Autumn Tints Wednesday 30th May.
Starting from Braithwaite on a sunny morning were Roy, Maurice, Tom, Maggie, Sue, John and John R and his grandsons Sam and Jonas.
Leaving Roy's the group followed Maurice along the A66 into Keswick to get tangled up with holiday traffic.
Having climbed out of Keswick it was onto more quieter roads to Goosewell and the Stone Circle with the sound of the cuckoo in the background.
Turning left by the Stone Circle it was along the narrow lane to join the A591 for a short downhill dash, followed by the climb to Rakefoot.
Having run out of road it was about turn, back to the A591 for the climb up before the fast descent to Dale Bottom.
Leaving the busy A591 the group made their way over Naddle Beck to follow the foot of the fell overlooking the Naddle Valley.
On reaching the gravel track that leads to the Vale of St John's Church all had to dismount except Tom who rode most of the way.
While pushing the bikes up the track a low flying Typhoon fighter jet came over the hill probably over the Solway before the group got to the church.
Regrouping at the top where Maurice and Tom were waiting talking to walkers, which was followed by the steep descent to join the Vale road to Thirlmere.
Jonas was feeling hungry as the group approached Bridge End Farm Cafe, his grandad decided to take him to the farm, while the rest continued on.
Crossing the A591 the road to the dam was festooned with road closed signs that meant what they said, 50 metres from the dam a steel fence bard the way.
Turning round the group retraced their wheel tracks to Bridge End to meet up with John and Jonas for a light lunch.
During lunch Maurice and Tom were photographed Maurice with a very large cup and saucer, while Tom held up a freshly baked large walnut cake.
The site of the walnut cake could not be resisted by three of the group who were served quite large portions.
Eventually it was time to leave but not before two pet lambs came looking for some affection not a site often seen.
After a good but short ride with a fair bit of climbing and a few tour points collected on the way it was back to Braithwaite.
Calling to say hello to Mavis, who with John and the grandsons were spending a few days in their motor home in Braithwaite.
Monday 28th May Maurice's Ride May Bank Holiday Weekend by Maurice Cowley
Another day of Sunshine and warmth. Maurice parked at Bampton and again was riding alone with the intention of hunting Tour Competition points again!!
Leaving Bampton and climbing up to the Haweswater Dam and descending to the Reservoir/Haweswater Hotel where he stopped for a cuppa sitting outside and looking down at the lake and watching cyclists go by. After the rest he climbed back over the route to partway down to Burnbanks and turned up a concrete road which was signed as closed due to subsidence. Maurice decided to see if he could get by the damage but could not find any damage?? (This road was allegedly built by the water board when building the Haweswater Dam). While climbing up the concrete road he passed a youth practising on a track motorbike over a hillock. Finally he arrived at Wet Sleddale Dam where a number of people were picnicking. He was kindly offered a drink by one couple but politely declined saying he was going to the cafe at Shap; which was a mistake as it was shut. The next stop was after the steep hill down to Shap Abbey where he did stop to eat his sandwiches and drink from his bottle of water all the time looking up the hill he had come down knowing he had to climb back up it. Now after the hard bit of the ride over the downhill down to Bampton Grange was very welcome and then onto Bampton and his car.
Sunday 27th May Waverley Hotel, Whitehaven by Steve Lunt
Summer is truly here, borne out by the lack of cycling clothing now being worn – cycling shorts and short sleeves all round a must!
Those of the regular group who are the fittest and keenest decided on a meet up at Braithwaite – John and Sue M with Tom: left about 0930am. Roy and Steve L decided to be a little more conservative and met up at the Melbreak Hotel, Chapel Brow by car; bikes out and ready to meet up with the expected group – John and Sue M with Tom and now with Dianne. We all travelled south along the well used cycle route to meet up with with Peter and Michelle P waiting for us at the flower nursery complex near Lowca.
At the Waverley we met up with Maurice, Steve H, Mavis and John R. and Dave S (on his bike). As usual the Waverley lunchtime choices never fail to please.
Later after food and beverages and a good “crack” everyone parted – the cyclists including Dave S going north back the way we came; at Lowca Peter and Michelle ended their ride to collect their nearby car. We all travelled on and at Lillyhall (the Branthwaite junction) Dave S decided to turn here and head back southwards towards Whitehaven and home via Asby. Lovely surprise for Steve L, Roy and Dianne – as the “fit brigade” had pushed on to the Melbreak and ordered tea/coffee for all us – nice!
Now much later John and Sue, Tom and Dianne pressed on eastwards: Dianne to go home in Cockermouth and the others to Braithwaite: Tom to collect his car. Roy and Steve L left the Melbreak by car for home.
