they made their way to Great Clifton and over the river into Camerton crossing the footbridge they spotted a Kingfisher. After the climb they joined the cycle track to Workington that was rather busy with mums with prams and dog walkers. On reaching Workington they had to make a detour due to work being carried out under the underpass. Back on the cycle track they were constantly confronted with broken glass as they made their way out of Workington to Distington. Continuing on the cycle track through Whitehaven where they collecting tour point at the Beacon on the way. Just before Parkside they stopped for their sandwiches with the sun at its warmest overlooking a small pond with the sound of crows disturbing the peace. Lunch over they continued onto Rowrah to join the road to Arlecdon, this was followed by a steep climb before reaching Pica. It was then across Dean Moor to Dean Cross where they turned left to Gilgarran and onto Distington. Joining the cycle track it was back to the Melbreak along with the rush hour traffic, thanks for the cycle track. (39 miles)
Wednesday April 14th, Cockermouth to Allonby. by Dianne Moyes
Eight of us met on Parkside Avenue on a sunny spring morning, they were me, Sara, Anita, Stuart, Tom, Roy, Bruce and Brenda. We headed straight out of Cockermouth on the Carlisle road before turning off to Bridekirk. We were due to meet Helen in Tallentire at 11.00 and managed to arrive on time. It was then up Tallentire Hill for a point followed by the descent into Gilcrux and down to the River Ellen before climbing up into Oughterside. We crossed the main road and dropped down into Hayton then took the little road on the level. I seem to remember there is another point along there somewhere. The road surfaces approaching Allonby were really bad with so many potholes, luckily people were keeping their distance so they could see the road ahead. As we dropped to the coast it felt colder and the north wind was penetrating. On the cycle path we met Sue and Paul who had cycled out from Maryport . We were just near a row of houses which made a good windbreak so decided to picnic there. I sent a message on WhatsApp to say where we were and soon Clive and Christie with e bike arrived. So we were 13 for lunch. It was warm enough to take our time and get to know each other again.
The return journey with the wind on our backs and the tide in was lovely and we got another point on Maryport Prom. From Maryport to Flimby then up the hill towards Broughton Moor. Helen turned left to Dearham, the rest of us right to Great Broughton, then Bruce and Brenda headed for Brigham while we returned via Papcastle and Cockermouth. (28 miles)
Monday 12th April 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On a day that promised to be warm with sunshine and very little wind Maurice , Roy and Tom met up at Braithwaite to start their ride into the hills. Their route started by taking them up the cycleway alongside the A66 to turn off up the A591 at the back side of Bassenthwaite Lake passing the Cafe at Mirehouse that seemed to be open. At High Side the trio turned up to through Orthwaite passing some daffodills which were past their best and some that had just newly bloomed and then to drop as they looked down on Overwater and then to turn left at the north end of Overwater. Turning right at the next junction took them up a steep climb and to a fast downhill to Stanthwaite and uphill to Uldale. Turning up the hill and then the left turn in between the Snooty Fox Inn and the next house uphill took them up a steep rough hill and then down a rougher part of the road to pass through Aughertree to reach the Ireby/Caldbeck Common road where they turned down to pass through Ireby where they took a right up to High Ireby and a lunch stop with a lovely view back across the valley in the sunshine. After a chat and lunch the group decided to take a right turn down a road they had never been on before and as the had gone about 20 yards the road split into two and this was not shown on the map?? Not knowing which one to take Maurice asked kind gentleman which one to take. After a bit of a discussion he told them they had passed the road end on the way up from Ireby and it was just about 50 yard back down the road but it was very rough and it would take a very experienced mountain biker to negotiate it. He was asked if it was worse that the road down to Aughetree and he stressed that the last part was much worse. After leaving High Ireby the threesome elected to use this road and found that that kind gentleman was quite correct and they had to walk about a ¼ of a mile at the end to reach the Ireby/Whitrigg road. At the junction they turned left to climb up to Whitrigg where they dropped down to the A591 to reach Bewaldeth. Here they had to climb up and turn down to go through the farm at Riggwood and along the track to pass through the farm at High Bewaldeth and then climb the slight drag up to the Ireby Castle Inn road. After this they turned down to turn left to pass the Robin Hood Caravan Park on their way down to Bassenthwaite Village and to cross the A591 on the way to the loop which passes Scarness on the way back to A591 to again pass by Mirehouse aand the rest of the route retraced their route back side of Bassenthwaite Lake to the A66 and then to Braithwaite and for Maurice and Tom their cars and home and for Roy his house. (33miles hilly and sometimes rough Miles)
Cockermouth to Gatesgarth, Buttermere, Sunday April 11th. by Dianne Moyes
Another dry day forecast though maximum temperature only predicted to be 5 ‘C when Helen, Roy, John and Sue met up outside my house .John and Sue had cycled from Braithwaite in the cold. We then went off to meet John Rowell and Tom at Brewer’s Fayre. Sue and Paul had come down from Eaglesfield to have a word but were not riding. We headed off to Buttermere via Paddle School, Rogerscale and Lorton Bridge where swallows were spotted. As we got on to the road down the Lorton Valley we were overtaken by a load of cyclists involved in an event which we later learnt was the Lakeland Loop Cycle Sportive. I looked it up and it is 69 miles starting from the Dungeon Ghyll Hôtel including Whinlatter, Cold Fell, Hardknott and Wrynose. Various groups passed us until we turned off to Buttermere and they headed for Loweswater and Fangs Brow. The scenery was stunning with a dusting of snow on the Red Pike ridge.
Tom, the only rider not on an E bike, was first to the cattle grid, but the rest of us were not far behind. It was so cold there was some ice on the road below Rannerdale Knott. As we were in Buttermere before midday we carried onto Gatesgarth, and some of us wanted the point. It was busy there with a full car park, but the picnic tables were empty so we kept our distance and used three tables. Then we retraced our wheels back to Lorton but the sun was out rarely and the northerly wind was bitter. At Hundith Hill crossroads, Sue and John turned right to make their way home to Braithwaite, a total of nearly 50 miles, while the rest of us went left down to Southwaite Mill back to Paddle School and into Cockermouth to do about 25 miles.
Friday 9th April. by John Murphy
Meeting on the old road at Braithwaite were Maurice, Tom, John R, Roy, Sue and John.
With a clear sky and the sun beaming down Maurice led the group onto the A66 cycle track and on into Keswick. On the first short climb out of Keswick to join the Borrowdale road Maurice split the group with his pace. In and out of the sun it was rather cold along with the wind constantly changing directions. Eventually the valley opened up as they approached Rosthwaite and it felt much warmer as they made their way to Seathwaite. Having reached the end of the road, some took a quick drink while the others had a geography lesson on the surrounding fells. Back in the saddle it was back down the valley to Grange for packed lunches. With everything closed they opted to use the convenient tables outside the cafe, these had been newly painted ready for opening up. Lunch over it was on with the power for the climb towards Catbells, followed by the descent over the castle grid where the traffic warden was handing out parking tickets. It was then on past the Swinside Inn to Braithwaite and parked cars. (20 miles)
Easter Sunday 4th April. by Roy Jackson
Maurice, Tom, Steve and Roy parked their cars at Maryport Promenade, and were joined by Sue and John who had cycled from the Melbreck Hotel. The group set off under a cloudy sky along a very windy coast road cycle track to Allonby. Then turning right to Edderside, and Clive's house at Goodyhills, where Clive joined the group. At this point Maurice decided to give his knee a rest and return to Maryport. Steve joined him because of the wind, and also Sue and John because they had to ride back to the Melbreck against that wind. Clive, Tom and Roy decided to carry on to Silloth via Abbeytown, then across the Marsh to Skinberness, then along the coast road into a real headwind to Silloth. Finding a seat in the park, in the sun but out of the wind, a rest and cup of coffee, deciding to have lunch in Clive's garden with a French pot of tea. Arriving at Clive's, when he put his bike away in the shed, he showed us his four bikes, he is selling two of them to finance his new e-bike, so Tom bought one of them a Mountain Bike. Tom and Roy then had a hard ride against that wind, arriving at Maryport rather tired. (34 miles)
Sunday 4th April. by John Murphy
Parking at the Melbreak were Sue and John having arranged to meet up with the Maurice group at Maryport. Leaving the Melbreak they headed for Great Clifton not realising how cold the wind was as they descended to the foot bridge over the river. After the steep climb out of Camerton it was on through Flimby and onto Maryport to meet up with Maurice, Tom, Roy and Steve. With Maurice on the front and with a following wind they made their way along the promenade to join the cycle track to Allonby. Continuing on the new cycle track to the treatment works, where they joined the road before turning right to Edderside. The road through Edderside was cleaner than usual due to the dry weather as they continued on to Clive's cottage. Clive was ready to join the group for the ride, here the group split up due partly to the cold wind. Maurice, Steve, Sue and John decided to head back towards Maryport, while Clive, Tom and Roy would carry onto towards Silloth. For the Maurice group it was straight into the wind as they made their way back to Allonby. Just before Mawbray they met Tracy and Brian coming in the opposite direction, after a quick chat it was back into the wind. While Tracy and Brian with a following wind continued onto Abbeytown with the prospect of a head wind back to their van at Allonby. At Mealo House Sue and John headed inland leaving Maurice and Steve to continue into the wind back to their cars. Sheltered from the wind the Braithwaite duo made their way to Gilcrux where they decided to go over Tallentire Hill. It was then back to their van via Broughton Craggs and Brigham thankful to be out of that cold wind. (34 miles)
Saturday 3rd April 2021 by Dave Swift
As Saturday the 3d of April was the best weather day for some time, l decided to make this my first trip out on my bike. So pumped up the tyres etc and set off down to the cycle track near Tesco, to Parton. I felt a bit stiff but slowly came to the first motorway bridge, where you go under it followed by a sharp left turn up a long straight gentle hill which ends with a zig/zag corner, at which point l noticed an inviting looking stone seat on the right. A good place to stop and have my snack of bread and cooked ham, very nice! Then on with my ride, l hadn't gone far when l could see in the distance 2 flashing white lights,? was there some cycle track work going on, this was soon apparently not,it turned out to be a husband and wife pair riding side by side, in bright sunlight with blinding white front lights! I waved them to stop for a chat and said it was illegal to have any front flashing lights of any couple as, on a road one could cause an oncoming vehicle to have s crash. l think they got the message and went on our ways! When l had gone left under the next motorway bridge l came out by the big roundabout went around it to travel back on the old main road to Whitehaven and around the loop road to come home down Inkerman terrace,a total of 12 miles. That was enough for a first time out and l was quite tired, but pleased as well.
Good Friday 2nd April. by Roy Jackson
On a fine sunny morning Maurice, Tom and Roy started from the old road at Braithwaite, John Murphy took a walk down for a chat before they set off.
First into Keswick, then along the old railway to Threlkeld, turning right along the track which goes under the A66 into the Vale of St John. A very pleasant ride with very little traffic. Then across the A591 and over the dam. With a slight tailwind the trio rode as far as the last car park and ate lunch there in the sun and out of the wind. Quite a few cars in the car park and the toilets were open. Then back to the Vale of St John, turning left before Threlkeld, via Shundraw and Keswick back to Braithwaite. (28'miles)
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Wednesday 31st March by Maurice Cowley
Maurice met Roy at the Park Head Inn, just outside Thornhill, to ride down to Egremont Main Street and wait for Tom John R, Steve and Anita who were meeting at Moor Row to ride on together to Egremont. The day was very promising with sun and very little wind.
All six riders rode from the town centre to the south end of town taking the road to the outskirts of Gully Flats to turn left to pass by Rothersyke Hall and onwards turning right to bypass Kersey Bridge and on to and through Braystones village to cross over the River Ehen and onto and through Beckermet turning right just after the White Mare Inn to turn left at Yottenfews and reach the A595 at Calderbridge. After this it was keeping to the A595 to Gosforth mingling with the traffic but then turning right at Gosforth along the Gosforth/Seascale cycle path to reach Seascale and the lunch stop looking out at the sea.
After lunch the younger two in the group, Anita and Tom, wanted more miles in so they carried on to ride to Saltcoats but couldn't get over the estuary to Ravenglass due to the tide being full in so returned to Seascale for an ice cream. After this they carried on down the Cinder Track to Sellafield to Beckermet and then using the cycle routes via Thornhill, Egremont, Moor Row and onto Whitehaven and home.
At the same time as the young ones left for Saltcoats the other four started to retrace their inward route to get home via Gosforth , Calderbrdge and then Beckermet and then out up Chestnut Hill passing daffodils on the hedgerow on the way up and on toThornhill, where Maurice an Roy finished their ride, Maurice to home and Roy to his car. The other two carried on through Egremont and Moor Row, Steve L to his home at Padstow and John R to his home at Whitehaven.
Wednesday 31st March. by John Murphy
On warm sunny morning Sue and John left Braithwaite point hunting, with hardly any traffic but quite a few cyclists they made their way over Whinlatter into Lorton. Crossing the River Cocker that was flowing rather fast they turned left to Thackthwaite where they met Sue and Paul. They were heading to Foulsyke to meet up with the Dianne group for lunch. After a short chat they carried on past Loweswater and up and over Fangs Brow to Mockerkin. To avoid the A5086 they crossed over to Ullock, having to cross the A5086 again to Pardshaw where they stopped for lunch. With the sun at its warmest according to John's Garmin that was recording 19 degrees they sat soaking up the sun. In no rush to move they eventually set of heading for Mozzer Church where they did a u-turn back down the hill to Brandlingill and on towards Paddle School. Turning right at the junction was followed by the descent to Southwaite Mill and on past Hundith Hill to cross the A66 to Embleton. Following the old road to Dubwath they joined the A66 back to Braithwaite via Thornthwaite. (33 miles)
Wednesday 31st March, Cockermouth and the Lorton Valley by Dianne Moyes
At last we are able to ride with other people so my offer to host a group of 6 in my garden was soon fully booked. Clive and Helen drove in from Mawbray and Dearham respectively, Johnny cycled in from Pardshaw and Bruce and Brenda from Brigham. It was just so nice to sit around and talk and I am glad to say we have not forgotten the art of conversation. By good fortune Wednesday turned out to be the warmest day of the year so far with just a gentle breeze. The plan was to have a gentle sociable ride and a picnic at the bench with the view at Foulsyke. We left Cockermouth via the Greenway, me showing off my beautifully painted Millenium Marker en route, and then onto the Lorton Road down to Lorton taking the road past the church then down to the bridge over the Cocker which was flowing fast. The Thackthwaite road is getting worse, lots of debris and pot holes but still lovely if you are careful. Paul and Sue were already sitting on the bench but willingly gave it up for Bruce and Brenda. The rest of us sat well spaced on a low mound which forms a semicircle round the bench. (See photo). Then Maggie and Stewart arrived so we were 10 in total. The views were fantastic, the birds were singing, it was perfect.
After lunch we broke up Into a number of groups. Clive decided to stick with Sue and Paul going back via Thackthwaite. Maggie and Stewart were heading to Loweswater and Fangs Brow as was Johnny after a quick trip to Crummock Water, maybe he is points collecting. Bruce, Brenda, Helen and I went past the Kirkstile, then round and over Scale Hill back to Lorton where we turned over the bridge again and found Sue, Paul and Clive admiring the river. After a short chat it was back along the Rogerscale road to Paddle School where we said goodbye to Bruce and Brenda as they headed to Eaglesfield and Brigham. Helen and I took the main road into Cockermouth. We only did 19 miles but it was a really enjoyable ride on a perfect day. We were having another cuppa in the garden when Clive came back and joined us. As it was still quite early, Helen decided to ride back home and then pickup her car later, so she did 25 miles in total. A wonderful day.
