Thursday ride to Inglewhite on 7 August 2025

Lancaster Cycling UK ride to The Lookout Café near Inglewhite, Thursday 7th, August 2025.

10 riders turned up at the Boot and Shoe, on this wet and windy morning, which was positive. It shows people are keen to get out. Fortunately, the rain eased off as we climbed towards our elevenses stop at the Apple store café near Scorton. It is always a delight to visit this café, which has an old charm about it. The scones and cakes are also very welcome on a wet day.

It is customary for some riders to return home after our elevenses stop, but today, only one rider went back, and he had a prior engagement. By now it was almost dry, and we followed the Lancashire cycle way southwards, alongside the M6, on pretty lanes before reaching the village of Inglewhite.This area is known to produce the finest Lancashire cheese.I’m sure the local farmers and cheese makers welcome any publicity!

The Lookout café is only a few miles past Inglewhite, on the road towards Longridge. It is a spacious café, and was busy with customers, so we were pleased we had arrived early, soon after 12.00pm. We left around 1.00pm, revitalised with food and drink. By now there was some sun breaking through the grey sky.

Our route home took us through the pretty old town of Garstang, and on to Wallings Ice Cream shop and cafe, which is near Cockerham. Here, some riders went on towards home, while others couldn’t resist the generous and tempting ice creams!  

A total distance of just under 45 miles. It is worth mentioning that increasingly some riders are using electric bikes. The club welcomes new riders, and more information can be found at : ctclancaster.org.uk

Paul Rodman

2025 Club Holiday to Thirsk Report

2025 CTC Lancaster and South Lakes Club Holiday

After two years holidaying in South West Scotland a new area was chosen for the 2025 holiday, near Thirsk in North Yorkshire.  The holiday lodge site formula seems to work well for our club and so the Woodland Lakes Lodges site proved to be a success.  We stayed in 6 wooden lodges, in a well-maintained site, with many scenic ponds and wooded areas.  Each lodge had a double en-suite room and two rather bijou twin rooms, with a shared bathroom.  The kitchen and lounge areas were very spacious and each lodge had a balcony area for outdoor relaxation.  Each lodge also had a hot tub for those who wished to indulge.  Some members took advantage of the site’s indoor pool which was free to access for site residents and there was a cafeteria and a bar/restaurant on the site.  

The area is close to Sutton Bank and the high moors beyond it to our east, and there was plenty of options for exploration by bike, by foot and by car.  There were many monastic ruins in the area and every small town appeared to have its own racecourse.

We had mixed weather, with the week beginning with strong winds and heavy showers, which fortunately did not prevent us riding.  The wet weather caused a couple of delayed starts to rides, but, after all, we were on holiday and did not have to rush out every day!

The booking was Monday to Monday 2-9 June so the activities began on Tuesday when Nick led a ride to picturesque Ampleforth College, on the slopes near Sutton Bank, with the outward route taking us past the ruins of Byland Abbey and the return with excellent views of the Kilburn White Horse and the pretty villages of Coxwold and Kilburn.

On Wednesday, a large group went by car to the top car park at Sutton Bank, from where Pete led a scenic walk along the steep scarp edge of the bank, with close-up views of the active glider club site; then there was a steep drop down and re-ascent around the Kilburn White Horse.  Returning to the car park and associated café for lunch.  Some of the group continued with a second circuit to the north of the car park, visiting Gormire Lake.  Others returned early to the lodges for a more relaxing afternoon.

Meanwhile Len led a bike ride up to Northallerton, calling at Kirby Wiske, Maunby (here to investigate a possible crossing point of the Swale) and other pretty villages en-route. The return via Crosby Court and Knayton was completed by a welcome ice cream in Thirk scenic town square.

That evening Liz and Dave ran their ever-popular quiz night, allowing us to exercise our brains as well as our bodies.  There were prizes galore and most participants did not go away empty-handed.

Thursday was again forecast to be wet and windy, so Dave Edge’s planned high level cycle tour on the moors was cancelled. An alternative ride was led by Patience, heading south and west to Masham and Bedale, both very pretty small towns with welcoming cafes.