As Steve L passed Whitehaven Swimming Pool met Dave S on his bike. To cut to the chase – Dave had waited 20minutes at Steve L's and had given up hope. However on arrival at Steve's house followed by Dave – the promise of tea made up for the unexpected wait.
Saturday 26th May 2018 Maurice's Ride by Maurice Cowley
Maurice (I want to ride alone) parked at Greystoke for the start of his route that the others had done when he wasn't available and to get some points for the Tour Competition. The weather was fine, sunny and quite warm enough for shorts and short sleeves!!
From Greystoke passing through Motherby and then to cross the A66 onto a quite series of lanes to take a left after about half a mile to pass by Stoddah and then downhill to pass through little hamlets such as Greenclose, Hutton, Hutton John, Sparket Mill. After this it was a gradual climb up to reach Bennethead and then over the top passing through Wreay on the fast downhill to Public House at the A592, the main road that runs along the Ulswater lakeside to Pooley Bridge where Maurice stopped for a pot of tea and a scone at Grannies Café.
On leaving Pooley Bridge Maurice bypassed the road to Celleron staying on the B5230 to get to Tirrill after which he took the first right and after the end of road another right to climb up to Askham and then visit to Lowther Castle.
The road leading from Lowther Castle took him to the A6 for about half a mile then turned off to go over the M6 to pass by the road end to Melkinthorpe and take to the Wetheriggs road to turn right at Clifton Dykes to reach Brougham Castle where he had another stop at the little entrance booth where he was able to get a cuppa and eat his sandwiches.
After his lunch break he carried on under the A66 to reach the outskirts of Penrith.
The next part of the trip wasn't too pleasant as it was along a cycle path alongside the A66 but it did miss out the centre of Penrith and after the crossing the M6 roundabout it was back to the country lanes to see the Greystoke Pillar and then pass by Newton Rigg and just after Newton Reigny picked up the last point for the Tour Competition (on this trip) at Caterlen Hall and then it was back to Greystoke and his car via Laithes and Blencow.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 23rd May.
Starting from Trough Bridge home of Maggie and Stewart were Maurice, Roy, Tom, Steve and John R all arriving by car, while Dianne, Paul, John and Sue cycled there.
After coffee and biscuits the group set of to join the A66 turning left after a short distance onto the old road to Castle Inn.
At Castle Inn the group split into two groups Maurice, Paul, Roy and Steve headed into Bassenthwaite.
While Dianne, Maggie, Sue, Tom and the two John's followed the A591 to Bewaldeth to eventually join the road to Ireby, stopping on the way take in the view.
Having climbed most of the way the downhill to Ruthwaite was most welcome before climbing started again to High Ireby.
Meanwhile the Maurice group made their way through Park Wood to Orthwaite climbing most of the way.
This was followed by some welcome downhill overlooking Overwater before more climbing to Mae's Tea Room for lunch.
The Dianne group after a brief stop in High Ireby made the narrow descent into Ireby to join the valley road to Uldale to meet up with the rest for lunch.
Opting to sit inside although it was quite warm outside they enjoyed a varied lunch with Tom bemused as to where his soup had got too.
Eventually the group decided to move going via Overwater to join the Castle Inn road where the group split.
Half the group headed back to Trough Bridge while the other half out point hunting made their way to High Bewaldeth.
It was then onto Robin Hood followed by the steep descent into Bassenthwaite where Sue and John said goodbye heading back to Braithwaite via the A591.
Sunday 20th May Club Run Bowness-on-Solway.
Seventeen members made it for lunch on a sunny but windy day fifteen on two wheels while two arrived on four wheels.
Setting off from Allonby were Dianne, Maggie, Sue M, Sue C, Maurice, Roy, Tom, Paul and the two John's.
After the obligatory tea and coffee the group decided to make a move with J M having planned a route.
Leaving the cafe with J M on the front it was up the coast road with a following wind to Edderside.
Negotiating the farm buildings at Edderside and farm slurry that goes with it the group made their way through Jericho to join the B5301.
Turning left onto the B5301 with Tarns Dub to the left, the group continued on B5301 to Pelutho to follow the lanes through Highlaws to Abbeytown.
On arrival in Abbeytown the group stopped for John M to make a phone call to Peter and answer a text message from Anita.
Setting of again Maurice led the group through Salt Coates and onto Newton Arlosh where the group split some going via Kirkbride.
While Maurice, Paul and Sue C took the usual route (Sustrans Route 72) to Angerton stopping to wait for the larger group before setting of round Anthorn.
Approaching the junction Peter and Michelle arrived on cue having parked their car at Bowness-on-Solway and cycled anti clockwise round Anthorn.
Joining the group it was back round the peninsula for them to the Kings Arms for lunch to find Anita, Tracy, Brian, Stewart and Steve.