Tuesday 30th March. by John Murphy
Leaving Braithwaite via the A66 it was into Keswick to join the throngs using the railway track to Threlkeld. Leaving Threlkeld they Followed the Sea to Sea route as far as the Sportsman Inn, where the continued on through Penrudock to the cycle path alongside the A66. After a short distance they turned left to follow the road to Greystoke Gill and onto Newbiggin and Stainton. Stopping in Stainton for their packed lunch, before heading back to Threlkeld following there wheel tracks. To avoid the railway track they crossed the A66 to follow the road up Burns Brow and back through Keswick to Braithwaite. (40 miles)
Wednesday 24th March 2021 by Maurice Cowley
Maurice met Tom at the Whitehaven Harbour Hub on a sunny day, with a fresh breeze to start their run to use the northern cycle tracks from Whitehaven.
They started out using the cycle track to Parton then up the climb up to Lowca to get onto the cycle track to Distington where they crossed the A595 and then rode up to the cycle path alongside the A595 and down to the turn off to get to Great Clifton. Turning left at Great Clifton they rode on to pass through Stainburn and then through Curwen Park to cross the A596 to get the cycle path to go over the bridge and into Workington shopping Centre to sit and have a coffee.
After the chat and coffee was finished they joined the cycle path once more and rode on to Distington again where they left it to divert onto the old A595 and turn up to Pica passing the Crematorium on the way. From there they dropped down through Moresby Parks and onto Hensingham. On the top road Maurice turned down to Sneakyeat Industrial Estate to visit the Powerbike Bike shop prior to dropping down to Whitehaven and his car, Tom left Maurice at the junction where he turned down to the Powerbike Bike Shop and carried on to Ainfiels Cycles at Cleator before going home in Whitehaven. (Maurice 26miles) (Tom 33miles)
Monday 22nd March 2021 by Maurice Cowley
Maurice meeting up qith Steve L at Padstow after riding from home at Thornhill via Egremont, Woodend and Moor Row After the obligatory coffee, sitting on the wall outside the garden they set off through Cleator Moor and onto Wath Brow and onto the A5086 to ride down to Park Side to reach the Rowrah/Whitehaven Cycleway. This was an extra loop to miss the bad bumps due to the tree roots lifting the tarmac. Today the route was northwards along the remaining length right up to the wilds of the road from Kirkland school and it's telltale spoil heaps of long ago. The route down this lane passed by Salter Hall and led them on the unusual north side of the River Ehen with lovely views across the valley; this narrow road is known as Red Beck Lane, took them conveniently to Wath Brow all the time passing lovely bunches of Daffodils and Primroses. Turning left onto the A5086 both decided to complete the loop by going downhill to Cleator, then to visit the Ainfield bike shop, After all enquiries were satisfied both parted company at Woodend. Maurice set off for his home at Thornhill and Steve headed home to Padstow. (18miles)
Sunday 21st March. by Roy Jackson
Warm started with no jacket first time this year I think. First to Keswick, then turning right, then Storms and Threlkeld. Then the gated road where Roy met one cyclist. The gate on the steep hill was a struggle Roy remembers it being easier when it was opened for him by a certain Mr Growley. Lunch was eaten sitting on the seat in the churchyard at Mungrisdale. Returning against a light wind Roy needed to put his jacket back on. Back to Threlkeld and down the railway track busy with other cyclists, Keswick and home to Braithwaite. (25 miles)
Sunday 21st March. by John Murphy
Waiting for the morning to warm up Sue and John left Braithwaite around eleven thirty to make their way to Dubwath. What appeared a warm sunny morning was quite the opposite as they rode into a cold westerly wind. On reaching Ouse Bridge and now with a following wind they made their way to the Castle Inn. Crossing the A591 and pass the old blacksmiths shop to continue climbing collecting tour point at High Bewaldeth on the way. More climbing before the fast descent to Ruthwaite, where they turned left to High Ireby, followed by the descent into Ireby.
It was then onto Aughertree on a decent road surface that on leaving Aughertree turned into a dirt track that was under water in places. After walking and ridding they eventually arrived in Uldale with the time saying almost two o'clock. Having had no lunch and feeling drained they stopped by Overwater for their packed lunch. Coffee and sandwiches consumed they made their way to Bassenthwaite and onto St Begas before joining the A591 back to Keswick. Just before Crossthwaite roundabout John got a front wheel puncture, unable to get the tyre of he borrowed Sue's bike to get the van,returning to collect Sue and the bike. (30 miles)
Friday 19th March 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On a day that the weather forecast was very little wind and some sunshine Tom and Maurice met up at The Park Head Inn at Thornhill to start their ride to Wastwater. Their route took them through Beckermet to the A595 and then through Calderbridge to Gosforth. Leaving Gosforth they climbed up the steep Leagate Brow then dropped down through various wooded areas, then to pass the road to Nether Wasdale and climb up Harrow Head and drop down to Greendale and onto Wastwater itself. As they rode towards Wasdale Head the wind was not the breeze that was forecast, it was a strong wind. They reached Wasdale Head Inn and sat on a wall to have their snack and drinks and chat.
The return journey alongside the lake was fast and easy and instead of folowing their inward route they turned off towards Nether Wasdale and turned off again to reach Santon Bridge. The route then was to Gosforth and along the A595 to reach Thornhill and Maurice's home and Tom's car. (31miles)
Wednesday 17th March. by John Murphy
Eager to get some miles and tour points Sue and John left Braithwaite along the old road to join the A66 to Dubwath. Near the end of the dual carriageway where the road narrows a large wagon nearly took them with it (no social distancing there). Leaving Dubwath it was across the A66 to Lambfoot where they crossed the A66 again to Hundith crossroads. It was then on through Lorton passing fields with new born lambs as they climbed to the cattle grid at Lanthwaite Green. With a following wind along Crummock they arrived in Butternere with the sun out, to find it rather quiet although there were plenty of cars about. After lunch taken by the Youth Hostel they continued on to Gatesgarth where they turning round back to Buttermere. From Butternere it was over Newlands Pass followed by the descent back to Braithwaite. (27 miles)
Wednesday 17th March 2021 by Steve Lunt
Maurice and Steve started at the agreed meeting point; Egremont main street. Maurice today on his mechanical bike and Steve on his electrical bike. The weather ok, bright and temperature well up but cold by a northerly breeze; ie. Ok for bikes.
From the town centre to the south end of town taking the road to the outskirts of Gully Flatts to turn left to pass by Rothersyke Hall and onwards turning right to bypass Kersey Bridge and on to and through Braystones village to cross over the River Elen and have a break on a seat by the river for a drink and nibbles.
After the break and chat, the pair carried on through Beckermet and out up Chessnut Hill to turn left down Cop Lane, negotiating road works, and passing Thornhill, dropped down to cross the River Ehen by using Kersey Bridge. The pair carried on along Cop Lane to turn right at Kell Head to again reach Gulley Flatts, this time going through the village, and into Egremont. Taking to the Egremont cycleway the pair reached Woodend where they parted, Maurice to home at Thornhill and Steve to his home at Padstow.
(Steve 16 miles) (Maurice 15 miles)
Tuesday 16th March. by Roy Jackson
Warmer than yesterday, Roy removed his jacket to climb Whinlatter, and stopped to watch helicopter lifting whole trees from near the visitor centre and dropping them somewhere near Braithwaite. On the summit Roy met Nathan the Forrest manager who said the larches were being taken out because of a disease, and the team doing the work were from Switzerland. Then to Lorton and Cockermouth a quick visit to Aldi and home via the old road to Embleton and the A66 home. (21 miles)
Monday 15th March. by Roy Jackson
Dry and mild, very little wind, Roy rode from home into Keswick, then alongside Derwent Water into Borrowdale. Between Rosthwaite and Seatoller Roy stopped at Combe Gill to see the National Trusts new Hydro Electric Installation. The new building is about 150 yards from the road, but with no windows in it, the generator cannot be seen. A sign on the gate says it generates 100kw of electricity. Then it was back on the bike to Seatoller and left to Seathwaite. After a cup of coffee and a biscuit it was back to Grange, left over the bridge and the very scenic ride round the back of the lake to Swinside and home to Braithwaite. (22 miles)
Sunday 15th March. by John Murphy
Another decent day with a slight breeze Sue and John made their way into Keswick to join the railway track to Threlkeld. On reaching Threlkeld they crossed the A66 to Thirlmere where they carried on the A591 to Wythburn. Turning right of the A591 it back along the west side of Thirlmere stopping for lunch just before the dam. Having found a spot out of the wind and with the sun lighting up the surrounding mountains they looked magnificent. Lunch over it was back down the Vale to Shundraw and back through Keswick to Braithwaite. (30 miles)
Monday 15th March 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On cloudy day with very little wind and a promising forecast Maurice met Tom on the Rowrah/ Whitehaven cycle path at Moor Row to start their run.
Maurice had ridden there from his home at Thornhill via Egremont. Woodend and Moor Row. Tom had left his home at Whitehaven and rode up the Whitehaven/Rowrah cyclepath to the meeting place at Moor Row.
The pair carried on up the cyclepath and left it at Cleator Moor then turned right to Wath Brow and dropped down the hill to cross over the River Ehen using Wath Bridge. Carrying on alongside the river to cross Longmoor and then drop down to pass through Ennerdale Bridge, The pair then took the road to Croasdale where the turned left to climb up the very steep Cauda Brow and stopped at the top for a coffee break.
After the break Maurice and Tom carried on to pass by Felldyke and to turn left after Inglenook Caravan Site to reach the A5086 and carry on up to Rowrah and the Whitehaven/Rowrah Cyclepath once more and then to carry on down to Moor Row again.
At Moor Row both Maurice and Tom reversed their routes they used coming out earlier to the meeting place. (26 miles)
Sunday 7th March. by Roy Jackson
Beautiful sunny day, but quite cold. I took a sandwich and flask with me to make the most of the sunshine and rode to Keswick, then to Storms, Burns and Shundraw. Down the Vale of St John and round the back of Thirlmere where I past lots of other cyclists. I returned by the same route. (30 miles)
Sunday 7th March. by John Murphy
Leaving Braithwaite when most people would be heading back home Sue and John headed through Thornthwaite to join the A66. On approaching the duel carriageway it was all coned of, leaving the west bound section closed, apart from cyclists making the most of the closure. On reaching Dubwath it was onto the old road to Cockermouth where Sue did some shopping in Wilco, while John thought of where next. Leaving Cockermouth by the Low Road it was onto Brigham and the climb to Tendley Quarry, where they stopped for a drink and a bite. Fed and watered they set of again heading for Lorton via Paddle School and Rodgerscale, stopping in Rodgerscale for a herd of sheep. On reaching Lorton they decided to head to Hundith and back through Wythop Mill, just before the descent into Wythop Mill they turned right to Old Scales. With a tour point in the bag they did a u-turn back to Wythop Mill and along the high road to Dubwath to join A66 back to Braithwaite. (34 miles)
Sunday 7th March 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On a cloudy day with the sun threatening to appear and very little wind Maurice met Steve L on Egremont main street to start their trip. After a chat choosing the route they were about to take they set off through Gulley Flatts and onto Kell Head.
From Kell Head to St.Bees the roadside had clumps of Snowdrops, Daffodils and Celandines just to show that Spring was truly here!!
At St. Bees they turned south down the Nethertown Road to pass by Coulderton and reach Nethertown and Braystones after which they stopped for a break on a seat by the River Ehen.
While sitting there “Big” Tom appeared and after a short chat he carried on back to Whitehaven and shortly after Tom left Maurice an Steve left to carry on their ride through Beckermet where the roadside again was abounding with flowers (Daffodils and Snowdrops). At the junction just before the cemetery the pair took a left turn to drop down over the River Ehen using Kersey Bridge and to go through Rothersyke to get to Egremont once more and take to the Egremont cycleway and onto Woodend where the pair parted, Maurice to his home at Thornhill and Steve to return to his home at Padstow. (Steve L 24miles and Maurice 21miles)
Friday 5th March. by Roy Jackson
Fine day, left the e-bike at home and rode the Merlin. Not many people on the railway track very enjoyable. At the end of the track I rode all the way up the zig - zags without getting off !! I was very pleased with that, I returned the same way. (12 miles)
Friday 5th March. by John Murphy
Keen to get a few more miles in Sue and John on their normal bikes again made their way along the A66 to Crosthwaite roundabout. Here they joined the A591, wishing they were on their e-bikes on the short climb to the Castle Inn. The downhill to Ouse Bridge was most welcome, noticing the river had dropped considerably. Turning left after crossing the river they made their way to Dubwath, to join the A66 back to Braithwaite. (18 miles)
Wednesday 3rd March 2021 by Steve Lunt
Still using electric bike with Maurice, but only two days after last ride. Two days in the “wilds of Rowrah” - and now back again up the cycleway northwards to turn around point at Kirkland. This day it was extremely cold in the mist and North-easterly breeze and feeling even colder on the downhill swoop to Ennerdale Bridge. The run back was on the opposite side of the River Ehen – the main route to take them up to Wath Brow (thank goodness for battery power just here!)
They took to the A5086 at the Wath Brow Junction and southwards to Woodend where they parted company, Maurice to his home at Thornhill via Egremont and Steve L home at Padstow via Moor Row. (Steve L 18.5miiles and Maurice 21.5miles)
Tuesday 2nd March. by Roy Jackson
Fine morning but very cold. The plan was to ride to Seathwaite, but when I got to Grange my hands and feet were so cold I turned right over the bridge round the lake to Hawes End, and had difficulty descending the steep double bend because of ice across the road, then Swinside and home. (13 miles)
Tuesday 2nd March. by John Murphy
Making the most off the dry weather but with mist hanging over Keswick Sue and John made their way down Borrowdale. With the mist rising off the lake and the sun having not risen above (Falcon Crag) gave a ghostly appearance as they past Ashness Gate. With temperature changing constantly, as they cycled in and out of the sun it dropped from a max of 8 to 3 degrees. They eventually arrived at Seathwaite to do a quick turnaround and head back to the bridge over the river for hot cup of coffee watching the sheep grazing. While they were there a number of cyclists past and returned, before the set off again following their wheel track back to Braithwaite. (22 miles)
Monday 1st March 2021 by Steve Lunt
This was a first for Steve L after riding solo for many months: a suggested couple-up with Maurice. Meeting up at Padstow and after the obligatory coffee, sitting on the wall outside the garden, adhering to the restrictive 2 metres, we set off to Moor Row to join Rowrah/Whitehaven Cycleway. Today the route was northwards along the remaining length right up to the wilds of the road from Kirkland school and it's telltale spoil heaps of long ago. The route down this lane passed by Salter Hall and led them on the unusual north side of the River Ehen with lovely views across the valley; this narrow road is known as Red Beck Lane, took them conveniently to Wath Brow just short of the main junction into Cleator Moor, so here both decided to complete the loop by going downhill to Cleator, then Egremont. In town Maurice set off for his home at Thornhill and Steve stopped for a short while to look at a newly fitted out hardware shop out the south end of town: always fascinating, before heading home to Padstow. (18miles)
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Sunday 28th February. by John Murphy
Having ridden there e-bikes for the majority off 2020 after Sue broke her pelvis, they decided to ride their normal bikes. Leaving home they took the old road through Thornthwaite where they met Maggie and Stewart coming in the opposite direction.
