Sunday 4th December Allonby.
On a cold windy morning Dianne, Sue, John, Roy and John R met at the Melbreak for tea and coffee before setting off. Sat chatting well after 1030 more because of the cold wind outside although it had forecast a dry day.
Eventually they set off leaving Dianne who would meet them later at Allonby for lunch.
With Sue on the front they didn't waste much time on reaching Curwin Park where they joined the cycle path. Still following the cycle path until they reached Flimby where they joined the main road to avoid the gated road to Maryport. Having arranged to meet Clive at the Aquarium they made their way there only to find he had left having waited long enough in the cold. The group then continued along the promenade to join the cycle way to Allonby to find Dianne and Clive in the warm surrounds of the cafe. After lunch Dianne and Clive made their way back home the way they had arrived. Having had a strong headwind coming out the Sue group now had a welcome tailwind going back to Workington. Still following their wheel tracks it was up through Stainburn and Great Clifton back to the Melbreak to their parked vehicles. 30 miles
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 30th November. By Dianne Moyes
On a cold foggy morning 11 of us gathered at our unofficial HQ, the Brewer's Fayre in Cockermouth. Once we were settled in the warm, we were not that keen to head to Buttermere as planned, and when John Murphy arrived stating categorically that he was not riding to Buttermere, a new plan emerged. We would do a one hour loop and return to Brewer's Fayre for lunch at 12.30. We then made the most of free refills before leaving just before 11.
Anita was on foot but Maurice, Tom, John, Sue; me (Dianne), Helen, Maggie, Roy, Deb and Kev set off up the hill towards Paddle School turning left there then right to Brandlingill following the lanes to Pardshaw and the rough road to Mockerkin. This was our furthest point so we turned right there to cross the Egremont road (visibility was OK) to Ullock, then back via Dean and Eaglesfield. We were back in time for people to stash their bikes into vehicles before our lunch slot. Anita had followed a footpath across to the Paddle road and had then returned the same way arriving back at the same time as we did. Stewart was a new arrival for lunch which meant with 12 of us we could all benefit from the 2 meals for £9.49 offer. Of course we all enjoyed a good natter over a leisurely lunch. At the end Sue decided to book Sunday lunch for the 18th of December as we cannot get in at Ennerdale Brewery. She has booked 14 places so first come first served, it is essential to book a place as the Carvery is very popular.
Sunday 27th November Glaramara Borrowdale.
Twelve members turned up for the ride, they were Maurice, Tom, Anita, Roy, Sue, John, Maggie, Helen, Vic, John R, Michelle and Clive.
Starting from the old road at Braithwaite the group set off along the old road to the junction with the A66 where they crossed to join the cycle path. Splitting into two groups to make it easier for vehicles to pass they threaded their way through Keswick.
Leaving Keswick by the Borrowdale road the two groups maintained their distance as far as the Stonethwaite junction, having encountered some splendid views on the way.
With a tour point up for grabs at Stonethwaite phone box Maurice led a small group to see what all that was about. Back on the valley road they continued onto Seathwaite straight into the wind as they made their way to the farm. After a brief stop and photo shoot they set of this time with a following wind to the lunch stop at the Glaramara.
With the room to themselves with a splendid view of the adjacent fells they tucked into soup and sandwiches. Joining them was Johnny having cycled from home, along with Peter and Pat having been shopping in Keswick. After lunch Michelle having loaded her bike into the car left with Peter, while the rest apart from Pat set off back to Braithwaite. Splitting into two groups again they made their way back down the valley as far as Grange where they turned left over the river. This was followed by the climb up through Manesty where the two groups merged overlooking the lake. It was now mostly all downhill back to Braithwaite and parked vehicles.
Sunday 20th November Mae's Cafe Uldale.
On an unsettled morning with showers forecast Sara and Roy had arranged to meet up at Sue and John's at ten thirty. First to arrive was Roy having got caught out in a heavy shower as he left home. With the rain continuing Sara had other ideas and waited for the rain to clear before leaving her daughters house in Braithwaite. With everyone prepared for whatever the weather they set of with Sara on the front. Following the A66 to Crosthwaite roundabout, where they turned left onto the A591.
With a following wind and with Sara still on the front setting a steady pace they continued on the A591 to the Scarness turn. Away from the traffic it was now along the quieter lanes to Bassenthwaite village where Dianne, Maggie and Vic had just arrived.
They having set of from the Brewers Fayre having seen no rain until the Braithwaite group arrived in Bassenthwaite which didn't last for long. After a brief stop they set of together climbing steadily through Park Wood to join the Orthwaite road before reaching Uldale for lunch, joining them was Paul who had ridden from home. Just as well Sue had booked a table because the staff was turning people away as the place got full. After lunch and a good old natter about everything and nothing they made their way outside into the cold with the rain deciding to start up again. Maggie and Paul had made their minds up to head straight back home while the rest decided to do an extra few miles. Leaving Uldale they made their way to Ireby with the dark clouds and rain reducing the visibility. It was then onto Ruthwaite climbing most of the way to Binsey, followed by the welcome descent to the Castle Inn. Continuing onto Ouse Bridge here Dianne turned right back to Cockermouth. Leaving the rest who turned left, to join the A66 back to Braithwaite having been rained on most of the way back.
Sunday 13th November. By Dianne Moyes
Only 5 of us met up for coffee at the Melbreak Hotel on Sunday the 13th of November even though it was forecast to be an exceptionally warm day for November. Tom, me (Di), Paul and Michelle and Peter enjoyed a coffee before just Tom, Michelle and I headed towards the coast. Paul took his bike to Allonby and then had a ride towards Maryport from there, meeting us for lunch. Peter planned to meet us with the car at Allonby as this was Michelle's first ride out in a while. I did not make things easier for her as I chose to drop down to the river at Great Clifton then cross the river to Camerton and climb up the very steep hill out of Camerton and over to Flimby. We had to make a mechanical adjustment to Michelle's back mudguard after she had nudged a bollard but we all managed the downs and ups to Flimby. We were then caught out by the flooded underpass which is the responsibility of the railway I think, so had to keep on the main road till the turn off at Risehow. No stopping in Maryport, we were soon in Allonby spot on midday.
We had a good chat over lunch. Michelle decided to accept a lift back so just Tom and I were heading back inland via Gilcrux and Tallentire. We then went across the main road at Dovenby crossroads to Great Broughton. I decided Tom could find his way back to his car from there. I returned home via the Papcastle road. It was a perfect cycling day.
Sunday 6th November.
On a miserable morning although the sun was out in Cockermouth Thirteen member turned out for coffee and a chat at the Brewers Fayre. They were Dianne, John, Anita, Tom, Roy, Paul, Vic, John, Paul, Michelle, Peter, Sue and John.
While the chat continued and the coffee flowed the clouds moved in with the possibility of more rain. Eventually five members decided it was time to leave while it was still dry they were Dianne, Sue, John, Vic and John R out to see how he was feeling back on the bike. Leaving the Brewers Fayre it was straight into the wind as they made their way to Paddle School. Here they turned right to Eaglesfield and along the quiet lanes to Dean encountering the odd shower on the way. Leaving Dean still following the lanes they crossed the A5086 into Pardshaw and through Brandlingill where they so the most distinctive rainbow. On reaching the T-junction Dianne and John R turned left to Paddle School while Sue, John and Vic headed downhill to Southwaite Mill. A quick glance at the river from the bridge that was flowing quite fast before they started the drag up to the crossroads at Hundith. Going straight across they made their way past Hundith Hotel taking the next left turn to Strawberry How. On joining the Cockermouth Lorton road they said goodbye to Vic leaving Sue and John to make their way back to the Brewers Fayre.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 30th October.
Due to the predicted weather forecast for strong winds along the coast, the planned ride to Allonby was changed to a more inland route. Maurice who wanted a flat route was happy to start from Roy's in Braithwaite and cycle to Thirlmere. Having made it known on WhatsApp four members turned up at Roy's they were Maurice, Anita, Helen and Clive. Leaving Roy's dead on time (10.30) with Maurice on the front they met Sue and John coming to meet them, it was then onto the cycle way alongside the A66 into Keswick. Here they joined the busy Keswick to Threlkeld cycle track that was covered in fallen leaves. On reaching Threlkeld they crossed the A66 to make their way down the Vale. It wasn't long before the rain started to fall but not heavy enough to stop and add more wet gear. With John now on the front and the rain getting heavier they stopped by Lowthwaite Farm to had that extra wet gear, and just as well. By the time they reached The Lodge in the Vale for lunch they were rather wet. With the place deserted apart from another couple they were able to spread their wet clothing. Over lunch the rain continued, hoping for the rain to clear before setting of again. After a lengthy stop and a good old natter the rain cleared. It was agreed to return following their wheel tracks, this time the Threlkeld and Keswick track was much quieter. Having arrived back in Braithwaite in the dry it wasn't long back before the rain appeared again.
Tuesday 25th October Mae's Cafe Uldale.
Changing the day from Wednesday due to the predicted weather forecast, Dianne and Tom set off from the Brewers Fayre heading for greenway to Strawberry How. While Sue and John were setting off from Braithwaite to follow the A66 to join the A591.
Meanwhile Dianne and Tom were heading towards Embleton only to find the road closed to the A66, meaning they had to go onto Wythop Mill. Having crossed the A66 it was then on to the Castle Inn to make their way into Bassenthwaite. Here they took picturesque route through Park Wood to the Orthwaite road. Sue and John were already on the Orthwaite road having turned off the A591 at High Side. Having arrived first they waited for Dianne and Tom to arrive before ordering there lunch, only to be joined by Johnny who had ridden from home. Having agreed a route back they left Uldale heading for Irerby and onto Whitrigg with Dianne and Sue on the front talking most of the way. It was then mostly downhill into the wind to join the A591 as far as Bewaldeth. Here they turned right following Sustrans route 10 to Isel, stopping on the bridge overlooking the river before splitting up. After the short steep climb to the T-junction, Dianne and Tom turned right back to Cockermouth. Leaving Sue and John t turn left back to Braithwaite via the A66. Johnny disappeared in the distance heading back home via Embleton.
Sunday 23rd October Prize Giving Dinner
Twenty nine members and friends attended the prize giving dinner, although thirty one had been the number expected. Due to a mishap in the downhill competition to Steve Lunt, Anita took him to the West Cumberland Hospital for a check up, both missing the dinner. As usual six members traveled over from the North East, Shirley and Tracy went round selling raffle tickets raising over seventy pounds to subsidies the dinner.
Maurice and Peter took turns running the raffle, before Peter and Dianne handed out the prizes to the winners.
The Downhill
Gents Cup:- Brian Moore
Ladies Cup:- Tracy Moore
Nearest Pica:- Anita Goldsworthy
Big Urn Trike Trophy:- 2022 Brian Moore
Tour Competition Combined Aided & Unaided Cycles
Ladies
(2022 Tour Competition Trophy – S. MurphyGold Medal (121pts)
Gents
(2022 Tour Competition Trophy – John Murphy Gold Medal (121pts)
Maurice Cowley Silver Medal (1108ts)
Tom Beck Bronze Medal (73pts)
Wooden Spoon John Murphy
Sunday 2nd October Buttermere.
Nine members made their way to the Brewers Fayre they were Dianne, John, Tom, Anita, Roy, Sue, John, Paul and Steve. Most had just gone for the coffee and chat while Anita, Sue, John and Roy were there for the ride to Buttermere. After a lengthy conversation the four left leaving the rest still chatting. With Roy on his e-bike and the rest on non electric they headed into Cockermouth to join the greenway to the Lorton road. With Sue and Anita chatting away and setting a steady pace on the front, the two oldies on the back managed stay in contact. On reaching Hundith crossroads it was all downhill into Lorton with the road quite wet from the previous day's rain. On the climb to Lanthwaite Anita and Roy forged ahead although Sue had stopped to cast some clothing, at the cattle grid they regrouped only to be joined by Johnny. With lots of standing water about they took the descent into Rannerdale with a degree of care, but not Johnny. Eventually they all arrived in Buttermere after a strong tail wind along Crummock for their lunch. With the cafe usually busy again they sat outside in the sun but as the clouds appeared blocking out the sun it was on with extra clothing. It was now into the wind as they followed their wheel tracks, dropping John on the climb to the cattle grid. After regrouping they said goodbye to Johnny who was going back via the gated road back into Lorton. The rest still following their tracks ended up in Station Street in Cockermouth for the final push to the Brewers Fayre.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 28th September. Ennerdale Brewery. By Dianne Moyes
What a turnout! Seventeen members of the Club were involved at some point in, what turned out to be, a lovely sunny day. The destination was the Ennerdale Brewery at Rowrah and for some people it was planned as a pre Mallorca ride without any electrical assistance.
After the usual coffee and crack, which included a sociable John Moyes, we set off in 2 groups heading on the main road towards Paddle School. I (Dianne) led the first group which included Sue, Anita and her friend, Diane, who had come to have a taster ride with us. It was her first experience of riding in a group. Deb and Kevin were in the first group as was Paul. We followed John Murphy's route via Eaglesfield, Dean and Ullock and then onto the main road near Mockerkin before turning off up to Lamplugh Church and then back to the main road. As I don't like the main road, I turned off again to climb the long hill to Kirkland then right and down to Rowrah. Poor Sue did not complain and should have no difficulties in Mallorca.
The second group led by John Murphy, included, Steve, Vic, Tom, Helen and Maggie. They followed the same route but avoided the Kirkland climb by keeping on the main road until they turned right along Chapel Row. On google maps the road is called Chapel Row but I can't find a name for the cluster of houses there. We arrived pretty much at the same time to find Sara who had come over Whinlatter and Fangs from Braithwaite, just ready to order, and Pat and Johnny outside. Some sat inside some outside but the place was really busy and showed the popularity of its lunches.
Quite a few people decided to make their own way home for various reasons, so the two groups were rather different after lunch. The unassisted group went via the main road before turning off to Ullock and following their wheel tracks back to Brewer's Fayre. The e bike group plus Tom and Diane on their ordinary bikes headed east to the hills. Heading out of Kirkland we were rewarded with magnificent views all round, but at the top of a rise we stopped to look at a remarkably clear Isle of Man. Sara put some great photos on WhatsApp later. We then descended to Lamplugh with Johnny getting to the bottom first as usual, before another couple of climbs to the top of Fangs Brow. A passing motorist warned us about a pack of dogs on the road to Loweswater, it might have been a hound trail or the hunt. Pat and Johnny turned left for home but I suggested we go via Loweswater as the weather was still good. We descended with no sign of hounds, then took the Thackthwaite road to Lorton where we said goodbye to Sara. It was then on through Rogerscale to Paddle School and back to Brewer's Fayre where some of the slow group were still packing their cars.
It was about 32 miles for my group.
Sunday 25th September Thirlmere.
Having had to cancel the ride to the Ennerdale Brewery at the last minute due to it being fully booked it was agreed on WhatsApp to start from Dubwath.
Twelve members turned up for the ride they were Dianne, Sara, Debs, Helen, Anita, Sue, Tom, Roy, Vic, Kev, Steve and John, half of them arrived on two wheels.
After coffee and a long chat they started to make a move heading for the A66, with Sue on the front they made their way along the lake side before turning right to Thornthwaite. It was then on towards Braithwaite with drizzle in the air past Roy's house to join the cycle path along the A66. Leaving the cycle path they continued into Keswick to join the busy Keswick to Threlkeld pedestrian cycle way. On reaching the end the group split for some to continue along the old track bed to the Vale road. While some continued into Threlkeld to eventually meet up with the rest to continue down the Vale to Thirlmere. It was then along the busy A591 for a short distance where they turned left over the dam to follow the road down the west side of the Lake. With the majority having brought a pack lunch they decided to make use of the Armboth car park and its facilities. That left Steve and Roy to head back to Low Bridge End Farm for whatever they could get, to be joined later by the rest for coffee, cake and scone's.
As the temperature started to drop they set off again to follow their wheel tracks back to Threlkeld where they continue down the old railway path to Keswick. Not long after joining the path John suffered a back wheel puncture that was soon repaired by the help of Sara and Sue. The rest were not to be seen again, they had to make their way back to Dubwath where their cars were parked. Vic who had left the group earlier made his way home via the Stone Circle and Whinlatter.
Wednesday 21st September Allonby.
Starting from the Melbreak on a sunny morning with some black clouds moving ever closer passed over without raining while members sat outside drinking coffee.
Dianne arrived with some cards to get members phone numbers and contact details that everyone was happy to fill in, to be carried on all club rides.
Finally the group twelve strong set off taking the usual route through Great Clifton and down through Stainburn to join the cycle path through Curwin Park. On reaching the main road that was busy with traffic, the group split trying to cross over, only to regroup by the bridge. They then followed the cycle way passed Siddick Ponds where three women cyclists caught them up having got the train from Carlisle to Whitehaven, to cycle back to Carlisle. On reaching Maryport they stopped briefly before heading onto Allonby for lunch where Sue had booked a table. Having had a tailwind most of the way out it was now into the wind as they made their way out of Allonby. At Mealo House Dianne said goodbye to make her own way home via Gilcrux and Tallentire Hill encountering farmers moving cattle on the way. Because of the strong wind the group split into three as they pushed on to Maryport where they stopped to regroup. Still into the wind it was on through Flimby following their wheel tracks to Seaton where Steve suffered a rear wheel puncture. At this point Maggie, Stewart and Paul carried on back to the Melbreak the way they had come. With Steve back on his bike the rest made their way through Workington just as it decided to rain to follow the cycle way to Distington. Approaching Lillyhall Steve's tyre went flat again so Anita took a flyer and headed back to the Melbreak to get her car, to return to pick up Steve. Meanwhile the rest of the group that were left, made their way back to the Melbreak, they were Sue, Debs, Helen, Tom, Kev and John. Not long after Anita arrived back with Steve.
Sunday 18th September AGM.
Twenty two members made it to the AGM at Embleton village hall kindly arranged by Stewart our retiring treasurer. Our chairman Peter made reference to two members we lost this year Sue Cumella and Peter Fitzsimmons who both past away suddenly.
This year’s AGM went smoothly and was kept in control by the chairman; Maurice made recommendations to update the club constitution. Also approved was that the club have a monthly program of Sunday rides. Vic Emmerson was appointed new treasurer, with Sue and John M made committee members. Dianne provided the tea, coffee and milk, served up by Michelle and Helen. The wooden spoon a well sort after trophy, voted by the members went to JM.
Ten members arrived on four wheels, while two arrived on foot.Vic and Deb rode from home in Maryport, while Sara did the same. Paul and Steve met at the Brewers Fayre for the short ride. Meanwhile Tom and Anita had driven over to Roy's to meet up with Sue and John to ride out to Embleton via the A591 and Ouse Bridge.
After the meeting they headed for Whinlatter Pass getting caught up in a shower by Hundith. On reaching the summit as the rain started again they all agreed to visit the cafe. Waiting for the rain to stop didn't happen, so by the time they got back to Braithwaite they were quite wet.
Wednesday 14th September Buttermere.
Thirteen old and new members turned up at the Brewers Fayre for the ride to Buttermere, along with John Moyes and Peter Pearce who were there for the chat. During coffee and chat it was decided to split the number into two groups to avoid a long line. Dianne led the first group that included Maggie, Paul, Tom, Clive and Vic, a few minutes later Sue led the next group they were Helen, Deb, Kev, Roy, Steve and John. Taking the usual route via Paddle School and Rodgerscales, the two groups merged on the bridge over the river. After a brief stop the first group set off heading for Hope Beck, by now the sun had appeared warming up the proceedings although cool out of the sun. Still split into two groups they made their way to Lanthwaite stopping by the cattle grid before continuing on to Buttermere for lunch. On arrival they found the cafe very busy with plenty of tourists about making for a long wait to get served. Sat outside in the sun, it suddenly turned cold as the sun disappeared behind the clouds, seeing Dianne rush for her jacket. After lunch they left again in two groups, with Tom making a swift get away not to be seen again until reaching the top of Fangs Brow. On reaching Brackenthwaite Maggie and Clive said goodbye while the rest continued onto Loweswater. With the two groups now together they started the climb up Fangs Brow where they found Tom on his second cup of coffee. After brief stop was followed by the fast descent into Mockerkin, were they took the lane that had been newly surfaced to Sosgill. It then on through Mosser and Brandlingill to Paddle School to join the A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre where Dianne carried on home. 26 miles
Sunday 11th September.
On an overcast morning with the prospect of the sun appearing Anita, Dianne, Maggie, Sue, John and Roy made their way to the Brewers Fayre. Joining them were two cyclists (Kevin and Deborah) they had met in Mae's cafe who were keen to join the Solway. After coffee and introduction to Deborah and Kevin the group prepared to set off to follow a hilly route done by John.
With everyone on e-bikes they made their way to join the A66 heading in a westerly direction, taking the first left to Brigham. It was then onto Bridgefoot where they turned left just before Chapel Brow to Little Clifton. With sun now warming up the day some were keen to cast some clothing on reaching Greysouthen. Back rolling again and it was uphill to Eaglesfield, this was followed by the welcome descent to Southwaite Mill. After crossing the river the road climbed steadily to the Cockermouth Lorton crossroad, here they carried straight on towards Hundith Hotel. With the lanes being usually quiet they made their way to Wythop Mill where they said goodbye to Maggie. On leaving Wythop Mill it was onto Dubwath with a view of the busy A66 below, before reaching the station cafe for an energy boost. After making sure the bikes were secured they found a table on the platform sat out in the sun.
After cake and scones they made a move with the option of heading back to Cockermouth or going back via Whinlatter. All were in agreement of going back over Whinlatter, so it was along the A66 to the Thornthwaite turn, then onto Braithwaite.
Dianne led the group onto the climb that soon started to split seeing Sue and Anita disappearing up the road along with Kevin. Regrouping at the top was followed by the fast descent into Lorton where they stopped on the bridge overlooking the river.
The final miles back to Cockermouth took them through Rodgerscales and onto Paddle School to join A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre and for Dianne back home. 32 miles.
Wednesday 7th September Ennerdale Brewery.
Almost dead on ten thirty six members rolled out of the Brewers Fayre car park they were Sue, Sara, Helen, Tom, Roy and John. Joining the A5086 they made their way to Paddle School, turning left to Rodgerscale and onto Lorton. Having arranged to meet Maggie by the bridge at Lorton, she arrived almost simultaneously. With the sun getting warmer some decided to cast some clothes before setting of again. Following Sustrans Sea to Sea route they negotiated the badly surfaced road through Thackthwaite to Loweswater. With everyone on e-bikes including Tom they made the ascent of Fangs Brow with ease, although Tom took the prime. After a brief stop to take a drink, they continued onto Lamplugh to start the climb through Felldyke to Cross Rigg, with a view of Ennerdale and the surrounding Fells. It was now all downhill to Kirkland and onto Rowrah for lunch at the Brewery where they found Anita and Paul.Anita had ridden from home via Haile and Cold Fell, while Paul had got there via Ullock, Mockerkin and Fangs Brow from the opposite direction. Joining them for lunch were Maurice and John R both having driven there. After lunch the two wheeler's said goodbye to Maurice, John and Anita as they headed up the hill towards Asby. On reaching Dean Cross they turned right to Ullock, where Sara tested her downhill skills reaching just over 43 mph. From Ullock it was the usual route back through Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield where they said goodbye to Paul. At Paddle School the group split Sara and Maggie headed for home via Southwaite and Hundith while the rest joined A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre. 25 miles.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 31st August by Dianne Moyes
The Marina Cafe at Maryport was a new starting venue for us and it was a success. John took me there with my bike in the car and when we asked how long we could park, we were told all day. You have to register your car on something when you go in the café. Also it opens at 8.30 am which is useful for Maurice and Tom. I think we were the last there, it was good to see Maurice with Shirley, just came for the chat, also Tom, Roy, Paul and Helen who had ridden in from Dearham We left on time and turned left to get a better look at the area, passing the campsite right next to the marina and then cycling over the bridge to the Aquarium side.
We went through to Allonby the usual way and I then turned off wanting to use one of Allonby's many toilet blocks, only to find them all closed. In the process we lost Roy, so instead of going via Westnewton we carried on up to Mawbray picking up Roy on the way. We went inland via Holme St Cuthbert and up to Tarns noticing the signs still up relating to Solfest which had been held the weekend before. Map reading was required to find the right route through to Aldoth then back on ourselves to the other road with the sand quarry. We went a short stretch on the Aspatria/Silloth Road before turning off for New Cowper and Edderside(with a dried up pond). It was then back to the Allonby Cafe for lunch having done 20 miles. Some wanted fish and chips but as there was a half hour wait they came back and we had a very sociable lunch with all of us round a table outside.
After lunch we headed back to Maryport but Helen and I turned off to go home via Gilcrux. My distance covered was 30 miles.
Sunday 28th August, Brewer's Fayre to Uldale, 32 miles. by Dianne Moyes
Another good weather forecast saw 6 of us meeting up at Brewer's Fayre to head out to the quiet area north of Skiddaw on Bank Holiday Sunday. Sitting by the roadside as I arrived at Brewer's Fayre was Tracy, who as timekeeper was waiting for the first finishers in a 25 mile race taking place on the A66. Helen, Stuart, me Dianne,
Anita, Pat and Johnny left promptly, giving Tracy and Bacca a wave, and headed out of Cockermouth on the Greenway to the Strawberry Howe road. We dropped down and crossed the A 66 at Embleton onto the old main road. Continuing past the Distillery and over Ouse Bridge we paused at the Castle Inn to shed layers. Going into Bassenthwaite village we found John and Sue relaxing on a bench waiting for us. They had come from Braithwaite along the west side of the lake mixing with the racers on the winding section of the A66.