Finding the pub in a state of renovation and a lot of banging didn't put the hungry cyclists of their meal.
First to leave were Tracy and Brian followed shortly afterwards by Paul and Sue.
Finally the remaining members made a move, four to parked cars, the rest on two wheels into the wind.
Maurice and Roy took a flyer and disappeared down the road leaving the rest sorting themselves out.
Two miles down the road Sue said she was stopping the instruction did not filter to the riders behind.
Consequently Dianne finished up sprawled in the grass verge having been thrown clear of her bike.
Shaken up but with no obvious injures she climbed back on her bike possibly thinking what might have been.
At Angerton Maurice and Roy were waiting for the group, unaware of Dianne's mishap
Stopping in Abbeytown to let Maurice munch on a banana, and where they said goodbye to Anita, who had parked her car in Silloth.
Following Maurice it was back through the lanes via Tarns, Edderside to join the coast road at Dubmill back to parked cars but not before a cuppa in the café.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 16th May Allonby Cafe by Steve Lunt
Long days out now: so this week we decided to ride north-west (into a north-east wind) in the direction of Maryport and then to Allonby for lunch.
Today's meet up at Brewers Fayre, Cockermouth were John and Sue M, Roy, Steve L, Tom, Peter, Paul and Maurice.
Following our often chosen popular route from Cockermouth briefly riding down the A66 to turn off onto the “old road” through Brigham, Broughton Cross to reach Chapel Brow and the A595/A66 roundabout where we took to the quieter “old A66” via Great Clifton and Stainburn with a cycleway cutting into Curwen Park: then along the riverside track and onto the cycleway taking us northwards passing the Siddick Wetlands and the Board Mill to reach Flimby and then Maryport Harbour but not stopping there today. Passing on leaving the somewhat battered promenade we noted that on the the previous day a large cash injection had been pledged to refurbish the harbour and Prom – certainly badly needed. The final stretch for this morning was alongside the main road going north from the Maryport Golf Course to Allonby taking to the main road for the final stretch into Allonby to reach the Cafe.
Maurice (he who wants to be alone) left early to go his own way back to Brewers Fayre, Cockermouth and get some competition points on the way, by going over Tallentire Hill.
After the others had finished their lunch and had a good crack they set off homewards – back along the way they came on this occasion, with one more member. Dave S had driven to Workington Railway Station and parked up there having waved off his American relatives – and now was free to ride with us. The route back was Maryport Golf Course, Maryport Prom, the harbour, through Flimby and the gated track to back to the main road and to approach Workington except Dave S who stayed on the main road.! We all met up again just outside Workington – said cheerio to Dave S, and the rest of us crossed the River Derwent and Curwen Park and onto the old A66 at Stainburn, on to Great Clifton, passing the Melbreak Hotel and the last stretch of this long ride was along the old A66 back to Brigham where necessary refreshments were gratefully located at the village shop in High Brigham. Steve L having committed the unforgivable sin of forgetting his water bottle: “that's better”! Now finally the long gradual descent from the village to drop us conveniently to the roundabout at the Brewers Fayre junction and the end of our ride. (401/2 miles)
Sunday 13th May Wild Duck Branthwaite.
Tom drove over from Whitehaven parking up at Roy's to join the Braithwaite trio for the ride to Branthwaite.
Leaving Braithwaite just after nine thirty with Roy on the front, the group made their way through Thornthwaite to join the A66 to Dubwath.
Leaving the A66 it was onto the old road to Embleton that had been newly resurfaced with chipping's, to find Maggie waiting by the Wheatsheaf.
On the climb up Slate Fell Dianne was spotted coming in the opposite direction having ridden out from home to join the group.
Now six strong with Roy still on the front it was on through Cockermouth and over the A66 again to Brigham, followed by the climb up Chapel Brow.
Joining the the cycle path the group made their way to Lillyhall, where they turned left out of the wind to Branthwaite.
Just before Branthwaite on top of the last climb, Michelle, Maurice and Peter were spotted sat soaking up the sun.
After a brief chat and to regroup they made the short distance together for lunch at the Wild Duck, to be joined by Steve, Stewart, Tracy and Brian.
After a good lunch and natter members prepared to leave the way they had arrived.
The group of six headed off to Ullock while Michelle and Peter headed for home via Dean, leaving Maurice to make his way back to Whitehaven.
The rest left on four wheels for home, while the group off six continued after leaving Ullock to gPardshaw and Brandlingill.
Passing the home of a well known businessman the verges had been cut right back, that didn't go down to well with Dianne.
Stopping at the junction and few words about the grass verge Dianne said goodbye and headed off towards Paddle School and home.
The rest continued on downhill to Southwaite Mill followed by the drag up Hundith before reaching the A66.