Stopping for a chat about the present climate, they were joined by Roy out doing his own thing, the good news was that Ruth was much better. Eventually they departed Maggie and Stewart heading for Whinlatter, while Roy joined Sue and John as far as Dubwath. Just before the Pheasant Hotel they bumped into Tracy and Brian who had just finished their ride round Bass Lake. After another stop for a chat the trio set of again, Roy turning left up the hill towards Wythop Mill, while Sue and John joined the A66 to Cockermouth. Thinking the A66 might be quiet turned out to be the opposite with it more like a bank holiday. After negotiating their way through Cockermouth they made their way over Slate Fell back to Dubwath to join the A66 back to Braithwaite. (23 miles)
Sunday 28th February. by Roy Jackson
Roy rode from home to Thornthwaite where he met Sue and John, who had stopped to talk to Maggie and Stewart, who were going the other way. After a chat I continued with Sue and John as far as the Pheasant, where we met Tracy and Bacca just putting their bikes into their van. Sue and John carried on to Cockermouth and I turned left to Wythop Mill, then to Hundith Hill, then left at the crossroads to Lorton, then left to Whinlatter. While climbing Whinlatter, I passed Maggie and Stewart going down, then home to Braithwaite. (18 miles)
Friday 26th February. by John Murphy
Making the most of the better weather Sue and John left home following the A66 to Crosthwaite roundabout to join the A591. Although it was sunny there was a cold wind as they made their way along the A591. On reaching the church they turned right into Bassenthwaite, before joining the A591 again to the Castle Inn. Here they turned left to Ouse Bridge and onto the Isel road, stopping overlooking river for a bite and a drink. Back in the saddle and it was onto the outskirts of Cockermouth to join the road over Slate Fell to Dubwath. After a brief stop for a drink it was back along the A66 and the old road back to Braithwaite. (27 miles)
Friday 26th February 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On sunny day with a slight breeze Maurice met Tom on the Whitehaven/Rowrah cyclepath at Moor Row. Maurice had ridden there from his home at Thornhill via Egremont. Woodend and Moor Row. Tom had left his home at Whitehaven and rode up the Whitehaven/Rowrah cyclepath to the meeting place at Moor Row.
The pair carried on up the cyclepath and left it at Cleator Moor then turned right to Wath Brow and dropped down the hill to cross over the River Ehen using Wath Bridge. Carrying on alongside the river to cross Longmoor and then drop down to pass through Ennerdale Bridge, The pair then took the road to Croasdale where the turned left to climb up the very steep Cauda Brow and stopped at the top for a coffee break.
While sitting at the top an old racing colleague, Ken Hargreaves and friend stopped to have a long chat about old racing times
After the break Maurice and Tom carried on to pass by Felldyke and to turn left after Inglenook Caravan Site to reach the A5086 and carry on up to pass by the Kirkland school and get to the Whitehaven/Rowrah Cyclepath once more and then to carry on down to Moor Row again.(from Rowrah to Cleator Moor is getting very lumpier from the tree roots lifting the tarmac)
At Moor Row both Maurice and Tom reversed their routes they used coming out earlier to the meeting place. (26 Miles)
Thursday 25th February. by John Murphy
After all the rain the previous day and the sun making the occasional appearance Sue and John decided to ride to Seathwaite. Leaving Braithwaite via the Newlands road they followed the road to Swinside. This had been damaged by flood water from Newlands Beck having breached the flood bank below Uzzicar. On reaching Swinside it was up towards Cat Bells and along the road overlooking the Lake to Grange. Turning right after crossing the river it was on through Rosthwaite before reaching Seathwaite.
A brief stop and it was back down the valley to Keswick trying to avoid surface water that was running from open ditches causing the road to flood in places. From Keswick it was back along the A66 to Braithwaite. (20 miles)
Thursday 25th February. by Roy Jackson
Roy rode to Keswick then up the railway track which was very quiet. I met 4 cyclists and not many walkers. Then across the A66 to Goosewell farm, Keswick and back home. (12 miles)
Monday 22nd February. by John Murphy
After the heavy overnight rain it looked like summer had arrived with the sun casting shadows across the fells. With the temperature showing eleven degrees Sue and John left Braithwaite with no particular route in mind headed towards Keswick along the A66. On reaching Crosthwaite roundabout they turned right off the A591 to Applethwaite before joining the A591 again to the Castle Inn. Here they turned left to Ouse Bridge to find the river quite high after all the rain on Friday and Saturday. On reaching Brathay Hill they stopped to decide which way to go, it was ether back to Braithwaite, or carry on towards Cockermouth, they chose the latter. As they approached Embleton and with the wind in their face, they agreed to carry on to Lorton, stopping just before Lorton for a bite and a drink off hot coffee, before making their way over Whinlatter back to Braithwaite. (23 miles)
Monday 22nd February 2021 by Maurice Cowley
Maurice met Tom at the Whitehaven Harbour Hub on a foggy day, with a fresh breeze and with the forecast of sunny periods to start their run to use the northern cycle tracks from Whitehaven.
They started out using the cycle track to Parton then up the climb up to Lowca to get onto the cycle track to Distington where they crossed the A595 and then rode up to the cycle path alongside the A595 and down to the turn off to get to Great Clifton. Turning left at Great Clifton they rode on to pass through Stainburn and then through Curwen Park to cross the A596 to get the cycle path to go over the bridge (the river was much higher than normal due to all the wet weather there has been) and into Workington shopping Centre to sit and have a coffee
While there they met an old cyclist who stopped to have chat with them, Albert White, who had raced with Maurice's brother Mike.
After the chat and coffee was finished they joined the cycle path once more and rode on to Distington again where they left it to divert onto the old A595 and turn up to Pica passing the Crematorium on the way. From there they dropped down toward Moresby Parks but prior to it turned down to Whitehaven passing Quality corner on the way to finish the ride. (23miles)
Sunday 21st February. by Roy Jackson
On a fine morning with no wind Roy rode down the A66 to Dubwath, then to Castle Inn. Near Ouse Bridge I past Tracy and Bacca going the other way in their van. Crossing the A591 I rode to Bassenthwaite village, then across the A591 again to Scarness. Then joined the A591 for a short distance, turning left to Millbeck, Applethwaite and Crosthwaite roundabout then back to Braithwaite. Lots of water on the road after yesterday's rain. (21 miles)
Wednesday 17th February. by John Murphy
After all the bad weather, although there was a strong southerly wind Sue and John decided it was good enough to get the bikes out.
Leaving Braithwaite they followed the A66 into Keswick and on towards Burns, just before Burns Farm they turned right to Shundraw to join the St John's in the Vale. It was now into the wind, as they approached Bridge End Farm it started feel like rain. On reaching the old sawmill they decided to turn round hoping to escape the rain. Now with a following wind they made their way to Threlkeld but not before the heavy rain caught up with them. It was now onto the old railway track back to Keswick, that was rather busy with walkers at the Keswick end. On leaving Keswick it was back along the A66 to Braithwaite to find the roads bone dry. (19 miles)
Tuesday 16th February. by John Rowell
Left home, down to join the cycle way at Mirehouse and up to Rowrah ( the tree roots buckling the cycle path seem to be getting worse) from Rowrah to Kirkland then on to Croasdale, Ennerdale through Cleator Moor past Steve’s house and on towards MoorRow turning right through West Lakes Science Park and on to the A595 back home. It has been many weeks since I was last on the bike and I felt it!! (Anyway it opened my lungs up more) (21 miles)
Monday 15th February 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On a dull day, threatening rain, Maurice left his home at Thornhill to meet Tom at Kell Head.
His route was down the cyclepath and through Egremont and Gully Flats and onto Kell Head to wait for Tom to arrive. About 5 minutes later Tom did arrive. Tom’s route to meet Maurice was leaving home at Kells, Whitehaven, through St. Bees and along the St, Bees/Egremont road to Kell Head.
Together they rode down Cop Lane passing through Rothersyke to turn right before Kersey Bridge and onto Braystones and then onto Beckermet. Passing through Beckermet to go to Blackbeck Roudabout and go straight across to ride up the road to just before Haile where they turned right to pass by Sheepfields Farm and up and over the climb that led them to pass by Calder Abbey and arrive at Calderbridge and the A595. Now it was main road traffic as they rode to Gosforth where they were able to ride to Seascale along the Gosforth/Seascale cyclepath and onto the sea front for a little bite to eat and a drink.
The return journey was back to Gosforth up the Gosforth/Seascale and onto the A595 to Thornhill where they parted company and Maurice returned to his home at Thornhill and Tom rode on to join the Rowrah/Whitehaven cyclepath at Moor Row to ride down to Whitehaven and up to his home at Kells, (Tom 37miles) (Maurice 24miles)
Friday 5th February. by Roy Jackson
Once again into Keswick and up the railway track very quiet again as far as Threlkeld, then returning the same way. (13 miles)
Friday 5th February. by John Murphy
The start of 2021 having been an almost complete write off, what with the cold and ice, Sue and John decided to try and get some miles in. Leaving home they made their way through Thornthwaite to the A66, doing a u-turn back to Braithwaite. Having done just under six miles the continued to do another two laps. On the last lap they bumped into Bacca going the other way, after a brief chat Bacca continued on west, while Sue and John made their way back to Braithwaite. (16 miles)
Friday 5th February 2021 Braystones by Maurice Cowley
On a cold, dull morning with very little wind Maurice left home at Thornhill to meet Tom outside his house at Kells in Whitehaven and join him on a ride to Braystones. Alone for the first part of the ride his route took him from Thornhill and down the A595 passing Egremont and onto the A5086 to Woodend where he turned left to climb up to the Moor Row road. Here the roadside had a smattering of snow drops. A short way along this road Maurice turned down the Whitehaven/Rowrah cycleway to get to Whitehaven. In the town centre the route took him between Albion House and up a steep incline to Toms House. Here he met Tom and sat on his wall to catch his breath and a quick drink.
After a short rest Tom joined Maurice on his ride and rode onwards through Woodhouse and onto through Sandwith, Rottington to climb over another steep hill to get to St. Bees. On travelling up the main street the road was closed, this was due to the road being dug up for gas renovations. They were able to get through by dismounting and using the kerb. After this obstruction they turned off onto the Nethertown Road where they had to ride through a few pools of water and mud which covered the road but there was none on the stretch from Nethertown to Braystones. After Braystones they stopped on a seat by the river Ehen for a chat and coffee. (Having to ride 2 metres apart restricts chatting while riding). Starting off again they rode through Beckermet where they spotted more snowdrops on the hedgerow. On reaching the A595 they made their way up the Cycleway to Thornhill where Maurice went home and Tom followed Maurice's outward route back to Whitehaven and his home. (21miles)
Monday 1st February. by Roy Jackson
Into Keswick and met Bacca on his trike half way to Portinscale. Then down Borrowdale with Derwent Water like a mirror. Met quite a few cyclists, then right over the bridge and home vie Swinside. (12 miles
Monday 1st February. by John Murphy
On a much better day with the temperature hovering around 5 degrees and hardly any wind Sue and John left Braithwaite. Following the A66 they made their way into Keswick to find it almost deserted as they made their way to the valley road. With hardly any traffic apart from the bus to Seatoller it was obvious people were sticking to the Corvid rules. As they approached the lake shore a large flock of Canada Geese appeared and settled in a near by field. Although it was warmer than previous day's there was still patches of ice on the side of road. Eventually they arrived at Seathwaite stopping briefly to take in the views, before following their wheel tracks back to Braithwaite. (22 miles)
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Saturday 30th January. by Roy Jackson
Fine cold day with occasional gusts of wind up Newlands as far as Rigg Beck, then left turn past Newlands Church and Littletown. After that lots of pheasants on the road, then to Swinside, Little Braithwaite and home. (10 miles)
Saturday 30th January. by John Murphy
On a very cold afternoon and rapped in more skins than an onion Sue and John left Braithwaite. They made their way through Thornthwaite to join the A66 to Dubwath where they turned right to Ouse Bridge
It was now into the wind as they made their way to the Castle Inn showing 2 degrees on John’s Garmin. After a brief stop to get the feeling back in the fingers they continued along the A591 to Keswick.
The final stretch from Keswick to Braithwaite was with a following wind and Braithwaite couldn’t come sooner. 16 miles.
Friday 29th January. by John Murphy
Leaving Braithwaite via the A66 Sue and John made their way into Keswick to join the Keswick to Threlkeld newly opened cycle track. It wasn’t long before it started to rain, having hoped to avoid any rain, with the track unusually quiet they eventually arrived in Threlkeld. It was then across the A66 as the rain eased off, to pick up the Vale road to Thirlmere where they joined the A591 back to Keswick. On the way they took a slight detour to Rakefoot, before making their way through Keswick back to Braithwaite. (19 miles)
Friday 29th January 2021 Felldyke by Maurice Cowley
On a cold, dull morning with very little wind Maurice left home at Thornhill the meet Tom on the Whitehaven harbour.
Maurice started passing Egremont to Woodend and up to take to the Whitehaven/Rowtah cyclepath down to Whitehaven to Meet Tom at the harbour. Keeping the designated 2mtr apart they both set off along the Whitehaven/Parton cycleway to pass through Parton to catch up with the Whitehaven/Workington cycleway at Lowca. Here they to rode passed Distington and onto the cyclepath alongside the A595 up to the roundabout at Lillyhall Industrial Estate where they turned right to ride down the lumpy road to Branthwaite. In the village they turned right to get to Ullock and then to the A5086 and to turn left off this road and ride up the drag to pass through Lamplugh and down to turn left again to reach the steep hill to pass though Felldyke village and up to the turn off to Kirkland.
On top of the hill prior to Kirkland they stopped for lunch and drinks a chat as the 2mtr restrictions stops chatting while riding.
After lunch and chats the pair set off again through Kirkland and down to turn left at the school down Red Beck Lane to reach Wath Brow. Tom and Maurice parted here. Tom to go to the Whitehaven/Rowrah cycleway and ride down to Whitehaven and home and Maurice to ride on down the A5086 to Egremont and on to Thornhill and home. (33mls)
Wednesday 27th January. by Roy Jackson
Another cold but fine afternoon with no wind. Into Keswick, then up the railway track with very few people. Then across the A66 into the Vale of St John, turning right to Shundraw, then to Keswick and home. (17 miles)
Wednesday 27th January. by John Murphy
Good to be out again after all the cold frosty days, Sue and John decided to keep to the main roads to avoid any untreated roads. Leaving Braithwaite it was along the A66 to Join the A591 to the Castle Inn, on the way they met Maggie and Sterwart at Mire House. Maggie and Stewart were cycling round Bass Lake in an anti clockwise direction, after a lengthy chat Sue and John left first keeping to the A591. On reaching the Castle Inn they turned left to eventually join the A66 back to Braithwaite via the old road through Thornthwaite. (18 miles)
Wednesday 27th January 2021 by Steve Lunt
Solo run from home at Padstow
Strange times are upon us, but it seemed quirky to put pen to paper after such a long gap. So now I adopt Moe's popular slogan “I want to be alone” Being far from fit and trying to to work out where my long lost cycling legs have gone, this day Wednesday was a “climate break” with a promise of 11oc and no rain. So at 1230pm, the sky brightened, and so time to go. My present outings are slow and steady on a Specialised mech bike with low gears: so it gets me anywhere, locally, mostly on cycleways or quiet roads. One of my regular outings is along the road from my house and just past the Veterinary Hospital, an inlet track takes the cyclist to the cycleway network through Westlakes Science Park down to the A595 crossing lights and so down to join the Whitehaven/Rowrah cycleway. If I'm on loop around to local Cleator Moor Shops, I turn left and ride a big radial loop around to come of the cycleway at Cleator Moor. ( It never ceases to amaze me where the old railways use to get to). But not today! I turned right today at the junction: this takes me all the way through the suburbs into Whitehaven town centre. My first objective was to visit the bank to check if I had any money left after Christmas – which I had – as everyone seems to have a different lifestyle at present – not going out c/o lock-down – which is essential to stay safe. Where to go from here to add a little interest in the trip back? So I cycled down Lowther Street and on to the harbour front with an interesting idea to pedal (slowly) along to older quay path having crossed the large sluice gates. Here I chose to (just for a change of recent routine) turn towards shore front road and car park just below the “Candlestick Chimney”. This seemed like a fun (?) challenge, so riding up the steep walkways I had stop to gasp, briefly, at the this ancient lookout before deciding this was high enough for me, so now gently pedalling down the road that passing between the Albion complex – closed to traffic as digger cut it's way up the road making a trench for a new gas line – so I had to walk this part and remount at the bend at the bottom, close to the main traffic lights. Passing the shops – Aldi and Home Bargains – the cycle route neatly carves a course behind these to cross Coach Road and onto the cycleway proper: the way I came in earlier. The difference this time is soon after passing the “scenic gap” between the trees with a great view all the way down the valley to St. Bees and the sea , well on the way to the loop around to Cleator Moor to join the main Cleator Moor/Whitehaven Road. A short stop at the Co-op Store to collect my Paper and (a weakness of mine) a Petzal bakery item to take home just 1 mile away. Lovely day out - but only 12.3miles – a very useful day out.