We continued through Park Wood and up to Orthwaite dropping down to Overwater before the stiff climb up to Mae's Café at Uldale. The table was all set for us; in fact, it really wasn't too busy for a Bank Holiday. We joined Johnny and Pat outside after our lunch and chatted to a couple of cyclists from Maryport. It turns out they had both been at Workington Grammar School in the 70's when my John started teaching there, he was in his early 20's then.
Johnny and Pat were making their own way back, the rest of us headed the same way as last week via Ireby, Torpenhow (visiting the cheese shed again), Bothel, Threapland, Sunderland and Isel Bridge. Sue and John went left towards Keswick as the rest of us turned right to Cockermouth. It looked a bit threatening towards Skiddaw so we hope they got back in the dry. (The opposite)
Sunday 21st August Uldale
Meeting at the Brewers Fayre were Dianne, Anita, Helen, Tom, Johnny and Vic after the usual mug of coffee they set off for Wythop Mill to collect Maggie. On their way they made use of the greenway to Strawberry How then over the A66 and on past Embleton Church to Maggie's. It was then onto the Castle Inn to meet up with Sue and John having used the A66 and the A591 to get there. The group now nine strong started the climb up towards Binsey before the fast descent into Uldale and Mae's Cafe for lunch. Johnny who had to get back home said goodbye leaving the rest to get there lunch, Sue having reserved a table. After lunch Vic had to head back home, while the rest discussed a route back, with the day getting much warmer it seemed a good idea to make the most of it. Leaving Uldale they made their way to Irerby, then along a narrow twisting lane to Torpenhow where they stopped at the Torpenhow Cheese Company honesty shop. Finding the door open they all piled in to find a variety of dairy products and jams, with everything labelled and priced. Dianne and Helen were tempted and came away with packets of cheeses. After leaving Torpenhow they crossed the busy A595 into Bothel and onto Threapland where the turned left back to the A595.
After crossing the A595 again it was mostly all downhill through Sunderland to Isel Bridge where they stopped before the group split at the T-junction. Here Dianne, Helen, Anita and Tom turned right, while Sue, Maggie and John turned left all heading to where they had started from.
Wednesday 17th August Whitehaven
As the good weather continued so did the cycling as six members made it to the Brewers Fayre for the usual coffee and natter. They were Dianne, Anita, Sue, Tom John and John Moyes. Having arrived in good time and no pressure to leave on time they chatted away until John Moyes got up to go. With John having produced a route that everyone was happy with they set off to join the A66. With quite a bit of traffic on the A66 they took the first exit to High Brigham and onto Bridgefoot. After climbing Chapel Brow they joined the cycle path adjacent to the A595 to Distington and onto Parton. Still following the cycle path overlooking the sea, once the Waggon Way thronged with miners going to and from work. Just before entering Whitehaven they stopped at the William Pit Memorial Garden the site where 104 miners lost their lives 75 years ago. After reading the notes left on flowers to remember those that were killed they continued into Whitehaven to the Beacon for lunch. Waiting at the Beacon were Maurice, Steve and Dave followed later by John and Mavis that made ten all managing to sit round one small table. After lunch and a good old natter the two groups split up the locals going the way they had come, while the two wheelers headed for the cycle way. Once on the cycle way with Tom and Dianne taking turns on the front they made their way past Moor Row and Cleator Moor and onto Rowrah. Here they joined the main road to Lamplugh, then back to the main road past Mockerkin Tarn where they turned left to Ullock. Away from the busy roads it was now through the quiet lanes to Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield, only to join the A5086 again back to the Brewers Fayre. 34 miles
Sunday 14th August Allonby.
On another glorious sunny morning Sue, Anita, John, Tom and Vic met at the Melbreak Hotel for coffee before setting off. Leaving the Melbreak they followed the cycle path towards Lillyhall, where they turned right by wind farm to Stainburn. On the downhill section Tom took off only to be seen in the distance disappearing round a corner. All together again as they headed to Curwin Park to join the cycle way to Flimby. Taking the Siddick Pond route with Tom setting a fast pace on the front, it was a relief when he had to stop to answer his phone. After negotiating the gated section it was onto Maryport only to find there was a street market with stalls on quay side. Stopping by the Aquarium while Tom disappeared to look for his daughter, before carrying onto Allonby. With a welcome breeze coming of the sea they made their way along the promenade and through the golf course to pick up the cycle way. On reaching Allonby they found a table for their picnic although it was directly in the sun the breeze of the sea made it bearable. All fed and watered they set off back in the direction they had come, at Mealo House they said goodbye to Tom who was meeting his daughter in Maryport. Here the rest took the road up towards Allerby where they crossed the A596 to Gilcrux. With tour points to collect for Sue and John they made their way up Tallentire Hill with splendid views across the Solway. Taking the easy route down brought them into Tallentire and on past Broughton Craggs before crossing the A66 into Brigham. It was then onto Bridgfoot for the final climb of the day up Chapel Brow to parked vehicles at the Melbreak. 30 miles
Wednesday 10th August Ennerdale Brewery Rowrah.
On hot sunny morning seven members made it to the Brewers Fayre they were Anita, Sue, Helen, Tom, Clive, John and Stuart. Anita arrived sporting her new Specialized e-bike that she was pleased with. Sat in their usual spot chatting and drinking coffee delaying their start waiting for Stuart. Eventually around eleven o'clock Stuart arrived having been delayed waiting for a delivery. Turning left out of the car park with Sue on the front they made their way to Paddle School where they turned left to Lorton.
On the downhill section Stuart took off with Tom not far behind as they threaded their way through Rodgerscales stopping by the bridge in Lorton to regroup. It was then on through Thackthwaite and on past Loweswater, before the climb up Fangs Brow. After regrouping again it was mostly all downhill to Lamplugh to join the main road to Ennerdale Brewery for lunch. On arrival they found Maurice, Shirley, Maggie, Stewart and Paul having had their lunch. While some preferred to sit outside some sat inside before venturing out for a good old natter. With a few options on which way to go back they decided on going via Asby and Dean Cross, then down into Ullock. Turning left in Ullock took them to Branthwaite then onto Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield where they said goodbye to Paul. That left the rest to make their way back to the Brewers Fayre for a well earned drink. 25 miles
Sunday 7th August Uldale.
As members started to arrive at the Brewers Fayre for the days ride it started to drizzle which was not expected. Sat overlooking the car park they chatted while drinking coffee with an eye on the weather outside. With the clock ticking it was left to Dianne to get the group moving. With a route agreed they made their way to the greenway to join the old road over Slate Fell and on through Embleton to the Castle Inn. Crossing the A591 took them into Bassenthwaite village to start the climb through Park Wood following Halls Beck to the T-junction. Here they turned left followed by more climbing it was here that Dianne stopped with the rest disappearing up the road. With Paul and John off the back they stopped to see if she was ok, feeling cold she said she was going to go back and get a hot drink at the Distillery.Making sure she was ok John and Paul pressed on making contact with the rest before reaching Uldale. Having booked a table before leaving the Brewers Fayre they all piled into Mae's cafe for lunch, they were Sara, Maggie, Sue, Tom, Vic, Paul and John.After lunch Maggie headed back home via the Castle Inn, while the rest made their way to Ireby. At this point Sara, Vic and Paul all needing to back home early left Sue, John and Tom to carry on to Torpenhow. On leaving Ireby the lane was so narrow they were hoping that they didn't meet a tractor. From Torpenhow they crossed the A595 into Bothel, then onto Threapland where they took a left turn. This was followed by a long drag before reaching the A595 where they crossed over to follow the road to Sunderland. It was now mostly all downhill to Isel Bridge where they stopped before tackling the steep climb, to join the undulating road back to Cockermouth. 33 miles
Wednesday 3rd August Buttermere.
Dianne, Anita, Sue, Helen, Tom, Paul and John turned up at the Brewers Fayre for the ride to Buttermere along with Sara who came for the coffee and chat. With a strong westerly wind and overcast sky the group decided on a route to try and avoid the wind.
Leaving the Brewers Fayre they made their way into Cockermouth to join the greenway to Strawberry How. Following Sustrans route 71 they climbed up and over the A66 towards Hundith, taking a left turn to Armaside. On reaching the Lorton road they turned left and on past Lorton Church to Hope Beck. After a brief stop they carried on along the narrow lane back to the valley road. This was followed by the climb to Lanthwaite stopping at the cattle grid to regroup before the fast descent to Rannerdale. With the road rather quieter than usual they made their way along Crummock to Buttermere for lunch at the Croft House Farm Cafe. With plenty of tables available they all managed to sit together. After lunch the group agreed on a circular route back going via Loweswater and Fangs Brow to Mockerkin. Where would the oldies be without an electric bike as they scaled Fangs Brow almost together? On reaching the A5086 they took the road into Ullock then onto Dean, Deanscales stopping in Eaglesfield at Paul's. Here Paul invited the group in for tea and coffee sat in the back garden, before heading back to parked vehicles at the Brewers Fayre. 27 miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 31st July Whitehaven.
Down in numbers only five turned up for the ride starting from the Brewers Fayre they were Stuart, Sue, John, Steve and Paul. Although members turned up early it wasn't until eleven o'clock before they made a move, having decided to go to Whitehaven.
With Stuart on the front, they headed down the road to join the A66 to the High Brigham turn. By now Stuart was out of site only to be seen again sat on a seat sunning himself in High Brigham. Back together again didn't last long as Stuart took off again only to regroup outside the Melbreak. With sun getting warmer and with a side and tail wind they followed the cycle path to Whitehaven, with a clear view of the Isle of Man as they passed through Parton. On reaching Whitehaven they headed to the Beacon for lunch sat out in the sun overlooking the marina, along with a couple from Holland having just completed the Sea to Sea. Having agreed a route back they followed their wheel tracks back as far as Distington, where they continued on the cycle path to Workington. A brief comfort stop turned into a coffee stop, again sat in the sun, before pressing on again following the cycle path to Camerton. It was then onto Great Broughton, but not before having to stop for the farmer to move his cows for milking (when asked he said there were 150 cows) Having waited for the best part of ten minutes they set off again to Great Broughton, then on through Papcastle back to the Brewers Fayre. Good to see Paul out with the group again, saying he had enjoyed the ride. 33 miles. (36 miles for Paul)
Wednesday 27th July Allonby.
On a lovely sunny morning Sue, Helen, Tom, John, Stuart, Steve, Peter and Vic made their way to the Melbreak. With very little wind and the sun getting warm they opted to sit outside consuming tea and coffee along with the chat. Another late start, good job Maurice had other commitments or their would have been some strong words.
Eventually they made a move saying goodbye to Vic and Peter who were just there for the coffee and chat. A change from the usual route took them up the road to Distington to join the cycle way to Workington. After a brief stop in Workington they continued on the cycle way to Maryport, where Paul joined them at Flimby. On reaching Maryport they decided to have their pack lunches by the harbour wall sat in the sun. With the seagulls for company it was keep your hands on your sandwiches as they swirled around searched for scraps. Back in the saddle and it was along the promenade to follow the cycle path to Allonby, where Paul said goodby having parked his car in Maryport. Having stopped in Maryport instead of Allonby they continued onto West Newton with Stuart and Tom forcing the pace out front. It was then onto Aspatria and over the River Ellen to Arkleby where they turned right to follow the lanes to Gilcrux. It was now the best part of the day with the sun at it's warmest as they made their way up the drag to Tallentire, only to regroup in the village. On the narrow lanes one had to be vigilant of large tractors and trailers moving silage. Setting of again was mostly all downhill to the A594 (Cockermouth to Maryport) where they crossed over to Broughton Craggs, before crossing over the River Derwent. Once over A66 they made their way through Broughton Cross and Bridgefoot for the final climb of the day up Chapel Brow back to the Melbreak. 37 miles
Wednesday 20th July Craggs Bothel.
On a much cooler day after the previous two days breaking all temperature records throughout the UK Anita, Sue, John and Vic met at the Brewers Fayre. After a few mugs of coffee and good old natter, and way past ten thirty they set off. With Vic on the front they made their way across the A66 into Cockermouth to join the greenway. Somehow the four got split up on the greenway only to regroup again by Cockermouth School, turned out Anita and Vic continued onto Strawberry How. It was now onto the Isel road to Isel, stopping on the bridge overlooking river, before taking a right turn to Sunderland. This was followed by the steep climb out of Sunderland made easy for those on e-bikes, but not for Anita who had to use her own power. Eventually they arrived at the Craggs but not before having to stop for a load or sheep and lambs being moved. After lunch they decided to make their way to the Castle Inn where they turned right to Ouse Bridge and past the Distillery to Embleton. Having made their way over Slate Fell in was back to join the greenway and on to the Brewers Fayre having said goodbye to Vic on the way. 23 miles
Sunday 10th July by Stuart Pike
Maurice, Tom, Steve, Stuart, met Diane and John and Paul at the Melbreak for a cuppa on the sunny terrace. Dianne was not riding today as she had another engagement. Paul left us after a cuppa and we saw him later at the lunch stop.
We set off and made our way to the cafe at the Lakes District Wildlife Park for lunch on a terrace overlooking the long noses of the Brazilian Tapirs enclosure. We picked up Vic at Brigham en route and Paul joined us at the Wildlife Park.
We headed back along the Embleton Road to Cockermouth which turned out to be enough time to build up a thirst so after saying goodbye to Vic and Paul we made our way to Wellington Farm for tea and cake (actually Tom had blackberry crumble and custard which everyone was eyeing up). Again sitting outside on a shaded terrace.
Leaving here we made our way to High Brigham and back to The Melbreak.
26 miles on a pleasant warm sunny day.
Sunday 3rd July. by Steve Lunt
The Sunday run today was "out west" was formulated by Mo and me (Steve L) to Include Mo on him leaving Whitehaven (Steve Hasson's place), so we met up on bikes at Moor Row Station/Bridge. We left nice and easy along the cycle way to Rowrah; to leave it and aim for lunch time stop at Ennerdale Brewery. Nice surprise we met with Paul Cumella (Who had traveled over by car to meet us) and a little while later Dianne and her son, just having arrived back in the UK from working in Qatar a keen cyclist, looking very fit. After bites to eat we parted company, Di and long lost son James taking the route northwards via Asby. Mo and I taking the road towards Ennerdale and dropping down into village for a coffee stop (so soon)'at the Gather. Homewards, riding out of Ennerdale towards Wath Brow, left turn to Cleator, Woodend where Mo rode on to Egremont. Steve L to Padstow via a very useful homeward bound cycle way to Cleator Moor. 19 miles.
Sunday 3rd July.
Staying in Stainton for the weekend John had mapped out a route for Sunday only to wake up on Sunday morning to finding it raining. With the rain continuing and a dog to exercise it was looking unlikely to get out on the bike. Eventually the rain stopped and the sun appeared and by one o'clock the road outside had dried out. Much later than usual they left Stainton about two thirty to negotiate the A66 roundabouts before reaching Brougham Castle. Stopping on the bridge to cast their light rain jackets as the sun got warmer before moving on again to Clifton Dykes. Here they took a right turn climbing steadily on some newly laid Tarmac to follow the lanes to Great Strickland. It was the then onto the picturesque village of Morland following Sustrans route 71. (71 route from Penrith to Appleby). About a mile out of Morland they turned right to Newby where the road reared up climbing on and beyond Little Strickland for three miles. After all the climbing this was followed by a welcome descent to Great Strickland with a splendid view off the Pennines. Leaving Great Strickland they crossed the River Leith then under the railway to join the A6 then on through Lowther Park to Askham. With very little wind and the afternoon getting warmer they made their way to Yanwath to join the A6 again to Eamont Bridge. It was now back negotiating the A66 roundabouts, before the final couple miles back to Stainton. 30 miles.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 29th June.
Leaving Braithwaite in the rain were Sue and John heading to Bassenthwaite Station to meet up with Maurice, Tom, Steve, Anita, Helen plus Dianne who had ridden from home. Arriving latter was Roy having had a problem with the electrics on his bike.
Sitting in what was the waiting room of the old station they consumed tea and coffee before setting of with the rain having cleared. Leaving the station they crossed the A66 passed the boat club then over the river to the Castle Inn. Turning right onto the A591 then a left turn took them into Bassenthwaite Village where they joined a narrow lane following Chapel Beck. As the road started to climb Roy's motor decided to give up, only to come to life again as the road got steeper. It was now mostly downhill to High Side to join the A591 that was quieter than usual to Millbeck. As the road climbed towards Applethwaite the view was magnificent looking towards Derwent Water.
As they descended the rain could be seen drifting in their direction, having to take shelter by Burnside Caravan Park. With odd rumble of thunder the rain soon past by, only to find Dianne had lost power on her bike. Unable to restore power Dianne phoned John to get a lift back home, leaving the rest to continue onto Lingholme for lunch. With the place very popular the group had to wait for a table coming vacant, before sitting down to a tasty lunch. After lunch Sue and John got extra miles in by going round Derwent Water, while the rest headed back to Dubwath via the A66.
Sunday 26th June.
On a very wet and windy morning Sue, John and Roy made their way to the Brewers Fayre going via the A66, Dubwath, Embleton and the Greenway. On arrival they found Dianne, Maurice, Tom, Anita, Steve and Paul. With it still raining outside the coffee continued to be flow along with the chat, until someone said we should give it a go.
With the rain having eased of Maurice, Tom and Anita decided to ride back as far as Dubwath with the Braithwaite trio. While Dianne did the sensible thing and headed back home leaving Steve and Paul chatting. On reaching Dubwath with the wind and rain getting worse they made their way into the Station Cafe for light refreshments. With no sign of the rain stopping the group decided to make a move, the Maurice trio heading back to the Brewers Fayre via Wythop Mill. Leaving Sue, John and Roy to make their way along A66 into the wind and rain, to eventually reach Braithwaite rather soaked.
Wednesday 22nd June Eden Valley.
On glorious sunny morning with very little wind ten members made their way to Langwathby, they were Dianne, Maurice, Tom, Sue, John, Anita, Roy, Maggie, Helen and Vic. Rolling out of Langwathby on an undulating route more suited for those on e-bikes, while Anita and Tom were on normal bikes. With John on the front the first climb came at Little Salkeld before levelling out before Glassonby. With group altogether it was now mostly downhill as they headed towards Kirkoswald. Although there was a slight headwind it was warm in the sun as they entered Kirkoswald. Here they encountered the first steep climb through the village to High Bankmill were they regrouped. They were now in the foot of the Pennines passing fields of mowed grass as the road climbed and descended before reaching Croglin. The group came to a brief halt because of a ewe taking its lambs for a walk in Croglin, before heading onto Newbiggin were they turned left to Ainstable. With John still navigating on the front and Vic making the most of the downhill’s, he was not to been seen again until reaching Armathwaite. Most having brought a packed lunch, those that hadn't visited the village shop. It was then up to the railway station sat in the sun to have their well earned picnic with the added bonus of seeing a train. On leaving the station the group split leaving Dianne, Helen, Anita, Maggie and Vic to make their way back via Lazonby to Langwathby. That left the rest to go point collecting, picking up points at Blackmoss Pool and Nunclose before joining the wheel tracks of the Dianne group. One more point at Eden Lacy and it was back to Langwathby to join up with the rest for a drink at the Shepherds Inn sat soaking up the sun on the village green. 36 miles
Sunday 19th June. The Gather Ennerdale.
Only four members were out on Sunday's ride they were Dianne, Sue, John and Roy who met at the Brewers Fayre for coffee and chat, along with Paul. In no hurry to set off they chatted away oblivious of the time until Paul made a move to leave. With the earlier spot of rain having quickly blown over the depleted group set of to Paddle School. Turning left at the school they made their way through Brandlingill to Pardshaw then onto Mockerkin to join the A5086 again. After half a mile they turned left to Lamplugh Church stopping briefly for a drink. It was then on past Inglenook Caravan Park to start the climb through Felldyke stopping on the top for lunch. With a seat conveniently placed which the four managed to squeeze on, here they had a splendid view of Ennerdale and the high fells. Although it was sunny there was a cool breeze blowing on the top so after a quick lunch they decided to try the Gather in Ennerdale for a hot drink. On arrival the place was quite full but we're lucky to find a table and managed a pot of tea and scone. Having had a following wind out it was going to be into the wind going back as they made their way out of Ennerdale up the hill to Kirkland. Turning left in Kirkland took them to Rowrah followed by more climbing before reaching Dean Cross. Here they turned right by Fulton's garage for the fast descent into Ullock. It was then over the River Marron and on through the lanes to Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield to join the A5086 back to Cockermouth. 26 miles
Wednesday 15th June.
What a difference a few days can make after the wind and rain on Sunday today was a glorious sunny day with a slight breeze. Making their way to the Brewers Fayre were Dianne, Maggie, Sue, Helen, Maurice, Tom, Roy, Stuart and John. The usual pre-ride coffee was consumed along with the usual chat before the 1030 start. On leaving the temperature was about 17 degrees on John's Garmin as they made their way across the A66 to the Greenway. Leaving the Greenway it was on past Cockermouth School to join the Isel road to Isel Bridge, stopping briefly to view the river. Taking the first right the road climbed past Outgang Wood before turning right towards Bewaldeth.
After a couple of miles they turned left to Sunderland, here they were confronted with a short steep climb before joining the A591 to the Craggs. Sue having booked a table although it was quiet on arrival, it soon started to fill up. Joining them were Pat and Johnny who had cycled from home via Southwaite and Isel Bridge. After lunch Maggie headed back home via Castle Inn, while the rest left Pat and Johnny having their lunch.
Turning right leaving the Craggs they headed to Bothel and through the lanes to Gilcrux, here they turned right by the village hall. This was followed by a short descent before crossing over the railway and the river, where they turned left along a narrow lane climbing steadily to the A596. Here Stuart left the group to head home, the rest continued on adding an extra loop so Sue and John could get a tour point. Although it was only an extra two miles they finally reached Mealo House on the coast road. Here they joined the cycle path overgrown with wild flowers, with a splendid section by Crosscannonby road end with Poppies and Cornflowers. Photos taken and it was of again through the golf course and along the promenade to find the tea room. Helen having been before escorted the group to part of the marina that they didn't know about. After coffee bought by Tom the group continued heading to Flimby and the dreaded climb up Flimby Brow. It was then a right turn to Camerton where the road is slowly being eroded by the river that is completely closed to vehicles. The final few miles took them through Great Broughton and Papcastle before arriving in Cockermouth and back to parked vehicles. 38 miles
Sunday June 12th Cockermouth to Silloth by Dianne Moyes
We met up in the car park at Brewer's Fayre for a prompt start at 10.00am so we could have a coffee at the café in Allonby. We were, me Dianne, John and Sue, Tom and Roy. We headed straight out of Cockermouth taking the Maryport road then turning off to Tallentire. The plan was to meet Helen there but she was not in sight so we carried on to the Dearham Road end. Checking the WhatsApp we learned she had had a chain problem but then came the message that she was on her way. Modern communication can be very useful. It wasn't long till she was in sight. We headed through Bulgill and over the Maryport Carlisle road straight to Allonby. Anita was waiting in the café and then Stuart arrived from Maryport followed a bit later by Steve who had also started from Maryport. Anita had decided not to ride so just enjoyed a natter. There was some discussion about the strength of the wind but we finally decided to stick with the original plan and head to Silloth but keeping inland. The wind was a strong south westerly.
Arriving in Silloth we headed for the sheltered benches by the Bee Garden, which was in full flower. Some people picked up fish and chips, others ate their picnic. Up till then everything had been very enjoyable but then a few spots of rain were felt. We decided to go the same way back to Allonby to avoid the wind on the coast so we retraced our route through Newtown towards Mawbray. Unfortunately at Holme St Cuthbert the spots of rain became a heavy shower, so we took shelter in the lee of the school, though most of us were wet by then. When it eased we continued, though we had decided to not return by Maryport and Flimby but use the straightest route back which was the way we came. Just before Allonby, Stuart left us to go a faster pace back to home and at the Mealo turning we said goodbye to Steve who struggled back along the cycleway and Maryport Prom to his car. Helen left us at the Dearham turn off.
We did dry out a bit on the way back but my main concern was my battery. The wind was so strong, I needed to use a lot on the return journey. For the first time ever I ran out of power just on Lamplugh Road before the turning to Parkside Avenue luckily. We all had a lot of damp clothes to peel off when we got home though the roads were dry from Allonby and in Cockermouth they had had no rain. A character building day. 40 miles
Tuesday 7th June.
Seven members turned up at the Brewers Fayre for the re-arranged day due to Wednesday's forecast, they were Dianne, Anita, Sue, Tom, John, Vic and John Moyes.
The usual mugs of coffee were consumed along with the banter about almost everything as the time ticked by, when someone said it was twenty to eleven. Although it was warm the sun was reluctant to stay out long as the group headed up the road to Paddle School. Turning left it was onto well known roads through Rodgerscales to Lorton to pick up the valley road to Lanthwaite stopping at the cattle grid to regroup.