Saying goodbye to Maggie the rest made their way along the A66 to the Thornthwaite junction for final three miles back to Braithwaite.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 9th May Buttermere.
After the warm weather over the bank holiday the temperature had dropped considerably as member gathered at the Brewers Fayre.
They were Maurice, Dianne, Paul, Tom, Sue, Roy, Maggie and the two John's and Sue C who joined the group for the chat.
Drinks and chat over the group left the confines of the Brewers Fayre in the direction of Paddle School.
With Paul on the front it was straight into the wind to Paddle School, turning left at the junction to Rogerscale.
A brief stop on the bridge over the River Cocker before moving of again, taking the quieter road down the valley via Hopebeck.
Joining the valley road again was followed by the climb to Lanthwaite to regroup at the cattle grid, here Paul turned round to head back home.
On reaching Rannerdale the group split four headed off to view the bluebells while the point hunters made their way to the head of Buttermere.
It was then back to Buttermere for lunch at Croft House Farm Cafe to meet up with the bluebell group plus Stewart and Steve.
Finding the cafe quite full meant the group had to split up but the food was as good as usual.
Outside it had began to rain so it was on with wet weather gear before setting of, only for the rain to stop as they climbed out of Buttermere.
Maurice set the pace, out in front along Crummock Water hotly pursued by Tom and John to be caught before the climb to Lanthwaite.
As the road levelled out Dianne shot past the trio claiming the prime (Dianne's words) still a bit competitive thinks she is back in her racing days..
Regrouping by the cattle grid for the fast descent to join the valley road into Lorton, then it was onto Hundith crossroads.
Saying goodbye to Maggie at the crossroads the group continued on into Cockermouth to join the Greenway back to the Brewers Fayre.
Sunday 5th May Wheatsheaf Lorton. By Dianne Moyes
This turned out to be a glorious warm sunny day, part of a great May Day weekend. The meeting point was The Wheatsheaf at Lorton but before midday we were all doing our own thing. It turned out that rough stuff was the choice of the day. Maurice parked at the pub then headed up Whinlatter to get the points on Tarbarrel Moss. Roy headed towards Setmurthy near Cockermouth and picked up the points on Setmurthy Common. Tom and John R were having a peaceful ride out from Whitehaven until they met Dianne near Dean who persuaded them to turn round and enjoy the Scarecrow Festival which was on through Dean, Ullock and Branthwaite. They had already passed quite a few exhibits including a bride and groom on a tandem, pedaling to the sound of ‘A bicycle made for two’. The three of them had a morning drink in Ullock village hall where Sue C was exhibiting her pictures. Then led by John they tackled the Whinfell Road over to Lorton. This road is in a terrible state but we rode it all the way and no one fell off.
Maggie (with Stewart still in hospital) needed some mechanical assistance so had taken her bike in the car to John M’s in Braithwaite to be fixed before climbing Whinlatter to Lorton. John and Sue had decided not to ride as they were still needed as carers. Paul had ridden out to Mirehouse by Bass Lake for morning coffee before joining us at The Wheatsheaf. Dave Swift had his first long ride of the year and joined us after coming from Whitehaven via Lamplugh and Loweswater. Steve L was the 9th person and had come by car as his heart surgeon had recommended taking it easy after his recent operation in Newcastle.
After a good lunch, Maggie and Roy set off together to do the gated road and then Whinlatter Pass. John, Tom and Dianne went together back to Paddle School before parting company. All the others made their own way home by bike or car. A perfect day to be riding a bike.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 2nd May Grange Café, Grange by Maurice Cowley
A reasonable day today with a variable wind – as the ride progressed the wind was head then tail often but it didn't rain and the sun kept poking through.
Meeting at Roy's were Maurice and Big Tom to start the ride down Borrowdale Valley. The obligatory tea was supplied by Ruth before the trio set off on their ride.
The route started down the A66 cycle path and through Keswick to reach the Borrowdale Valley passing Derwentwater and giving the hill up to Watendlath only a cursory glance and on the way passing the junction to Grange. Stonethwaite was the target prior to lunch and then turn back to the Scawfell Hotel but as they were early and it was still shut they rode back to the Grange Café. During lunch Big Tom discussed tidal oddities with a walker eating his lunch – Maurice and Roy felt decidedly seasick by the end of the chat.
Leaving the café the trio rode up the backside of the lake to travel round by Swinside Triangle down towards Stair but then turn up to Little Town where they found another Café and a treat of drinks from Big Tom while he ate his scone. After that surprise stop, a visit to Newlands Church and then another climb up to Gill Brow and then it was more or less downhill all the way back to Braithwaite to Roy's and the cars.
A splendid day out with plenty of great views unfortunately only enjoyed by the trio.