Friday’s main event was a walk led by Mike Codd from Sutton Bank to Rievaulx, which ended up being further and higher than anticipated, but was very enjoyable.  Other members chose to attempt Jean’s ever-popular cycle orienteering quiz, testing both our map skills and observation.  Three of our members chose to have a day at the Thirsk races.  The day was rounded off with the traditional group outing for a meal at The Kings Arms at Sandhutton, which was excellent.

Saturday’s main event was the longest cycle ride of the week, to Leyburn, with morning coffee at Thorpe Perrow Arboretum.  A shorter ride returned from here via West Tanfield and Topcliffe.  The longer ride went high up on the moors above Leyburn, including a one mile stretch of off-road riding on the way to Catterick, where the Swale was crossed, before the return route along the banks of the smaller River Wiske.

In the evening Andy had organised another club tradition – a music and talent evening, giving our vocal chords a work-out and a chance to admire the skills of some of our members.

On Sunday Dave Yorke led a ride south, serendipitously finding a fishery with café en-route to Boroughbridge, with the cheapest prices of the holiday for coffee and cakes.  Lunch was in Ripon and Dave found a superb route on cycle paths into the centre.  Small lanes then took us up to West Tanfield, where we crossed and briefly followed the attractive River Ure before making our way across to Topcliffe and the return to base.

Once again we had a very enjoyable week and there are still plenty of attractions to explore in this area, so we may well return there.

Thursday ride: Halton Station to Casterton Golf Club on 24 July 2025

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring 

An easy start today at 09.15 at the old Halton station. Heading east we left the cycle track at Caton and much to every bodies amazement we went over the hills on Caton Green. Rejoining the main road we turned off  into Wray for a welcome coffee break.

Leaving Wray we continued eastwards through Wennington where we turned left onto Spout Lane and into  Melling. Using the busy Kirkby Lonsdale road to the Highway Man pub we turned right to ride along Woodmans Lane. To avoid upsetting the locals we continued until we joined the main A65 where we turned left. Eventually we left this busy road to cycle along the old Roman road. At the cross roads we turned left onto Collier’s Lane and dropped down to our lunch stop at Casterton Golf Club.

Suitably refreshed we left the golf club and cycled towards Kirkby Lonsdale to go over Devils Bridge.

Once over the main road we took the B6254(Arkholme road) and in Newton took a right turn onto Docker Lane. After going over the railway another right turn led us to Keer Holme Lane and a short trip alongside the railway. A right on Borwick Lane then immediate right took us through Priest Hutton to Whitebeck Lane and the main road so we could have our afternoon coffee break at Greenlands.

The journey home involved riding up Kellet Lane from the Tewitfield pub through Over Kellet then heading towards Nether Kellet. Just before Nether Kellet a left onto Long Dales Lane then Scargill Road and Arrow Lane to dropped us down into Halton then it was straight forward to go round Lancaster and home.

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular club rides on Thursdays and Sundays on our website:  www.ctclancaster.org.

Thursday Ride to Newby on 17 July 2025

Thursday Ride to Newby/Goat Gap on 17th July 2025

Lancaster and South Lakes Touring Club

A dozen riders met on a pleasant sunny morning at the old Halton Station on the Lune Valley Greenway for the ride to Newby.

With morning coffee & cake being at Wray, around half of the dozen decided to head straight for the cafe by going up Caton Road, while the remainder took the more undulating route of National Cycle Network route 69 ‘Way of the Roses’ on the other side of the valley. This route ascending first through Halton Park, allowing spectacular views east along the Lune Valley, then dropping through Aughton, before we omitted the village of Gressingham by cutting through Eskrigge to Loyne Bridge, then passing through Hornby to arrive at Wray.

In the fair but by now cloudier weather, we dined al fresco at Bridge House Farm. A few riders then decided to head back to Lancaster, with the draw of watching rather than pretending to be Tadej Pogacar in the Tour de France, stronger than facing the rolling hills ahead.

Suitably refreshed, the remaining riders headed out along Long Lane, Spen Brow and Aikengill Road, before turning down past the Great Stone of Fourstones (a huge rock deposited there 12,000 years ago during the last ice age). We then turned onto Mewith Lane and followed this across Keasden crossroads to Fummerber Lane/Orcaber Lane, which took us down to cross the A65 and the back route into Austwick.

Not content that enough hills had been ascended to justify lunch, our leader then took us over to Clapham and the climb to Newby Cote, then the drop down to Newby and the Goat Gap café, only to discover the café and car park deserted, and that it was closed for the day due to a power failure!