As usual the view down the valley towards Buttermere never stops to impress with the visibility near perfect. Moving on as the day got warmer was now mostly downhill to Rannerdale and along Crummock before the final push to Buttermere. On arrival the cafe was quite busy but managed to find a table for six of us. Joining them was Paul having driven out for the company, followed later by Johnny who had cycled over Honister.
While the rest chatted Vic had to leave having to be back home early, and with the sun at its warmest no one was in a hurry to move. Eventually the group made a move following their wheel tracks as far as the Hope Beck turn. Here Anita decided to carry on back to her car, while the rest followed the narrow road to Hope Beck. It was then up the gated road before turning back at the top down into Lorton. From Lorton they again followed their tracks to Sandy Beck where they turned left to Brandlingill. Saying goodbye to Johnny they carried onto Paddle School to join the busy A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre. 25 miles
Sunday 5th June.
On an overcast morning with a strong easterly wind Sue and John left Braithwaite to meet up with Dianne and Sara at the Castle Inn. Leaving Braithwaite following A66 to Crosthwaite roundabout, where they joined the A591. Meanwhile Dianne and Sara were leaving Cockermouth via Strawberry How and Embleton. Having met up as agreed they left the Castle Inn heading up the hill with Sara and Dianne getting the most out of their e-bike. At the road end to Bewaldeth they regrouped, here they said goodbye to Sara who was heading back home to attend a jubilee party in the afternoon. That left the trio to press on through Ireby, Boltongate and across the busy A595 to Fletchertown. Having encountered some strong head winds, it was now a following wind for the final miles to Blennerhasset where they stopped by the river for lunch. After lunch they went to look for a friend of Dianne's who lived in Blennerhasset Mill. After getting directions from a local they eventually found the old mill but not before meeting Johnny and Pat who had cycled from Maryport. The owner Andy made us most welcome and showed us where the old waterwheel was, along with his narrow gauge railway. (A must to visit again). Leaving the mill it was back through Blennerhasset along with Johnny and Pat for a couple of miles. Here they split up leaving them to head back to Maryport, while the trio headed to Threapland. After crossing A596 again it was mostly all downhill through Sunderland to Isel Bridge where they split up. Dianne taking a right turn at the top of the hill back to Cockermouth while Sue and John turned left to Dubwath to join the A66 back home.
Wednesday 1st June.
Four members turned up at the Murphy's they were Maurice, Tom, Anita and Steve having parked on the old road. Sat outside Sue provided the coffee as the sun started break through the clouds. Dead on ten thirty they set of with Sue on the front heading along the A66 cycle path towards Keswick to join the cycle path to Threlkeld. As usual the path was busy with a mix of families, dog walkers and cyclists, stopping by the tunnel to wait for Steve who had got held back. Maurice suggested that the four off us should carry on and see how far round Thirlmere we could get. On reaching Threlkeld it was across the A66 to join the Vale road to Thirlmere then over the dam as far as Armboth car park. Here a barrier stops you going any further with a sign telling you of the danger ahead. Doing a u-turn if was back over the dam and along A591 to the Lodge in the Vale to find Maurice and Steve. After lunch and a long natter it was back down the Vale to Threlkeld to pick up the cycle path back to Keswick, then onto Braithwaite. With the bikes packed into vehicles it was round to Sue and John's for more coffee and chat. 25 miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 29st May Mae's Cafe (or lost in Cockermouth) by Steve Lunt
That is my excuse losing my riding colleagues at a fast change at the traffic lights on the approach to the memorial at the entrance to the Greenway entrance. Having only just returned to regular cycling after a year off and did not recognise the changes at this part of town – gone is the fire station. Retracing a few turns of the wheel – found the Greenway and cycled like fury and finally arrived at Derwent School – rescue arrived in the shape of Mo and Tom cycling onwards through Embleton Village, Dubwath and met up with the rest of the riders Dianne, Clive, Helen, Vic, Maggie and Stuart at Castle Inn
Now all together turning right at Castle Inn and then a left to arrive at Bassenthwaite Village and up the long steady climb through Park Wood until the “T” Junction which pointed us up the steep hill through Orthwaite to turn left at the end of Over Water to climb another steep hill to drop down to a little hamlet of Stanthwaite and another uphill to Uldale and lunch at Mae,s Cafe which gave us a welcome break and here we were joined by Anita, Nigel and Sara.
First to leave was Maggie and Vic who took a direct route home. Next to leave were Moe, Steve L and Tom who said they would wait for the rest at Ireby. After a fairly long wait and with Maurice and Steve L eager to attack the long climb up to Whitrigg they decided to go and leave Tom to direct the rest along the route. After waiting on the top of the hill just past Whitrigg (in the sun) Dianne and Tom appeared with the news that Clive had suffered a mechanical fault resulting in Sara, Stuart and Clive in a mini group making their way directly back to base at Brewers Fayre. Now only four left from the original group made their way swooping down the hill and onto the A59 where they turned down and left it to reach Isle Bridge and then onto Cockermouth and Brewers Fayre and our cars. 30 miles
Summary of rides in May by Dianne Moyes
After John, Sue and Stuart had left for the dangers of Mallorca, the rest of us had a number of enjoyable rides. On Sunday May 8th, Maggie, Steve, Clive and me (Dianne) left Brewer's Fayre to head for Gilgarran then towards Pica before turning up Tutehill on a road which I have never been on before. There were great views towards Pillar from the summit before dropping down to Arlecdon and meeting Roy, Paul. Bacca an Tracy at Ennerdale Brewery for lunch. Our return journey was via Fangs Brow.
The Wednesday after, May 11th, we met at Maryport Aquarium where Maurice, Anita, Roy, Steve, Maggie ,Johnny, me and John had a coffee. We were expecting Clive but he had a puncture so ended up missing the ride. We went to Allonby and into the lanes to dawdle to Mawbray but ended up at the café in Allonby for lunch.
On Sunday May 15th we met at Anita's in Cleator Moor with coffee and biscuits to start with and at the end. Thanks Anita for your hospitality. We were, Maurice, Tom, Steve, Vic, Clive, Roy, Anita and me. We headed to Wath Brow, Egremont, Gosforth, then Nether Wasdale to the Sawmill Café which we all agreed was a great lunch stop. Dave Swift joined us there by car. We returned by Santon Bridge and Sellafield.
The next Wednesday the 18th we met at the new cycling cafe in Fitz Park.the HNW Café which stands for Honister, Newlands and Whinlatter. Johnny and Pat joined us for coffee and Bacca and Tracy had the recumbent trike out for a trip along the cycleway toThrelkeld. Roy, Tom, Maurice, Anita and me headed down Borrowdale as far as Seatoller with a lovely lunch at the Glara Mara Hotel looking out at the mountains. We turned off at Grange to take the quieter road below Catbells back to our cars near Braithwaite.
The forecast for Sunday the 22nd was poor so Helen, Sara, Roy and me, met at Brewer's Fayre for a natter. We got to hear about Sara's cycle camping trip across to Whitby and down the east coast to visit her son in Derbyshire.
Unusually we cycled on Monday 23rd of May as Maurice had planned a ride after dentistry in Keswick. We met at Roy's, we being me, Maurice, Tom, Stuart, Sue and John , back from Mallorca, Steve and host Roy. We met Paul on the cycleway to Threlkeld and he stayed with us into the village. We then headed down St.John's in the Vale and over the dam but the road is still not open down the west side of Thirlmere. So it was back to the Lodge in the Vale for lunch, then a return via the lanes to Keswick and Braithwaite.
Wednesday 4th May Brewers Fayre to Buttermere by Dianne Moyes
I said there was a good turnout on Sunday but 13 members gathered at Brewer's Fayre on Wednesday ready to ride. Plus Paul and John Moyes arrived just as we were leaving so were able to have a coffee together. Later at Buttermere we met Bacca on his trike and Tracy who had been for a walk so that meant a total of 17 members involved in the day.
The riders were Maurice, Clive, Roy, Steve, Stuart back from the South, Anita, Helen, Maggie, me Di, John and Sue, Bruce and Brenda making their first appearance of the year. Four of the riders were on normal bikes as Sue and John had again left their e bikes at home as they were in training for their holiday in Mallorca where they hope their Cube bikes are safely stored. Before I remembered that John and Sue were not using their e bikes, I had calculated that 11 of us riding yesterday have 16 electric bikes between us. I would also point out that their batteries will still be holding a charge long after their owners electrics have packed in.
All set to go and with the Croft Café warned of the arrival of 13 hungry cyclists we set off via Paddle School and Rogerscale to Lorton into quite a strong wind and with misty rain. We went on the main road down the valley and then up the climb to Lanthwaite Green regrouping as usual at the cattle grid. After Cinderdale Common the bluebells came into view as a blue haze on the fellside, we stopped for a better look on the way back. It was just after Crummock Water that the leaders passed Bacca on his trike, no motor to help him up the climb. We were soon all gathered in the café at Buttermere with the exception of Maurice who decided to return immediately to ease his knee.
There was plenty of time to chat and it was good to see Roy has not lost his appetite for bacon baps. On the return journey the south westerly wind was funnelling down Crummock Water but was more behind us in the Lorton Valley, also patches of blue sky started to appear. We returned to the Brewer's Fayre via Southwaite Mill with an early finish after 23 miles.
You may be interested to know that residents of the Buttermere area are considering a hydro power scheme on the Mill Beck which flows under the bridge by the Bridge Hotel. They have formed the Melbreak Renewable Energy Community Interest Company. If you are interested in learning more or investing, you can email: [email protected]
Sunday May 1st, Melbreak Hotel to Allonby by Dianne Moyes
It was a good turnout on May Day with 8 members of the club riding, John, Sue, Clive, Helen, Vic, Anita, me Dianne and making his 2022 debut, Roy, on his new small wheeled, Bosch powered Vektron. Paul, Michelle and Peter all arrived to have a chat before we set off. A flat ride had been planned as it was Roy's first outing with the group in a while, so the usual route through Great Clifton and into Workington was taken. We crossed Curwen Park and headed for NCN 72 which took us past Siddick Pond, with a short wait for some who took the Seaton turning by mistake. I was glad to see swallows swooping over the path catching insects where the path goes between two ponds as they are very late this year. Bad weather in Spain and northerly winds have been a problem for their migration.
In Maryport we had a comfort break at the Aquarium then headed along the promenade with a high tide lapping the sea wall. There were lots of bluebells along the cycleway to Allonby. Sue had reserved a table for 8 in the Allonby tea rooms and it was ready and waiting. In fact it was rather quiet. On leaving Mavis and John were outside ready to have a natter and admire Roy's bike.
We returned the same way until Flimby where I left the group to go over to Broughton Moor and back to Cockermouth . The others carried on NCN 72 through Workington (I hope they appreciated the new underpass made much better for cyclists last year) to Distington where they picked up the cycleway along the main road north eastwards back to the Melbreak. 36 miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 27th April Craggs Bothel.
Six members turned up the Brewers Fayre for the ride on an overcast morning they were Dianne, Maggie, Anita, Sue, Maurice and John. Joining them for the chat were John Moyes and Paul. After a lengthy chat and everyone pleased to see Paul, the group prepared to set off. Taking the usual route into Cockermouth they then joined the Greenway, stopping by Cockermouth School to direct some cyclist doing the Sea t0 Sea
After a lengthy chat it was onto the Isel road and over the river to take the first right to Sunderland. Avoiding most of the climb through Sunderland they eventually joined the A591 to the Craggs for lunch. As usual the cafe was almost full on arrival, joining the group was Sara who couldn't be there at the start. Just before the group were about to leave Tracy and Brian appeared so they stopped for a chat with them.
Maurice was first to leave back to the Brewers Fayre, while Maggie made her way back home. The rest decided to get a few more miles in by headed to Bothel then onto Torpenhow. Dianne was interested to know where they made the cheese in Torpenhow that they sold in the Tebay Service Station. Leaving Torpenhow the lane got narrower and climbed most of the way to Ireby. It was now all uphill to the T-junction to Bewaldeth where they turned right only to find the road had been coated in chipping's.
Sara and Anita with no nerves disappeared down the road, leaving Dianne, Sue and John way behind, only to regroup just before the A591. Having crossed the A591 they headed back to Isel Bridge stopping on the bridge before going up the hill. Once up the hill it was mostly up and down back to Cockermouth. Saying goodby to Sara and Dianne the trio continued on to the Brewers Fayre. 29 miles
Sunday 24th April Whitehaven.
With the dry weather continuing seven members turned up at the Brewers Fayre they were Sara, Clive, Sue, John, Dianne, Vic and Johnny. After coffee and chat they set off following a route done by John. Leaving the car park they turned left to Paddle School where they turned right to Eaglesfield and onto Dean. With a following wind made for a fast ride on reaching Branthwaite here they negotiate a track to score tour points.
Back on Tarmac it was onto Gilgarran where Johnny left the group to make his way back home. The rest carried onto Distington where they joined the cycle track to Whitehaven to meet up with Maurice, Steve, Dave and Tom by the Beacon. The rest found a spot overlooking the Marina to eat there packed lunch. After lunch they got a tour of Tom's boat before setting of together, to follow the cycle track to Moor Row.
It was here that Maurice said goodbye to make his way home, while the rest continued to Cleator Moor where they said goodbye to Steve. It was then onto Wath Brow and over the River Ehen to Ennerdale where they decided to stop at the Gather for coffee and cake. Leaving Ennerdale they were confronted by the long climb to Kirkland followed by the fast descent to join the A5086. Continuing along the main road where they turned right up a narrow lane to Mockerkin. Leaving Mockerkin they were faced with a badly potholed lane to Pardshaw, meeting Johnny in his open top car. Having had a following wind out they were expecting a strong headwind back but had managed to escape the worst on reaching Pardshaw. The final miles back through Brandlingill and onto Paddle School was no different. The group split at the T-junction after Threlkeld Leys where Sara and Vic made their way back to Cockermouth via Southwaite Mill. While the rest carried onto Paddle School to join the A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre and Cockermouth for Dianne.
Sunday 17th April.
On a lovely sunny morning eight members turned up at the Brewers Fayre they were Tom, Anita, Sue, John, Dianne, Clive, Vic and Johnny. After coffee and chat they set of with Dianne leading them across the A66 into Cockermouth. With the roads rather quiet they crossed over the River Derwent and onto Papcastle. With Dianne and Anita chatting away on the front, they wasted no time along the flat road heading towards Great Broughton. After brief stop in Great Broughton for Anita to cast some clothing before heading to Cameron and the steep climb to join the road to Broughton Moor. On reaching Broughton Moor they turned left to Dearham, as the day got warmer it was Johnny's time to cast some clothing. With no one in hurry and the best part of the day, they set of again to Gilcrux. With the Pub open Anita and Vic thought it a good idea to see what was on the menu. The rest continued up the village to find a suitable spot to have their sandwiches by the village hall. It was then back to the pub for coffee sitting outside soaking up the sun. After a lengthy stay they set of again heading for Threapland where they turned right, climbing most of the way to the A595. Crossing the A595 took them to Sunderland where they turned left to Glebe Farm to follow the the road to Isel Bridge. Another stop to view the river, before facing the short steep climb, it was then back to Cockermouth. Johnny on reaching Cockermouth carried on to Brigham to follow the lanes back home. The rest made their way up Station Street followed by some impatient driver back to the Brewers Fayre. .
Wednesday 13th April Ennerdale Brewery Rowrah.
On a very misty morning with a westerly wind seven members made it to the Melbreck, they were Maurice, Tom, Anita, Sue, John, Clive and Vic. With the start set for 10:30am they were still sat drinking tea and coffee as the time got nearer 11:00. With Maurice having to bailout because of his knee the rest set off following the cycle path to Whitehaven. Here they stopped to see the refurbished lighthouse that had been vandalised, having been unveiled the previous day. Joining the cycle path again they made their way out of Whitehaven, Sue taking a tumble on zig zag bit after passing under the railway. No damage done they continued on to Moor Row where they left the cycle path down a gravel track and over the River Keekle to Cleator Moor. They now followed the main road to Wath Brow where they turned left, then right down Red Beck Lane, climbing most of the way to Kirkland School. On arrival at the Brewery Maurice, Steve and Dave were already having their lunch and the place was packed, good job Sue had booked a table. After lunch the four wheel group departed leaving the rest to agree on a route back to avoid the busy roads. Leaving Rowrah they made their way to Kirkland and onto Cross Rigg where they turned left passing Felldyke to Lamplugh Church. More downhill took them to join the A5086, turning left after a mile to Ullock and Dean. From Dean they made their way through Deanscales, Eaglesfield and Brigham for the final push to the Melbreck. 34 miles.
Sunday 10th April.
Sue and John left home in their van to start their ride from Stainton collecting tour points. Leaving Stainton they followed the A66 cycle path over M6 to Carleton where they turned right to Frenchfield. Here they passed under the A66 and over the River Eamont and passed Brougham Castle heading for Lowther. This was not before the long drag past Melkinthorpe to join the A6, where they turned right to Lowther Castle.
On leaving Lowther John's back tyre went flat caused by a large drawing pin. After struggling to free the tyre from the rim, they were soon back on their way. The downhill through the park was followed by the climb to the T- junction in Askham, where they turned left to Helton. It was now all uphill through the village to open fells where a number of cars were parked the occupants obviously out walking. On reaching Mossy Beck Bridge to collect their first point, they did a u-turn back to Helton for a packed lunch. Finding a seat over looked the village with its colourful cottages, along with a view above the chimney tops of the Lowther Valley. Leaving Helton it was back through Askham to follow the narrow lane passed Celleron to Pooley Bridge. It was now along the east side of Ullswater that was packed with Caravans and Motorhomes along with tents, as they made their way to Martindale. After the steep climb to the Church it was all up and down before reaching Dale Head for another point. After a brief stop it was back following their wheel tracks to Pooley Bridge, stopping again at the boat landing to take in the view. It was now along the busy A592 passed Dalemain back to Stainton, on what had been a perfect sunny day. 38 miles
Friday 8th April Allonby.
On a cloudless morning with the temperature at three degrees Sue and John left Braithwaite to meet up with Maurice, Tom, Sara and Helen at the Brewers Fayre.
Sat in their usual spot in the far corner overlooking the car park they consumed lots of coffee and chatted away. Joining them were Sue and Paul, although Sue stayed outside chatting to Sara and Sue while the group were ready to set off. Leaving the Brewers Fayre they crossed over the A66 into Cockermouth to follow the road through Parklands to join the Low Road to Brigham. Crossing A66 for the third time took them over the river onto Craggs Road climbing most off the way before reaching Tallentire. It was now all downhill to Greengill where they turned right to Gilcrux; turning left in the village took them past the fish farm to Oughterside. After more climbing and crossing the A596, was followed by more downhill to Hayton and onto Mealo House. Here they joined the coast road for the final leg to Allonby to meet Maurice, Sue and Paul in the cafe. After lunch the two wheel group made their way to the cycle track leaving Maurice to drive back home with his bag off scones. With Sara on the front and setting a fast pace they followed the track as far as the Crosscannonby turn. Here they turned left to Crosscannonby and up the hill to Crosby to join the A596. After a short distance on the A596 they turned left to Dearham and onto Broughton Moor. All together as they started the descent to Great Broughton, soon split as Sara and Tom disappeared out of site. Regrouped it was on through Papcastle into Cockermouth and back to the Brewers Fayre and parked vehicles. 29 miles
Sunday 3rd April. Ennerdale Brewery Rowrah.
After a good spell of dry and sunny weather, today was cold out of the sun and made worse by a north westerly wind. Arriving for the coffee and chat were Maurice, Steve,Tom, Roy, Sue, John, Clive, Sara, Vic, Paul, Sue and Johnny. Eventually the two wheel group set off leaving the rest talking in the car park. With John on the front they turned left out of the car park heading for Paddle School where they turned left towards Southwaite. A right turn took them to Brandlingill and onto Mosser where they encountered the steep short climb to Mosser Church that's hiding in the trees above the road. Regrouped they set off again looking down on the valley below towards Pardshaw, before passing through Sosgill and onto Mockerkin. It was then onto the A5086 for a short distance where they turned left to Lamplugh. A brief stop to regroup was followed by the climb through Felldyke to Cross Rigg where they turned right to Kirkland. Just before Cross Rigg Tom had to stop with a rear wheel puncture that was soon fixed. Finally they arrived at the Brewery to find Maurice and Anita, leaving Johnny to make his way back home. After the usual good meal Maurice and Anita left on four wheels while the rest made their way on A5086 as far as Mockerkin, where they turned left to Ullock. It was then on through Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield to join the A5086 again at Paddle School back to the Brewers Fayre. 22 miles.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 29th March.
Having made their way to Greystoke on a sunny morning with a cool easterly wind, were Tom, Sue, John, Sara, Helen and Stuart. Before they were about to set off Bacca appeared on his trike having cycled from Threlkeld. After a brief chat the group set off leaving Bacca to cycle back to Threlkeld. On arrival in Blencow Stuart couldn't remember what he had done with his car keys, so it was back to his car. The rest sat on the village green while he returned, having found them in the boot of his car. With the wheels turning again the headed to Newbiggin where they had been told of a coffee stop by Paul. John who was on the front carried on past the shop only to be informed by Sue to stop. Although the word went out stopping Sara clipped Helen's back wheel and down she went cutting her leg. After minor repairs to both bikes and plasters on Sara's leg they set off again hoping for no more miss apps. (After all that the coffee shop was closed). Having passed through Newbiggin and under the A66 into Stainton, they then joined the main road past Dalemain to Pooley Brigde for coffee and cake. Leaving Pooley Bridge by the B5320 they turned right after one mile for the first climb of the day to Celleron and onto Askham. On the way to Askham rain could be felt in the air, but didn't come to much although the roads were wet. More climbing through Lowther Park before joining the A6 where the turned right after a short distance towards Melkinthorpe. On reaching the junction after a fast descent they turned left to Clifton Dykes and beyond, before arriving at Brougham Hall for late lunch. Fed and watered they set off again heading for Brougham Castle and under the A66 into Penrith where they followed the Sea to Sea route through Newton Rigg. Still following the Sea to Sea route took them back to Greystoke just as spots off rain started to appear. 30 miles
Sunday 27th March
With a slight chill in the air and the earlier start due to the clocks going forward the group decided to make use of the Brewers Fayre and the coffee machine.
Sat drinking coffee plus the usual banter were, Sue, John, Clive, Stuart, John R, Paul and David. With no Maurice to get them organised they were content to sit and watch the clock tick by. Eventually they made a move for the exit, saying goodbye to Paul who had come for the chat. With Sue the only female in the group she was given pole position to lead them into Cockermouth to join the greenway. From the greenway it was onto the Isel road, stopping briefly on Isel Bridge before turning right towards Bewaldeth. On reaching the A591 they crossed over into Bewaldeth, this was followed by the climb to join the Ireby road with Binsey in the background. It was now all downhill to Ireby followed by more downhill before the climb up to Boltongate.
With the sun getting warmer they made their way to Mealsgate where they had to cross the busy and dangerous A595. Having got safety over A595 they continued on to join the A596 turning left after a short distance to Crookdake. By now everyone was feeling hungry having had nothing since leaving the Brewers Fayre. So on arrival at Blennerhasset they stopped for their packed lunch by the river, a favourite spot of Dianne's. While sat having lunch a local came and gave them the history of the village saying it was the first have a gas light. Lunch and rest over they set off again heading to Threapland. On reaching Threapland they followed the well ridden route back to Cockernouth via Gilcrux, Tallentire and Bridekirk, before arriving back at the Brewers Fayre. 36 miles
Wednesday 23rd March.
On a warm sunny morning ten members, plus David a friend of Stuart turned up at the Murphy's for tea and coffee. They were Tom, John R, Anita, Maggie, Stewart, Sara and Maurice who was there just for the coffee and chat. With the warm temperature it was bare legs for most of the group for the first time this year. John having done a route the group set off heading up the Newlands Valley to Rigg Beck. It was here the Purple House once stood, but was gutted by fire and the new house was built in it's place. Turning left here they continued downhill before the steep short climb to Little Town. After a brief stop to regroup they carried onto Swinside and on over the cattle grid to the foot off Cat Bells. By now the sun was getting warmer with some of the group shedding clothing before the descent into Grange, where they met Maurice and Roy. Leaving them at the cafe the group continued on down the valley to Seathwaite leaving Maggie and Stewart at the Flock-in where they had lunch. On reaching Seathwaite they stopped briefly before doing a u-turn back to Grange to meet up with Maurice and Roy for lunch. After lunch Stewart made his way back via Keswick while the rest took the hilly route back along the shelf overlooking the lake, stopping halfway up to admire the view before moving on again back to Braithwaite for more tea and coffee. 22 miles
Sunday 20th March. Malham North Yorkshire.
Parking the van in Stainton at our daughter’s house, who had already left for Malham to celebrate Darren's birthday. We unloaded the bikes and fixed the panniers thinking of days gone by, when we were going touring. Leaving Stainton we joined the cycle path along the A66 to Carleton then under the A66 to Brougham. It was now onto a quieter road as we crossed over the river heading to Clifton Dykes into a strong headwind. Passing Weatheriggs Pottery now a building site we pressed on through Cliburn and Bolton before the steep climb at Colby. Once over the top and it was all downhill into Appleby where we made our way to the Station.