Starting from Braithwaite on a sunny morning were Roy, Maurice, Tom, Maggie, Sue, John and John R and his grandsons Sam and Jonas.
Leaving Roy's the group followed Maurice along the A66 into Keswick to get tangled up with holiday traffic.
Having climbed out of Keswick it was onto more quieter roads to Goosewell and the Stone Circle with the sound of the cuckoo in the background.
Turning left by the Stone Circle it was along the narrow lane to join the A591 for a short downhill dash, followed by the climb to Rakefoot.
Having run out of road it was about turn, back to the A591 for the climb up before the fast descent to Dale Bottom.
Leaving the busy A591 the group made their way over Naddle Beck to follow the foot of the fell overlooking the Naddle Valley.
On reaching the gravel track that leads to the Vale of St John's Church all had to dismount except Tom who rode most of the way.
While pushing the bikes up the track a low flying Typhoon fighter jet came over the hill probably over the Solway before the group got to the church.
Regrouping at the top where Maurice and Tom were waiting talking to walkers, which was followed by the steep descent to join the Vale road to Thirlmere.
Jonas was feeling hungry as the group approached Bridge End Farm Cafe, his grandad decided to take him to the farm, while the rest continued on.
Crossing the A591 the road to the dam was festooned with road closed signs that meant what they said, 50 metres from the dam a steel fence bard the way.
Turning round the group retraced their wheel tracks to Bridge End to meet up with John and Jonas for a light lunch.
During lunch Maurice and Tom were photographed Maurice with a very large cup and saucer, while Tom held up a freshly baked large walnut cake.
The site of the walnut cake could not be resisted by three of the group who were served quite large portions.
Eventually it was time to leave but not before two pet lambs came looking for some affection not a site often seen.
After a good but short ride with a fair bit of climbing and a few tour points collected on the way it was back to Braithwaite.
Calling to say hello to Mavis, who with John and the grandsons were spending a few days in their motor home in Braithwaite.
Monday 28th May Maurice's Ride May Bank Holiday Weekend by Maurice Cowley
Another day of Sunshine and warmth. Maurice parked at Bampton and again was riding alone with the intention of hunting Tour Competition points again!!
Leaving Bampton and climbing up to the Haweswater Dam and descending to the Reservoir/Haweswater Hotel where he stopped for a cuppa sitting outside and looking down at the lake and watching cyclists go by. After the rest he climbed back over the route to partway down to Burnbanks and turned up a concrete road which was signed as closed due to subsidence. Maurice decided to see if he could get by the damage but could not find any damage?? (This road was allegedly built by the water board when building the Haweswater Dam). While climbing up the concrete road he passed a youth practising on a track motorbike over a hillock. Finally he arrived at Wet Sleddale Dam where a number of people were picnicking. He was kindly offered a drink by one couple but politely declined saying he was going to the cafe at Shap; which was a mistake as it was shut. The next stop was after the steep hill down to Shap Abbey where he did stop to eat his sandwiches and drink from his bottle of water all the time looking up the hill he had come down knowing he had to climb back up it. Now after the hard bit of the ride over the downhill down to Bampton Grange was very welcome and then onto Bampton and his car.
Sunday 27th May Waverley Hotel, Whitehaven by Steve Lunt
Summer is truly here, borne out by the lack of cycling clothing now being worn – cycling shorts and short sleeves all round a must!
Those of the regular group who are the fittest and keenest decided on a meet up at Braithwaite – John and Sue M with Tom: left about 0930am. Roy and Steve L decided to be a little more conservative and met up at the Melbreak Hotel, Chapel Brow by car; bikes out and ready to meet up with the expected group – John and Sue M with Tom and now with Dianne. We all travelled south along the well used cycle route to meet up with with Peter and Michelle P waiting for us at the flower nursery complex near Lowca.
At the Waverley we met up with Maurice, Steve H, Mavis and John R. and Dave S (on his bike). As usual the Waverley lunchtime choices never fail to please.
Later after food and beverages and a good “crack” everyone parted – the cyclists including Dave S going north back the way we came; at Lowca Peter and Michelle ended their ride to collect their nearby car. We all travelled on and at Lillyhall (the Branthwaite junction) Dave S decided to turn here and head back southwards towards Whitehaven and home via Asby. Lovely surprise for Steve L, Roy and Dianne – as the “fit brigade” had pushed on to the Melbreak and ordered tea/coffee for all us – nice!
Now much later John and Sue, Tom and Dianne pressed on eastwards: Dianne to go home in Cockermouth and the others to Braithwaite: Tom to collect his car. Roy and Steve L left the Melbreak by car for home.