This left a difficult lunch conundrum, risk life & death on the A65 to Ingleton, climb back up from whence we came to Newby Cote at 14% on an empty stomach then head to Ingleton or Clapham, or the better suggestion of Bentham, which although it was a little further, was at least on our return journey. The later suggestion was chosen and so we took the easier cycling option of the B6480 directly to Bentham and lunch at the Black Pig café, but not before we had to do battle with a High Bentham traffic jam caused by a builders merchant’s delivery.

After our refuelling it was decided that with darkening skies and having failed to look anything like a Tour de France peloton, we should head back to Halton as directly as possible, only to find one of our bikes with a puncture (it’s always the rear tyre), with not a team car in sight!  Wanting to be home to see the business end of today’s stage, we continued along the B road through Wennington and Wray, before joining the A683 for the ‘time trial’ down to Bull Beck trying to keep up with the boys on the tandem! From there it was a pleasant and steady cycle down the Lune Valley Greenway back to Halton.

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular club rides on Thursdays and Sundays on our website:  www.ctclancaster.org.

Thursday Rides: Car Assisted from Sizergh to Staveley and leisurely ride from Millennium Bridge to Arnside on 10 July 2025

Car assisted ride to Staveley

We met at the slightly later time in the parking area just before the Strickland Arms on the road to Sizergh Castle. Not many of us but we were up for the challenge of the undulating hills our leader had planned, not unlike the Tour de France! We immediately broke our first record of the day, when our only e-bike participant exhausted the battery after 200yds and returned to the car. Our next record was set when we arrived at the coffee stop after less than half a mile of cycling, this was Sizergh Barn where we took advantage of the outside catering van and seating.

The route was obviously going to get harder and the next cafe further away than the first. We made our way through Sedgwick and Natland and arrived at the bottom of the Helm. We climbed the Helm and the view over Kendal opened up before us, although a morning mist didn’t improve it. Onto Oxenholme and a very long route on really quiet country lanes to Burnside and into Staveley over the river.

A pleasant time eating our lunch in the sunshine outside Wilf’s and an equally pleasant time in Wheelbase admiring all the shiny new bikes.

Another undulating route took us back to the cars via Crook, Underbarrow and Brigsteer.

Not many miles, lots of hills, nice cafes, good company and oh those shiny new bikes!

Alternative ride to Arnside

This was an alternative ride to the car assisted ride, it was for the old and infirm or those not able to car assist(meaning not owning a car!).

We gathered at Millenium Bridge ready to ride towards Halton but once over the canal we turned left and followed Kellet Lane to Nether Kellet then Over Kellet so we could have a break in Greenlands at Tewitfield.

Leaving Greenlands before it got too busy we followed the busy road to Burton then opted for quieter lanes to Holme. Now we were on busy twisty roads through to Ackenthwaite where we took the quiet road to Woodhouse then Heversham. Once over the A6 the moss road to the deer park was a pleasant interlude from busy traffic but now we had traffic all the way into Arnside.

After a lovely break in Arnside it was the slog up the hill then instead of the speedy level to Far Arnside we had to detour because of road works however we eventually found Silverdale railway station. We were strong willed enough to forgo the delights of the RSPB and skirted the crag to go over the wooden bridge then a left took us into Carnforth and Brief Encounter.

Back tracking after our break we cycled the quiet coastal road to Crag Bank then joined the busy A6 to Bolton le Sands. It was straight forward from here Arncliffe Lane, Kellet Lane, Halton and Lancaster soon fell behind us as we went round the railway station and home.

A pleasant leisurely ride in good company may our pensions (and legs) let us do many more.

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular club rides on Thursdays and Sundays on our website:  www.ctclancaster.org.

Mike Hutchinson 100K Memorial

CTC Lancaster and South Lakes – Ride Report – Sunday 29th June 2025

The Mike Hutchinson Memorial 100km ride

Fair weather greeted an enthusiastic group of members of Lancaster and South Lakes CTC at Millennium Bridge for our inaugural ride in memory and celebration of Mike Hutchinson, for many years our Club Secretary.  Mike was a keen organiser of Audax Rides which has helped to promote our club to other riders around the country.  To make the ride as inclusive as possible, a fairly flat route was chosen down into the Fylde region.