Having arrived in good time we found a seat in the sun to have our lunch, to be joined by a couple from Cockermouth, who knew the Moyes and Cumella's. The next part of our trip was by train to Settle that was running twenty minutes late due to engineering work. Once on the train and the bikes made secure the views from the train were magnificent especially going over Ribblehead Viaduct. It didn't seem long after crossing the viaduct that we arrived in Settle for the next part of our trip.
Having spent a week in the area a few years ago we knew the roads, leaving Settle we headed out to Rathmell the place we used as our base. Nothing seemed to have change even a pot hole I hit was still there as we made our way to Wigglesworth. That headwind we encountered earlier was still with as we headed towards Hellifield. Leaving Hellifield the lanes become more undulating and narrow before reaching Airton with a view of Malham Cove in the distance. The final leg was no different as they descended into Malham with visitors cars parked everywhere.
Monday was a carbon copy of the previous day, arriving in Settle in good time before the train arrived, so it was into town to buy our lunch. The favourite sandwich shop in Settle is the Olde Naked Man that's been there for years, a club stopping place back in my early teens. Back at the station we found a seat in the sun to have our lunch, talking to a gentleman from Dent who was waiting for the train. He told us that when he got off the train at Dent station he had to walk four miles to the village of Dent, all uphill to catch a train. After another pleasant train ride to Appleby, it was back on the bikes for the ride back to Stainton. 68 miles
Thursday 17th March by Dianne Moyes
Because of a poor weather forecast on Wednesday, we had decided to ride on Thursday, so were rather disappointed when the morning was dull and wet as we gathered in Brewer's Fayre for coffee. Fortunately all the online weather apps agreed it would pass through quite quickly so we just had to keep drinking until it stopped raining. The riders were Tom, Stuart, Clive, Helen, John, Sue and me, Dianne.
Our destination was Mae's Café at Uldale and Mr Murphy suggested a really good route. We headed out of Cockermouth along the Greenway and onto the Strawberry Howe Road before dropping down to cross the A66 at Embleton onto the old road. Then it was on past the Distillery to Ouse Bridge and Castle Inn with a brisk wind on our backs. We went into Bassenthwaite and took the road through Park Wood where a lot of clearance has taken place. Clive was having a bit of trouble on the climbs despite having a motor. Eventually John Murphy showed him how to press the red button and get turbocharged. He was on the front up every climb after that.
We went through Orthwaite and past Overwater before climbing up the steep sections to reach the café in Uldale. We enjoyed a leisurely lunch and a good natter before going outside to find Stuart had another puncture. Well it was quite chilly in the wind so we stayed by the wood burner while Tom and Stuart sorted it out. I really enjoyed the return trip although the headwind was tough at times, we need to do it again on a sunny day. We went to Ireby then Snittlegarth and Whitrigg before dropping down to the Keswick to Bothel road turning left then right to come out at Isel Bridge and back to Cockermouth. 27 miles
Wednesday 9th March.
Eleven members turned up at the Brewers Fayre for the ride to Buttermere. They were Maurice, Tom, Dianne, Stuart, Sue, John, Maggie, Anita, Clive, John R and Vic plus Steve who came for the chat. Just before 1030 Maurice got the group moving hopping to get away on time. Leaving the car park they headed up the A5086 to Paddle School into the wind, where they turned left to Lorton. After crossing the river they turned right down the Lorton valley still into the wind to Lanthwaite Green, regrouping at the cattle grid. Missing were Dianne and Maggie having turned round at Brackenthwaite because of the strong wind and damage to Dianne’s front mudguard, according to Maurice. On the descent to Rannerdale they were entertained by low flying jets, someone said they counted eight. Eventually they arrived in Buttermere and headed straight for the cafe for lunch out off the wind. Over lunch they had a good natter before venturing outside for the ride back to the Brewers Fayre. On leaving Buttermere they could feel the wind on their backs as the speed increased along Crummock and back to Lorton. Stopping in Lorton they decided to carry onto Hundith then onto Cockermouth to join the Greenway back to the Brewers Fayre. 22 miles
Sunday 6th March.
Starting from the Melbreak on a cold sunny morning were Maurice, Tom, Sue, Dianne, Helen, Vic and the two John's. The usual hot drink in the warm surrounds of the Hotel along with the chat, they were joined by Paul as the group were about to leave. Leaving almost on 10 o'clock with John on the front, having been instructed by Maurice, they headed up the cycle path towards Lillyhall. Taking the first right was mostly all downhill to Great Clifton where they turned left to Workington. Here the joined the cycle path through Curwin Park, to continue on the cycle path to Flimby where they joined the main road to Maryport. A quick stop at the Aquarium and it was along the promenade to join the cycle path to the north of Allonby. Back on the main road again for a short, distance before turning right to Salta. On reaching Mawbray they turned left back to the main road to pick up the new cycle path to Bankmill. Leaving the cycle path they crossed the main to and into the lanes passing through Newtown, Wolsty before arriving in Silloth for lunch. Most of the group opted for fish and chips while Dianne preferred to sit down and had her lunch in Mrs Wilson's cafe. Already in Silloth were Maggie, Anita, Stewart and Clive who had met in Maryport and were in the Bee Garden having their lunch. After lunch the groups went their separate ways only to find Dianne having lost power from her battery and having to phone John to collect her. Eventually the Maurice group left Silloth taking a more inland route back via Aspatria, Hayton, stopping in Prospect to regroup. After short spell soaking up the sun they set off again through Oughterside to Gilcrux and onto Dearham. It was then onto Broughton Moor where they turned right towards Seaton. Passing the old Broughton Dump they took a left turn to Camerton to cross the river back to the Melbreak arriving back at 1715pm on what had been a long but pleasant day. 50 miles
Wednesday 2nd March.
On what looked like being a wet morning as Sue and John left Braithwaite turned out dry by the time they reached the Brewers Fayre. Also making their way were Maurice, Tom, John R, Helen and Maggie who had ridden from home. While they downed coffee Dianne appeared, having said she would meet outside at 1030, due to John having Corvid. This prompted the group to get moving and were soon heading out the car park with Dianne on the front. Taking the usual route out of Cockermouth they headed for the Isel road that was rather cleaner than previous visits. On reaching Isel bridge they stopped for a brief moment to look at the river that was flowing quite high. Taking the first right they continued up the hill where they took another right turn. With mist shrouding the valley looking towards Bassenthwaite and prospect of rain they continued on towards Bewaldeth where they took a left turn to Sunderland. Just before Sunderland John R suffered a rear wheel puncture that brought the group to a halt. Leaving the women chatting and getting cold in process the men gathered round John assisting in changing the tube. Dianne decided to head for home calling at egg farm on the way, while the rest got moving again to the Craggs. On arrival they found Stewart who had cycled from home via the Lakes Distillery and Isel Bridge. After lunch they said goodbye to Maggie and Stewart who headed down the A591 to the Castle Inn and back home. While the remainder made their way to Bothel to follow the lanes through Threapland, Plumbland and Gilcrux with odd spot off rain blowing in the wind. On the slight drag to Tallentire the group split only to regroup before the final miles back to the Brewers Fayre. 24 miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 27th February.
On sunny but windy morning eight members made it to the Melbreck they were Sue, John, Stuart, John R, Vic, Helen, Sue and Paul. Hoping to leave at 1030 turned out to be more like eleven o’clock before they left. Saying goodbye to Sue and Paul who were going for a short ride, the group set off with Sue on the front to Little Clifton. Following the lanes and into the wind they made their way through Dean and Ullock before joining the main road.
On reaching the main road and still into the wind the group started to split with Stuart setting the pace on the front. On reaching the junction to Lamplugh church where they intended to go, they continued along the main road to get to the Brewery on time. On arrival at the Brewery they found Tracy and Brian already seated followed by Maggie who had driven out. After a good lunch and natter the group set off up the hill out of Rowrah to Asby and onto Dean Cross. While Tracy and Brian used the cycle track back to Bigrigg. Turning right at Dean Cross was followed by the fast descent to Ullock where they turned left to Branthwaite. After a brief stop in Branthwaite they agreed to head up the hill to Lillyhall to join the cycle path back to the Melbreak. Having had a headwind most off the way out they welcomed the strong tailwind back. 18 miles
Friday 25th February The Gather Ennerdale by Maurice Cowley
On a day which the forecast unusually threatened sunshine and just a breezy wind Maurice parked his van at Tom's house in Whitehaven to start the ride with Tom.
Dropping down from Kells to the Whitehaven/Rowrah cycle path. Here they rode up passing Moor Row, Cleator Moor, to look over to the beautiful view up the Ennerdale valley. They then passed by Frizington to reach Rowrah and take to the rough track to come out at Red Beck lane and Kirkland School. Here they turned right up to Kirkland where they turned down to Ennerdale Bridge and The Gather Cafe and their dinner stop.
After a couple of coffes and a bacon bun apiece and a good chat they decided to carry on with their ride to turn left at Croasdale village to ride up the steep Cauda Brow and turn left again to find a seat to rest and take in another view of the Ennerdale fells before dropping down to pass through Kirkland and turn down Red Beck Lane at Kirkland School. Coming out at Wath Brow they then reached Cleator Moor to take to the Whitehaven/Rowrah cyclepath to get back to Whitehaven and Tom,s house and reach Maurice's Van. (27miles)
Wednesday 23rd February by Tom Beck
Three riders turned up at Braithwaite lay by, Maurice, Stuart and Tom, with a windy murky start they set off through Keswick to the new cycle track to Threlkeld. On reaching Threlkeld they followed the Thirlmere road to the Lodge in the vale to consume a good amount of coffee.
Maurice having his obligatory scone, after refreshments they set off back down the vale to Shundraw, then up to Castlerigg Stone Circle, then back onto the cycle track, before arriving back in Braithwaite 18 miles
Wednesday 16th February Brewers Fayre by Maurice Cowley
On a very gloomy day and a south westerly wind and with a forecast of rain and the wind increasing, Dianne and John Moyes, John and Sue Murphy, Tom, Maurice, John R, Anita, Stuart met in Brewers Fayre for a chat and to decide whether to go out fot a ride.Tom, Maurice, John R, Anita, Stuart and Dianne decided to venture out and rode through Cockermouth using the Greenway and up Slate Fell. Here it started to rain and Dianne decided, because the wind was increasing as well, it would be more prudent to turn back to her home in Cockermouth.
With the wind from behind them and the rain now constant the remaining five carried on through Embleton and Dubwath.. Then they crossed the A66.Then they passed the Pheasant Inn to climb up the road on the side of Sale Fell to drop down to Wythop Mill and then climb up to pass by High Abbey and Low Abbey, and then up and over High Bank and pass the junction down to Embleyon and turn down to Srawberry How, Theo to turn onto the Greenway to arrive into Cockermpouth and onto Brewers Fayre and the transport home.
Wednesday February 9th, Brewer’s Fayre to Uldale and back by Dianne Moyes
A 10 o’clock start had been indicated so I arrived at 9.30 in order to enjoy a coffee before setting off. Maurice, Tom and Steve were already ensconced in our usual place. I was followed by Sue and John, John Rowell and Stuart Pike who had to mend a puncture between the car park and the cafe. He thinks he got sent fake Continental tubes from Amazon, I would point out ,as one who never misses a chance to make a political point, that we have bike shops that need supporting. At 10 o’clock Maurice was ready to go, Helen had just arrived but, thinking we would all be following, set off with Maurice.
About 10 minutes later we set off but, before the Greenway, had lost Stuart to another puncture, he decided to return to his car and give up on the ride. We went out of Cockermouth on the Embleton road turning past the Distillery, over Ouse Bridge and up to the Castle Inn. We headed up the long climb towards Uldale and on one of the flatter areas near the top came upon Helen and Maurice in a gateway fixing a rear wheel puncture. John R and Tom stopped to help but John, Sue and I carried on turning left to Ireby at the top. The morning had turned quite bright and it was a pleasure to swoop down the hill to Ireby then right to Uldale.
Maggie had just arrived at Mae’s Cafe and it wasn’t long before the others joined us. Lots of laughs and good crack over lunch before heading out to turn right to go back via Overwater. Just heading up a steep hill with a car coming down, Helen moved to the left into very soft mud and took a tumble, luckily onto the soft grass verge.This reminds me of a poem by one of the 60’s Liverpool poets, Adrian Henri, Song for a Beautiful Girl Petrol-Pump Attendant on the Motorway,
I wanted your soft verges But you gave me the hard shoulder.
At Overwater we kept on the northern side to get back onto our route out back down to Castle Inn. At the Distillery we decided to avoid the Isel road because of the mud near the farm so came back through Embleton saying goodbye to Maggie en route. I should say there were lots of snowdrops out along this stretch of road. We were soon back in Cockermouth and back home or back to cars before 3.00pm. A lovely day out. 28 miles
Wednesday 2nd February Buttermere. by John Murphy
Seven members turned up at the Brewers Fayre they were Dianne, Tom, Stuart, Sue, and the three John's, John Moyes there for the coffee and banter.
After a lengthy stay with no one itching to go, they eventually made a move with the rain having eased off. With Dianne on the front they headed up the Lamplugh Road to Paddle School where they turned left to follow the lanes to Lorton. A quick glance at the river before joining the valley road, that was rather quiet of four wheel vehicles.
On the climb to Lanthwaite Green Tom thinking the group weren't going fast enough took off, only to stop at the cattle grid to regroup. It was now all downhill to Rannerdale followed by the level section along Crummock, where someone was taking a cold bath.
By the time they had reached Buttermere the rain had set in again and continued while they had lunch. Lunch and chat over the group ventured outside to find it had stopped raining. Sue found herself on the front as they climbed out of Buttermere, only to be passed by Stuart on the downhill section, who was not seen again until Lanthwaite.
After regrouping at the cattle grid, was followed by the fast descent to join the valley road, where they turned right to Hope Beck. Back in Lorton they continued round High Lorton before joining the road to Hundith crossroads. Here they turned left to Southwaite Mill and Paddle School where they joined the main road back to the Brewers Fayre. 23 miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 31st January. Seathwaite. By John Murphy
On a dry windy morning Sue, John, Maurice and Tom set off from Braithwaite along the A66 cycle path to Keswick. With the traffic flow quite low they negotiated there way through Keswick to join the valley road with Maurice on the front. With the wind seeming to blow in all directions mostly into their face, Maurice continued setting a fast pace. Eventually they reached Seathwaite and out came the flasks of hot tea and coffee, while John talked to the farmer about the flooding in 1966 that swept through the farm, that he was involved in. Back in the saddle and it was back down the road stopping at the Glanamara for coffee and chat about all things cycling. After a long spell inside it was back out into the cold wind and onto Grange where they turned left over the river. With no visitors about and no cars parked seemed like it should be as they passed through Grange to start the climb. After passing over the ridge overlooking the lake, it was mostly all downhill back to Braithwaite. 20 miles.
Wednesday 26th January Silloth by Maurice Cowley
On a gloomy day with a strong south westerly breeze Maurice, Tom, Stuart, Helen, Sara and John R met at the Allonby Cafe for their ride to Silloth and back. Anita, Paul and Sue also came but were not joining the ride. They were going to pick Clive up on the way at his home at Goodyhills,
After the chat and beverages they left Allonby and rode north up the B5300 and then turned left to pass through Edderside and about a mile further on they turned left down to Goodyhills and met up with Clive. Carrying on the turned right at Holme St. Cuthbert to reach Tarns where they turned left downwards and at Prospect House they turned right to go to Abbey Town passing through Pelutho and Highlaws where Stuart punctured. When reaching the middle of Abbey Town they took a left to Seaville and then the B5302 to go in the north west direction to turn right and go over the Skimberness Marsh road to Skimberness and then on into Silloth for lunch. Fish and chips were on the main menu!! Clive found us a nice place in some bushes to spend dinner time out of the wind .
After the welcome rest it was on the bikes and left at Blitterlees and into the lanes – Clive chose to stick to the B5300 to turn off for home at Beckfoot and go through Newtown. The main group tried to keep out of the head wind as much as possible zigzagging through Wolsty and Newtown where Maurice received his back wheel puncture. After fixing the puncture the group carried on to Mawbray, Salta and then to reach Allonby and their transportation on the B5300, 27 miles
Sunday 23rd January Carlisle by Maurice Cowley
On a very gloomy morning Maurice's wife. Shirley, dropped him off on the A595 on her way to her son, Marks home at Carlisle. Maurice was going to cycle from just north of Mealsgate to join them for lunch.
Riding back up the A595 Maurice took a left to pass the entrance to Weary Hall and east to Thornthwaite road end and down to turn right to pass Thackthwate Hall. Now onwards to get to the cross roads at Church Hill, turning right to starting to climb uptp Caldbeck but turning left to pass through Reathwaite and reach the road to Rosley but prior to the Village took a left to climb over to Carwath and Howrigg and onto East Curthwaite and Dalston. After leaving Dalston Maurice used the cycle track alongside the River Caldew to get to Cummersdale and the the Dalston road into Carlisle and Son Marks home for dinner and transportation home. 20 miles
Wednesday 19th January Craggs, Cafe Bothel by Maurice Cowley
Meeting at Brewers Fayre, Cockermoth were Maurice, Tom, Steve L, Dianne, Clive, Jonny and late comer Roy The weather was cloudy with only a slight wind and the aim was to meet John and Sue M at Mae's Cafe, Uldale. Steve L and Roy were not riding and Jonny and Dianne were only going part of the way.
Due to there being work clearing a tree off the Greenway they started off by going down main Street and going from Cockermouth and through Embleton to Castle Inn where Jonny and Dianne returned to Cockermoth. Now only Clive, Tom and Maurice were left to carry up the A591 in the direction of Bothel with the intention to turn through Bewalbeth to reach the cross roads when they would turn down to Ireby but when arriving there they found the the road was closed due to road works. The next decision was to carry on up the A591 and get to Ireby via Whitrigg but when they got there the time was against them so they decided it was to late to get to Maes Cafe at Uldale to meet John and Sue and having no mobile signsal at Uldale there was no way they could let them know. Dinner was obtained at the Craggs Cafe further up the A591.
After Tom and Clives finishing their rather large breakfast meal and Maurice his baked potatoe and beans they left the warmth of the Craggs to climb up to turn left down to Sunderland and take a left to keep the hieght prior to dropping down to Isel Bridge. When turning the corner at Sunderland Maurice rode over some large, sharp gravel and received a back wheel puncture.
On completing the repair Maurice didn't notice the inner was still not in properly so the tyre was deflated and replaced by Tom and inflated once more. On trying to push the bike again, Clive and Tom had a good laugh at Maurice's expense because he had the bungee strap that was used to hold the bike bag through the wheel and even Maurice had to laugh at this. After this hilarious mistake and thanks to Tom and Clive for their help they carried on down to Isel Bridge and onto Cockermouth and back to Brewers Fayre and the transport home. 21 Miles
Monday 17th January Melbreak by Maurice Cowley
Maurice parked his van at Tom's house for coffee prior to leaving on their run to take in a few northern cycle paths.
Leaving Whitehaven using the Marina and along the cycle way to Parton (commonly known as the wagon road). Riding through Parton and up the hill into Lowca they took to the cycle way passing by Distington and dropping down to Workington to stop for a coffee sitting outside the cafe talking to some retired gentlemen who sat there regularly. Carrying on across the across the river Derwent they passed by Seaton to reach Camerton where the crossed the River Derwent again and climbed up to Great Clifton and on to Chapel Brow and the dinner time stop for tea at the Melbreak Hotel.
After a long chat and the tea finished they used the cycle path alongside the A595 to reach Distington where they turned up to Pica passing the Crematorium. After climbing ths steep hill they rested on a seat at the top and took in the view after which they carried on to reach Whitehaven and Maurice's van at Tom's house. 26 miles
Sunday 16th January by Clive Wylie
Left Goodyhills to meet up with Helen as we seemed to be the only two leaving from Allonby.
We left about 10.15 and took the coast road to Old Kiln Farm at Dubmill Point, turned right towards Edderside (crud on the road outside the milking parlour was not as bad as expected!) and carried on past Jericho, apparently an old leper colony many years ago.Straight on uphill to T junction on the Silloth/Aspatria road where we turned left towards Tarns cross roads.
Here we went right and took the 3rd left to Highlaws. Right then 1st left downhill towards Silloth and left at the T junction, then 1st right until we met the main road between Silloth and Abbeytown. Right here for about half a mile then a left towards Skinburness Marsh.Just before Skinburness we turned right onto the gravel road to Grune Point. We stopped at “Marsh Cottage” the last house on the road to have our “sarnies” and coffees sitting on the grass banking opposite. Lovely, peaceful and quiet with lots of wildlife.
We went via Skinburness to Silloth, Blitterlees and Bankmill where I left Helen for her to carry onto Mawbray and her car at Allonby. Total distance 24 miles
Friday 14th January Carlisle by Maurice Cowley
On a very gloomy day again with very little wind Maurice with Tom parked the van at the Linstock roundabout north east of Carlisle. A quick cup of coffee before they started on their ride.
The route started by riding on the cycle path alongside the Crosby on Eden Bye Pass to reach Low Crosby and then into the lanes to get to East Newby and the a right to take the through little Corby to Warrick Bridge. Crossing over the A69 they rode alongside the River Eden to climb up the hill and cross over the railway line in Great Corby. At Corby Castle they stopped for a quick drink from their bottles. Leaving Great Corby they rode through Cumwitton and on to Horsby Gate where they turned left towards Castle Carrock and when they got to their left turn at Tarn Lodge the were stopped by road works blocking their route down to Heads Nook. A quick look at the map showed that they could carry on through through Castle Carrock. Onwards through Castle Carrock and took the next left turn and under the railway and over the River Gelt at Middle Gelt Bridge to climb up and over to Hayton and then using the lanes to climb up to Heads Nook. They then reversed the route for a fast downhill to Warrick Bridge to reverse the outgoing route back to the van at Linstock Roundabout. 28 miles
Wednesday 12th January Maryport by Maurice Cowley
On a dry, cloudy day with very little wind Maurice, John R and Tom left the Melbreak Hotel to start their run to Maryport.
Their route took them up towards Distington but they turned down left over the A66 and into Stainburn to cross Curwen Park and then to the cycle track alongside the river Dewent and then the one along side the Railway to Siddick. After this they carried on using this cycleway to Maryport and dinner Maurice and Tom buying Fish and chips from the Harbour Chippy and ate them sitting adjacent to the Aquarium at the harbour side and was joined by John R who had brought his own sandwiches. Here the sun appeared and stayed out for the rest of their ride
After finishing the meal and chat it was time to carry on their ride by still going north by riding up the Maryport Promenade and over the Golf Golf Course and the down the cycleway alongside the B5300 to Mealo House where they turned right up to cross the A596 and drop down to Outerside to cross the River Ellen and climb up to Gilcrux and then Tallentire and to pass by Bridekirk School and then cross over the A594 to get to Great Broughton and the cross over the A66 to Brigham, Broughton Cross and finally climb the hill at Chapel Brow to get to their four wheel transport home. 28 Miles
Sunday 2nd January.
Only two members turned up at the Melbreck on a warmer but windy morning they were Helen and Tom. Leaving the Melbreck they headed up the cycle way to Lillyhall where they turned right on the roundabout to Branthwaite. On reaching Branthwaite they followed the lanes through Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield before joining the A5086 at Paddle School. It was then along the A5086 past the Brewers Fayre to join the A66 to the Brigham old road. Away from the traffic the continued on through Brigham to Bridgefoot for final climb of the day up Chapel Brow back to the Melbreck. 15 miles
Sunday 2nd January.
With Corvid having descended on another family member Sue and John decided to do their own thing. With a lot of traffic about they thought better of venturing towards Keswick; instead they did a circuit from home through Thornthwaite to the A66 and back four times. 23 miles Wednesday 7th September Ennerdale Brewery.
Almost dead on ten thirty six members rolled out of the Brewers Fayre car park they were Sue, Sara, Helen, Tom, Roy and John. Joining the A5086 they made their way to Paddle School, turning left to Rodgerscale and onto Lorton. Having arranged to meet Maggie by the bridge at Lorton, she arrived almost simultaneously. With the sun getting warmer some decided to cast some clothes before setting of again. Following Sustrans Sea to Sea route they negotiated the badly surfaced road through Thackthwaite to Loweswater. With everyone on e-bikes including Tom they made the ascent of Fangs Brow with ease, although Tom took the prime. After a brief stop to take a drink, they continued onto Lamplugh to start the climb through Felldyke to Cross Rigg, with a view of Ennerdale and the surrounding Fells. It was now all downhill to Kirkland and onto Rowrah for lunch at the Brewery where they found Anita and Paul.
Anita had ridden from home via Haile and Cold Fell, while Paul had got there via Ullock, Mockerkin and Fangs Brow from the opposite direction. Joining them for lunch were Maurice and John R both having driven there. After lunch the two wheeler's said goodbye to Maurice, John and Anita as they headed up the hill towards Asby. On reaching Dean Cross they turned right to Ullock, where Sara tested her downhill skills reaching just over 43 mph. From Ullock it was the usual route back through Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield where they said goodbye to Paul. At Paddle School the group split Sara and Maggie headed for home via Southwaite and Hundith while the rest joined A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre. 25 miles.