Wednesday 27th January 2021 Ravenglass by Maurice Cowley
On a dull day but not freezing cold and very little wind Tom rode up from Whitehaven to meet Maurice at Thornhill to start their ride to Ravenglass.Their route took them through Beckermet to the A595 and then through Calderbridge to Gosforth. Having already agreed to stick to the main road they rode on through Holmerook and onto Ravenglass where they took a detour to visit the Roman Baths. Afterwards it was over the Ravenglass Viaduct to Saltcoats. Here a sign of spring approaching as the hedgerows had snowdrops starting to flower and just farther along was a field with about a hundred or so geese in it. Back to the A595 and through Holmerook once more to turn left and up to go through Drigg and Stubble Green and onto Seascale for lunch sitting looking out to Sea the prescribed 2mtrs apart. After lunch and coffee they started back through Seascale to Gosforth using the Gosforth/Seascale cycle-path and along here Tom had a puncture. Just as the puncture was fixed and the wheel was being put back on the bike Maurice's brother and wife appeared riding back to Seascale along the cycle-track so it was good to see them and have a short catch-up crack keeping the designed distance apart of course. Onwards to the A595 at Gosforth and back through Calderbridge to Thornhill and Maurice's home, leaving Tom to ride on to Whitehaven and his home. (Maurice's 26miles) (Tom's 34miles)
Sunday 24th January. by Roy Jackson
Another very cold but sunny day I rode along the A66 past Bass Lake, which was worth a photo, with no wind Skiddaw and Dodd, covered in snow were reflected in it. On arriving at Dubwath I met Stuart Pike at the crossroads and stopped for a chat, he had been up to the summit of Sail Fell on his mountain bike. He then crossed the A66 and headed for home, and I carried on up the A66 to Scales farm to get some eggs. On the way home the view across the lake was even better, as the setting sun made the snow on Skiddaw pink. (15 miles)
Friday 22nd January. by Roy Jackson
On a very cold afternoon I went for a short ride up the track to Force Cragg mine. I only met three people a lone walker near the mine, and near the gate on the way back, two cyclists riding towards the mine, an enjoyable bur very cold ride. (6 miles)
Friday 22nd January 2021 Padstow/Cleator Moor by Maurice Cowley
On a cold, sunny day with very little wind, as arranged with Steve L, Maurice rode to Padstow for a short ride together. Maurice rode via Egremont, Woodend, Moor Row to get to Padstow where both Maurice and Steve L sat on his wall (the restricted 2mtr apart) drinking a coffee deciding where to go for the ride. Steve having to visit the Creator Moor Co-op the decision was taken to do a roundabout trip there before returning home.
The route taken on this cold morning was back up to Galemire and go through the Science Park and cross the A595 and then drop down to the Whitehaven/Rowrah cycle way and go up passing Moor Row to go out at Cleator Moor. Turning west they reached the retail park and the Co-op for Steve L to carry out his shopping.
On exiting the Science Park they turned right to reach Wath Brow and the Cleator and finally Woodend where they parted company, Steve to return to his home at Padstow via Moor Row and Maurice to his home at Thornhill via Egremont. (14.5 miles)
Monday 18th January 2021 Croasdale/Kirkland by Maurice Cowley
Oh joy! another day not too cold, overcast but not raining but with a slight breeze. This day Maurice was to meet up with “Big” Tom both riding from home.
Starting from Thornhill and riding along the Egremont Bye-pass to turn down the A5086 to turn left at Woodend and climb up to the Moor Row road to meet up with Tom on the Whitehaven/Rowrah Cycleway at Moor Row. Tom had left his Whitehaven home and rode up the Whitehaven/Rowrah to Moor Row to the meeting place.
After a short chat and keeping the obligatory 2mtr distance apart they both started their ride along the cycleway to leave it at Cleator Moor and travel to Wath Brow where they dropped down to Wath Bridge and then alongside the River Ehen to Ennerdale Bridge. After a quick discussion they decided to take the right hand road to Croasdale to climb up the steep hill and then turn left towards Kirkland and a short lunch stop sitting the obligatory 2mtr distance apart.
After finishing a lunch of a piece of Banana Bread and Coffee and a long chat while looking at Ennerdale Lake the pair set off down to Kirkland to turn left at Kirkland school down Red Beck Lane to reach Wath Brow. Down the A5086 where Tom parted at Woodend to go to the Whitehaven/Rowrah Cycleway at Moor Row and ride down to Whitehaven and his home. Maurice rode on through Egremont to climb up to Thornhill and his home. (22 miles)
Monday 18th January 2021. by Roy Jackson
On an overcast morning, looking like rain, Roy left first to Portinscale, past Lingholm, Hawes End, up the steep hill round the back of the Lake, the opposite way from usual.
Turning left at Grange and home via Keswick, arriving home just ahead of the rain. 13 miles. (Tuesday raining again back on the exercise bike)
Sunday 17th January 2021. by Roy Jackson
Another day out at last, after many days on the exercise bike because of cold, rain and ice!! Roy rode into Keswick on a sunny but cool day again, then down Borrowdale with no wind and no traffic all the way to Seathwaite with only three parked cars.
After a cup of tea and a biscuit, returned to Grange then left round the back of the Lake and Swinside back home. 21 miles.
Sunday 17th January 2021 Whitehaven by Maurice Cowley
At last the weather had warmed up and even if it was overcast it wasn't raining so Maurice decided to make his first ride out in 2021 his daily visit to Steve H's. There wasn't anything fancy with his route because as yet he didn't know if the ice had disappeared on the cycleways, so he decided to keep to the main roads.
Leaving home at Thornhill he started down the Egremont By-pass then along the A5086 to Cleator and down Jacktrees Lane to reach Cleator Moor and the B5295 through Hensingham and then the A595 to go down into Whitehaven and onto Steve H's Flat.
The return journey was from Whitehaven up the Whitehaven/Rowrah Cycleway, to check it out for ice, and to reach Moor Row then passing Woodend, Egremont and then back to Thornhill and home.
It was great to get out on the bike once more!!! (17 miles)
Sunday 17th January by Dianne Moyes
After all the ice and snow the forecast for today was cold, 6 degrees C, but not icy, so I decided to go for it. On Saturday evening I contacted new member Sara, who also lives in Cockermouth and we arranged to meet outside 4Play Cycles in the Market Place at 11 am to cycle to the egg farm. She has only lived in the area for 2 years but she was already familiar with the Isel road and even the egg farm. We cycled out past the hospital and because I was wearing my super duper new hearing aids, we could hold a conversation while keeping well apart. Unfortunately just before the farm near the road we came upon a tractor with a flail making a right mess everywhere. Luckily no punctures but I was relieved to hear Sara has already managed to replace an inner tube on her electric bike while cycling near Portinscale. She is a very experienced cyclist.
There were lots of cars parked near Isel Bridge with quite a few people walking the lanes rather than in the fields. We turned right up to the egg farm and both filled our panniers. I owed 20p from before Christmas when I miscalculated, so I paid off my debts. We then returned to Isel bridge using the alternative route and then turned left towards the Distillery to avoid the hedge cuttings. From there we came back through Embleton and into Cockermouth via St. Helen’s Street to the Greenway where we said our goodbyes. The trip was just over 15 miles and we were back in time for lunch, good to get in the first miles of 2021 and good to welcome Sara to the Solway Sociables.
Sunday 17th January by John Murphy.
After the cold start to the New Year we eventually decided to roll the bikes out of the garage. With very little snow left on the tops and the temperature hovering around six degrees we left Braithwaite heading through Thornthwaite to join the A66.
With very little traffic along the duel carriageway, (if only it was like this all the time) we turned off to pass the Pheasant Hotel to join the A66 again. Here we decided to keep our ride as local as possible and ride round the lake. (If that's classed as local) After passing the Boat Club we met Maggie coming in the opposite direction, after a long chat we moved on, crossing the river to the Castle Inn. Joining the A591 we decided to continue on A591 back to Keswick, passing lots off cyclist making the most of the change in the weather. On reaching Keswick it was back along the A66 to Braithwaite and welcome mug of coffee.
Tuesday January 12th 2021. by Roy Jackson
On a very sunny but cold morning, Roy left Braithwaite and rode up Newlands past Uzzicar, turning left at Rigg Beck past Newlands Church, and up the hill to Littletown,
then to Swinside, Little Braithwaite and back to Braithwaite. An enjoyable ride, but with very cold hands and feet. 9 miles.
On a much warmer morning with a southerly wind seven members left Braithwaite they were Helen, Dianne, Tom, Roy, Stuart, Sue and John. With Sue on the front they made their way along the A66 cycle path towards Keswick. Negotiating their way out of Keswick the climbing started as they headed to Burns, to cross the A66 into Threlkeld. A brief stop for some to discard clothing was followed by the climb alongside the A66 to the White Horse Inn. Here they crossed the A66 again to drop down the hill where they turned right to Wallthwaite straight into a headwind. Rounding the farm buildings and with the wind coming from the right they climbed steadily seeing Tom and Stuart disappear up the road. On reaching Troutbeck they crossed the A66 for a third time, heading east to the Sportsman Inn where they turned left to Berrier. This was followed by more climbing through Berrier followed by a welcome descent to Chuckywood House (Dianne clocking 33 mph) were they turned left to Mungrisdale. Now into the wind again and looking for a place for lunch they continued onto Mungrisdale where they met Maggie and Stewart by the Mill Inn. They finally found a sheltered spot out of the wind on the gated road to have their picnic. Maggie and Stewart had parked at Braithwaite and cycled to Mungrisdale via the Sustrans route. Lunch over they continued along the gated road to Scales to join the cycle path to Threlkeld as rain drops appeared. With the rain getting heavier they made their way back to Keswick via the cycle track, then onto Braithwaite and parked cars
Sunday May 2nd Uldale by Dianne Moyes
Tom, Roy and Helen parked at Brewer’s Fayre then came round to my house for a 10.30 start. Sue and Paul arrived In time to say hello but were not planning to ride with the group. Their day involved coffee at the Distillery, a picnic overlooking Bass Lake and then, quite by chance, a tour of the train at Dubwath. The owners are looking forward to welcoming cyclists and could be open by late July.
We knew that Maggie and Stewart were ahead of us on the road but we didn’t catch up with them until the lunch stop in Uldale. We headed through Cockermouth and onto the Isel Road, then over Isel Bridge turning right then right again towards Bewaldeth. The day was chilly but the visibility was superb so we had wonderful views towards Skiddaw and the fells around Bass Lake. We crossed the Keswick to Bothel road and climbed through Bewaldeth stopping to enjoy the scenery. It was then onto the Ireby road before turning left up to High Ireby for a point. This was followed by a careful descent into Ireby and then the road to Uldale. Maggie and Stewart were just finishing their picnic lunch on a suitably long bench opposite one of the two cherry trees near the crossroads. The trees were just coming into flower but not quite at their best. Maggie and Stewart had come by a slightly different route but had included one of the tracks listed in the Tour Competition. They headed up to Mae’s Cafe to see if there was a table for 6 where we could all meet after our picnic. It was fairly busy but we were lucky and were able to enjoy coffee and cake in the chilly sunshine.
They left before us to go back via Overwater and then down to Castle Inn whereas we turned left at Overwater to then take the Orthwaite Road and into Bassenthwaite Village via Park Wood. Our route was then straight back to Cockermouth over Ouse Bridge and through Embleton. (28 miles)
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Wednesday 28th April Thirlmere by John Murphy
Again another good turnout for a Wednesday ride they were Stuart, Anita, John R, Tom, Dianne, Sara, Clive, Maurice, Sue and John. Starting from the Murphy household but not before Sue had offered coffee and biscuits to those who took up the offer. Before they were about to leave Sue and Paul arrived, turned out it was Sue's birthday so all wished her a happy birthday. Eventually they made a move realising Tom was missing, after a phone call it turned out he was at the old station in Keswick. Having located Tom they left Braithwaite along A66 cycle track to the old station where Tom was sat waiting. It was then along the new cycle track to Threlkeld, here Maurice and Tom took a different route under A66 and along the old track bed towards the quarry.
While the rest made their way through Threlkeld bumping into Sue and Paul again before meeting up with Maurice and Tom. With a following wind they made their way down the Vale to Thirlmere then over the dam to follow the road to Wythburn. Here they did a u-turn back to Dob Gill car park for lunch sat on some long tree trunks.
Back in the saddle they followed their wheel tracks back down the Vale where they turned left to Shundraw and on through Keswick to parked cars at Braithwaite. An enjoyable day except for the cold wind. (31 miles)
Monday 26th April 2021 Seacale by Maurice Cowley
Again the day was very promising with sun and very little wind Maurice met Tom at Maurice's home for coffee at Thornhill and then to try again to do the full Seascale run. This time Maurice was riding Tom's E-bike.
The route again took them past Thornhill and through Beckermet to emerge on the A595 just before riding through Calderbridge which took them onto the busy A595 to drop down to go through Gosforth and onto the road to Santon Bridge. On the way from Gosforth the view to the left of the Wasdale fells was very picturesque, On climbing part way up the Irton Brow and turning right towards Irton Flats they stopped to see if the cafe was open but unfortunately it was not but they sat on the cafe seats outside out of the wind and had a chat with a drink from their flasks.
After leaving the cafe area they carried on down the Irton Flats to Holmerook and onto Drigg where they decide to have another stop at the Drigg Station Cafe for coffee again out of the cold wind and chatted to a local couple who also had stopped for refreshments.
Now it was onto Seascale to stop for dinner on the sea front and again chat while watching a young lady go for a swim in the sea after her run, She said the sea was quite exhilarating and it was warm, we didn't believe her.
After lunch it was back on the bikes and along the cycle path to Gosforth and the A595 back to Thornhill where Maurice returned home and Tom rode onto Whitehaven.