As Steve L passed Whitehaven Swimming Pool met Dave S on his bike. To cut to the chase – Dave had waited 20minutes at Steve L's and had given up hope. However on arrival at Steve's house followed by Dave – the promise of tea made up for the unexpected wait.
Saturday 26th May 2018 Maurice's Ride by Maurice Cowley
Maurice (I want to ride alone) parked at Greystoke for the start of his route that the others had done when he wasn't available and to get some points for the Tour Competition. The weather was fine, sunny and quite warm enough for shorts and short sleeves!!
From Greystoke passing through Motherby and then to cross the A66 onto a quite series of lanes to take a left after about half a mile to pass by Stoddah and then downhill to pass through little hamlets such as Greenclose, Hutton, Hutton John, Sparket Mill. After this it was a gradual climb up to reach Bennethead and then over the top passing through Wreay on the fast downhill to Public House at the A592, the main road that runs along the Ulswater lakeside to Pooley Bridge where Maurice stopped for a pot of tea and a scone at Grannies Café.
On leaving Pooley Bridge Maurice bypassed the road to Celleron staying on the B5230 to get to Tirrill after which he took the first right and after the end of road another right to climb up to Askham and then visit to Lowther Castle.
The road leading from Lowther Castle took him to the A6 for about half a mile then turned off to go over the M6 to pass by the road end to Melkinthorpe and take to the Wetheriggs road to turn right at Clifton Dykes to reach Brougham Castle where he had another stop at the little entrance booth where he was able to get a cuppa and eat his sandwiches.
After his lunch break he carried on under the A66 to reach the outskirts of Penrith.
The next part of the trip wasn't too pleasant as it was along a cycle path alongside the A66 but it did miss out the centre of Penrith and after the crossing the M6 roundabout it was back to the country lanes to see the Greystoke Pillar and then pass by Newton Rigg and just after Newton Reigny picked up the last point for the Tour Competition (on this trip) at Caterlen Hall and then it was back to Greystoke and his car via Laithes and Blencow.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 23rd May.
Starting from Trough Bridge home of Maggie and Stewart were Maurice, Roy, Tom, Steve and John R all arriving by car, while Dianne, Paul, John and Sue cycled there.
After coffee and biscuits the group set of to join the A66 turning left after a short distance onto the old road to Castle Inn.
At Castle Inn the group split into two groups Maurice, Paul, Roy and Steve headed into Bassenthwaite.
While Dianne, Maggie, Sue, Tom and the two John's followed the A591 to Bewaldeth to eventually join the road to Ireby, stopping on the way take in the view.
Having climbed most of the way the downhill to Ruthwaite was most welcome before climbing started again to High Ireby.
Meanwhile the Maurice group made their way through Park Wood to Orthwaite climbing most of the way.
This was followed by some welcome downhill overlooking Overwater before more climbing to Mae's Tea Room for lunch.
The Dianne group after a brief stop in High Ireby made the narrow descent into Ireby to join the valley road to Uldale to meet up with the rest for lunch.
Opting to sit inside although it was quite warm outside they enjoyed a varied lunch with Tom bemused as to where his soup had got too.
Eventually the group decided to move going via Overwater to join the Castle Inn road where the group split.
Half the group headed back to Trough Bridge while the other half out point hunting made their way to High Bewaldeth.
It was then onto Robin Hood followed by the steep descent into Bassenthwaite where Sue and John said goodbye heading back to Braithwaite via the A591.
Sunday 20th May Club Run Bowness-on-Solway.
Seventeen members made it for lunch on a sunny but windy day fifteen on two wheels while two arrived on four wheels.
Setting off from Allonby were Dianne, Maggie, Sue M, Sue C, Maurice, Roy, Tom, Paul and the two John's.
After the obligatory tea and coffee the group decided to make a move with J M having planned a route.
Leaving the cafe with J M on the front it was up the coast road with a following wind to Edderside.
Negotiating the farm buildings at Edderside and farm slurry that goes with it the group made their way through Jericho to join the B5301.
Turning left onto the B5301 with Tarns Dub to the left, the group continued on B5301 to Pelutho to follow the lanes through Highlaws to Abbeytown.
On arrival in Abbeytown the group stopped for John M to make a phone call to Peter and answer a text message from Anita.
Setting of again Maurice led the group through Salt Coates and onto Newton Arlosh where the group split some going via Kirkbride.
While Maurice, Paul and Sue C took the usual route (Sustrans Route 72) to Angerton stopping to wait for the larger group before setting of round Anthorn.
Approaching the junction Peter and Michelle arrived on cue having parked their car at Bowness-on-Solway and cycled anti clockwise round Anthorn.
Joining the group it was back round the peninsula for them to the Kings Arms for lunch to find Anita, Tracy, Brian, Stewart and Steve.