On a cold windy morning Dianne, Sue, John, Roy and John R met at the Melbreak for tea and coffee before setting off. Sat chatting well after 1030 more because of the cold wind outside although it had forecast a dry day.
Eventually they set off leaving Dianne who would meet them later at Allonby for lunch.
With Sue on the front they didn't waste much time on reaching Curwin Park where they joined the cycle path. Still following the cycle path until they reached Flimby where they joined the main road to avoid the gated road to Maryport. Having arranged to meet Clive at the Aquarium they made their way there only to find he had left having waited long enough in the cold. The group then continued along the promenade to join the cycle way to Allonby to find Dianne and Clive in the warm surrounds of the cafe. After lunch Dianne and Clive made their way back home the way they had arrived. Having had a strong headwind coming out the Sue group now had a welcome tailwind going back to Workington. Still following their wheel tracks it was up through Stainburn and Great Clifton back to the Melbreak to their parked vehicles. 30 miles
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 30th November. By Dianne Moyes
On a cold foggy morning 11 of us gathered at our unofficial HQ, the Brewer's Fayre in Cockermouth. Once we were settled in the warm, we were not that keen to head to Buttermere as planned, and when John Murphy arrived stating categorically that he was not riding to Buttermere, a new plan emerged. We would do a one hour loop and return to Brewer's Fayre for lunch at 12.30. We then made the most of free refills before leaving just before 11.
Anita was on foot but Maurice, Tom, John, Sue; me (Dianne), Helen, Maggie, Roy, Deb and Kev set off up the hill towards Paddle School turning left there then right to Brandlingill following the lanes to Pardshaw and the rough road to Mockerkin. This was our furthest point so we turned right there to cross the Egremont road (visibility was OK) to Ullock, then back via Dean and Eaglesfield. We were back in time for people to stash their bikes into vehicles before our lunch slot. Anita had followed a footpath across to the Paddle road and had then returned the same way arriving back at the same time as we did. Stewart was a new arrival for lunch which meant with 12 of us we could all benefit from the 2 meals for £9.49 offer. Of course we all enjoyed a good natter over a leisurely lunch. At the end Sue decided to book Sunday lunch for the 18th of December as we cannot get in at Ennerdale Brewery. She has booked 14 places so first come first served, it is essential to book a place as the Carvery is very popular.
Sunday 27th November Glaramara Borrowdale.
Twelve members turned up for the ride, they were Maurice, Tom, Anita, Roy, Sue, John, Maggie, Helen, Vic, John R, Michelle and Clive.
Starting from the old road at Braithwaite the group set off along the old road to the junction with the A66 where they crossed to join the cycle path. Splitting into two groups to make it easier for vehicles to pass they threaded their way through Keswick.
Leaving Keswick by the Borrowdale road the two groups maintained their distance as far as the Stonethwaite junction, having encountered some splendid views on the way.
With a tour point up for grabs at Stonethwaite phone box Maurice led a small group to see what all that was about. Back on the valley road they continued onto Seathwaite straight into the wind as they made their way to the farm. After a brief stop and photo shoot they set of this time with a following wind to the lunch stop at the Glaramara.
With the room to themselves with a splendid view of the adjacent fells they tucked into soup and sandwiches. Joining them was Johnny having cycled from home, along with Peter and Pat having been shopping in Keswick. After lunch Michelle having loaded her bike into the car left with Peter, while the rest apart from Pat set off back to Braithwaite. Splitting into two groups again they made their way back down the valley as far as Grange where they turned left over the river. This was followed by the climb up through Manesty where the two groups merged overlooking the lake. It was now mostly all downhill back to Braithwaite and parked vehicles.
Sunday 20th November Mae's Cafe Uldale.
On an unsettled morning with showers forecast Sara and Roy had arranged to meet up at Sue and John's at ten thirty. First to arrive was Roy having got caught out in a heavy shower as he left home. With the rain continuing Sara had other ideas and waited for the rain to clear before leaving her daughters house in Braithwaite. With everyone prepared for whatever the weather they set of with Sara on the front. Following the A66 to Crosthwaite roundabout, where they turned left onto the A591.
With a following wind and with Sara still on the front setting a steady pace they continued on the A591 to the Scarness turn. Away from the traffic it was now along the quieter lanes to Bassenthwaite village where Dianne, Maggie and Vic had just arrived.
They having set of from the Brewers Fayre having seen no rain until the Braithwaite group arrived in Bassenthwaite which didn't last for long. After a brief stop they set of together climbing steadily through Park Wood to join the Orthwaite road before reaching Uldale for lunch, joining them was Paul who had ridden from home. Just as well Sue had booked a table because the staff was turning people away as the place got full. After lunch and a good old natter about everything and nothing they made their way outside into the cold with the rain deciding to start up again. Maggie and Paul had made their minds up to head straight back home while the rest decided to do an extra few miles. Leaving Uldale they made their way to Ireby with the dark clouds and rain reducing the visibility. It was then onto Ruthwaite climbing most of the way to Binsey, followed by the welcome descent to the Castle Inn. Continuing onto Ouse Bridge here Dianne turned right back to Cockermouth. Leaving the rest who turned left, to join the A66 back to Braithwaite having been rained on most of the way back.
Sunday 13th November. By Dianne Moyes
Only 5 of us met up for coffee at the Melbreak Hotel on Sunday the 13th of November even though it was forecast to be an exceptionally warm day for November. Tom, me (Di), Paul and Michelle and Peter enjoyed a coffee before just Tom, Michelle and I headed towards the coast. Paul took his bike to Allonby and then had a ride towards Maryport from there, meeting us for lunch. Peter planned to meet us with the car at Allonby as this was Michelle's first ride out in a while. I did not make things easier for her as I chose to drop down to the river at Great Clifton then cross the river to Camerton and climb up the very steep hill out of Camerton and over to Flimby. We had to make a mechanical adjustment to Michelle's back mudguard after she had nudged a bollard but we all managed the downs and ups to Flimby. We were then caught out by the flooded underpass which is the responsibility of the railway I think, so had to keep on the main road till the turn off at Risehow. No stopping in Maryport, we were soon in Allonby spot on midday.
We had a good chat over lunch. Michelle decided to accept a lift back so just Tom and I were heading back inland via Gilcrux and Tallentire. We then went across the main road at Dovenby crossroads to Great Broughton. I decided Tom could find his way back to his car from there. I returned home via the Papcastle road. It was a perfect cycling day.
Sunday 6th November.
On a miserable morning although the sun was out in Cockermouth Thirteen member turned out for coffee and a chat at the Brewers Fayre. They were Dianne, John, Anita, Tom, Roy, Paul, Vic, John, Paul, Michelle, Peter, Sue and John.
While the chat continued and the coffee flowed the clouds moved in with the possibility of more rain. Eventually five members decided it was time to leave while it was still dry they were Dianne, Sue, John, Vic and John R out to see how he was feeling back on the bike. Leaving the Brewers Fayre it was straight into the wind as they made their way to Paddle School. Here they turned right to Eaglesfield and along the quiet lanes to Dean encountering the odd shower on the way. Leaving Dean still following the lanes they crossed the A5086 into Pardshaw and through Brandlingill where they so the most distinctive rainbow. On reaching the T-junction Dianne and John R turned left to Paddle School while Sue, John and Vic headed downhill to Southwaite Mill. A quick glance at the river from the bridge that was flowing quite fast before they started the drag up to the crossroads at Hundith. Going straight across they made their way past Hundith Hotel taking the next left turn to Strawberry How. On joining the Cockermouth Lorton road they said goodbye to Vic leaving Sue and John to make their way back to the Brewers Fayre.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 30th October.
Due to the predicted weather forecast for strong winds along the coast, the planned ride to Allonby was changed to a more inland route. Maurice who wanted a flat route was happy to start from Roy's in Braithwaite and cycle to Thirlmere. Having made it known on WhatsApp four members turned up at Roy's they were Maurice, Anita, Helen and Clive. Leaving Roy's dead on time (10.30) with Maurice on the front they met Sue and John coming to meet them, it was then onto the cycle way alongside the A66 into Keswick. Here they joined the busy Keswick to Threlkeld cycle track that was covered in fallen leaves. On reaching Threlkeld they crossed the A66 to make their way down the Vale. It wasn't long before the rain started to fall but not heavy enough to stop and add more wet gear. With John now on the front and the rain getting heavier they stopped by Lowthwaite Farm to had that extra wet gear, and just as well. By the time they reached The Lodge in the Vale for lunch they were rather wet. With the place deserted apart from another couple they were able to spread their wet clothing. Over lunch the rain continued, hoping for the rain to clear before setting of again. After a lengthy stop and a good old natter the rain cleared. It was agreed to return following their wheel tracks, this time the Threlkeld and Keswick track was much quieter. Having arrived back in Braithwaite in the dry it wasn't long back before the rain appeared again.
Tuesday 25th October Mae's Cafe Uldale.
Changing the day from Wednesday due to the predicted weather forecast, Dianne and Tom set off from the Brewers Fayre heading for greenway to Strawberry How. While Sue and John were setting off from Braithwaite to follow the A66 to join the A591.
Meanwhile Dianne and Tom were heading towards Embleton only to find the road closed to the A66, meaning they had to go onto Wythop Mill. Having crossed the A66 it was then on to the Castle Inn to make their way into Bassenthwaite. Here they took picturesque route through Park Wood to the Orthwaite road. Sue and John were already on the Orthwaite road having turned off the A591 at High Side. Having arrived first they waited for Dianne and Tom to arrive before ordering there lunch, only to be joined by Johnny who had ridden from home. Having agreed a route back they left Uldale heading for Irerby and onto Whitrigg with Dianne and Sue on the front talking most of the way. It was then mostly downhill into the wind to join the A591 as far as Bewaldeth. Here they turned right following Sustrans route 10 to Isel, stopping on the bridge overlooking the river before splitting up. After the short steep climb to the T-junction, Dianne and Tom turned right back to Cockermouth. Leaving Sue and John t turn left back to Braithwaite via the A66. Johnny disappeared in the distance heading back home via Embleton.
Sunday 23rd October Prize Giving Dinner
Twenty nine members and friends attended the prize giving dinner, although thirty one had been the number expected. Due to a mishap in the downhill competition to Steve Lunt, Anita took him to the West Cumberland Hospital for a check up, both missing the dinner. As usual six members traveled over from the North East, Shirley and Tracy went round selling raffle tickets raising over seventy pounds to subsidies the dinner.
Maurice and Peter took turns running the raffle, before Peter and Dianne handed out the prizes to the winners.
The Downhill
Gents Cup:- Brian Moore
Ladies Cup:- Tracy Moore
Nearest Pica:- Anita Goldsworthy
Big Urn Trike Trophy:- 2022 Brian Moore
Tour Competition Combined Aided & Unaided Cycles
Ladies
(2022 Tour Competition Trophy – S. MurphyGold Medal (121pts)
Gents
(2022 Tour Competition Trophy – John Murphy Gold Medal (121pts)
Maurice Cowley Silver Medal (1108ts)
Tom Beck Bronze Medal (73pts)
Wooden Spoon John Murphy
Sunday 2nd October Buttermere.
Nine members made their way to the Brewers Fayre they were Dianne, John, Tom, Anita, Roy, Sue, John, Paul and Steve. Most had just gone for the coffee and chat while Anita, Sue, John and Roy were there for the ride to Buttermere. After a lengthy conversation the four left leaving the rest still chatting. With Roy on his e-bike and the rest on non electric they headed into Cockermouth to join the greenway to the Lorton road. With Sue and Anita chatting away and setting a steady pace on the front, the two oldies on the back managed stay in contact. On reaching Hundith crossroads it was all downhill into Lorton with the road quite wet from the previous day's rain. On the climb to Lanthwaite Anita and Roy forged ahead although Sue had stopped to cast some clothing, at the cattle grid they regrouped only to be joined by Johnny. With lots of standing water about they took the descent into Rannerdale with a degree of care, but not Johnny. Eventually they all arrived in Buttermere after a strong tail wind along Crummock for their lunch. With the cafe usually busy again they sat outside in the sun but as the clouds appeared blocking out the sun it was on with extra clothing. It was now into the wind as they followed their wheel tracks, dropping John on the climb to the cattle grid. After regrouping they said goodbye to Johnny who was going back via the gated road back into Lorton. The rest still following their tracks ended up in Station Street in Cockermouth for the final push to the Brewers Fayre.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 28th September. Ennerdale Brewery. By Dianne Moyes
What a turnout! Seventeen members of the Club were involved at some point in, what turned out to be, a lovely sunny day. The destination was the Ennerdale Brewery at Rowrah and for some people it was planned as a pre Mallorca ride without any electrical assistance.
After the usual coffee and crack, which included a sociable John Moyes, we set off in 2 groups heading on the main road towards Paddle School. I (Dianne) led the first group which included Sue, Anita and her friend, Diane, who had come to have a taster ride with us. It was her first experience of riding in a group. Deb and Kevin were in the first group as was Paul. We followed John Murphy's route via Eaglesfield, Dean and Ullock and then onto the main road near Mockerkin before turning off up to Lamplugh Church and then back to the main road. As I don't like the main road, I turned off again to climb the long hill to Kirkland then right and down to Rowrah. Poor Sue did not complain and should have no difficulties in Mallorca.
The second group led by John Murphy, included, Steve, Vic, Tom, Helen and Maggie. They followed the same route but avoided the Kirkland climb by keeping on the main road until they turned right along Chapel Row. On google maps the road is called Chapel Row but I can't find a name for the cluster of houses there. We arrived pretty much at the same time to find Sara who had come over Whinlatter and Fangs from Braithwaite, just ready to order, and Pat and Johnny outside. Some sat inside some outside but the place was really busy and showed the popularity of its lunches.
Quite a few people decided to make their own way home for various reasons, so the two groups were rather different after lunch. The unassisted group went via the main road before turning off to Ullock and following their wheel tracks back to Brewer's Fayre. The e bike group plus Tom and Diane on their ordinary bikes headed east to the hills. Heading out of Kirkland we were rewarded with magnificent views all round, but at the top of a rise we stopped to look at a remarkably clear Isle of Man. Sara put some great photos on WhatsApp later. We then descended to Lamplugh with Johnny getting to the bottom first as usual, before another couple of climbs to the top of Fangs Brow. A passing motorist warned us about a pack of dogs on the road to Loweswater, it might have been a hound trail or the hunt. Pat and Johnny turned left for home but I suggested we go via Loweswater as the weather was still good. We descended with no sign of hounds, then took the Thackthwaite road to Lorton where we said goodbye to Sara. It was then on through Rogerscale to Paddle School and back to Brewer's Fayre where some of the slow group were still packing their cars.
It was about 32 miles for my group.
Sunday 25th September Thirlmere.
Having had to cancel the ride to the Ennerdale Brewery at the last minute due to it being fully booked it was agreed on WhatsApp to start from Dubwath.
Twelve members turned up for the ride they were Dianne, Sara, Debs, Helen, Anita, Sue, Tom, Roy, Vic, Kev, Steve and John, half of them arrived on two wheels.
After coffee and a long chat they started to make a move heading for the A66, with Sue on the front they made their way along the lake side before turning right to Thornthwaite. It was then on towards Braithwaite with drizzle in the air past Roy's house to join the cycle path along the A66. Leaving the cycle path they continued into Keswick to join the busy Keswick to Threlkeld pedestrian cycle way. On reaching the end the group split for some to continue along the old track bed to the Vale road. While some continued into Threlkeld to eventually meet up with the rest to continue down the Vale to Thirlmere. It was then along the busy A591 for a short distance where they turned left over the dam to follow the road down the west side of the Lake. With the majority having brought a pack lunch they decided to make use of the Armboth car park and its facilities. That left Steve and Roy to head back to Low Bridge End Farm for whatever they could get, to be joined later by the rest for coffee, cake and scone's.
As the temperature started to drop they set off again to follow their wheel tracks back to Threlkeld where they continue down the old railway path to Keswick. Not long after joining the path John suffered a back wheel puncture that was soon repaired by the help of Sara and Sue. The rest were not to be seen again, they had to make their way back to Dubwath where their cars were parked. Vic who had left the group earlier made his way home via the Stone Circle and Whinlatter.
Wednesday 21st September Allonby.
Starting from the Melbreak on a sunny morning with some black clouds moving ever closer passed over without raining while members sat outside drinking coffee.
Dianne arrived with some cards to get members phone numbers and contact details that everyone was happy to fill in, to be carried on all club rides.
Finally the group twelve strong set off taking the usual route through Great Clifton and down through Stainburn to join the cycle path through Curwin Park. On reaching the main road that was busy with traffic, the group split trying to cross over, only to regroup by the bridge. They then followed the cycle way passed Siddick Ponds where three women cyclists caught them up having got the train from Carlisle to Whitehaven, to cycle back to Carlisle. On reaching Maryport they stopped briefly before heading onto Allonby for lunch where Sue had booked a table. Having had a tailwind most of the way out it was now into the wind as they made their way out of Allonby. At Mealo House Dianne said goodbye to make her own way home via Gilcrux and Tallentire Hill encountering farmers moving cattle on the way. Because of the strong wind the group split into three as they pushed on to Maryport where they stopped to regroup. Still into the wind it was on through Flimby following their wheel tracks to Seaton where Steve suffered a rear wheel puncture. At this point Maggie, Stewart and Paul carried on back to the Melbreak the way they had come. With Steve back on his bike the rest made their way through Workington just as it decided to rain to follow the cycle way to Distington. Approaching Lillyhall Steve's tyre went flat again so Anita took a flyer and headed back to the Melbreak to get her car, to return to pick up Steve. Meanwhile the rest of the group that were left, made their way back to the Melbreak, they were Sue, Debs, Helen, Tom, Kev and John. Not long after Anita arrived back with Steve.
Sunday 18th September AGM.
Twenty two members made it to the AGM at Embleton village hall kindly arranged by Stewart our retiring treasurer. Our chairman Peter made reference to two members we lost this year Sue Cumella and Peter Fitzsimmons who both past away suddenly.
This year’s AGM went smoothly and was kept in control by the chairman; Maurice made recommendations to update the club constitution. Also approved was that the club have a monthly program of Sunday rides. Vic Emmerson was appointed new treasurer, with Sue and John M made committee members. Dianne provided the tea, coffee and milk, served up by Michelle and Helen. The wooden spoon a well sort after trophy, voted by the members went to JM.
Ten members arrived on four wheels, while two arrived on foot.Vic and Deb rode from home in Maryport, while Sara did the same. Paul and Steve met at the Brewers Fayre for the short ride. Meanwhile Tom and Anita had driven over to Roy's to meet up with Sue and John to ride out to Embleton via the A591 and Ouse Bridge.
After the meeting they headed for Whinlatter Pass getting caught up in a shower by Hundith. On reaching the summit as the rain started again they all agreed to visit the cafe. Waiting for the rain to stop didn't happen, so by the time they got back to Braithwaite they were quite wet.
Wednesday 14th September Buttermere.
Thirteen old and new members turned up at the Brewers Fayre for the ride to Buttermere, along with John Moyes and Peter Pearce who were there for the chat. During coffee and chat it was decided to split the number into two groups to avoid a long line. Dianne led the first group that included Maggie, Paul, Tom, Clive and Vic, a few minutes later Sue led the next group they were Helen, Deb, Kev, Roy, Steve and John. Taking the usual route via Paddle School and Rodgerscales, the two groups merged on the bridge over the river. After a brief stop the first group set off heading for Hope Beck, by now the sun had appeared warming up the proceedings although cool out of the sun. Still split into two groups they made their way to Lanthwaite stopping by the cattle grid before continuing on to Buttermere for lunch. On arrival they found the cafe very busy with plenty of tourists about making for a long wait to get served. Sat outside in the sun, it suddenly turned cold as the sun disappeared behind the clouds, seeing Dianne rush for her jacket. After lunch they left again in two groups, with Tom making a swift get away not to be seen again until reaching the top of Fangs Brow. On reaching Brackenthwaite Maggie and Clive said goodbye while the rest continued onto Loweswater. With the two groups now together they started the climb up Fangs Brow where they found Tom on his second cup of coffee. After brief stop was followed by the fast descent into Mockerkin, were they took the lane that had been newly surfaced to Sosgill. It then on through Mosser and Brandlingill to Paddle School to join the A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre where Dianne carried on home. 26 miles
Sunday 11th September.
On an overcast morning with the prospect of the sun appearing Anita, Dianne, Maggie, Sue, John and Roy made their way to the Brewers Fayre. Joining them were two cyclists (Kevin and Deborah) they had met in Mae's cafe who were keen to join the Solway. After coffee and introduction to Deborah and Kevin the group prepared to set off to follow a hilly route done by John.
With everyone on e-bikes they made their way to join the A66 heading in a westerly direction, taking the first left to Brigham. It was then onto Bridgefoot where they turned left just before Chapel Brow to Little Clifton. With sun now warming up the day some were keen to cast some clothing on reaching Greysouthen. Back rolling again and it was uphill to Eaglesfield, this was followed by the welcome descent to Southwaite Mill. After crossing the river the road climbed steadily to the Cockermouth Lorton crossroad, here they carried straight on towards Hundith Hotel. With the lanes being usually quiet they made their way to Wythop Mill where they said goodbye to Maggie. On leaving Wythop Mill it was onto Dubwath with a view of the busy A66 below, before reaching the station cafe for an energy boost. After making sure the bikes were secured they found a table on the platform sat out in the sun.
After cake and scones they made a move with the option of heading back to Cockermouth or going back via Whinlatter. All were in agreement of going back over Whinlatter, so it was along the A66 to the Thornthwaite turn, then onto Braithwaite.
Dianne led the group onto the climb that soon started to split seeing Sue and Anita disappearing up the road along with Kevin. Regrouping at the top was followed by the fast descent into Lorton where they stopped on the bridge overlooking the river.
The final miles back to Cockermouth took them through Rodgerscales and onto Paddle School to join A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre and for Dianne back home. 32 miles.
Wednesday 7th September Ennerdale Brewery.
Almost dead on ten thirty six members rolled out of the Brewers Fayre car park they were Sue, Sara, Helen, Tom, Roy and John. Joining the A5086 they made their way to Paddle School, turning left to Rodgerscale and onto Lorton. Having arranged to meet Maggie by the bridge at Lorton, she arrived almost simultaneously. With the sun getting warmer some decided to cast some clothes before setting of again. Following Sustrans Sea to Sea route they negotiated the badly surfaced road through Thackthwaite to Loweswater. With everyone on e-bikes including Tom they made the ascent of Fangs Brow with ease, although Tom took the prime. After a brief stop to take a drink, they continued onto Lamplugh to start the climb through Felldyke to Cross Rigg, with a view of Ennerdale and the surrounding Fells. It was now all downhill to Kirkland and onto Rowrah for lunch at the Brewery where they found Anita and Paul.Anita had ridden from home via Haile and Cold Fell, while Paul had got there via Ullock, Mockerkin and Fangs Brow from the opposite direction. Joining them for lunch were Maurice and John R both having driven there. After lunch the two wheeler's said goodbye to Maurice, John and Anita as they headed up the hill towards Asby. On reaching Dean Cross they turned right to Ullock, where Sara tested her downhill skills reaching just over 43 mph. From Ullock it was the usual route back through Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield where they said goodbye to Paul. At Paddle School the group split Sara and Maggie headed for home via Southwaite and Hundith while the rest joined A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre. 25 miles.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 31st August by Dianne Moyes
The Marina Cafe at Maryport was a new starting venue for us and it was a success. John took me there with my bike in the car and when we asked how long we could park, we were told all day. You have to register your car on something when you go in the café. Also it opens at 8.30 am which is useful for Maurice and Tom. I think we were the last there, it was good to see Maurice with Shirley, just came for the chat, also Tom, Roy, Paul and Helen who had ridden in from Dearham We left on time and turned left to get a better look at the area, passing the campsite right next to the marina and then cycling over the bridge to the Aquarium side.
We went through to Allonby the usual way and I then turned off wanting to use one of Allonby's many toilet blocks, only to find them all closed. In the process we lost Roy, so instead of going via Westnewton we carried on up to Mawbray picking up Roy on the way. We went inland via Holme St Cuthbert and up to Tarns noticing the signs still up relating to Solfest which had been held the weekend before. Map reading was required to find the right route through to Aldoth then back on ourselves to the other road with the sand quarry. We went a short stretch on the Aspatria/Silloth Road before turning off for New Cowper and Edderside(with a dried up pond). It was then back to the Allonby Cafe for lunch having done 20 miles. Some wanted fish and chips but as there was a half hour wait they came back and we had a very sociable lunch with all of us round a table outside.
After lunch we headed back to Maryport but Helen and I turned off to go home via Gilcrux. My distance covered was 30 miles.
Sunday 28th August, Brewer's Fayre to Uldale, 32 miles. by Dianne Moyes
Another good weather forecast saw 6 of us meeting up at Brewer's Fayre to head out to the quiet area north of Skiddaw on Bank Holiday Sunday. Sitting by the roadside as I arrived at Brewer's Fayre was Tracy, who as timekeeper was waiting for the first finishers in a 25 mile race taking place on the A66. Helen, Stuart, me Dianne,
Anita, Pat and Johnny left promptly, giving Tracy and Bacca a wave, and headed out of Cockermouth on the Greenway to the Strawberry Howe road. We dropped down and crossed the A 66 at Embleton onto the old main road. Continuing past the Distillery and over Ouse Bridge we paused at the Castle Inn to shed layers. Going into Bassenthwaite village we found John and Sue relaxing on a bench waiting for us. They had come from Braithwaite along the west side of the lake mixing with the racers on the winding section of the A66.