Sunday 25th April Ennerdale. by John Murphy
On a sunny but cool morning Dianne, Tom and Roy set off from the Brewers Fayre to meet Sue and John who had cycled over Whinlatter, in Lorton. After a brief chat the group finally left Lorton with Sue on the front heading for Thackthwaite with the road surface constantly getting worse, stopping briefly at Foulsyke to admire the view. Although the roads were rather quiet there were plenty of cars parked by Loweswater and on the top of Fangs Brow. Once over the top of Fangs it was mostly downhill to Lamplugh this was followed by more climbing passed Felldyke to Cross Rigg. Stopping on the top to regroup, the view overlooking Ennerdale and the surrounding mountains were magnificent. The descent into Croasdale was taken with caution turning right at the bottom towards Ennerdale, just before Ennerdale they turned left to the lake. Finding a suitable place by Lake Outfall they sat down on the grass to have their sandwiches to be joined by Johnny. After lunch and heading back towards the road Tracy and Brian appeared on their way to meet up, having had lunch in the Fox and Hounds. After lengthy chat with both of them, with Tracy waving he phone about taking photos and videos. Finally the group set of heading for Ennerdale while Johnny headed towards Croasdale back home. On the climb out of Ennerdale the group split only to regroup in Kirkland where they decided to go to Ennerdale Brewery for a coffee. Finding a table outside they sat down in what seemed a well organised venue with a large marquee if it rained or otherwise. After a slice of cake and coffee they set off again to join the main road as far as the Ullock turning. It was then through the lanes via Dean, Deanscales to Eaglesfield, where Sue and Paul were just setting off for a ride. Stopping for a brief chat, before continuing on to Paddle School where Dianne, Tom and Roy joined the main road back to Cockermouth. That left Sue and John to make their way back home to Braithwaite, via Southwaite, Embleton, Dubwath and the A66.
Friday 23rd April 2021 Seacale by Maurice Cowley
The day was very promising with sun and very little wind Maurice met Tom at the Park Head Inn just outside Thornhill, Anita was going to meet them at Seascale to ride back with them.
The route took them past Thornhill and through Beckermet to emerge on the A595 just before riding through Calderbridge which took them onto the busy A595 to get to the hill just before dropping down to the outskirts of Gosforth.
They stopped just outside The Red Admiral Pub to look at Maurice's back wheel which had been damaged on a couple of previous runs. The decision was for Maurice to return home and Maurice afraid it was going to collapse completely rang for his wife, Shirley, to come and pick him up which she did and they then drove to Seascale to meet the other two.
Meanwhile Tom carried on his ride to Seascale via Holmerook, Drigg and Seascale for lunch on the sea front with Maurice. Shirley and Anita. It got rather cold which cut down the time chatting etc. so Tom rode back to Whitehaven with Anita and Maurice and Shirley drove back to Thornhill.
Wednesday 21st April, The Melbreak Hôtel to Maryport by Dianne Moyes
Rather a lot of us gathered at The Melbreak Hôtel, Chapel Brow for a 10.30 start. Maurice, Tom, Roy and Stuart were already into their drinks when John and I turned up, closely followed by John and Sue. Then a bearded stranger arrived which turned out to be club member Brian Dixon who had ridden from Whitehaven to see us. Paul and Sue came for a chat too but were not riding. Just as we were lined up to leave fairly promptly, John Rowell appeared, so there were 10 riders in total.
We took the usual route to Workington and then via Curwen Park to follow the cycleway past Northside and Siddick Pond, round Flimby then to our destination the Fish and Chip shop by Maryport Harbour. There was still a cool north wind so we were a bit protected by the buildings as we sat on the wall overlooking the harbour - see photo taken by Stuart. Brian headed straight back to Whitehaven from there with the wind on his back, the rest of us continued along the Prom and onto the cycleway to Allonby as far as the Crosscanonby turning. We turned right through the village and up to Crosby then made our way to Dearham where every road in the village was being dug up. We crossed the main Maryport to Cockermouth Road and headed for Broughton Moor, there Stuart and I took the Papcastle road to Cockermouth while the others crossed over to Brigham and back to their cars near the Melbreak. Another lovely dry spring day.
Sunday 18th April. by John Murphy
Starting from Silver Meadows Dubwath on a cold overcast morning were Dianne, Helen, Sara, Sue, Maurice, Tom, Roy and John all on e-bikes apart from Tom.
Also joining them at the start were Maggie and Stewart who joined them for the short ride to the Castle Inn, while the rest crossed the A591 to continue up the hill towards Uldale. Once on the top and regrouped it was all downhill through Ireby and onto Boltongate having just crossed the River Ellen. Leaving Boltongate it was onto Mealsgate to cross the busy A595 to Fletchertown where they followed the road to join the A596. After a short distance they turned left to Crookdake to collect a tour point on their way to Blennerhasset, where they stopped for their packed lunch by the River Ellen. Sat socially distancing some sat at a picnic table while others sat by the river in a cold breeze unlike the previous day when it was warm and sunny. Setting off again they headed along a badly patched up lane to Fitz Farm where they turned left to Threapland. This was followed by a steady climb to the A595, here they crossed over to negotiate the lanes through Sunderland to Isel Bridge. Stopping on the bridge to look in the river for fish or any wildlife that might appear was not to be. Leaving the bridge behind was followed by a short steep climb where Dianne and Sara turned right back to Cockermouth. While the rest continued back to Dubwath and parked cars, leaving Sue and John to carry on back to Braithwaite.
Friday 16th April by Stuart Pike
Met at The Melbreak for coffee and craic in the warm sunshine before Maurice lead us on our merry way via Gt Cliffton and Stainburn. In Maryport we had fish and chips sitting next to the harbour. I suggested taking an off-road route back and to my surprise it got supported! It got a little muddy in a couple of places but generally it was dry and dusty. But once we arrived at Broughton Moor Maurice who was nursing a couple of missing spokes and a resulting buckled rear wheel was having no more of it and we headed back on the black top towards The Melbreak.
Riders:- Roy, John, Tom, Maurice, Stuart 21.5 miles - a very enjoyable trip out.
Wednesday 14th April. by John Murphy
Starting from the Melbreak on a sunny morning were Sue and John but not before having a coffee outside the Melbreak soaking up the sun. The garden to the side of the hotel was all set out with tables and wet weather bubbles that were being constructed.
Leaving the hotel they made their way to Great Clifton and over the river into Camerton crossing the footbridge they spotted a Kingfisher. After the climb they joined the cycle track to Workington that was rather busy with mums with prams and dog walkers. On reaching Workington they had to make a detour due to work being carried out under the underpass. Back on the cycle track they were constantly confronted with broken glass as they made their way out of Workington to Distington. Continuing on the cycle track through Whitehaven where they collecting tour point at the Beacon on the way. Just before Parkside they stopped for their sandwiches with the sun at its warmest overlooking a small pond with the sound of crows disturbing the peace. Lunch over they continued onto Rowrah to join the road to Arlecdon, this was followed by a steep climb before reaching Pica. It was then across Dean Moor to Dean Cross where they turned left to Gilgarran and onto Distington. Joining the cycle track it was back to the Melbreak along with the rush hour traffic, thanks for the cycle track. (39 miles)
Wednesday April 14th, Cockermouth to Allonby. by Dianne Moyes
Eight of us met on Parkside Avenue on a sunny spring morning, they were me, Sara, Anita, Stuart, Tom, Roy, Bruce and Brenda. We headed straight out of Cockermouth on the Carlisle road before turning off to Bridekirk. We were due to meet Helen in Tallentire at 11.00 and managed to arrive on time. It was then up Tallentire Hill for a point followed by the descent into Gilcrux and down to the River Ellen before climbing up into Oughterside. We crossed the main road and dropped down into Hayton then took the little road on the level. I seem to remember there is another point along there somewhere. The road surfaces approaching Allonby were really bad with so many potholes, luckily people were keeping their distance so they could see the road ahead. As we dropped to the coast it felt colder and the north wind was penetrating. On the cycle path we met Sue and Paul who had cycled out from Maryport . We were just near a row of houses which made a good windbreak so decided to picnic there. I sent a message on WhatsApp to say where we were and soon Clive and Christie with e bike arrived. So we were 13 for lunch. It was warm enough to take our time and get to know each other again.
The return journey with the wind on our backs and the tide in was lovely and we got another point on Maryport Prom. From Maryport to Flimby then up the hill towards Broughton Moor. Helen turned left to Dearham, the rest of us right to Great Broughton, then Bruce and Brenda headed for Brigham while we returned via Papcastle and Cockermouth. (28 miles)
Monday 12th April 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On a day that promised to be warm with sunshine and very little wind Maurice , Roy and Tom met up at Braithwaite to start their ride into the hills. Their route started by taking them up the cycleway alongside the A66 to turn off up the A591 at the back side of Bassenthwaite Lake passing the Cafe at Mirehouse that seemed to be open. At High Side the trio turned up to through Orthwaite passing some daffodills which were past their best and some that had just newly bloomed and then to drop as they looked down on Overwater and then to turn left at the north end of Overwater. Turning right at the next junction took them up a steep climb and to a fast downhill to Stanthwaite and uphill to Uldale. Turning up the hill and then the left turn in between the Snooty Fox Inn and the next house uphill took them up a steep rough hill and then down a rougher part of the road to pass through Aughertree to reach the Ireby/Caldbeck Common road where they turned down to pass through Ireby where they took a right up to High Ireby and a lunch stop with a lovely view back across the valley in the sunshine. After a chat and lunch the group decided to take a right turn down a road they had never been on before and as the had gone about 20 yards the road split into two and this was not shown on the map?? Not knowing which one to take Maurice asked kind gentleman which one to take. After a bit of a discussion he told them they had passed the road end on the way up from Ireby and it was just about 50 yard back down the road but it was very rough and it would take a very experienced mountain biker to negotiate it. He was asked if it was worse that the road down to Aughetree and he stressed that the last part was much worse. After leaving High Ireby the threesome elected to use this road and found that that kind gentleman was quite correct and they had to walk about a ¼ of a mile at the end to reach the Ireby/Whitrigg road. At the junction they turned left to climb up to Whitrigg where they dropped down to the A591 to reach Bewaldeth. Here they had to climb up and turn down to go through the farm at Riggwood and along the track to pass through the farm at High Bewaldeth and then climb the slight drag up to the Ireby Castle Inn road. After this they turned down to turn left to pass the Robin Hood Caravan Park on their way down to Bassenthwaite Village and to cross the A591 on the way to the loop which passes Scarness on the way back to A591 to again pass by Mirehouse aand the rest of the route retraced their route back side of Bassenthwaite Lake to the A66 and then to Braithwaite and for Maurice and Tom their cars and home and for Roy his house. (33miles hilly and sometimes rough Miles)
Cockermouth to Gatesgarth, Buttermere, Sunday April 11th. by Dianne Moyes
Another dry day forecast though maximum temperature only predicted to be 5 ‘C when Helen, Roy, John and Sue met up outside my house .John and Sue had cycled from Braithwaite in the cold. We then went off to meet John Rowell and Tom at Brewer’s Fayre. Sue and Paul had come down from Eaglesfield to have a word but were not riding. We headed off to Buttermere via Paddle School, Rogerscale and Lorton Bridge where swallows were spotted. As we got on to the road down the Lorton Valley we were overtaken by a load of cyclists involved in an event which we later learnt was the Lakeland Loop Cycle Sportive. I looked it up and it is 69 miles starting from the Dungeon Ghyll Hôtel including Whinlatter, Cold Fell, Hardknott and Wrynose. Various groups passed us until we turned off to Buttermere and they headed for Loweswater and Fangs Brow. The scenery was stunning with a dusting of snow on the Red Pike ridge.
Tom, the only rider not on an E bike, was first to the cattle grid, but the rest of us were not far behind. It was so cold there was some ice on the road below Rannerdale Knott. As we were in Buttermere before midday we carried onto Gatesgarth, and some of us wanted the point. It was busy there with a full car park, but the picnic tables were empty so we kept our distance and used three tables. Then we retraced our wheels back to Lorton but the sun was out rarely and the northerly wind was bitter. At Hundith Hill crossroads, Sue and John turned right to make their way home to Braithwaite, a total of nearly 50 miles, while the rest of us went left down to Southwaite Mill back to Paddle School and into Cockermouth to do about 25 miles.
Friday 9th April. by John Murphy
Meeting on the old road at Braithwaite were Maurice, Tom, John R, Roy, Sue and John.
With a clear sky and the sun beaming down Maurice led the group onto the A66 cycle track and on into Keswick. On the first short climb out of Keswick to join the Borrowdale road Maurice split the group with his pace. In and out of the sun it was rather cold along with the wind constantly changing directions. Eventually the valley opened up as they approached Rosthwaite and it felt much warmer as they made their way to Seathwaite. Having reached the end of the road, some took a quick drink while the others had a geography lesson on the surrounding fells. Back in the saddle it was back down the valley to Grange for packed lunches. With everything closed they opted to use the convenient tables outside the cafe, these had been newly painted ready for opening up. Lunch over it was on with the power for the climb towards Catbells, followed by the descent over the castle grid where the traffic warden was handing out parking tickets. It was then on past the Swinside Inn to Braithwaite and parked cars. (20 miles)
Easter Sunday 4th April. by Roy Jackson
Maurice, Tom, Steve and Roy parked their cars at Maryport Promenade, and were joined by Sue and John who had cycled from the Melbreck Hotel. The group set off under a cloudy sky along a very windy coast road cycle track to Allonby. Then turning right to Edderside, and Clive's house at Goodyhills, where Clive joined the group. At this point Maurice decided to give his knee a rest and return to Maryport. Steve joined him because of the wind, and also Sue and John because they had to ride back to the Melbreck against that wind. Clive, Tom and Roy decided to carry on to Silloth via Abbeytown, then across the Marsh to Skinberness, then along the coast road into a real headwind to Silloth. Finding a seat in the park, in the sun but out of the wind, a rest and cup of coffee, deciding to have lunch in Clive's garden with a French pot of tea. Arriving at Clive's, when he put his bike away in the shed, he showed us his four bikes, he is selling two of them to finance his new e-bike, so Tom bought one of them a Mountain Bike. Tom and Roy then had a hard ride against that wind, arriving at Maryport rather tired. (34 miles)
Sunday 4th April. by John Murphy
Parking at the Melbreak were Sue and John having arranged to meet up with the Maurice group at Maryport. Leaving the Melbreak they headed for Great Clifton not realising how cold the wind was as they descended to the foot bridge over the river. After the steep climb out of Camerton it was on through Flimby and onto Maryport to meet up with Maurice, Tom, Roy and Steve. With Maurice on the front and with a following wind they made their way along the promenade to join the cycle track to Allonby. Continuing on the new cycle track to the treatment works, where they joined the road before turning right to Edderside. The road through Edderside was cleaner than usual due to the dry weather as they continued on to Clive's cottage. Clive was ready to join the group for the ride, here the group split up due partly to the cold wind. Maurice, Steve, Sue and John decided to head back towards Maryport, while Clive, Tom and Roy would carry onto towards Silloth. For the Maurice group it was straight into the wind as they made their way back to Allonby. Just before Mawbray they met Tracy and Brian coming in the opposite direction, after a quick chat it was back into the wind. While Tracy and Brian with a following wind continued onto Abbeytown with the prospect of a head wind back to their van at Allonby. At Mealo House Sue and John headed inland leaving Maurice and Steve to continue into the wind back to their cars. Sheltered from the wind the Braithwaite duo made their way to Gilcrux where they decided to go over Tallentire Hill. It was then back to their van via Broughton Craggs and Brigham thankful to be out of that cold wind. (34 miles)
Saturday 3rd April 2021 by Dave Swift
As Saturday the 3d of April was the best weather day for some time, l decided to make this my first trip out on my bike. So pumped up the tyres etc and set off down to the cycle track near Tesco, to Parton. I felt a bit stiff but slowly came to the first motorway bridge, where you go under it followed by a sharp left turn up a long straight gentle hill which ends with a zig/zag corner, at which point l noticed an inviting looking stone seat on the right. A good place to stop and have my snack of bread and cooked ham, very nice! Then on with my ride, l hadn't gone far when l could see in the distance 2 flashing white lights,? was there some cycle track work going on, this was soon apparently not,it turned out to be a husband and wife pair riding side by side, in bright sunlight with blinding white front lights! I waved them to stop for a chat and said it was illegal to have any front flashing lights of any couple as, on a road one could cause an oncoming vehicle to have s crash. l think they got the message and went on our ways! When l had gone left under the next motorway bridge l came out by the big roundabout went around it to travel back on the old main road to Whitehaven and around the loop road to come home down Inkerman terrace,a total of 12 miles. That was enough for a first time out and l was quite tired, but pleased as well.