Finding the pub in a state of renovation and a lot of banging didn't put the hungry cyclists of their meal.
First to leave were Tracy and Brian followed shortly afterwards by Paul and Sue.
Finally the remaining members made a move, four to parked cars, the rest on two wheels into the wind.
Maurice and Roy took a flyer and disappeared down the road leaving the rest sorting themselves out.
Two miles down the road Sue said she was stopping the instruction did not filter to the riders behind.
Consequently Dianne finished up sprawled in the grass verge having been thrown clear of her bike.
Shaken up but with no obvious injures she climbed back on her bike possibly thinking what might have been.
At Angerton Maurice and Roy were waiting for the group, unaware of Dianne's mishap
Stopping in Abbeytown to let Maurice munch on a banana, and where they said goodbye to Anita, who had parked her car in Silloth.
Following Maurice it was back through the lanes via Tarns, Edderside to join the coast road at Dubmill back to parked cars but not before a cuppa in the café.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 16th May Allonby Cafe by Steve Lunt
Long days out now: so this week we decided to ride north-west (into a north-east wind) in the direction of Maryport and then to Allonby for lunch.
Today's meet up at Brewers Fayre, Cockermouth were John and Sue M, Roy, Steve L, Tom, Peter, Paul and Maurice.
Following our often chosen popular route from Cockermouth briefly riding down the A66 to turn off onto the “old road” through Brigham, Broughton Cross to reach Chapel Brow and the A595/A66 roundabout where we took to the quieter “old A66” via Great Clifton and Stainburn with a cycleway cutting into Curwen Park: then along the riverside track and onto the cycleway taking us northwards passing the Siddick Wetlands and the Board Mill to reach Flimby and then Maryport Harbour but not stopping there today. Passing on leaving the somewhat battered promenade we noted that on the the previous day a large cash injection had been pledged to refurbish the harbour and Prom – certainly badly needed. The final stretch for this morning was alongside the main road going north from the Maryport Golf Course to Allonby taking to the main road for the final stretch into Allonby to reach the Cafe.
Maurice (he who wants to be alone) left early to go his own way back to Brewers Fayre, Cockermouth and get some competition points on the way, by going over Tallentire Hill.
After the others had finished their lunch and had a good crack they set off homewards – back along the way they came on this occasion, with one more member. Dave S had driven to Workington Railway Station and parked up there having waved off his American relatives – and now was free to ride with us. The route back was Maryport Golf Course, Maryport Prom, the harbour, through Flimby and the gated track to back to the main road and to approach Workington except Dave S who stayed on the main road.! We all met up again just outside Workington – said cheerio to Dave S, and the rest of us crossed the River Derwent and Curwen Park and onto the old A66 at Stainburn, on to Great Clifton, passing the Melbreak Hotel and the last stretch of this long ride was along the old A66 back to Brigham where necessary refreshments were gratefully located at the village shop in High Brigham. Steve L having committed the unforgivable sin of forgetting his water bottle: “that's better”! Now finally the long gradual descent from the village to drop us conveniently to the roundabout at the Brewers Fayre junction and the end of our ride. (401/2 miles)
Sunday 13th May Wild Duck Branthwaite.
Tom drove over from Whitehaven parking up at Roy's to join the Braithwaite trio for the ride to Branthwaite.
Leaving Braithwaite just after nine thirty with Roy on the front, the group made their way through Thornthwaite to join the A66 to Dubwath.
Leaving the A66 it was onto the old road to Embleton that had been newly resurfaced with chipping's, to find Maggie waiting by the Wheatsheaf.
On the climb up Slate Fell Dianne was spotted coming in the opposite direction having ridden out from home to join the group.
Now six strong with Roy still on the front it was on through Cockermouth and over the A66 again to Brigham, followed by the climb up Chapel Brow.
Joining the the cycle path the group made their way to Lillyhall, where they turned left out of the wind to Branthwaite.
Just before Branthwaite on top of the last climb, Michelle, Maurice and Peter were spotted sat soaking up the sun.
After a brief chat and to regroup they made the short distance together for lunch at the Wild Duck, to be joined by Steve, Stewart, Tracy and Brian.
After a good lunch and natter members prepared to leave the way they had arrived.
The group of six headed off to Ullock while Michelle and Peter headed for home via Dean, leaving Maurice to make his way back to Whitehaven.
The rest left on four wheels for home, while the group off six continued after leaving Ullock to gPardshaw and Brandlingill.
Passing the home of a well known businessman the verges had been cut right back, that didn't go down to well with Dianne.
Stopping at the junction and few words about the grass verge Dianne said goodbye and headed off towards Paddle School and home.
The rest continued on downhill to Southwaite Mill followed by the drag up Hundith before reaching the A66.