We continued through Park Wood and up to Orthwaite dropping down to Overwater before the stiff climb up to Mae's Café at Uldale. The table was all set for us; in fact, it really wasn't too busy for a Bank Holiday. We joined Johnny and Pat outside after our lunch and chatted to a couple of cyclists from Maryport. It turns out they had both been at Workington Grammar School in the 70's when my John started teaching there, he was in his early 20's then.
Johnny and Pat were making their own way back, the rest of us headed the same way as last week via Ireby, Torpenhow (visiting the cheese shed again), Bothel, Threapland, Sunderland and Isel Bridge. Sue and John went left towards Keswick as the rest of us turned right to Cockermouth. It looked a bit threatening towards Skiddaw so we hope they got back in the dry. (The opposite)
Sunday 21st August Uldale
Meeting at the Brewers Fayre were Dianne, Anita, Helen, Tom, Johnny and Vic after the usual mug of coffee they set off for Wythop Mill to collect Maggie. On their way they made use of the greenway to Strawberry How then over the A66 and on past Embleton Church to Maggie's. It was then onto the Castle Inn to meet up with Sue and John having used the A66 and the A591 to get there. The group now nine strong started the climb up towards Binsey before the fast descent into Uldale and Mae's Cafe for lunch. Johnny who had to get back home said goodbye leaving the rest to get there lunch, Sue having reserved a table. After lunch Vic had to head back home, while the rest discussed a route back, with the day getting much warmer it seemed a good idea to make the most of it. Leaving Uldale they made their way to Irerby, then along a narrow twisting lane to Torpenhow where they stopped at the Torpenhow Cheese Company honesty shop. Finding the door open they all piled in to find a variety of dairy products and jams, with everything labelled and priced. Dianne and Helen were tempted and came away with packets of cheeses. After leaving Torpenhow they crossed the busy A595 into Bothel and onto Threapland where the turned left back to the A595.
After crossing the A595 again it was mostly all downhill through Sunderland to Isel Bridge where they stopped before the group split at the T-junction. Here Dianne, Helen, Anita and Tom turned right, while Sue, Maggie and John turned left all heading to where they had started from.
Wednesday 17th August Whitehaven
As the good weather continued so did the cycling as six members made it to the Brewers Fayre for the usual coffee and natter. They were Dianne, Anita, Sue, Tom John and John Moyes. Having arrived in good time and no pressure to leave on time they chatted away until John Moyes got up to go. With John having produced a route that everyone was happy with they set off to join the A66. With quite a bit of traffic on the A66 they took the first exit to High Brigham and onto Bridgefoot. After climbing Chapel Brow they joined the cycle path adjacent to the A595 to Distington and onto Parton. Still following the cycle path overlooking the sea, once the Waggon Way thronged with miners going to and from work. Just before entering Whitehaven they stopped at the William Pit Memorial Garden the site where 104 miners lost their lives 75 years ago. After reading the notes left on flowers to remember those that were killed they continued into Whitehaven to the Beacon for lunch. Waiting at the Beacon were Maurice, Steve and Dave followed later by John and Mavis that made ten all managing to sit round one small table. After lunch and a good old natter the two groups split up the locals going the way they had come, while the two wheelers headed for the cycle way. Once on the cycle way with Tom and Dianne taking turns on the front they made their way past Moor Row and Cleator Moor and onto Rowrah. Here they joined the main road to Lamplugh, then back to the main road past Mockerkin Tarn where they turned left to Ullock. Away from the busy roads it was now through the quiet lanes to Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield, only to join the A5086 again back to the Brewers Fayre. 34 miles
Sunday 14th August Allonby.
On another glorious sunny morning Sue, Anita, John, Tom and Vic met at the Melbreak Hotel for coffee before setting off. Leaving the Melbreak they followed the cycle path towards Lillyhall, where they turned right by wind farm to Stainburn. On the downhill section Tom took off only to be seen in the distance disappearing round a corner. All together again as they headed to Curwin Park to join the cycle way to Flimby. Taking the Siddick Pond route with Tom setting a fast pace on the front, it was a relief when he had to stop to answer his phone. After negotiating the gated section it was onto Maryport only to find there was a street market with stalls on quay side. Stopping by the Aquarium while Tom disappeared to look for his daughter, before carrying onto Allonby. With a welcome breeze coming of the sea they made their way along the promenade and through the golf course to pick up the cycle way. On reaching Allonby they found a table for their picnic although it was directly in the sun the breeze of the sea made it bearable. All fed and watered they set off back in the direction they had come, at Mealo House they said goodbye to Tom who was meeting his daughter in Maryport. Here the rest took the road up towards Allerby where they crossed the A596 to Gilcrux. With tour points to collect for Sue and John they made their way up Tallentire Hill with splendid views across the Solway. Taking the easy route down brought them into Tallentire and on past Broughton Craggs before crossing the A66 into Brigham. It was then onto Bridgfoot for the final climb of the day up Chapel Brow to parked vehicles at the Melbreak. 30 miles
Wednesday 10th August Ennerdale Brewery Rowrah.
On hot sunny morning seven members made it to the Brewers Fayre they were Anita, Sue, Helen, Tom, Clive, John and Stuart. Anita arrived sporting her new Specialized e-bike that she was pleased with. Sat in their usual spot chatting and drinking coffee delaying their start waiting for Stuart. Eventually around eleven o'clock Stuart arrived having been delayed waiting for a delivery. Turning left out of the car park with Sue on the front they made their way to Paddle School where they turned left to Lorton.
On the downhill section Stuart took off with Tom not far behind as they threaded their way through Rodgerscales stopping by the bridge in Lorton to regroup. It was then on through Thackthwaite and on past Loweswater, before the climb up Fangs Brow. After regrouping again it was mostly all downhill to Lamplugh to join the main road to Ennerdale Brewery for lunch. On arrival they found Maurice, Shirley, Maggie, Stewart and Paul having had their lunch. While some preferred to sit outside some sat inside before venturing out for a good old natter. With a few options on which way to go back they decided on going via Asby and Dean Cross, then down into Ullock. Turning left in Ullock took them to Branthwaite then onto Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield where they said goodbye to Paul. That left the rest to make their way back to the Brewers Fayre for a well earned drink. 25 miles
Sunday 7th August Uldale.
As members started to arrive at the Brewers Fayre for the days ride it started to drizzle which was not expected. Sat overlooking the car park they chatted while drinking coffee with an eye on the weather outside. With the clock ticking it was left to Dianne to get the group moving. With a route agreed they made their way to the greenway to join the old road over Slate Fell and on through Embleton to the Castle Inn. Crossing the A591 took them into Bassenthwaite village to start the climb through Park Wood following Halls Beck to the T-junction. Here they turned left followed by more climbing it was here that Dianne stopped with the rest disappearing up the road. With Paul and John off the back they stopped to see if she was ok, feeling cold she said she was going to go back and get a hot drink at the Distillery.Making sure she was ok John and Paul pressed on making contact with the rest before reaching Uldale. Having booked a table before leaving the Brewers Fayre they all piled into Mae's cafe for lunch, they were Sara, Maggie, Sue, Tom, Vic, Paul and John.After lunch Maggie headed back home via the Castle Inn, while the rest made their way to Ireby. At this point Sara, Vic and Paul all needing to back home early left Sue, John and Tom to carry on to Torpenhow. On leaving Ireby the lane was so narrow they were hoping that they didn't meet a tractor. From Torpenhow they crossed the A595 into Bothel, then onto Threapland where they took a left turn. This was followed by a long drag before reaching the A595 where they crossed over to follow the road to Sunderland. It was now mostly all downhill to Isel Bridge where they stopped before tackling the steep climb, to join the undulating road back to Cockermouth. 33 miles
Wednesday 3rd August Buttermere.
Dianne, Anita, Sue, Helen, Tom, Paul and John turned up at the Brewers Fayre for the ride to Buttermere along with Sara who came for the coffee and chat. With a strong westerly wind and overcast sky the group decided on a route to try and avoid the wind.
Leaving the Brewers Fayre they made their way into Cockermouth to join the greenway to Strawberry How. Following Sustrans route 71 they climbed up and over the A66 towards Hundith, taking a left turn to Armaside. On reaching the Lorton road they turned left and on past Lorton Church to Hope Beck. After a brief stop they carried on along the narrow lane back to the valley road. This was followed by the climb to Lanthwaite stopping at the cattle grid to regroup before the fast descent to Rannerdale. With the road rather quieter than usual they made their way along Crummock to Buttermere for lunch at the Croft House Farm Cafe. With plenty of tables available they all managed to sit together. After lunch the group agreed on a circular route back going via Loweswater and Fangs Brow to Mockerkin. Where would the oldies be without an electric bike as they scaled Fangs Brow almost together? On reaching the A5086 they took the road into Ullock then onto Dean, Deanscales stopping in Eaglesfield at Paul's. Here Paul invited the group in for tea and coffee sat in the back garden, before heading back to parked vehicles at the Brewers Fayre. 27 miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 31st July Whitehaven.
Down in numbers only five turned up for the ride starting from the Brewers Fayre they were Stuart, Sue, John, Steve and Paul. Although members turned up early it wasn't until eleven o'clock before they made a move, having decided to go to Whitehaven.
With Stuart on the front, they headed down the road to join the A66 to the High Brigham turn. By now Stuart was out of site only to be seen again sat on a seat sunning himself in High Brigham. Back together again didn't last long as Stuart took off again only to regroup outside the Melbreak. With sun getting warmer and with a side and tail wind they followed the cycle path to Whitehaven, with a clear view of the Isle of Man as they passed through Parton. On reaching Whitehaven they headed to the Beacon for lunch sat out in the sun overlooking the marina, along with a couple from Holland having just completed the Sea to Sea. Having agreed a route back they followed their wheel tracks back as far as Distington, where they continued on the cycle path to Workington. A brief comfort stop turned into a coffee stop, again sat in the sun, before pressing on again following the cycle path to Camerton. It was then onto Great Broughton, but not before having to stop for the farmer to move his cows for milking (when asked he said there were 150 cows) Having waited for the best part of ten minutes they set off again to Great Broughton, then on through Papcastle back to the Brewers Fayre. Good to see Paul out with the group again, saying he had enjoyed the ride. 33 miles. (36 miles for Paul)
Wednesday 27th July Allonby.
On a lovely sunny morning Sue, Helen, Tom, John, Stuart, Steve, Peter and Vic made their way to the Melbreak. With very little wind and the sun getting warm they opted to sit outside consuming tea and coffee along with the chat. Another late start, good job Maurice had other commitments or their would have been some strong words.
Eventually they made a move saying goodbye to Vic and Peter who were just there for the coffee and chat. A change from the usual route took them up the road to Distington to join the cycle way to Workington. After a brief stop in Workington they continued on the cycle way to Maryport, where Paul joined them at Flimby. On reaching Maryport they decided to have their pack lunches by the harbour wall sat in the sun. With the seagulls for company it was keep your hands on your sandwiches as they swirled around searched for scraps. Back in the saddle and it was along the promenade to follow the cycle path to Allonby, where Paul said goodby having parked his car in Maryport. Having stopped in Maryport instead of Allonby they continued onto West Newton with Stuart and Tom forcing the pace out front. It was then onto Aspatria and over the River Ellen to Arkleby where they turned right to follow the lanes to Gilcrux. It was now the best part of the day with the sun at it's warmest as they made their way up the drag to Tallentire, only to regroup in the village. On the narrow lanes one had to be vigilant of large tractors and trailers moving silage. Setting of again was mostly all downhill to the A594 (Cockermouth to Maryport) where they crossed over to Broughton Craggs, before crossing over the River Derwent. Once over A66 they made their way through Broughton Cross and Bridgefoot for the final climb of the day up Chapel Brow back to the Melbreak. 37 miles
Wednesday 20th July Craggs Bothel.
On a much cooler day after the previous two days breaking all temperature records throughout the UK Anita, Sue, John and Vic met at the Brewers Fayre. After a few mugs of coffee and good old natter, and way past ten thirty they set off. With Vic on the front they made their way across the A66 into Cockermouth to join the greenway. Somehow the four got split up on the greenway only to regroup again by Cockermouth School, turned out Anita and Vic continued onto Strawberry How. It was now onto the Isel road to Isel, stopping on the bridge overlooking river, before taking a right turn to Sunderland. This was followed by the steep climb out of Sunderland made easy for those on e-bikes, but not for Anita who had to use her own power. Eventually they arrived at the Craggs but not before having to stop for a load or sheep and lambs being moved. After lunch they decided to make their way to the Castle Inn where they turned right to Ouse Bridge and past the Distillery to Embleton. Having made their way over Slate Fell in was back to join the greenway and on to the Brewers Fayre having said goodbye to Vic on the way. 23 miles
Sunday 10th July by Stuart Pike
Maurice, Tom, Steve, Stuart, met Diane and John and Paul at the Melbreak for a cuppa on the sunny terrace. Dianne was not riding today as she had another engagement. Paul left us after a cuppa and we saw him later at the lunch stop.
We set off and made our way to the cafe at the Lakes District Wildlife Park for lunch on a terrace overlooking the long noses of the Brazilian Tapirs enclosure. We picked up Vic at Brigham en route and Paul joined us at the Wildlife Park.
We headed back along the Embleton Road to Cockermouth which turned out to be enough time to build up a thirst so after saying goodbye to Vic and Paul we made our way to Wellington Farm for tea and cake (actually Tom had blackberry crumble and custard which everyone was eyeing up). Again sitting outside on a shaded terrace.
Leaving here we made our way to High Brigham and back to The Melbreak.
26 miles on a pleasant warm sunny day.
Sunday 3rd July. by Steve Lunt
The Sunday run today was "out west" was formulated by Mo and me (Steve L) to Include Mo on him leaving Whitehaven (Steve Hasson's place), so we met up on bikes at Moor Row Station/Bridge. We left nice and easy along the cycle way to Rowrah; to leave it and aim for lunch time stop at Ennerdale Brewery. Nice surprise we met with Paul Cumella (Who had traveled over by car to meet us) and a little while later Dianne and her son, just having arrived back in the UK from working in Qatar a keen cyclist, looking very fit. After bites to eat we parted company, Di and long lost son James taking the route northwards via Asby. Mo and I taking the road towards Ennerdale and dropping down into village for a coffee stop (so soon)'at the Gather. Homewards, riding out of Ennerdale towards Wath Brow, left turn to Cleator, Woodend where Mo rode on to Egremont. Steve L to Padstow via a very useful homeward bound cycle way to Cleator Moor. 19 miles.
Sunday 3rd July.
Staying in Stainton for the weekend John had mapped out a route for Sunday only to wake up on Sunday morning to finding it raining. With the rain continuing and a dog to exercise it was looking unlikely to get out on the bike. Eventually the rain stopped and the sun appeared and by one o'clock the road outside had dried out. Much later than usual they left Stainton about two thirty to negotiate the A66 roundabouts before reaching Brougham Castle. Stopping on the bridge to cast their light rain jackets as the sun got warmer before moving on again to Clifton Dykes. Here they took a right turn climbing steadily on some newly laid Tarmac to follow the lanes to Great Strickland. It was the then onto the picturesque village of Morland following Sustrans route 71. (71 route from Penrith to Appleby). About a mile out of Morland they turned right to Newby where the road reared up climbing on and beyond Little Strickland for three miles. After all the climbing this was followed by a welcome descent to Great Strickland with a splendid view off the Pennines. Leaving Great Strickland they crossed the River Leith then under the railway to join the A6 then on through Lowther Park to Askham. With very little wind and the afternoon getting warmer they made their way to Yanwath to join the A6 again to Eamont Bridge. It was now back negotiating the A66 roundabouts, before the final couple miles back to Stainton. 30 miles.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 29th June.
Leaving Braithwaite in the rain were Sue and John heading to Bassenthwaite Station to meet up with Maurice, Tom, Steve, Anita, Helen plus Dianne who had ridden from home. Arriving latter was Roy having had a problem with the electrics on his bike.
Sitting in what was the waiting room of the old station they consumed tea and coffee before setting of with the rain having cleared. Leaving the station they crossed the A66 passed the boat club then over the river to the Castle Inn. Turning right onto the A591 then a left turn took them into Bassenthwaite Village where they joined a narrow lane following Chapel Beck. As the road started to climb Roy's motor decided to give up, only to come to life again as the road got steeper. It was now mostly downhill to High Side to join the A591 that was quieter than usual to Millbeck. As the road climbed towards Applethwaite the view was magnificent looking towards Derwent Water.
As they descended the rain could be seen drifting in their direction, having to take shelter by Burnside Caravan Park. With odd rumble of thunder the rain soon past by, only to find Dianne had lost power on her bike. Unable to restore power Dianne phoned John to get a lift back home, leaving the rest to continue onto Lingholme for lunch. With the place very popular the group had to wait for a table coming vacant, before sitting down to a tasty lunch. After lunch Sue and John got extra miles in by going round Derwent Water, while the rest headed back to Dubwath via the A66.
Sunday 26th June.
On a very wet and windy morning Sue, John and Roy made their way to the Brewers Fayre going via the A66, Dubwath, Embleton and the Greenway. On arrival they found Dianne, Maurice, Tom, Anita, Steve and Paul. With it still raining outside the coffee continued to be flow along with the chat, until someone said we should give it a go.
With the rain having eased of Maurice, Tom and Anita decided to ride back as far as Dubwath with the Braithwaite trio. While Dianne did the sensible thing and headed back home leaving Steve and Paul chatting. On reaching Dubwath with the wind and rain getting worse they made their way into the Station Cafe for light refreshments. With no sign of the rain stopping the group decided to make a move, the Maurice trio heading back to the Brewers Fayre via Wythop Mill. Leaving Sue, John and Roy to make their way along A66 into the wind and rain, to eventually reach Braithwaite rather soaked.
Wednesday 22nd June Eden Valley.
On glorious sunny morning with very little wind ten members made their way to Langwathby, they were Dianne, Maurice, Tom, Sue, John, Anita, Roy, Maggie, Helen and Vic. Rolling out of Langwathby on an undulating route more suited for those on e-bikes, while Anita and Tom were on normal bikes. With John on the front the first climb came at Little Salkeld before levelling out before Glassonby. With group altogether it was now mostly downhill as they headed towards Kirkoswald. Although there was a slight headwind it was warm in the sun as they entered Kirkoswald. Here they encountered the first steep climb through the village to High Bankmill were they regrouped. They were now in the foot of the Pennines passing fields of mowed grass as the road climbed and descended before reaching Croglin. The group came to a brief halt because of a ewe taking its lambs for a walk in Croglin, before heading onto Newbiggin were they turned left to Ainstable. With John still navigating on the front and Vic making the most of the downhill’s, he was not to been seen again until reaching Armathwaite. Most having brought a packed lunch, those that hadn't visited the village shop. It was then up to the railway station sat in the sun to have their well earned picnic with the added bonus of seeing a train. On leaving the station the group split leaving Dianne, Helen, Anita, Maggie and Vic to make their way back via Lazonby to Langwathby. That left the rest to go point collecting, picking up points at Blackmoss Pool and Nunclose before joining the wheel tracks of the Dianne group. One more point at Eden Lacy and it was back to Langwathby to join up with the rest for a drink at the Shepherds Inn sat soaking up the sun on the village green. 36 miles
Sunday 19th June. The Gather Ennerdale.
Only four members were out on Sunday's ride they were Dianne, Sue, John and Roy who met at the Brewers Fayre for coffee and chat, along with Paul. In no hurry to set off they chatted away oblivious of the time until Paul made a move to leave. With the earlier spot of rain having quickly blown over the depleted group set of to Paddle School. Turning left at the school they made their way through Brandlingill to Pardshaw then onto Mockerkin to join the A5086 again. After half a mile they turned left to Lamplugh Church stopping briefly for a drink. It was then on past Inglenook Caravan Park to start the climb through Felldyke stopping on the top for lunch. With a seat conveniently placed which the four managed to squeeze on, here they had a splendid view of Ennerdale and the high fells. Although it was sunny there was a cool breeze blowing on the top so after a quick lunch they decided to try the Gather in Ennerdale for a hot drink. On arrival the place was quite full but we're lucky to find a table and managed a pot of tea and scone. Having had a following wind out it was going to be into the wind going back as they made their way out of Ennerdale up the hill to Kirkland. Turning left in Kirkland took them to Rowrah followed by more climbing before reaching Dean Cross. Here they turned right by Fulton's garage for the fast descent into Ullock. It was then over the River Marron and on through the lanes to Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield to join the A5086 back to Cockermouth. 26 miles
Wednesday 15th June.
What a difference a few days can make after the wind and rain on Sunday today was a glorious sunny day with a slight breeze. Making their way to the Brewers Fayre were Dianne, Maggie, Sue, Helen, Maurice, Tom, Roy, Stuart and John. The usual pre-ride coffee was consumed along with the usual chat before the 1030 start. On leaving the temperature was about 17 degrees on John's Garmin as they made their way across the A66 to the Greenway. Leaving the Greenway it was on past Cockermouth School to join the Isel road to Isel Bridge, stopping briefly to view the river. Taking the first right the road climbed past Outgang Wood before turning right towards Bewaldeth.
After a couple of miles they turned left to Sunderland, here they were confronted with a short steep climb before joining the A591 to the Craggs. Sue having booked a table although it was quiet on arrival, it soon started to fill up. Joining them were Pat and Johnny who had cycled from home via Southwaite and Isel Bridge. After lunch Maggie headed back home via Castle Inn, while the rest left Pat and Johnny having their lunch.
Turning right leaving the Craggs they headed to Bothel and through the lanes to Gilcrux, here they turned right by the village hall. This was followed by a short descent before crossing over the railway and the river, where they turned left along a narrow lane climbing steadily to the A596. Here Stuart left the group to head home, the rest continued on adding an extra loop so Sue and John could get a tour point. Although it was only an extra two miles they finally reached Mealo House on the coast road. Here they joined the cycle path overgrown with wild flowers, with a splendid section by Crosscannonby road end with Poppies and Cornflowers. Photos taken and it was of again through the golf course and along the promenade to find the tea room. Helen having been before escorted the group to part of the marina that they didn't know about. After coffee bought by Tom the group continued heading to Flimby and the dreaded climb up Flimby Brow. It was then a right turn to Camerton where the road is slowly being eroded by the river that is completely closed to vehicles. The final few miles took them through Great Broughton and Papcastle before arriving in Cockermouth and back to parked vehicles. 38 miles
Sunday June 12th Cockermouth to Silloth by Dianne Moyes
We met up in the car park at Brewer's Fayre for a prompt start at 10.00am so we could have a coffee at the café in Allonby. We were, me Dianne, John and Sue, Tom and Roy. We headed straight out of Cockermouth taking the Maryport road then turning off to Tallentire. The plan was to meet Helen there but she was not in sight so we carried on to the Dearham Road end. Checking the WhatsApp we learned she had had a chain problem but then came the message that she was on her way. Modern communication can be very useful. It wasn't long till she was in sight. We headed through Bulgill and over the Maryport Carlisle road straight to Allonby. Anita was waiting in the café and then Stuart arrived from Maryport followed a bit later by Steve who had also started from Maryport. Anita had decided not to ride so just enjoyed a natter. There was some discussion about the strength of the wind but we finally decided to stick with the original plan and head to Silloth but keeping inland. The wind was a strong south westerly.
Arriving in Silloth we headed for the sheltered benches by the Bee Garden, which was in full flower. Some people picked up fish and chips, others ate their picnic. Up till then everything had been very enjoyable but then a few spots of rain were felt. We decided to go the same way back to Allonby to avoid the wind on the coast so we retraced our route through Newtown towards Mawbray. Unfortunately at Holme St Cuthbert the spots of rain became a heavy shower, so we took shelter in the lee of the school, though most of us were wet by then. When it eased we continued, though we had decided to not return by Maryport and Flimby but use the straightest route back which was the way we came. Just before Allonby, Stuart left us to go a faster pace back to home and at the Mealo turning we said goodbye to Steve who struggled back along the cycleway and Maryport Prom to his car. Helen left us at the Dearham turn off.
We did dry out a bit on the way back but my main concern was my battery. The wind was so strong, I needed to use a lot on the return journey. For the first time ever I ran out of power just on Lamplugh Road before the turning to Parkside Avenue luckily. We all had a lot of damp clothes to peel off when we got home though the roads were dry from Allonby and in Cockermouth they had had no rain. A character building day. 40 miles
Tuesday 7th June.
Seven members turned up at the Brewers Fayre for the re-arranged day due to Wednesday's forecast, they were Dianne, Anita, Sue, Tom, John, Vic and John Moyes.
The usual mugs of coffee were consumed along with the banter about almost everything as the time ticked by, when someone said it was twenty to eleven. Although it was warm the sun was reluctant to stay out long as the group headed up the road to Paddle School. Turning left it was onto well known roads through Rodgerscales to Lorton to pick up the valley road to Lanthwaite stopping at the cattle grid to regroup.