Good Friday 2nd April. by Roy Jackson
On a fine sunny morning Maurice, Tom and Roy started from the old road at Braithwaite, John Murphy took a walk down for a chat before they set off.
First into Keswick, then along the old railway to Threlkeld, turning right along the track which goes under the A66 into the Vale of St John. A very pleasant ride with very little traffic. Then across the A591 and over the dam. With a slight tailwind the trio rode as far as the last car park and ate lunch there in the sun and out of the wind. Quite a few cars in the car park and the toilets were open. Then back to the Vale of St John, turning left before Threlkeld, via Shundraw and Keswick back to Braithwaite. (28'miles)
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Wednesday 31st March by Maurice Cowley
Maurice met Roy at the Park Head Inn, just outside Thornhill, to ride down to Egremont Main Street and wait for Tom John R, Steve and Anita who were meeting at Moor Row to ride on together to Egremont. The day was very promising with sun and very little wind.
All six riders rode from the town centre to the south end of town taking the road to the outskirts of Gully Flats to turn left to pass by Rothersyke Hall and onwards turning right to bypass Kersey Bridge and on to and through Braystones village to cross over the River Ehen and onto and through Beckermet turning right just after the White Mare Inn to turn left at Yottenfews and reach the A595 at Calderbridge. After this it was keeping to the A595 to Gosforth mingling with the traffic but then turning right at Gosforth along the Gosforth/Seascale cycle path to reach Seascale and the lunch stop looking out at the sea.
After lunch the younger two in the group, Anita and Tom, wanted more miles in so they carried on to ride to Saltcoats but couldn't get over the estuary to Ravenglass due to the tide being full in so returned to Seascale for an ice cream. After this they carried on down the Cinder Track to Sellafield to Beckermet and then using the cycle routes via Thornhill, Egremont, Moor Row and onto Whitehaven and home.
At the same time as the young ones left for Saltcoats the other four started to retrace their inward route to get home via Gosforth , Calderbrdge and then Beckermet and then out up Chestnut Hill passing daffodils on the hedgerow on the way up and on toThornhill, where Maurice an Roy finished their ride, Maurice to home and Roy to his car. The other two carried on through Egremont and Moor Row, Steve L to his home at Padstow and John R to his home at Whitehaven.
Wednesday 31st March. by John Murphy
On warm sunny morning Sue and John left Braithwaite point hunting, with hardly any traffic but quite a few cyclists they made their way over Whinlatter into Lorton. Crossing the River Cocker that was flowing rather fast they turned left to Thackthwaite where they met Sue and Paul. They were heading to Foulsyke to meet up with the Dianne group for lunch. After a short chat they carried on past Loweswater and up and over Fangs Brow to Mockerkin. To avoid the A5086 they crossed over to Ullock, having to cross the A5086 again to Pardshaw where they stopped for lunch. With the sun at its warmest according to John's Garmin that was recording 19 degrees they sat soaking up the sun. In no rush to move they eventually set of heading for Mozzer Church where they did a u-turn back down the hill to Brandlingill and on towards Paddle School. Turning right at the junction was followed by the descent to Southwaite Mill and on past Hundith Hill to cross the A66 to Embleton. Following the old road to Dubwath they joined the A66 back to Braithwaite via Thornthwaite. (33 miles)
Wednesday 31st March, Cockermouth and the Lorton Valley by Dianne Moyes
At last we are able to ride with other people so my offer to host a group of 6 in my garden was soon fully booked. Clive and Helen drove in from Mawbray and Dearham respectively, Johnny cycled in from Pardshaw and Bruce and Brenda from Brigham. It was just so nice to sit around and talk and I am glad to say we have not forgotten the art of conversation. By good fortune Wednesday turned out to be the warmest day of the year so far with just a gentle breeze. The plan was to have a gentle sociable ride and a picnic at the bench with the view at Foulsyke. We left Cockermouth via the Greenway, me showing off my beautifully painted Millenium Marker en route, and then onto the Lorton Road down to Lorton taking the road past the church then down to the bridge over the Cocker which was flowing fast. The Thackthwaite road is getting worse, lots of debris and pot holes but still lovely if you are careful. Paul and Sue were already sitting on the bench but willingly gave it up for Bruce and Brenda. The rest of us sat well spaced on a low mound which forms a semicircle round the bench. (See photo). Then Maggie and Stewart arrived so we were 10 in total. The views were fantastic, the birds were singing, it was perfect.
After lunch we broke up Into a number of groups. Clive decided to stick with Sue and Paul going back via Thackthwaite. Maggie and Stewart were heading to Loweswater and Fangs Brow as was Johnny after a quick trip to Crummock Water, maybe he is points collecting. Bruce, Brenda, Helen and I went past the Kirkstile, then round and over Scale Hill back to Lorton where we turned over the bridge again and found Sue, Paul and Clive admiring the river. After a short chat it was back along the Rogerscale road to Paddle School where we said goodbye to Bruce and Brenda as they headed to Eaglesfield and Brigham. Helen and I took the main road into Cockermouth. We only did 19 miles but it was a really enjoyable ride on a perfect day. We were having another cuppa in the garden when Clive came back and joined us. As it was still quite early, Helen decided to ride back home and then pickup her car later, so she did 25 miles in total. A wonderful day.
Tuesday 30th March. by John Murphy
Leaving Braithwaite via the A66 it was into Keswick to join the throngs using the railway track to Threlkeld. Leaving Threlkeld they Followed the Sea to Sea route as far as the Sportsman Inn, where the continued on through Penrudock to the cycle path alongside the A66. After a short distance they turned left to follow the road to Greystoke Gill and onto Newbiggin and Stainton. Stopping in Stainton for their packed lunch, before heading back to Threlkeld following there wheel tracks. To avoid the railway track they crossed the A66 to follow the road up Burns Brow and back through Keswick to Braithwaite. (40 miles)
Wednesday 24th March 2021 by Maurice Cowley
Maurice met Tom at the Whitehaven Harbour Hub on a sunny day, with a fresh breeze to start their run to use the northern cycle tracks from Whitehaven.
They started out using the cycle track to Parton then up the climb up to Lowca to get onto the cycle track to Distington where they crossed the A595 and then rode up to the cycle path alongside the A595 and down to the turn off to get to Great Clifton. Turning left at Great Clifton they rode on to pass through Stainburn and then through Curwen Park to cross the A596 to get the cycle path to go over the bridge and into Workington shopping Centre to sit and have a coffee.
After the chat and coffee was finished they joined the cycle path once more and rode on to Distington again where they left it to divert onto the old A595 and turn up to Pica passing the Crematorium on the way. From there they dropped down through Moresby Parks and onto Hensingham. On the top road Maurice turned down to Sneakyeat Industrial Estate to visit the Powerbike Bike shop prior to dropping down to Whitehaven and his car, Tom left Maurice at the junction where he turned down to the Powerbike Bike Shop and carried on to Ainfiels Cycles at Cleator before going home in Whitehaven. (Maurice 26miles) (Tom 33miles)
Monday 22nd March 2021 by Maurice Cowley
Maurice meeting up qith Steve L at Padstow after riding from home at Thornhill via Egremont, Woodend and Moor Row After the obligatory coffee, sitting on the wall outside the garden they set off through Cleator Moor and onto Wath Brow and onto the A5086 to ride down to Park Side to reach the Rowrah/Whitehaven Cycleway. This was an extra loop to miss the bad bumps due to the tree roots lifting the tarmac. Today the route was northwards along the remaining length right up to the wilds of the road from Kirkland school and it's telltale spoil heaps of long ago. The route down this lane passed by Salter Hall and led them on the unusual north side of the River Ehen with lovely views across the valley; this narrow road is known as Red Beck Lane, took them conveniently to Wath Brow all the time passing lovely bunches of Daffodils and Primroses. Turning left onto the A5086 both decided to complete the loop by going downhill to Cleator, then to visit the Ainfield bike shop, After all enquiries were satisfied both parted company at Woodend. Maurice set off for his home at Thornhill and Steve headed home to Padstow. (18miles)
Sunday 21st March. by Roy Jackson
Warm started with no jacket first time this year I think. First to Keswick, then turning right, then Storms and Threlkeld. Then the gated road where Roy met one cyclist. The gate on the steep hill was a struggle Roy remembers it being easier when it was opened for him by a certain Mr Growley. Lunch was eaten sitting on the seat in the churchyard at Mungrisdale. Returning against a light wind Roy needed to put his jacket back on. Back to Threlkeld and down the railway track busy with other cyclists, Keswick and home to Braithwaite. (25 miles)
Sunday 21st March. by John Murphy
Waiting for the morning to warm up Sue and John left Braithwaite around eleven thirty to make their way to Dubwath. What appeared a warm sunny morning was quite the opposite as they rode into a cold westerly wind. On reaching Ouse Bridge and now with a following wind they made their way to the Castle Inn. Crossing the A591 and pass the old blacksmiths shop to continue climbing collecting tour point at High Bewaldeth on the way. More climbing before the fast descent to Ruthwaite, where they turned left to High Ireby, followed by the descent into Ireby.
It was then onto Aughertree on a decent road surface that on leaving Aughertree turned into a dirt track that was under water in places. After walking and ridding they eventually arrived in Uldale with the time saying almost two o'clock. Having had no lunch and feeling drained they stopped by Overwater for their packed lunch. Coffee and sandwiches consumed they made their way to Bassenthwaite and onto St Begas before joining the A591 back to Keswick. Just before Crossthwaite roundabout John got a front wheel puncture, unable to get the tyre of he borrowed Sue's bike to get the van,returning to collect Sue and the bike. (30 miles)
Friday 19th March 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On a day that the weather forecast was very little wind and some sunshine Tom and Maurice met up at The Park Head Inn at Thornhill to start their ride to Wastwater. Their route took them through Beckermet to the A595 and then through Calderbridge to Gosforth. Leaving Gosforth they climbed up the steep Leagate Brow then dropped down through various wooded areas, then to pass the road to Nether Wasdale and climb up Harrow Head and drop down to Greendale and onto Wastwater itself. As they rode towards Wasdale Head the wind was not the breeze that was forecast, it was a strong wind. They reached Wasdale Head Inn and sat on a wall to have their snack and drinks and chat.
The return journey alongside the lake was fast and easy and instead of folowing their inward route they turned off towards Nether Wasdale and turned off again to reach Santon Bridge. The route then was to Gosforth and along the A595 to reach Thornhill and Maurice's home and Tom's car. (31miles)
Wednesday 17th March. by John Murphy
Eager to get some miles and tour points Sue and John left Braithwaite along the old road to join the A66 to Dubwath. Near the end of the dual carriageway where the road narrows a large wagon nearly took them with it (no social distancing there). Leaving Dubwath it was across the A66 to Lambfoot where they crossed the A66 again to Hundith crossroads. It was then on through Lorton passing fields with new born lambs as they climbed to the cattle grid at Lanthwaite Green. With a following wind along Crummock they arrived in Butternere with the sun out, to find it rather quiet although there were plenty of cars about. After lunch taken by the Youth Hostel they continued on to Gatesgarth where they turning round back to Buttermere. From Butternere it was over Newlands Pass followed by the descent back to Braithwaite. (27 miles)
Wednesday 17th March 2021 by Steve Lunt
Maurice and Steve started at the agreed meeting point; Egremont main street. Maurice today on his mechanical bike and Steve on his electrical bike. The weather ok, bright and temperature well up but cold by a northerly breeze; ie. Ok for bikes.
From the town centre to the south end of town taking the road to the outskirts of Gully Flatts to turn left to pass by Rothersyke Hall and onwards turning right to bypass Kersey Bridge and on to and through Braystones village to cross over the River Elen and have a break on a seat by the river for a drink and nibbles.
After the break and chat, the pair carried on through Beckermet and out up Chessnut Hill to turn left down Cop Lane, negotiating road works, and passing Thornhill, dropped down to cross the River Ehen by using Kersey Bridge. The pair carried on along Cop Lane to turn right at Kell Head to again reach Gulley Flatts, this time going through the village, and into Egremont. Taking to the Egremont cycleway the pair reached Woodend where they parted, Maurice to home at Thornhill and Steve to his home at Padstow.
(Steve 16 miles) (Maurice 15 miles)
Tuesday 16th March. by Roy Jackson
Warmer than yesterday, Roy removed his jacket to climb Whinlatter, and stopped to watch helicopter lifting whole trees from near the visitor centre and dropping them somewhere near Braithwaite. On the summit Roy met Nathan the Forrest manager who said the larches were being taken out because of a disease, and the team doing the work were from Switzerland. Then to Lorton and Cockermouth a quick visit to Aldi and home via the old road to Embleton and the A66 home. (21 miles)
Monday 15th March. by Roy Jackson
Dry and mild, very little wind, Roy rode from home into Keswick, then alongside Derwent Water into Borrowdale. Between Rosthwaite and Seatoller Roy stopped at Combe Gill to see the National Trusts new Hydro Electric Installation. The new building is about 150 yards from the road, but with no windows in it, the generator cannot be seen. A sign on the gate says it generates 100kw of electricity. Then it was back on the bike to Seatoller and left to Seathwaite. After a cup of coffee and a biscuit it was back to Grange, left over the bridge and the very scenic ride round the back of the lake to Swinside and home to Braithwaite. (22 miles)
Sunday 15th March. by John Murphy
Another decent day with a slight breeze Sue and John made their way into Keswick to join the railway track to Threlkeld. On reaching Threlkeld they crossed the A66 to Thirlmere where they carried on the A591 to Wythburn. Turning right of the A591 it back along the west side of Thirlmere stopping for lunch just before the dam. Having found a spot out of the wind and with the sun lighting up the surrounding mountains they looked magnificent. Lunch over it was back down the Vale to Shundraw and back through Keswick to Braithwaite. (30 miles)
Monday 15th March 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On cloudy day with very little wind and a promising forecast Maurice met Tom on the Rowrah/ Whitehaven cycle path at Moor Row to start their run.
Maurice had ridden there from his home at Thornhill via Egremont. Woodend and Moor Row. Tom had left his home at Whitehaven and rode up the Whitehaven/Rowrah cyclepath to the meeting place at Moor Row.
The pair carried on up the cyclepath and left it at Cleator Moor then turned right to Wath Brow and dropped down the hill to cross over the River Ehen using Wath Bridge. Carrying on alongside the river to cross Longmoor and then drop down to pass through Ennerdale Bridge, The pair then took the road to Croasdale where the turned left to climb up the very steep Cauda Brow and stopped at the top for a coffee break.
After the break Maurice and Tom carried on to pass by Felldyke and to turn left after Inglenook Caravan Site to reach the A5086 and carry on up to Rowrah and the Whitehaven/Rowrah Cyclepath once more and then to carry on down to Moor Row again.