Saying goodbye to Maggie the rest made their way along the A66 to the Thornthwaite junction for final three miles back to Braithwaite.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 9th May Buttermere.
After the warm weather over the bank holiday the temperature had dropped considerably as member gathered at the Brewers Fayre.
They were Maurice, Dianne, Paul, Tom, Sue, Roy, Maggie and the two John's and Sue C who joined the group for the chat.
Drinks and chat over the group left the confines of the Brewers Fayre in the direction of Paddle School.
With Paul on the front it was straight into the wind to Paddle School, turning left at the junction to Rogerscale.
A brief stop on the bridge over the River Cocker before moving of again, taking the quieter road down the valley via Hopebeck.
Joining the valley road again was followed by the climb to Lanthwaite to regroup at the cattle grid, here Paul turned round to head back home.
On reaching Rannerdale the group split four headed off to view the bluebells while the point hunters made their way to the head of Buttermere.
It was then back to Buttermere for lunch at Croft House Farm Cafe to meet up with the bluebell group plus Stewart and Steve.
Finding the cafe quite full meant the group had to split up but the food was as good as usual.
Outside it had began to rain so it was on with wet weather gear before setting of, only for the rain to stop as they climbed out of Buttermere.
Maurice set the pace, out in front along Crummock Water hotly pursued by Tom and John to be caught before the climb to Lanthwaite.
As the road levelled out Dianne shot past the trio claiming the prime (Dianne's words) still a bit competitive thinks she is back in her racing days..
Regrouping by the cattle grid for the fast descent to join the valley road into Lorton, then it was onto Hundith crossroads.
Saying goodbye to Maggie at the crossroads the group continued on into Cockermouth to join the Greenway back to the Brewers Fayre.
Sunday 5th May Wheatsheaf Lorton. By Dianne Moyes
This turned out to be a glorious warm sunny day, part of a great May Day weekend. The meeting point was The Wheatsheaf at Lorton but before midday we were all doing our own thing. It turned out that rough stuff was the choice of the day. Maurice parked at the pub then headed up Whinlatter to get the points on Tarbarrel Moss. Roy headed towards Setmurthy near Cockermouth and picked up the points on Setmurthy Common. Tom and John R were having a peaceful ride out from Whitehaven until they met Dianne near Dean who persuaded them to turn round and enjoy the Scarecrow Festival which was on through Dean, Ullock and Branthwaite. They had already passed quite a few exhibits including a bride and groom on a tandem, pedaling to the sound of ‘A bicycle made for two’. The three of them had a morning drink in Ullock village hall where Sue C was exhibiting her pictures. Then led by John they tackled the Whinfell Road over to Lorton. This road is in a terrible state but we rode it all the way and no one fell off.
Maggie (with Stewart still in hospital) needed some mechanical assistance so had taken her bike in the car to John M’s in Braithwaite to be fixed before climbing Whinlatter to Lorton. John and Sue had decided not to ride as they were still needed as carers. Paul had ridden out to Mirehouse by Bass Lake for morning coffee before joining us at The Wheatsheaf. Dave Swift had his first long ride of the year and joined us after coming from Whitehaven via Lamplugh and Loweswater. Steve L was the 9th person and had come by car as his heart surgeon had recommended taking it easy after his recent operation in Newcastle.
After a good lunch, Maggie and Roy set off together to do the gated road and then Whinlatter Pass. John, Tom and Dianne went together back to Paddle School before parting company. All the others made their own way home by bike or car. A perfect day to be riding a bike.
Autumn Tints Wednesday 2nd May Grange Café, Grange by Maurice Cowley
A reasonable day today with a variable wind – as the ride progressed the wind was head then tail often but it didn't rain and the sun kept poking through.
Meeting at Roy's were Maurice and Big Tom to start the ride down Borrowdale Valley. The obligatory tea was supplied by Ruth before the trio set off on their ride.
The route started down the A66 cycle path and through Keswick to reach the Borrowdale Valley passing Derwentwater and giving the hill up to Watendlath only a cursory glance and on the way passing the junction to Grange. Stonethwaite was the target prior to lunch and then turn back to the Scawfell Hotel but as they were early and it was still shut they rode back to the Grange Café. During lunch Big Tom discussed tidal oddities with a walker eating his lunch – Maurice and Roy felt decidedly seasick by the end of the chat.
Leaving the café the trio rode up the backside of the lake to travel round by Swinside Triangle down towards Stair but then turn up to Little Town where they found another Café and a treat of drinks from Big Tom while he ate his scone. After that surprise stop, a visit to Newlands Church and then another climb up to Gill Brow and then it was more or less downhill all the way back to Braithwaite to Roy's and the cars.
A splendid day out with plenty of great views unfortunately only enjoyed by the trio.