As usual the view down the valley towards Buttermere never stops to impress with the visibility near perfect. Moving on as the day got warmer was now mostly downhill to Rannerdale and along Crummock before the final push to Buttermere. On arrival the cafe was quite busy but managed to find a table for six of us. Joining them was Paul having driven out for the company, followed later by Johnny who had cycled over Honister.
While the rest chatted Vic had to leave having to be back home early, and with the sun at its warmest no one was in a hurry to move. Eventually the group made a move following their wheel tracks as far as the Hope Beck turn. Here Anita decided to carry on back to her car, while the rest followed the narrow road to Hope Beck. It was then up the gated road before turning back at the top down into Lorton. From Lorton they again followed their tracks to Sandy Beck where they turned left to Brandlingill. Saying goodbye to Johnny they carried onto Paddle School to join the busy A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre. 25 miles
Sunday 5th June.
On an overcast morning with a strong easterly wind Sue and John left Braithwaite to meet up with Dianne and Sara at the Castle Inn. Leaving Braithwaite following A66 to Crosthwaite roundabout, where they joined the A591. Meanwhile Dianne and Sara were leaving Cockermouth via Strawberry How and Embleton. Having met up as agreed they left the Castle Inn heading up the hill with Sara and Dianne getting the most out of their e-bike. At the road end to Bewaldeth they regrouped, here they said goodbye to Sara who was heading back home to attend a jubilee party in the afternoon. That left the trio to press on through Ireby, Boltongate and across the busy A595 to Fletchertown. Having encountered some strong head winds, it was now a following wind for the final miles to Blennerhasset where they stopped by the river for lunch. After lunch they went to look for a friend of Dianne's who lived in Blennerhasset Mill. After getting directions from a local they eventually found the old mill but not before meeting Johnny and Pat who had cycled from Maryport. The owner Andy made us most welcome and showed us where the old waterwheel was, along with his narrow gauge railway. (A must to visit again). Leaving the mill it was back through Blennerhasset along with Johnny and Pat for a couple of miles. Here they split up leaving them to head back to Maryport, while the trio headed to Threapland. After crossing A596 again it was mostly all downhill through Sunderland to Isel Bridge where they split up. Dianne taking a right turn at the top of the hill back to Cockermouth while Sue and John turned left to Dubwath to join the A66 back home.
Wednesday 1st June.
Four members turned up at the Murphy's they were Maurice, Tom, Anita and Steve having parked on the old road. Sat outside Sue provided the coffee as the sun started break through the clouds. Dead on ten thirty they set of with Sue on the front heading along the A66 cycle path towards Keswick to join the cycle path to Threlkeld. As usual the path was busy with a mix of families, dog walkers and cyclists, stopping by the tunnel to wait for Steve who had got held back. Maurice suggested that the four off us should carry on and see how far round Thirlmere we could get. On reaching Threlkeld it was across the A66 to join the Vale road to Thirlmere then over the dam as far as Armboth car park. Here a barrier stops you going any further with a sign telling you of the danger ahead. Doing a u-turn if was back over the dam and along A591 to the Lodge in the Vale to find Maurice and Steve. After lunch and a long natter it was back down the Vale to Threlkeld to pick up the cycle path back to Keswick, then onto Braithwaite. With the bikes packed into vehicles it was round to Sue and John's for more coffee and chat. 25 miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 29st May Mae's Cafe (or lost in Cockermouth) by Steve Lunt
That is my excuse losing my riding colleagues at a fast change at the traffic lights on the approach to the memorial at the entrance to the Greenway entrance. Having only just returned to regular cycling after a year off and did not recognise the changes at this part of town – gone is the fire station. Retracing a few turns of the wheel – found the Greenway and cycled like fury and finally arrived at Derwent School – rescue arrived in the shape of Mo and Tom cycling onwards through Embleton Village, Dubwath and met up with the rest of the riders Dianne, Clive, Helen, Vic, Maggie and Stuart at Castle Inn
Now all together turning right at Castle Inn and then a left to arrive at Bassenthwaite Village and up the long steady climb through Park Wood until the “T” Junction which pointed us up the steep hill through Orthwaite to turn left at the end of Over Water to climb another steep hill to drop down to a little hamlet of Stanthwaite and another uphill to Uldale and lunch at Mae,s Cafe which gave us a welcome break and here we were joined by Anita, Nigel and Sara.
First to leave was Maggie and Vic who took a direct route home. Next to leave were Moe, Steve L and Tom who said they would wait for the rest at Ireby. After a fairly long wait and with Maurice and Steve L eager to attack the long climb up to Whitrigg they decided to go and leave Tom to direct the rest along the route. After waiting on the top of the hill just past Whitrigg (in the sun) Dianne and Tom appeared with the news that Clive had suffered a mechanical fault resulting in Sara, Stuart and Clive in a mini group making their way directly back to base at Brewers Fayre. Now only four left from the original group made their way swooping down the hill and onto the A59 where they turned down and left it to reach Isle Bridge and then onto Cockermouth and Brewers Fayre and our cars. 30 miles
Summary of rides in May by Dianne Moyes
After John, Sue and Stuart had left for the dangers of Mallorca, the rest of us had a number of enjoyable rides. On Sunday May 8th, Maggie, Steve, Clive and me (Dianne) left Brewer's Fayre to head for Gilgarran then towards Pica before turning up Tutehill on a road which I have never been on before. There were great views towards Pillar from the summit before dropping down to Arlecdon and meeting Roy, Paul. Bacca an Tracy at Ennerdale Brewery for lunch. Our return journey was via Fangs Brow.
The Wednesday after, May 11th, we met at Maryport Aquarium where Maurice, Anita, Roy, Steve, Maggie ,Johnny, me and John had a coffee. We were expecting Clive but he had a puncture so ended up missing the ride. We went to Allonby and into the lanes to dawdle to Mawbray but ended up at the café in Allonby for lunch.
On Sunday May 15th we met at Anita's in Cleator Moor with coffee and biscuits to start with and at the end. Thanks Anita for your hospitality. We were, Maurice, Tom, Steve, Vic, Clive, Roy, Anita and me. We headed to Wath Brow, Egremont, Gosforth, then Nether Wasdale to the Sawmill Café which we all agreed was a great lunch stop. Dave Swift joined us there by car. We returned by Santon Bridge and Sellafield.
The next Wednesday the 18th we met at the new cycling cafe in Fitz Park.the HNW Café which stands for Honister, Newlands and Whinlatter. Johnny and Pat joined us for coffee and Bacca and Tracy had the recumbent trike out for a trip along the cycleway toThrelkeld. Roy, Tom, Maurice, Anita and me headed down Borrowdale as far as Seatoller with a lovely lunch at the Glara Mara Hotel looking out at the mountains. We turned off at Grange to take the quieter road below Catbells back to our cars near Braithwaite.
The forecast for Sunday the 22nd was poor so Helen, Sara, Roy and me, met at Brewer's Fayre for a natter. We got to hear about Sara's cycle camping trip across to Whitby and down the east coast to visit her son in Derbyshire.
Unusually we cycled on Monday 23rd of May as Maurice had planned a ride after dentistry in Keswick. We met at Roy's, we being me, Maurice, Tom, Stuart, Sue and John , back from Mallorca, Steve and host Roy. We met Paul on the cycleway to Threlkeld and he stayed with us into the village. We then headed down St.John's in the Vale and over the dam but the road is still not open down the west side of Thirlmere. So it was back to the Lodge in the Vale for lunch, then a return via the lanes to Keswick and Braithwaite.
Wednesday 4th May Brewers Fayre to Buttermere by Dianne Moyes
I said there was a good turnout on Sunday but 13 members gathered at Brewer's Fayre on Wednesday ready to ride. Plus Paul and John Moyes arrived just as we were leaving so were able to have a coffee together. Later at Buttermere we met Bacca on his trike and Tracy who had been for a walk so that meant a total of 17 members involved in the day.
The riders were Maurice, Clive, Roy, Steve, Stuart back from the South, Anita, Helen, Maggie, me Di, John and Sue, Bruce and Brenda making their first appearance of the year. Four of the riders were on normal bikes as Sue and John had again left their e bikes at home as they were in training for their holiday in Mallorca where they hope their Cube bikes are safely stored. Before I remembered that John and Sue were not using their e bikes, I had calculated that 11 of us riding yesterday have 16 electric bikes between us. I would also point out that their batteries will still be holding a charge long after their owners electrics have packed in.
All set to go and with the Croft Café warned of the arrival of 13 hungry cyclists we set off via Paddle School and Rogerscale to Lorton into quite a strong wind and with misty rain. We went on the main road down the valley and then up the climb to Lanthwaite Green regrouping as usual at the cattle grid. After Cinderdale Common the bluebells came into view as a blue haze on the fellside, we stopped for a better look on the way back. It was just after Crummock Water that the leaders passed Bacca on his trike, no motor to help him up the climb. We were soon all gathered in the café at Buttermere with the exception of Maurice who decided to return immediately to ease his knee.
There was plenty of time to chat and it was good to see Roy has not lost his appetite for bacon baps. On the return journey the south westerly wind was funnelling down Crummock Water but was more behind us in the Lorton Valley, also patches of blue sky started to appear. We returned to the Brewer's Fayre via Southwaite Mill with an early finish after 23 miles.
You may be interested to know that residents of the Buttermere area are considering a hydro power scheme on the Mill Beck which flows under the bridge by the Bridge Hotel. They have formed the Melbreak Renewable Energy Community Interest Company. If you are interested in learning more or investing, you can email: [email protected]
Sunday May 1st, Melbreak Hotel to Allonby by Dianne Moyes
It was a good turnout on May Day with 8 members of the club riding, John, Sue, Clive, Helen, Vic, Anita, me Dianne and making his 2022 debut, Roy, on his new small wheeled, Bosch powered Vektron. Paul, Michelle and Peter all arrived to have a chat before we set off. A flat ride had been planned as it was Roy's first outing with the group in a while, so the usual route through Great Clifton and into Workington was taken. We crossed Curwen Park and headed for NCN 72 which took us past Siddick Pond, with a short wait for some who took the Seaton turning by mistake. I was glad to see swallows swooping over the path catching insects where the path goes between two ponds as they are very late this year. Bad weather in Spain and northerly winds have been a problem for their migration.
In Maryport we had a comfort break at the Aquarium then headed along the promenade with a high tide lapping the sea wall. There were lots of bluebells along the cycleway to Allonby. Sue had reserved a table for 8 in the Allonby tea rooms and it was ready and waiting. In fact it was rather quiet. On leaving Mavis and John were outside ready to have a natter and admire Roy's bike.
We returned the same way until Flimby where I left the group to go over to Broughton Moor and back to Cockermouth . The others carried on NCN 72 through Workington (I hope they appreciated the new underpass made much better for cyclists last year) to Distington where they picked up the cycleway along the main road north eastwards back to the Melbreak. 36 miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 27th April Craggs Bothel.
Six members turned up the Brewers Fayre for the ride on an overcast morning they were Dianne, Maggie, Anita, Sue, Maurice and John. Joining them for the chat were John Moyes and Paul. After a lengthy chat and everyone pleased to see Paul, the group prepared to set off. Taking the usual route into Cockermouth they then joined the Greenway, stopping by Cockermouth School to direct some cyclist doing the Sea t0 Sea
After a lengthy chat it was onto the Isel road and over the river to take the first right to Sunderland. Avoiding most of the climb through Sunderland they eventually joined the A591 to the Craggs for lunch. As usual the cafe was almost full on arrival, joining the group was Sara who couldn't be there at the start. Just before the group were about to leave Tracy and Brian appeared so they stopped for a chat with them.
Maurice was first to leave back to the Brewers Fayre, while Maggie made her way back home. The rest decided to get a few more miles in by headed to Bothel then onto Torpenhow. Dianne was interested to know where they made the cheese in Torpenhow that they sold in the Tebay Service Station. Leaving Torpenhow the lane got narrower and climbed most of the way to Ireby. It was now all uphill to the T-junction to Bewaldeth where they turned right only to find the road had been coated in chipping's.
Sara and Anita with no nerves disappeared down the road, leaving Dianne, Sue and John way behind, only to regroup just before the A591. Having crossed the A591 they headed back to Isel Bridge stopping on the bridge before going up the hill. Once up the hill it was mostly up and down back to Cockermouth. Saying goodby to Sara and Dianne the trio continued on to the Brewers Fayre. 29 miles
Sunday 24th April Whitehaven.
With the dry weather continuing seven members turned up at the Brewers Fayre they were Sara, Clive, Sue, John, Dianne, Vic and Johnny. After coffee and chat they set off following a route done by John. Leaving the car park they turned left to Paddle School where they turned right to Eaglesfield and onto Dean. With a following wind made for a fast ride on reaching Branthwaite here they negotiate a track to score tour points.
Back on Tarmac it was onto Gilgarran where Johnny left the group to make his way back home. The rest carried onto Distington where they joined the cycle track to Whitehaven to meet up with Maurice, Steve, Dave and Tom by the Beacon. The rest found a spot overlooking the Marina to eat there packed lunch. After lunch they got a tour of Tom's boat before setting of together, to follow the cycle track to Moor Row.
It was here that Maurice said goodbye to make his way home, while the rest continued to Cleator Moor where they said goodbye to Steve. It was then onto Wath Brow and over the River Ehen to Ennerdale where they decided to stop at the Gather for coffee and cake. Leaving Ennerdale they were confronted by the long climb to Kirkland followed by the fast descent to join the A5086. Continuing along the main road where they turned right up a narrow lane to Mockerkin. Leaving Mockerkin they were faced with a badly potholed lane to Pardshaw, meeting Johnny in his open top car. Having had a following wind out they were expecting a strong headwind back but had managed to escape the worst on reaching Pardshaw. The final miles back through Brandlingill and onto Paddle School was no different. The group split at the T-junction after Threlkeld Leys where Sara and Vic made their way back to Cockermouth via Southwaite Mill. While the rest carried onto Paddle School to join the A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre and Cockermouth for Dianne.
Sunday 17th April.
On a lovely sunny morning eight members turned up at the Brewers Fayre they were Tom, Anita, Sue, John, Dianne, Clive, Vic and Johnny. After coffee and chat they set of with Dianne leading them across the A66 into Cockermouth. With the roads rather quiet they crossed over the River Derwent and onto Papcastle. With Dianne and Anita chatting away on the front, they wasted no time along the flat road heading towards Great Broughton. After brief stop in Great Broughton for Anita to cast some clothing before heading to Cameron and the steep climb to join the road to Broughton Moor. On reaching Broughton Moor they turned left to Dearham, as the day got warmer it was Johnny's time to cast some clothing. With no one in hurry and the best part of the day, they set of again to Gilcrux. With the Pub open Anita and Vic thought it a good idea to see what was on the menu. The rest continued up the village to find a suitable spot to have their sandwiches by the village hall. It was then back to the pub for coffee sitting outside soaking up the sun. After a lengthy stay they set of again heading for Threapland where they turned right, climbing most of the way to the A595. Crossing the A595 took them to Sunderland where they turned left to Glebe Farm to follow the the road to Isel Bridge. Another stop to view the river, before facing the short steep climb, it was then back to Cockermouth. Johnny on reaching Cockermouth carried on to Brigham to follow the lanes back home. The rest made their way up Station Street followed by some impatient driver back to the Brewers Fayre. .
Wednesday 13th April Ennerdale Brewery Rowrah.
On a very misty morning with a westerly wind seven members made it to the Melbreck, they were Maurice, Tom, Anita, Sue, John, Clive and Vic. With the start set for 10:30am they were still sat drinking tea and coffee as the time got nearer 11:00. With Maurice having to bailout because of his knee the rest set off following the cycle path to Whitehaven. Here they stopped to see the refurbished lighthouse that had been vandalised, having been unveiled the previous day. Joining the cycle path again they made their way out of Whitehaven, Sue taking a tumble on zig zag bit after passing under the railway. No damage done they continued on to Moor Row where they left the cycle path down a gravel track and over the River Keekle to Cleator Moor. They now followed the main road to Wath Brow where they turned left, then right down Red Beck Lane, climbing most of the way to Kirkland School. On arrival at the Brewery Maurice, Steve and Dave were already having their lunch and the place was packed, good job Sue had booked a table. After lunch the four wheel group departed leaving the rest to agree on a route back to avoid the busy roads. Leaving Rowrah they made their way to Kirkland and onto Cross Rigg where they turned left passing Felldyke to Lamplugh Church. More downhill took them to join the A5086, turning left after a mile to Ullock and Dean. From Dean they made their way through Deanscales, Eaglesfield and Brigham for the final push to the Melbreck. 34 miles.
Sunday 10th April.
Sue and John left home in their van to start their ride from Stainton collecting tour points. Leaving Stainton they followed the A66 cycle path over M6 to Carleton where they turned right to Frenchfield. Here they passed under the A66 and over the River Eamont and passed Brougham Castle heading for Lowther. This was not before the long drag past Melkinthorpe to join the A6, where they turned right to Lowther Castle.
On leaving Lowther John's back tyre went flat caused by a large drawing pin. After struggling to free the tyre from the rim, they were soon back on their way. The downhill through the park was followed by the climb to the T- junction in Askham, where they turned left to Helton. It was now all uphill through the village to open fells where a number of cars were parked the occupants obviously out walking. On reaching Mossy Beck Bridge to collect their first point, they did a u-turn back to Helton for a packed lunch. Finding a seat over looked the village with its colourful cottages, along with a view above the chimney tops of the Lowther Valley. Leaving Helton it was back through Askham to follow the narrow lane passed Celleron to Pooley Bridge. It was now along the east side of Ullswater that was packed with Caravans and Motorhomes along with tents, as they made their way to Martindale. After the steep climb to the Church it was all up and down before reaching Dale Head for another point. After a brief stop it was back following their wheel tracks to Pooley Bridge, stopping again at the boat landing to take in the view. It was now along the busy A592 passed Dalemain back to Stainton, on what had been a perfect sunny day. 38 miles
Friday 8th April Allonby.
On a cloudless morning with the temperature at three degrees Sue and John left Braithwaite to meet up with Maurice, Tom, Sara and Helen at the Brewers Fayre.
Sat in their usual spot in the far corner overlooking the car park they consumed lots of coffee and chatted away. Joining them were Sue and Paul, although Sue stayed outside chatting to Sara and Sue while the group were ready to set off. Leaving the Brewers Fayre they crossed over the A66 into Cockermouth to follow the road through Parklands to join the Low Road to Brigham. Crossing A66 for the third time took them over the river onto Craggs Road climbing most off the way before reaching Tallentire. It was now all downhill to Greengill where they turned right to Gilcrux; turning left in the village took them past the fish farm to Oughterside. After more climbing and crossing the A596, was followed by more downhill to Hayton and onto Mealo House. Here they joined the coast road for the final leg to Allonby to meet Maurice, Sue and Paul in the cafe. After lunch the two wheel group made their way to the cycle track leaving Maurice to drive back home with his bag off scones. With Sara on the front and setting a fast pace they followed the track as far as the Crosscannonby turn. Here they turned left to Crosscannonby and up the hill to Crosby to join the A596. After a short distance on the A596 they turned left to Dearham and onto Broughton Moor. All together as they started the descent to Great Broughton, soon split as Sara and Tom disappeared out of site. Regrouped it was on through Papcastle into Cockermouth and back to the Brewers Fayre and parked vehicles. 29 miles
Sunday 3rd April. Ennerdale Brewery Rowrah.
After a good spell of dry and sunny weather, today was cold out of the sun and made worse by a north westerly wind. Arriving for the coffee and chat were Maurice, Steve,Tom, Roy, Sue, John, Clive, Sara, Vic, Paul, Sue and Johnny. Eventually the two wheel group set off leaving the rest talking in the car park. With John on the front they turned left out of the car park heading for Paddle School where they turned left towards Southwaite. A right turn took them to Brandlingill and onto Mosser where they encountered the steep short climb to Mosser Church that's hiding in the trees above the road. Regrouped they set off again looking down on the valley below towards Pardshaw, before passing through Sosgill and onto Mockerkin. It was then onto the A5086 for a short distance where they turned left to Lamplugh. A brief stop to regroup was followed by the climb through Felldyke to Cross Rigg where they turned right to Kirkland. Just before Cross Rigg Tom had to stop with a rear wheel puncture that was soon fixed. Finally they arrived at the Brewery to find Maurice and Anita, leaving Johnny to make his way back home. After the usual good meal Maurice and Anita left on four wheels while the rest made their way on A5086 as far as Mockerkin, where they turned left to Ullock. It was then on through Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield to join the A5086 again at Paddle School back to the Brewers Fayre. 22 miles.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 29th March.
Having made their way to Greystoke on a sunny morning with a cool easterly wind, were Tom, Sue, John, Sara, Helen and Stuart. Before they were about to set off Bacca appeared on his trike having cycled from Threlkeld. After a brief chat the group set off leaving Bacca to cycle back to Threlkeld. On arrival in Blencow Stuart couldn't remember what he had done with his car keys, so it was back to his car. The rest sat on the village green while he returned, having found them in the boot of his car. With the wheels turning again the headed to Newbiggin where they had been told of a coffee stop by Paul. John who was on the front carried on past the shop only to be informed by Sue to stop. Although the word went out stopping Sara clipped Helen's back wheel and down she went cutting her leg. After minor repairs to both bikes and plasters on Sara's leg they set off again hoping for no more miss apps. (After all that the coffee shop was closed). Having passed through Newbiggin and under the A66 into Stainton, they then joined the main road past Dalemain to Pooley Brigde for coffee and cake. Leaving Pooley Bridge by the B5320 they turned right after one mile for the first climb of the day to Celleron and onto Askham. On the way to Askham rain could be felt in the air, but didn't come to much although the roads were wet. More climbing through Lowther Park before joining the A6 where the turned right after a short distance towards Melkinthorpe. On reaching the junction after a fast descent they turned left to Clifton Dykes and beyond, before arriving at Brougham Hall for late lunch. Fed and watered they set off again heading for Brougham Castle and under the A66 into Penrith where they followed the Sea to Sea route through Newton Rigg. Still following the Sea to Sea route took them back to Greystoke just as spots off rain started to appear. 30 miles
Sunday 27th March
With a slight chill in the air and the earlier start due to the clocks going forward the group decided to make use of the Brewers Fayre and the coffee machine.
Sat drinking coffee plus the usual banter were, Sue, John, Clive, Stuart, John R, Paul and David. With no Maurice to get them organised they were content to sit and watch the clock tick by. Eventually they made a move for the exit, saying goodbye to Paul who had come for the chat. With Sue the only female in the group she was given pole position to lead them into Cockermouth to join the greenway. From the greenway it was onto the Isel road, stopping briefly on Isel Bridge before turning right towards Bewaldeth. On reaching the A591 they crossed over into Bewaldeth, this was followed by the climb to join the Ireby road with Binsey in the background. It was now all downhill to Ireby followed by more downhill before the climb up to Boltongate.
With the sun getting warmer they made their way to Mealsgate where they had to cross the busy and dangerous A595. Having got safety over A595 they continued on to join the A596 turning left after a short distance to Crookdake. By now everyone was feeling hungry having had nothing since leaving the Brewers Fayre. So on arrival at Blennerhasset they stopped for their packed lunch by the river, a favourite spot of Dianne's. While sat having lunch a local came and gave them the history of the village saying it was the first have a gas light. Lunch and rest over they set off again heading to Threapland. On reaching Threapland they followed the well ridden route back to Cockernouth via Gilcrux, Tallentire and Bridekirk, before arriving back at the Brewers Fayre. 36 miles
Wednesday 23rd March.
On a warm sunny morning ten members, plus David a friend of Stuart turned up at the Murphy's for tea and coffee. They were Tom, John R, Anita, Maggie, Stewart, Sara and Maurice who was there just for the coffee and chat. With the warm temperature it was bare legs for most of the group for the first time this year. John having done a route the group set off heading up the Newlands Valley to Rigg Beck. It was here the Purple House once stood, but was gutted by fire and the new house was built in it's place. Turning left here they continued downhill before the steep short climb to Little Town. After a brief stop to regroup they carried onto Swinside and on over the cattle grid to the foot off Cat Bells. By now the sun was getting warmer with some of the group shedding clothing before the descent into Grange, where they met Maurice and Roy. Leaving them at the cafe the group continued on down the valley to Seathwaite leaving Maggie and Stewart at the Flock-in where they had lunch. On reaching Seathwaite they stopped briefly before doing a u-turn back to Grange to meet up with Maurice and Roy for lunch. After lunch Stewart made his way back via Keswick while the rest took the hilly route back along the shelf overlooking the lake, stopping halfway up to admire the view before moving on again back to Braithwaite for more tea and coffee. 22 miles
Sunday 20th March. Malham North Yorkshire.
Parking the van in Stainton at our daughter’s house, who had already left for Malham to celebrate Darren's birthday. We unloaded the bikes and fixed the panniers thinking of days gone by, when we were going touring. Leaving Stainton we joined the cycle path along the A66 to Carleton then under the A66 to Brougham. It was now onto a quieter road as we crossed over the river heading to Clifton Dykes into a strong headwind. Passing Weatheriggs Pottery now a building site we pressed on through Cliburn and Bolton before the steep climb at Colby. Once over the top and it was all downhill into Appleby where we made our way to the Station.