At Moor Row both Maurice and Tom reversed their routes they used coming out earlier to the meeting place. (26 miles)
Sunday 7th March. by Roy Jackson
Beautiful sunny day, but quite cold. I took a sandwich and flask with me to make the most of the sunshine and rode to Keswick, then to Storms, Burns and Shundraw. Down the Vale of St John and round the back of Thirlmere where I past lots of other cyclists. I returned by the same route. (30 miles)
Sunday 7th March. by John Murphy
Leaving Braithwaite when most people would be heading back home Sue and John headed through Thornthwaite to join the A66. On approaching the duel carriageway it was all coned of, leaving the west bound section closed, apart from cyclists making the most of the closure. On reaching Dubwath it was onto the old road to Cockermouth where Sue did some shopping in Wilco, while John thought of where next. Leaving Cockermouth by the Low Road it was onto Brigham and the climb to Tendley Quarry, where they stopped for a drink and a bite. Fed and watered they set of again heading for Lorton via Paddle School and Rodgerscale, stopping in Rodgerscale for a herd of sheep. On reaching Lorton they decided to head to Hundith and back through Wythop Mill, just before the descent into Wythop Mill they turned right to Old Scales. With a tour point in the bag they did a u-turn back to Wythop Mill and along the high road to Dubwath to join A66 back to Braithwaite. (34 miles)
Sunday 7th March 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On a cloudy day with the sun threatening to appear and very little wind Maurice met Steve L on Egremont main street to start their trip. After a chat choosing the route they were about to take they set off through Gulley Flatts and onto Kell Head.
From Kell Head to St.Bees the roadside had clumps of Snowdrops, Daffodils and Celandines just to show that Spring was truly here!!
At St. Bees they turned south down the Nethertown Road to pass by Coulderton and reach Nethertown and Braystones after which they stopped for a break on a seat by the River Ehen.
While sitting there “Big” Tom appeared and after a short chat he carried on back to Whitehaven and shortly after Tom left Maurice an Steve left to carry on their ride through Beckermet where the roadside again was abounding with flowers (Daffodils and Snowdrops). At the junction just before the cemetery the pair took a left turn to drop down over the River Ehen using Kersey Bridge and to go through Rothersyke to get to Egremont once more and take to the Egremont cycleway and onto Woodend where the pair parted, Maurice to his home at Thornhill and Steve to return to his home at Padstow. (Steve L 24miles and Maurice 21miles)
Friday 5th March. by Roy Jackson
Fine day, left the e-bike at home and rode the Merlin. Not many people on the railway track very enjoyable. At the end of the track I rode all the way up the zig - zags without getting off !! I was very pleased with that, I returned the same way. (12 miles)
Friday 5th March. by John Murphy
Keen to get a few more miles in Sue and John on their normal bikes again made their way along the A66 to Crosthwaite roundabout. Here they joined the A591, wishing they were on their e-bikes on the short climb to the Castle Inn. The downhill to Ouse Bridge was most welcome, noticing the river had dropped considerably. Turning left after crossing the river they made their way to Dubwath, to join the A66 back to Braithwaite. (18 miles)
Wednesday 3rd March 2021 by Steve Lunt
Still using electric bike with Maurice, but only two days after last ride. Two days in the “wilds of Rowrah” - and now back again up the cycleway northwards to turn around point at Kirkland. This day it was extremely cold in the mist and North-easterly breeze and feeling even colder on the downhill swoop to Ennerdale Bridge. The run back was on the opposite side of the River Ehen – the main route to take them up to Wath Brow (thank goodness for battery power just here!)
They took to the A5086 at the Wath Brow Junction and southwards to Woodend where they parted company, Maurice to his home at Thornhill via Egremont and Steve L home at Padstow via Moor Row. (Steve L 18.5miiles and Maurice 21.5miles)
Tuesday 2nd March. by Roy Jackson
Fine morning but very cold. The plan was to ride to Seathwaite, but when I got to Grange my hands and feet were so cold I turned right over the bridge round the lake to Hawes End, and had difficulty descending the steep double bend because of ice across the road, then Swinside and home. (13 miles)
Tuesday 2nd March. by John Murphy
Making the most off the dry weather but with mist hanging over Keswick Sue and John made their way down Borrowdale. With the mist rising off the lake and the sun having not risen above (Falcon Crag) gave a ghostly appearance as they past Ashness Gate. With temperature changing constantly, as they cycled in and out of the sun it dropped from a max of 8 to 3 degrees. They eventually arrived at Seathwaite to do a quick turnaround and head back to the bridge over the river for hot cup of coffee watching the sheep grazing. While they were there a number of cyclists past and returned, before the set off again following their wheel track back to Braithwaite. (22 miles)
Monday 1st March 2021 by Steve Lunt
This was a first for Steve L after riding solo for many months: a suggested couple-up with Maurice. Meeting up at Padstow and after the obligatory coffee, sitting on the wall outside the garden, adhering to the restrictive 2 metres, we set off to Moor Row to join Rowrah/Whitehaven Cycleway. Today the route was northwards along the remaining length right up to the wilds of the road from Kirkland school and it's telltale spoil heaps of long ago. The route down this lane passed by Salter Hall and led them on the unusual north side of the River Ehen with lovely views across the valley; this narrow road is known as Red Beck Lane, took them conveniently to Wath Brow just short of the main junction into Cleator Moor, so here both decided to complete the loop by going downhill to Cleator, then Egremont. In town Maurice set off for his home at Thornhill and Steve stopped for a short while to look at a newly fitted out hardware shop out the south end of town: always fascinating, before heading home to Padstow. (18miles)
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Sunday 28th February. by John Murphy
Having ridden there e-bikes for the majority off 2020 after Sue broke her pelvis, they decided to ride their normal bikes. Leaving home they took the old road through Thornthwaite where they met Maggie and Stewart coming in the opposite direction.
Stopping for a chat about the present climate, they were joined by Roy out doing his own thing, the good news was that Ruth was much better. Eventually they departed Maggie and Stewart heading for Whinlatter, while Roy joined Sue and John as far as Dubwath. Just before the Pheasant Hotel they bumped into Tracy and Brian who had just finished their ride round Bass Lake. After another stop for a chat the trio set of again, Roy turning left up the hill towards Wythop Mill, while Sue and John joined the A66 to Cockermouth. Thinking the A66 might be quiet turned out to be the opposite with it more like a bank holiday. After negotiating their way through Cockermouth they made their way over Slate Fell back to Dubwath to join the A66 back to Braithwaite. (23 miles)
Sunday 28th February. by Roy Jackson
Roy rode from home to Thornthwaite where he met Sue and John, who had stopped to talk to Maggie and Stewart, who were going the other way. After a chat I continued with Sue and John as far as the Pheasant, where we met Tracy and Bacca just putting their bikes into their van. Sue and John carried on to Cockermouth and I turned left to Wythop Mill, then to Hundith Hill, then left at the crossroads to Lorton, then left to Whinlatter. While climbing Whinlatter, I passed Maggie and Stewart going down, then home to Braithwaite. (18 miles)
Friday 26th February. by John Murphy
Making the most of the better weather Sue and John left home following the A66 to Crosthwaite roundabout to join the A591. Although it was sunny there was a cold wind as they made their way along the A591. On reaching the church they turned right into Bassenthwaite, before joining the A591 again to the Castle Inn. Here they turned left to Ouse Bridge and onto the Isel road, stopping overlooking river for a bite and a drink. Back in the saddle and it was onto the outskirts of Cockermouth to join the road over Slate Fell to Dubwath. After a brief stop for a drink it was back along the A66 and the old road back to Braithwaite. (27 miles)
Friday 26th February 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On sunny day with a slight breeze Maurice met Tom on the Whitehaven/Rowrah cyclepath at Moor Row. Maurice had ridden there from his home at Thornhill via Egremont. Woodend and Moor Row. Tom had left his home at Whitehaven and rode up the Whitehaven/Rowrah cyclepath to the meeting place at Moor Row.
The pair carried on up the cyclepath and left it at Cleator Moor then turned right to Wath Brow and dropped down the hill to cross over the River Ehen using Wath Bridge. Carrying on alongside the river to cross Longmoor and then drop down to pass through Ennerdale Bridge, The pair then took the road to Croasdale where the turned left to climb up the very steep Cauda Brow and stopped at the top for a coffee break.
While sitting at the top an old racing colleague, Ken Hargreaves and friend stopped to have a long chat about old racing times
After the break Maurice and Tom carried on to pass by Felldyke and to turn left after Inglenook Caravan Site to reach the A5086 and carry on up to pass by the Kirkland school and get to the Whitehaven/Rowrah Cyclepath once more and then to carry on down to Moor Row again.(from Rowrah to Cleator Moor is getting very lumpier from the tree roots lifting the tarmac)
At Moor Row both Maurice and Tom reversed their routes they used coming out earlier to the meeting place. (26 Miles)
Thursday 25th February. by John Murphy
After all the rain the previous day and the sun making the occasional appearance Sue and John decided to ride to Seathwaite. Leaving Braithwaite via the Newlands road they followed the road to Swinside. This had been damaged by flood water from Newlands Beck having breached the flood bank below Uzzicar. On reaching Swinside it was up towards Cat Bells and along the road overlooking the Lake to Grange. Turning right after crossing the river it was on through Rosthwaite before reaching Seathwaite.
A brief stop and it was back down the valley to Keswick trying to avoid surface water that was running from open ditches causing the road to flood in places. From Keswick it was back along the A66 to Braithwaite. (20 miles)
Thursday 25th February. by Roy Jackson
Roy rode to Keswick then up the railway track which was very quiet. I met 4 cyclists and not many walkers. Then across the A66 to Goosewell farm, Keswick and back home. (12 miles)
Monday 22nd February. by John Murphy
After the heavy overnight rain it looked like summer had arrived with the sun casting shadows across the fells. With the temperature showing eleven degrees Sue and John left Braithwaite with no particular route in mind headed towards Keswick along the A66. On reaching Crosthwaite roundabout they turned right off the A591 to Applethwaite before joining the A591 again to the Castle Inn. Here they turned left to Ouse Bridge to find the river quite high after all the rain on Friday and Saturday. On reaching Brathay Hill they stopped to decide which way to go, it was ether back to Braithwaite, or carry on towards Cockermouth, they chose the latter. As they approached Embleton and with the wind in their face, they agreed to carry on to Lorton, stopping just before Lorton for a bite and a drink off hot coffee, before making their way over Whinlatter back to Braithwaite. (23 miles)
Monday 22nd February 2021 by Maurice Cowley
Maurice met Tom at the Whitehaven Harbour Hub on a foggy day, with a fresh breeze and with the forecast of sunny periods to start their run to use the northern cycle tracks from Whitehaven.
They started out using the cycle track to Parton then up the climb up to Lowca to get onto the cycle track to Distington where they crossed the A595 and then rode up to the cycle path alongside the A595 and down to the turn off to get to Great Clifton. Turning left at Great Clifton they rode on to pass through Stainburn and then through Curwen Park to cross the A596 to get the cycle path to go over the bridge (the river was much higher than normal due to all the wet weather there has been) and into Workington shopping Centre to sit and have a coffee
While there they met an old cyclist who stopped to have chat with them, Albert White, who had raced with Maurice's brother Mike.
After the chat and coffee was finished they joined the cycle path once more and rode on to Distington again where they left it to divert onto the old A595 and turn up to Pica passing the Crematorium on the way. From there they dropped down toward Moresby Parks but prior to it turned down to Whitehaven passing Quality corner on the way to finish the ride. (23miles)
Sunday 21st February. by Roy Jackson
On a fine morning with no wind Roy rode down the A66 to Dubwath, then to Castle Inn. Near Ouse Bridge I past Tracy and Bacca going the other way in their van. Crossing the A591 I rode to Bassenthwaite village, then across the A591 again to Scarness. Then joined the A591 for a short distance, turning left to Millbeck, Applethwaite and Crosthwaite roundabout then back to Braithwaite. Lots of water on the road after yesterday's rain. (21 miles)
Wednesday 17th February. by John Murphy
After all the bad weather, although there was a strong southerly wind Sue and John decided it was good enough to get the bikes out.
Leaving Braithwaite they followed the A66 into Keswick and on towards Burns, just before Burns Farm they turned right to Shundraw to join the St John's in the Vale. It was now into the wind, as they approached Bridge End Farm it started feel like rain. On reaching the old sawmill they decided to turn round hoping to escape the rain. Now with a following wind they made their way to Threlkeld but not before the heavy rain caught up with them. It was now onto the old railway track back to Keswick, that was rather busy with walkers at the Keswick end. On leaving Keswick it was back along the A66 to Braithwaite to find the roads bone dry. (19 miles)
Tuesday 16th February. by John Rowell
Left home, down to join the cycle way at Mirehouse and up to Rowrah ( the tree roots buckling the cycle path seem to be getting worse) from Rowrah to Kirkland then on to Croasdale, Ennerdale through Cleator Moor past Steve’s house and on towards MoorRow turning right through West Lakes Science Park and on to the A595 back home. It has been many weeks since I was last on the bike and I felt it!! (Anyway it opened my lungs up more) (21 miles)
Monday 15th February 2021 by Maurice Cowley
On a dull day, threatening rain, Maurice left his home at Thornhill to meet Tom at Kell Head.
His route was down the cyclepath and through Egremont and Gully Flats and onto Kell Head to wait for Tom to arrive. About 5 minutes later Tom did arrive. Tom’s route to meet Maurice was leaving home at Kells, Whitehaven, through St. Bees and along the St, Bees/Egremont road to Kell Head.
Together they rode down Cop Lane passing through Rothersyke to turn right before Kersey Bridge and onto Braystones and then onto Beckermet. Passing through Beckermet to go to Blackbeck Roudabout and go straight across to ride up the road to just before Haile where they turned right to pass by Sheepfields Farm and up and over the climb that led them to pass by Calder Abbey and arrive at Calderbridge and the A595. Now it was main road traffic as they rode to Gosforth where they were able to ride to Seascale along the Gosforth/Seascale cyclepath and onto the sea front for a little bite to eat and a drink.
The return journey was back to Gosforth up the Gosforth/Seascale and onto the A595 to Thornhill where they parted company and Maurice returned to his home at Thornhill and Tom rode on to join the Rowrah/Whitehaven cyclepath at Moor Row to ride down to Whitehaven and up to his home at Kells, (Tom 37miles) (Maurice 24miles)
Friday 5th February. by Roy Jackson
Once again into Keswick and up the railway track very quiet again as far as Threlkeld, then returning the same way. (13 miles)
Friday 5th February. by John Murphy
The start of 2021 having been an almost complete write off, what with the cold and ice, Sue and John decided to try and get some miles in. Leaving home they made their way through Thornthwaite to the A66, doing a u-turn back to Braithwaite. Having done just under six miles the continued to do another two laps. On the last lap they bumped into Bacca going the other way, after a brief chat Bacca continued on west, while Sue and John made their way back to Braithwaite. (16 miles)
Friday 5th February 2021 Braystones by Maurice Cowley
On a cold, dull morning with very little wind Maurice left home at Thornhill to meet Tom outside his house at Kells in Whitehaven and join him on a ride to Braystones. Alone for the first part of the ride his route took him from Thornhill and down the A595 passing Egremont and onto the A5086 to Woodend where he turned left to climb up to the Moor Row road. Here the roadside had a smattering of snow drops. A short way along this road Maurice turned down the Whitehaven/Rowrah cycleway to get to Whitehaven. In the town centre the route took him between Albion House and up a steep incline to Toms House. Here he met Tom and sat on his wall to catch his breath and a quick drink.
After a short rest Tom joined Maurice on his ride and rode onwards through Woodhouse and onto through Sandwith, Rottington to climb over another steep hill to get to St. Bees. On travelling up the main street the road was closed, this was due to the road being dug up for gas renovations. They were able to get through by dismounting and using the kerb. After this obstruction they turned off onto the Nethertown Road where they had to ride through a few pools of water and mud which covered the road but there was none on the stretch from Nethertown to Braystones. After Braystones they stopped on a seat by the river Ehen for a chat and coffee. (Having to ride 2 metres apart restricts chatting while riding). Starting off again they rode through Beckermet where they spotted more snowdrops on the hedgerow. On reaching the A595 they made their way up the Cycleway to Thornhill where Maurice went home and Tom followed Maurice's outward route back to Whitehaven and his home. (21miles)
Monday 1st February. by Roy Jackson
Into Keswick and met Bacca on his trike half way to Portinscale. Then down Borrowdale with Derwent Water like a mirror. Met quite a few cyclists, then right over the bridge and home vie Swinside. (12 miles
Monday 1st February. by John Murphy
On a much better day with the temperature hovering around 5 degrees and hardly any wind Sue and John left Braithwaite. Following the A66 they made their way into Keswick to find it almost deserted as they made their way to the valley road. With hardly any traffic apart from the bus to Seatoller it was obvious people were sticking to the Corvid rules. As they approached the lake shore a large flock of Canada Geese appeared and settled in a near by field. Although it was warmer than previous day's there was still patches of ice on the side of road. Eventually they arrived at Seathwaite stopping briefly to take in the views, before following their wheel tracks back to Braithwaite. (22 miles)
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Saturday 30th January. by Roy Jackson
Fine cold day with occasional gusts of wind up Newlands as far as Rigg Beck, then left turn past Newlands Church and Littletown. After that lots of pheasants on the road, then to Swinside, Little Braithwaite and home. (10 miles)
Saturday 30th January. by John Murphy
On a very cold afternoon and rapped in more skins than an onion Sue and John left Braithwaite. They made their way through Thornthwaite to join the A66 to Dubwath where they turned right to Ouse Bridge
It was now into the wind as they made their way to the Castle Inn showing 2 degrees on John’s Garmin. After a brief stop to get the feeling back in the fingers they continued along the A591 to Keswick.
The final stretch from Keswick to Braithwaite was with a following wind and Braithwaite couldn’t come sooner. 16 miles.
Friday 29th January. by John Murphy
Leaving Braithwaite via the A66 Sue and John made their way into Keswick to join the Keswick to Threlkeld newly opened cycle track. It wasn’t long before it started to rain, having hoped to avoid any rain, with the track unusually quiet they eventually arrived in Threlkeld. It was then across the A66 as the rain eased off, to pick up the Vale road to Thirlmere where they joined the A591 back to Keswick. On the way they took a slight detour to Rakefoot, before making their way through Keswick back to Braithwaite. (19 miles)
Friday 29th January 2021 Felldyke by Maurice Cowley
On a cold, dull morning with very little wind Maurice left home at Thornhill the meet Tom on the Whitehaven harbour.
Maurice started passing Egremont to Woodend and up to take to the Whitehaven/Rowtah cyclepath down to Whitehaven to Meet Tom at the harbour. Keeping the designated 2mtr apart they both set off along the Whitehaven/Parton cycleway to pass through Parton to catch up with the Whitehaven/Workington cycleway at Lowca. Here they to rode passed Distington and onto the cyclepath alongside the A595 up to the roundabout at Lillyhall Industrial Estate where they turned right to ride down the lumpy road to Branthwaite. In the village they turned right to get to Ullock and then to the A5086 and to turn left off this road and ride up the drag to pass through Lamplugh and down to turn left again to reach the steep hill to pass though Felldyke village and up to the turn off to Kirkland.
On top of the hill prior to Kirkland they stopped for lunch and drinks a chat as the 2mtr restrictions stops chatting while riding.
After lunch and chats the pair set off again through Kirkland and down to turn left at the school down Red Beck Lane to reach Wath Brow. Tom and Maurice parted here. Tom to go to the Whitehaven/Rowrah cycleway and ride down to Whitehaven and home and Maurice to ride on down the A5086 to Egremont and on to Thornhill and home. (33mls)
Wednesday 27th January. by Roy Jackson
Another cold but fine afternoon with no wind. Into Keswick, then up the railway track with very few people. Then across the A66 into the Vale of St John, turning right to Shundraw, then to Keswick and home. (17 miles)
Wednesday 27th January. by John Murphy
Good to be out again after all the cold frosty days, Sue and John decided to keep to the main roads to avoid any untreated roads. Leaving Braithwaite it was along the A66 to Join the A591 to the Castle Inn, on the way they met Maggie and Sterwart at Mire House. Maggie and Stewart were cycling round Bass Lake in an anti clockwise direction, after a lengthy chat Sue and John left first keeping to the A591. On reaching the Castle Inn they turned left to eventually join the A66 back to Braithwaite via the old road through Thornthwaite. (18 miles)
Wednesday 27th January 2021 by Steve Lunt
Solo run from home at Padstow
Strange times are upon us, but it seemed quirky to put pen to paper after such a long gap. So now I adopt Moe's popular slogan “I want to be alone” Being far from fit and trying to to work out where my long lost cycling legs have gone, this day Wednesday was a “climate break” with a promise of 11oc and no rain. So at 1230pm, the sky brightened, and so time to go. My present outings are slow and steady on a Specialised mech bike with low gears: so it gets me anywhere, locally, mostly on cycleways or quiet roads. One of my regular outings is along the road from my house and just past the Veterinary Hospital, an inlet track takes the cyclist to the cycleway network through Westlakes Science Park down to the A595 crossing lights and so down to join the Whitehaven/Rowrah cycleway. If I'm on loop around to local Cleator Moor Shops, I turn left and ride a big radial loop around to come of the cycleway at Cleator Moor. ( It never ceases to amaze me where the old railways use to get to). But not today! I turned right today at the junction: this takes me all the way through the suburbs into Whitehaven town centre. My first objective was to visit the bank to check if I had any money left after Christmas – which I had – as everyone seems to have a different lifestyle at present – not going out c/o lock-down – which is essential to stay safe. Where to go from here to add a little interest in the trip back? So I cycled down Lowther Street and on to the harbour front with an interesting idea to pedal (slowly) along to older quay path having crossed the large sluice gates. Here I chose to (just for a change of recent routine) turn towards shore front road and car park just below the “Candlestick Chimney”. This seemed like a fun (?) challenge, so riding up the steep walkways I had stop to gasp, briefly, at the this ancient lookout before deciding this was high enough for me, so now gently pedalling down the road that passing between the Albion complex – closed to traffic as digger cut it's way up the road making a trench for a new gas line – so I had to walk this part and remount at the bend at the bottom, close to the main traffic lights. Passing the shops – Aldi and Home Bargains – the cycle route neatly carves a course behind these to cross Coach Road and onto the cycleway proper: the way I came in earlier. The difference this time is soon after passing the “scenic gap” between the trees with a great view all the way down the valley to St. Bees and the sea , well on the way to the loop around to Cleator Moor to join the main Cleator Moor/Whitehaven Road. A short stop at the Co-op Store to collect my Paper and (a weakness of mine) a Petzal bakery item to take home just 1 mile away. Lovely day out - but only 12.3miles – a very useful day out.
Wednesday 27th January 2021 Ravenglass by Maurice Cowley
On a dull day but not freezing cold and very little wind Tom rode up from Whitehaven to meet Maurice at Thornhill to start their ride to Ravenglass.Their route took them through Beckermet to the A595 and then through Calderbridge to Gosforth. Having already agreed to stick to the main road they rode on through Holmerook and onto Ravenglass where they took a detour to visit the Roman Baths. Afterwards it was over the Ravenglass Viaduct to Saltcoats. Here a sign of spring approaching as the hedgerows had snowdrops starting to flower and just farther along was a field with about a hundred or so geese in it. Back to the A595 and through Holmerook once more to turn left and up to go through Drigg and Stubble Green and onto Seascale for lunch sitting looking out to Sea the prescribed 2mtrs apart. After lunch and coffee they started back through Seascale to Gosforth using the Gosforth/Seascale cycle-path and along here Tom had a puncture. Just as the puncture was fixed and the wheel was being put back on the bike Maurice's brother and wife appeared riding back to Seascale along the cycle-track so it was good to see them and have a short catch-up crack keeping the designed distance apart of course. Onwards to the A595 at Gosforth and back through Calderbridge to Thornhill and Maurice's home, leaving Tom to ride on to Whitehaven and his home. (Maurice's 26miles) (Tom's 34miles)
Sunday 24th January. by Roy Jackson
Another very cold but sunny day I rode along the A66 past Bass Lake, which was worth a photo, with no wind Skiddaw and Dodd, covered in snow were reflected in it. On arriving at Dubwath I met Stuart Pike at the crossroads and stopped for a chat, he had been up to the summit of Sail Fell on his mountain bike. He then crossed the A66 and headed for home, and I carried on up the A66 to Scales farm to get some eggs. On the way home the view across the lake was even better, as the setting sun made the snow on Skiddaw pink. (15 miles)
Friday 22nd January. by Roy Jackson
On a very cold afternoon I went for a short ride up the track to Force Cragg mine. I only met three people a lone walker near the mine, and near the gate on the way back, two cyclists riding towards the mine, an enjoyable bur very cold ride. (6 miles)
Friday 22nd January 2021 Padstow/Cleator Moor by Maurice Cowley
On a cold, sunny day with very little wind, as arranged with Steve L, Maurice rode to Padstow for a short ride together. Maurice rode via Egremont, Woodend, Moor Row to get to Padstow where both Maurice and Steve L sat on his wall (the restricted 2mtr apart) drinking a coffee deciding where to go for the ride. Steve having to visit the Creator Moor Co-op the decision was taken to do a roundabout trip there before returning home.
The route taken on this cold morning was back up to Galemire and go through the Science Park and cross the A595 and then drop down to the Whitehaven/Rowrah cycle way and go up passing Moor Row to go out at Cleator Moor. Turning west they reached the retail park and the Co-op for Steve L to carry out his shopping.
On exiting the Science Park they turned right to reach Wath Brow and the Cleator and finally Woodend where they parted company, Steve to return to his home at Padstow via Moor Row and Maurice to his home at Thornhill via Egremont. (14.5 miles)
Monday 18th January 2021 Croasdale/Kirkland by Maurice Cowley
Oh joy! another day not too cold, overcast but not raining but with a slight breeze. This day Maurice was to meet up with “Big” Tom both riding from home.
Starting from Thornhill and riding along the Egremont Bye-pass to turn down the A5086 to turn left at Woodend and climb up to the Moor Row road to meet up with Tom on the Whitehaven/Rowrah Cycleway at Moor Row. Tom had left his Whitehaven home and rode up the Whitehaven/Rowrah to Moor Row to the meeting place.
After a short chat and keeping the obligatory 2mtr distance apart they both started their ride along the cycleway to leave it at Cleator Moor and travel to Wath Brow where they dropped down to Wath Bridge and then alongside the River Ehen to Ennerdale Bridge. After a quick discussion they decided to take the right hand road to Croasdale to climb up the steep hill and then turn left towards Kirkland and a short lunch stop sitting the obligatory 2mtr distance apart.
After finishing a lunch of a piece of Banana Bread and Coffee and a long chat while looking at Ennerdale Lake the pair set off down to Kirkland to turn left at Kirkland school down Red Beck Lane to reach Wath Brow. Down the A5086 where Tom parted at Woodend to go to the Whitehaven/Rowrah Cycleway at Moor Row and ride down to Whitehaven and his home. Maurice rode on through Egremont to climb up to Thornhill and his home. (22 miles)
Monday 18th January 2021. by Roy Jackson
On an overcast morning, looking like rain, Roy left first to Portinscale, past Lingholm, Hawes End, up the steep hill round the back of the Lake, the opposite way from usual.
Turning left at Grange and home via Keswick, arriving home just ahead of the rain. 13 miles. (Tuesday raining again back on the exercise bike)
Sunday 17th January 2021. by Roy Jackson
Another day out at last, after many days on the exercise bike because of cold, rain and ice!! Roy rode into Keswick on a sunny but cool day again, then down Borrowdale with no wind and no traffic all the way to Seathwaite with only three parked cars.
After a cup of tea and a biscuit, returned to Grange then left round the back of the Lake and Swinside back home. 21 miles.
Sunday 17th January 2021 Whitehaven by Maurice Cowley
At last the weather had warmed up and even if it was overcast it wasn't raining so Maurice decided to make his first ride out in 2021 his daily visit to Steve H's. There wasn't anything fancy with his route because as yet he didn't know if the ice had disappeared on the cycleways, so he decided to keep to the main roads.
Leaving home at Thornhill he started down the Egremont By-pass then along the A5086 to Cleator and down Jacktrees Lane to reach Cleator Moor and the B5295 through Hensingham and then the A595 to go down into Whitehaven and onto Steve H's Flat.
The return journey was from Whitehaven up the Whitehaven/Rowrah Cycleway, to check it out for ice, and to reach Moor Row then passing Woodend, Egremont and then back to Thornhill and home.
It was great to get out on the bike once more!!! (17 miles)
Sunday 17th January by Dianne Moyes
After all the ice and snow the forecast for today was cold, 6 degrees C, but not icy, so I decided to go for it. On Saturday evening I contacted new member Sara, who also lives in Cockermouth and we arranged to meet outside 4Play Cycles in the Market Place at 11 am to cycle to the egg farm. She has only lived in the area for 2 years but she was already familiar with the Isel road and even the egg farm. We cycled out past the hospital and because I was wearing my super duper new hearing aids, we could hold a conversation while keeping well apart. Unfortunately just before the farm near the road we came upon a tractor with a flail making a right mess everywhere. Luckily no punctures but I was relieved to hear Sara has already managed to replace an inner tube on her electric bike while cycling near Portinscale. She is a very experienced cyclist.
There were lots of cars parked near Isel Bridge with quite a few people walking the lanes rather than in the fields. We turned right up to the egg farm and both filled our panniers. I owed 20p from before Christmas when I miscalculated, so I paid off my debts. We then returned to Isel bridge using the alternative route and then turned left towards the Distillery to avoid the hedge cuttings. From there we came back through Embleton and into Cockermouth via St. Helen’s Street to the Greenway where we said our goodbyes. The trip was just over 15 miles and we were back in time for lunch, good to get in the first miles of 2021 and good to welcome Sara to the Solway Sociables.
Sunday 17th January by John Murphy.
After the cold start to the New Year we eventually decided to roll the bikes out of the garage. With very little snow left on the tops and the temperature hovering around six degrees we left Braithwaite heading through Thornthwaite to join the A66.
With very little traffic along the duel carriageway, (if only it was like this all the time) we turned off to pass the Pheasant Hotel to join the A66 again. Here we decided to keep our ride as local as possible and ride round the lake. (If that's classed as local) After passing the Boat Club we met Maggie coming in the opposite direction, after a long chat we moved on, crossing the river to the Castle Inn. Joining the A591 we decided to continue on A591 back to Keswick, passing lots off cyclist making the most of the change in the weather. On reaching Keswick it was back along the A66 to Braithwaite and welcome mug of coffee.
Tuesday January 12th 2021. by Roy Jackson
On a very sunny but cold morning, Roy left Braithwaite and rode up Newlands past Uzzicar, turning left at Rigg Beck past Newlands Church, and up the hill to Littletown,
then to Swinside, Little Braithwaite and back to Braithwaite. An enjoyable ride, but with very cold hands and feet. 9 miles.