Having arrived in good time we found a seat in the sun to have our lunch, to be joined by a couple from Cockermouth, who knew the Moyes and Cumella's. The next part of our trip was by train to Settle that was running twenty minutes late due to engineering work. Once on the train and the bikes made secure the views from the train were magnificent especially going over Ribblehead Viaduct. It didn't seem long after crossing the viaduct that we arrived in Settle for the next part of our trip.
Having spent a week in the area a few years ago we knew the roads, leaving Settle we headed out to Rathmell the place we used as our base. Nothing seemed to have change even a pot hole I hit was still there as we made our way to Wigglesworth. That headwind we encountered earlier was still with as we headed towards Hellifield. Leaving Hellifield the lanes become more undulating and narrow before reaching Airton with a view of Malham Cove in the distance. The final leg was no different as they descended into Malham with visitors cars parked everywhere.
Monday was a carbon copy of the previous day, arriving in Settle in good time before the train arrived, so it was into town to buy our lunch. The favourite sandwich shop in Settle is the Olde Naked Man that's been there for years, a club stopping place back in my early teens. Back at the station we found a seat in the sun to have our lunch, talking to a gentleman from Dent who was waiting for the train. He told us that when he got off the train at Dent station he had to walk four miles to the village of Dent, all uphill to catch a train. After another pleasant train ride to Appleby, it was back on the bikes for the ride back to Stainton. 68 miles
Thursday 17th March by Dianne Moyes
Because of a poor weather forecast on Wednesday, we had decided to ride on Thursday, so were rather disappointed when the morning was dull and wet as we gathered in Brewer's Fayre for coffee. Fortunately all the online weather apps agreed it would pass through quite quickly so we just had to keep drinking until it stopped raining. The riders were Tom, Stuart, Clive, Helen, John, Sue and me, Dianne.
Our destination was Mae's Café at Uldale and Mr Murphy suggested a really good route. We headed out of Cockermouth along the Greenway and onto the Strawberry Howe Road before dropping down to cross the A66 at Embleton onto the old road. Then it was on past the Distillery to Ouse Bridge and Castle Inn with a brisk wind on our backs. We went into Bassenthwaite and took the road through Park Wood where a lot of clearance has taken place. Clive was having a bit of trouble on the climbs despite having a motor. Eventually John Murphy showed him how to press the red button and get turbocharged. He was on the front up every climb after that.
We went through Orthwaite and past Overwater before climbing up the steep sections to reach the café in Uldale. We enjoyed a leisurely lunch and a good natter before going outside to find Stuart had another puncture. Well it was quite chilly in the wind so we stayed by the wood burner while Tom and Stuart sorted it out. I really enjoyed the return trip although the headwind was tough at times, we need to do it again on a sunny day. We went to Ireby then Snittlegarth and Whitrigg before dropping down to the Keswick to Bothel road turning left then right to come out at Isel Bridge and back to Cockermouth. 27 miles
Wednesday 9th March.
Eleven members turned up at the Brewers Fayre for the ride to Buttermere. They were Maurice, Tom, Dianne, Stuart, Sue, John, Maggie, Anita, Clive, John R and Vic plus Steve who came for the chat. Just before 1030 Maurice got the group moving hopping to get away on time. Leaving the car park they headed up the A5086 to Paddle School into the wind, where they turned left to Lorton. After crossing the river they turned right down the Lorton valley still into the wind to Lanthwaite Green, regrouping at the cattle grid. Missing were Dianne and Maggie having turned round at Brackenthwaite because of the strong wind and damage to Dianne’s front mudguard, according to Maurice. On the descent to Rannerdale they were entertained by low flying jets, someone said they counted eight. Eventually they arrived in Buttermere and headed straight for the cafe for lunch out off the wind. Over lunch they had a good natter before venturing outside for the ride back to the Brewers Fayre. On leaving Buttermere they could feel the wind on their backs as the speed increased along Crummock and back to Lorton. Stopping in Lorton they decided to carry onto Hundith then onto Cockermouth to join the Greenway back to the Brewers Fayre. 22 miles
Sunday 6th March.
Starting from the Melbreak on a cold sunny morning were Maurice, Tom, Sue, Dianne, Helen, Vic and the two John's. The usual hot drink in the warm surrounds of the Hotel along with the chat, they were joined by Paul as the group were about to leave. Leaving almost on 10 o'clock with John on the front, having been instructed by Maurice, they headed up the cycle path towards Lillyhall. Taking the first right was mostly all downhill to Great Clifton where they turned left to Workington. Here the joined the cycle path through Curwin Park, to continue on the cycle path to Flimby where they joined the main road to Maryport. A quick stop at the Aquarium and it was along the promenade to join the cycle path to the north of Allonby. Back on the main road again for a short, distance before turning right to Salta. On reaching Mawbray they turned left back to the main road to pick up the new cycle path to Bankmill. Leaving the cycle path they crossed the main to and into the lanes passing through Newtown, Wolsty before arriving in Silloth for lunch. Most of the group opted for fish and chips while Dianne preferred to sit down and had her lunch in Mrs Wilson's cafe. Already in Silloth were Maggie, Anita, Stewart and Clive who had met in Maryport and were in the Bee Garden having their lunch. After lunch the groups went their separate ways only to find Dianne having lost power from her battery and having to phone John to collect her. Eventually the Maurice group left Silloth taking a more inland route back via Aspatria, Hayton, stopping in Prospect to regroup. After short spell soaking up the sun they set off again through Oughterside to Gilcrux and onto Dearham. It was then onto Broughton Moor where they turned right towards Seaton. Passing the old Broughton Dump they took a left turn to Camerton to cross the river back to the Melbreak arriving back at 1715pm on what had been a long but pleasant day. 50 miles
Wednesday 2nd March.
On what looked like being a wet morning as Sue and John left Braithwaite turned out dry by the time they reached the Brewers Fayre. Also making their way were Maurice, Tom, John R, Helen and Maggie who had ridden from home. While they downed coffee Dianne appeared, having said she would meet outside at 1030, due to John having Corvid. This prompted the group to get moving and were soon heading out the car park with Dianne on the front. Taking the usual route out of Cockermouth they headed for the Isel road that was rather cleaner than previous visits. On reaching Isel bridge they stopped for a brief moment to look at the river that was flowing quite high. Taking the first right they continued up the hill where they took another right turn. With mist shrouding the valley looking towards Bassenthwaite and prospect of rain they continued on towards Bewaldeth where they took a left turn to Sunderland. Just before Sunderland John R suffered a rear wheel puncture that brought the group to a halt. Leaving the women chatting and getting cold in process the men gathered round John assisting in changing the tube. Dianne decided to head for home calling at egg farm on the way, while the rest got moving again to the Craggs. On arrival they found Stewart who had cycled from home via the Lakes Distillery and Isel Bridge. After lunch they said goodbye to Maggie and Stewart who headed down the A591 to the Castle Inn and back home. While the remainder made their way to Bothel to follow the lanes through Threapland, Plumbland and Gilcrux with odd spot off rain blowing in the wind. On the slight drag to Tallentire the group split only to regroup before the final miles back to the Brewers Fayre. 24 miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 27th February.
On sunny but windy morning eight members made it to the Melbreck they were Sue, John, Stuart, John R, Vic, Helen, Sue and Paul. Hoping to leave at 1030 turned out to be more like eleven o’clock before they left. Saying goodbye to Sue and Paul who were going for a short ride, the group set off with Sue on the front to Little Clifton. Following the lanes and into the wind they made their way through Dean and Ullock before joining the main road.
On reaching the main road and still into the wind the group started to split with Stuart setting the pace on the front. On reaching the junction to Lamplugh church where they intended to go, they continued along the main road to get to the Brewery on time. On arrival at the Brewery they found Tracy and Brian already seated followed by Maggie who had driven out. After a good lunch and natter the group set off up the hill out of Rowrah to Asby and onto Dean Cross. While Tracy and Brian used the cycle track back to Bigrigg. Turning right at Dean Cross was followed by the fast descent to Ullock where they turned left to Branthwaite. After a brief stop in Branthwaite they agreed to head up the hill to Lillyhall to join the cycle path back to the Melbreak. Having had a headwind most off the way out they welcomed the strong tailwind back. 18 miles
Friday 25th February The Gather Ennerdale by Maurice Cowley
On a day which the forecast unusually threatened sunshine and just a breezy wind Maurice parked his van at Tom's house in Whitehaven to start the ride with Tom.
Dropping down from Kells to the Whitehaven/Rowrah cycle path. Here they rode up passing Moor Row, Cleator Moor, to look over to the beautiful view up the Ennerdale valley. They then passed by Frizington to reach Rowrah and take to the rough track to come out at Red Beck lane and Kirkland School. Here they turned right up to Kirkland where they turned down to Ennerdale Bridge and The Gather Cafe and their dinner stop.
After a couple of coffes and a bacon bun apiece and a good chat they decided to carry on with their ride to turn left at Croasdale village to ride up the steep Cauda Brow and turn left again to find a seat to rest and take in another view of the Ennerdale fells before dropping down to pass through Kirkland and turn down Red Beck Lane at Kirkland School. Coming out at Wath Brow they then reached Cleator Moor to take to the Whitehaven/Rowrah cyclepath to get back to Whitehaven and Tom,s house and reach Maurice's Van. (27miles)
Wednesday 23rd February by Tom Beck
Three riders turned up at Braithwaite lay by, Maurice, Stuart and Tom, with a windy murky start they set off through Keswick to the new cycle track to Threlkeld. On reaching Threlkeld they followed the Thirlmere road to the Lodge in the vale to consume a good amount of coffee.
Maurice having his obligatory scone, after refreshments they set off back down the vale to Shundraw, then up to Castlerigg Stone Circle, then back onto the cycle track, before arriving back in Braithwaite 18 miles
Wednesday 16th February Brewers Fayre by Maurice Cowley
On a very gloomy day and a south westerly wind and with a forecast of rain and the wind increasing, Dianne and John Moyes, John and Sue Murphy, Tom, Maurice, John R, Anita, Stuart met in Brewers Fayre for a chat and to decide whether to go out fot a ride.Tom, Maurice, John R, Anita, Stuart and Dianne decided to venture out and rode through Cockermouth using the Greenway and up Slate Fell. Here it started to rain and Dianne decided, because the wind was increasing as well, it would be more prudent to turn back to her home in Cockermouth.
With the wind from behind them and the rain now constant the remaining five carried on through Embleton and Dubwath.. Then they crossed the A66.Then they passed the Pheasant Inn to climb up the road on the side of Sale Fell to drop down to Wythop Mill and then climb up to pass by High Abbey and Low Abbey, and then up and over High Bank and pass the junction down to Embleyon and turn down to Srawberry How, Theo to turn onto the Greenway to arrive into Cockermpouth and onto Brewers Fayre and the transport home.
Wednesday February 9th, Brewer’s Fayre to Uldale and back by Dianne Moyes
A 10 o’clock start had been indicated so I arrived at 9.30 in order to enjoy a coffee before setting off. Maurice, Tom and Steve were already ensconced in our usual place. I was followed by Sue and John, John Rowell and Stuart Pike who had to mend a puncture between the car park and the cafe. He thinks he got sent fake Continental tubes from Amazon, I would point out ,as one who never misses a chance to make a political point, that we have bike shops that need supporting. At 10 o’clock Maurice was ready to go, Helen had just arrived but, thinking we would all be following, set off with Maurice.
About 10 minutes later we set off but, before the Greenway, had lost Stuart to another puncture, he decided to return to his car and give up on the ride. We went out of Cockermouth on the Embleton road turning past the Distillery, over Ouse Bridge and up to the Castle Inn. We headed up the long climb towards Uldale and on one of the flatter areas near the top came upon Helen and Maurice in a gateway fixing a rear wheel puncture. John R and Tom stopped to help but John, Sue and I carried on turning left to Ireby at the top. The morning had turned quite bright and it was a pleasure to swoop down the hill to Ireby then right to Uldale.
Maggie had just arrived at Mae’s Cafe and it wasn’t long before the others joined us. Lots of laughs and good crack over lunch before heading out to turn right to go back via Overwater. Just heading up a steep hill with a car coming down, Helen moved to the left into very soft mud and took a tumble, luckily onto the soft grass verge.This reminds me of a poem by one of the 60’s Liverpool poets, Adrian Henri, Song for a Beautiful Girl Petrol-Pump Attendant on the Motorway,
I wanted your soft verges But you gave me the hard shoulder.
At Overwater we kept on the northern side to get back onto our route out back down to Castle Inn. At the Distillery we decided to avoid the Isel road because of the mud near the farm so came back through Embleton saying goodbye to Maggie en route. I should say there were lots of snowdrops out along this stretch of road. We were soon back in Cockermouth and back home or back to cars before 3.00pm. A lovely day out. 28 miles
Wednesday 2nd February Buttermere. by John Murphy
Seven members turned up at the Brewers Fayre they were Dianne, Tom, Stuart, Sue, and the three John's, John Moyes there for the coffee and banter.
After a lengthy stay with no one itching to go, they eventually made a move with the rain having eased off. With Dianne on the front they headed up the Lamplugh Road to Paddle School where they turned left to follow the lanes to Lorton. A quick glance at the river before joining the valley road, that was rather quiet of four wheel vehicles.
On the climb to Lanthwaite Green Tom thinking the group weren't going fast enough took off, only to stop at the cattle grid to regroup. It was now all downhill to Rannerdale followed by the level section along Crummock, where someone was taking a cold bath.
By the time they had reached Buttermere the rain had set in again and continued while they had lunch. Lunch and chat over the group ventured outside to find it had stopped raining. Sue found herself on the front as they climbed out of Buttermere, only to be passed by Stuart on the downhill section, who was not seen again until Lanthwaite.
After regrouping at the cattle grid, was followed by the fast descent to join the valley road, where they turned right to Hope Beck. Back in Lorton they continued round High Lorton before joining the road to Hundith crossroads. Here they turned left to Southwaite Mill and Paddle School where they joined the main road back to the Brewers Fayre. 23 miles
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 31st January. Seathwaite. By John Murphy
On a dry windy morning Sue, John, Maurice and Tom set off from Braithwaite along the A66 cycle path to Keswick. With the traffic flow quite low they negotiated there way through Keswick to join the valley road with Maurice on the front. With the wind seeming to blow in all directions mostly into their face, Maurice continued setting a fast pace. Eventually they reached Seathwaite and out came the flasks of hot tea and coffee, while John talked to the farmer about the flooding in 1966 that swept through the farm, that he was involved in. Back in the saddle and it was back down the road stopping at the Glanamara for coffee and chat about all things cycling. After a long spell inside it was back out into the cold wind and onto Grange where they turned left over the river. With no visitors about and no cars parked seemed like it should be as they passed through Grange to start the climb. After passing over the ridge overlooking the lake, it was mostly all downhill back to Braithwaite. 20 miles.
Wednesday 26th January Silloth by Maurice Cowley
On a gloomy day with a strong south westerly breeze Maurice, Tom, Stuart, Helen, Sara and John R met at the Allonby Cafe for their ride to Silloth and back. Anita, Paul and Sue also came but were not joining the ride. They were going to pick Clive up on the way at his home at Goodyhills,
After the chat and beverages they left Allonby and rode north up the B5300 and then turned left to pass through Edderside and about a mile further on they turned left down to Goodyhills and met up with Clive. Carrying on the turned right at Holme St. Cuthbert to reach Tarns where they turned left downwards and at Prospect House they turned right to go to Abbey Town passing through Pelutho and Highlaws where Stuart punctured. When reaching the middle of Abbey Town they took a left to Seaville and then the B5302 to go in the north west direction to turn right and go over the Skimberness Marsh road to Skimberness and then on into Silloth for lunch. Fish and chips were on the main menu!! Clive found us a nice place in some bushes to spend dinner time out of the wind .
After the welcome rest it was on the bikes and left at Blitterlees and into the lanes – Clive chose to stick to the B5300 to turn off for home at Beckfoot and go through Newtown. The main group tried to keep out of the head wind as much as possible zigzagging through Wolsty and Newtown where Maurice received his back wheel puncture. After fixing the puncture the group carried on to Mawbray, Salta and then to reach Allonby and their transportation on the B5300, 27 miles
Sunday 23rd January Carlisle by Maurice Cowley
On a very gloomy morning Maurice's wife. Shirley, dropped him off on the A595 on her way to her son, Marks home at Carlisle. Maurice was going to cycle from just north of Mealsgate to join them for lunch.
Riding back up the A595 Maurice took a left to pass the entrance to Weary Hall and east to Thornthwaite road end and down to turn right to pass Thackthwate Hall. Now onwards to get to the cross roads at Church Hill, turning right to starting to climb uptp Caldbeck but turning left to pass through Reathwaite and reach the road to Rosley but prior to the Village took a left to climb over to Carwath and Howrigg and onto East Curthwaite and Dalston. After leaving Dalston Maurice used the cycle track alongside the River Caldew to get to Cummersdale and the the Dalston road into Carlisle and Son Marks home for dinner and transportation home. 20 miles
Wednesday 19th January Craggs, Cafe Bothel by Maurice Cowley
Meeting at Brewers Fayre, Cockermoth were Maurice, Tom, Steve L, Dianne, Clive, Jonny and late comer Roy The weather was cloudy with only a slight wind and the aim was to meet John and Sue M at Mae's Cafe, Uldale. Steve L and Roy were not riding and Jonny and Dianne were only going part of the way.
Due to there being work clearing a tree off the Greenway they started off by going down main Street and going from Cockermouth and through Embleton to Castle Inn where Jonny and Dianne returned to Cockermoth. Now only Clive, Tom and Maurice were left to carry up the A591 in the direction of Bothel with the intention to turn through Bewalbeth to reach the cross roads when they would turn down to Ireby but when arriving there they found the the road was closed due to road works. The next decision was to carry on up the A591 and get to Ireby via Whitrigg but when they got there the time was against them so they decided it was to late to get to Maes Cafe at Uldale to meet John and Sue and having no mobile signsal at Uldale there was no way they could let them know. Dinner was obtained at the Craggs Cafe further up the A591.
After Tom and Clives finishing their rather large breakfast meal and Maurice his baked potatoe and beans they left the warmth of the Craggs to climb up to turn left down to Sunderland and take a left to keep the hieght prior to dropping down to Isel Bridge. When turning the corner at Sunderland Maurice rode over some large, sharp gravel and received a back wheel puncture.
On completing the repair Maurice didn't notice the inner was still not in properly so the tyre was deflated and replaced by Tom and inflated once more. On trying to push the bike again, Clive and Tom had a good laugh at Maurice's expense because he had the bungee strap that was used to hold the bike bag through the wheel and even Maurice had to laugh at this. After this hilarious mistake and thanks to Tom and Clive for their help they carried on down to Isel Bridge and onto Cockermouth and back to Brewers Fayre and the transport home. 21 Miles
Monday 17th January Melbreak by Maurice Cowley
Maurice parked his van at Tom's house for coffee prior to leaving on their run to take in a few northern cycle paths.
Leaving Whitehaven using the Marina and along the cycle way to Parton (commonly known as the wagon road). Riding through Parton and up the hill into Lowca they took to the cycle way passing by Distington and dropping down to Workington to stop for a coffee sitting outside the cafe talking to some retired gentlemen who sat there regularly. Carrying on across the across the river Derwent they passed by Seaton to reach Camerton where the crossed the River Derwent again and climbed up to Great Clifton and on to Chapel Brow and the dinner time stop for tea at the Melbreak Hotel.
After a long chat and the tea finished they used the cycle path alongside the A595 to reach Distington where they turned up to Pica passing the Crematorium. After climbing ths steep hill they rested on a seat at the top and took in the view after which they carried on to reach Whitehaven and Maurice's van at Tom's house. 26 miles
Sunday 16th January by Clive Wylie
Left Goodyhills to meet up with Helen as we seemed to be the only two leaving from Allonby.
We left about 10.15 and took the coast road to Old Kiln Farm at Dubmill Point, turned right towards Edderside (crud on the road outside the milking parlour was not as bad as expected!) and carried on past Jericho, apparently an old leper colony many years ago.Straight on uphill to T junction on the Silloth/Aspatria road where we turned left towards Tarns cross roads.
Here we went right and took the 3rd left to Highlaws. Right then 1st left downhill towards Silloth and left at the T junction, then 1st right until we met the main road between Silloth and Abbeytown. Right here for about half a mile then a left towards Skinburness Marsh.Just before Skinburness we turned right onto the gravel road to Grune Point. We stopped at “Marsh Cottage” the last house on the road to have our “sarnies” and coffees sitting on the grass banking opposite. Lovely, peaceful and quiet with lots of wildlife.
We went via Skinburness to Silloth, Blitterlees and Bankmill where I left Helen for her to carry onto Mawbray and her car at Allonby. Total distance 24 miles
Friday 14th January Carlisle by Maurice Cowley
On a very gloomy day again with very little wind Maurice with Tom parked the van at the Linstock roundabout north east of Carlisle. A quick cup of coffee before they started on their ride.
The route started by riding on the cycle path alongside the Crosby on Eden Bye Pass to reach Low Crosby and then into the lanes to get to East Newby and the a right to take the through little Corby to Warrick Bridge. Crossing over the A69 they rode alongside the River Eden to climb up the hill and cross over the railway line in Great Corby. At Corby Castle they stopped for a quick drink from their bottles. Leaving Great Corby they rode through Cumwitton and on to Horsby Gate where they turned left towards Castle Carrock and when they got to their left turn at Tarn Lodge the were stopped by road works blocking their route down to Heads Nook. A quick look at the map showed that they could carry on through through Castle Carrock. Onwards through Castle Carrock and took the next left turn and under the railway and over the River Gelt at Middle Gelt Bridge to climb up and over to Hayton and then using the lanes to climb up to Heads Nook. They then reversed the route for a fast downhill to Warrick Bridge to reverse the outgoing route back to the van at Linstock Roundabout. 28 miles
Wednesday 12th January Maryport by Maurice Cowley
On a dry, cloudy day with very little wind Maurice, John R and Tom left the Melbreak Hotel to start their run to Maryport.
Their route took them up towards Distington but they turned down left over the A66 and into Stainburn to cross Curwen Park and then to the cycle track alongside the river Dewent and then the one along side the Railway to Siddick. After this they carried on using this cycleway to Maryport and dinner Maurice and Tom buying Fish and chips from the Harbour Chippy and ate them sitting adjacent to the Aquarium at the harbour side and was joined by John R who had brought his own sandwiches. Here the sun appeared and stayed out for the rest of their ride
After finishing the meal and chat it was time to carry on their ride by still going north by riding up the Maryport Promenade and over the Golf Golf Course and the down the cycleway alongside the B5300 to Mealo House where they turned right up to cross the A596 and drop down to Outerside to cross the River Ellen and climb up to Gilcrux and then Tallentire and to pass by Bridekirk School and then cross over the A594 to get to Great Broughton and the cross over the A66 to Brigham, Broughton Cross and finally climb the hill at Chapel Brow to get to their four wheel transport home. 28 Miles
Sunday 2nd January.
Only two members turned up at the Melbreck on a warmer but windy morning they were Helen and Tom. Leaving the Melbreck they headed up the cycle way to Lillyhall where they turned right on the roundabout to Branthwaite. On reaching Branthwaite they followed the lanes through Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield before joining the A5086 at Paddle School. It was then along the A5086 past the Brewers Fayre to join the A66 to the Brigham old road. Away from the traffic the continued on through Brigham to Bridgefoot for final climb of the day up Chapel Brow back to the Melbreck. 15 miles
Sunday 2nd January.
With Corvid having descended on another family member Sue and John decided to do their own thing. With a lot of traffic about they thought better of venturing towards Keswick; instead they did a circuit from home through Thornthwaite to the A66 and back four times. 23 miles Wednesday 7th September Ennerdale Brewery.
Almost dead on ten thirty six members rolled out of the Brewers Fayre car park they were Sue, Sara, Helen, Tom, Roy and John. Joining the A5086 they made their way to Paddle School, turning left to Rodgerscale and onto Lorton. Having arranged to meet Maggie by the bridge at Lorton, she arrived almost simultaneously. With the sun getting warmer some decided to cast some clothes before setting of again. Following Sustrans Sea to Sea route they negotiated the badly surfaced road through Thackthwaite to Loweswater. With everyone on e-bikes including Tom they made the ascent of Fangs Brow with ease, although Tom took the prime. After a brief stop to take a drink, they continued onto Lamplugh to start the climb through Felldyke to Cross Rigg, with a view of Ennerdale and the surrounding Fells. It was now all downhill to Kirkland and onto Rowrah for lunch at the Brewery where they found Anita and Paul.
Anita had ridden from home via Haile and Cold Fell, while Paul had got there via Ullock, Mockerkin and Fangs Brow from the opposite direction. Joining them for lunch were Maurice and John R both having driven there. After lunch the two wheeler's said goodbye to Maurice, John and Anita as they headed up the hill towards Asby. On reaching Dean Cross they turned right to Ullock, where Sara tested her downhill skills reaching just over 43 mph. From Ullock it was the usual route back through Dean, Deanscales and Eaglesfield where they said goodbye to Paul. At Paddle School the group split Sara and Maggie headed for home via Southwaite and Hundith while the rest joined A5086 back to the Brewers Fayre. 25 miles.