Starting off on the Lune Cycle path to Conder Green, then skirting Glasson and on to Cockerham, we enjoyed the tranquil scenery and the usual cyclists’ chat.  We took the short detour via Crimbles and Gulf Lanes to keep clear of the fast traffic on the A588.  Our next detour was through Pilling village, then after another brief stretch on the A588, we turned into Preesall and along the quiet and narrow back lane, skirting Staynall to reach our morning coffee destination at the Lakeside Bistro at Brickhouse Farm, Hambleton.  The weather was fine enough for us to sit outside and enjoy views of the lakes and some electricity engineers working high up on the pylons and travelling along the cables on what looked like a sort of cable car.  Presumably the cables were not live!

Our onward route was on a series of little lanes towards Out Rawcliffe.  Fortunately the leader had programmed the route into GPS, or there would have been a lot of stops at frequent road junctions to check the route.  Eleven riders crossed the River Wyre at Cartford Bridge, paying the princely sum of 20p each at the toll house.  We continued southwards from Great Eccleston, passing though Elswick and Wharles, then made a couple of crossings of the M55 to reach our lunchtime destination at Roots Café at Blackleach.  Again the group chose to sit outside to have our convivial lunch, before turning our wheels northwards on the return route on small lanes via Catforth, then crossing over the A6, the Lancaster canal and the M6 all within a few hundred yards of each other at Bilsborow.

We cycled largely parallel to the M6 on quiet lanes, then crossing back to the west of the motorway near Barnacre church to reach our afternoon stop at Scorton Barn café, with most participants having an expensive ice cream treat and another chance to set the world to rights.  The final leg home carried on northwards through Scorton, then up the steep, but brief climb to Cleveley Bank before returning to Millennium Bridge in Lancaster via the University, the canal towpath and past the train station.

An enjoyable day out, with 10 members completing their 100 kilometres challenge and a few others joining us for short sections of the route.

CTC Lancaster and South Lakes organise club rides every Thursday and Sunday, with shorter informal rides on Tuesday mornings.  For more information please see our website:  www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Mike Hutchinson in C.2017

Thursday Ride to Sizergh Barn on 3 July 2025

9 riders turned up at the Millenium Bridge, on this warm July morning. For a change, we rode on the cycleway to Halton, where we climbed up Arrow Lane towards Over Kellet. Our route took us through Borwick, Burton in Kendal and Holme, before arriving at Beetham garden centre café for a welcome elevenses. Here additional riders joined us, and some left us.

At Sizergh, some riders had lunch outside, buying food at the refreshment caravan, while others visited the café. Our return route took us back through Heversham, where we crossed the A6, and Sandside, so we could enjoy the good views of the estuary. From here, we passed Silverdale golf club and onto Crag Bank, before rejoining the A6, to return to Lancaster, a total distance of just over forty miles. We were fortunate in that the weather stayed dry all day. The picture shows riders at Beetham garden centre.

ready to depart after coffee

The club welcomes new riders, and more information can be found at : ctclancaster.org.uk

Thursday Ride: Fish and Chip ride 26th June 2025

Fish and Chip ride 26th June 2025

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club

Gathering at the Boot and Shoe were a motley group of hungry cyclist many of whom had been on various diets so they could excuse themselves this annual ride for fish and chip in Cleveleys(my diet had lasted 2 hours!).

Off we set through the Uni and because of the barrier on the cycle lane we went the old route through the Uni then went into Galgate. We went up Stoney Lane so we could to turn right down Whams Lane and cross the A6 onto Wallace Lane then Winder Lane and Ratcliffe Wharf Lane to get us to Park Road and ultimately our coffee stop at Bridge 64.

Leaving Bridge 64 we sped down Longmoor Lane and Skitham Lane to turn left at the end then a right so we could weave through the quiet country lanes to the road leading us to Shard Bridge. Once over the bridge we had to deal with heavy traffic but thankfully there is a shared path which enabled us to get to the new fangled Breck junction where here traffic is so heavy and the fumes so thick all we heard were birds with bronchitis coughing in the fields nearby. 

Once safely over the junction we went down Breck Road into Poulton le Fylde passing the cafe where if you get a salad lunch get a doggy box to go with it, it has been known for the size of the salad to be too much!

Leaving the delights(and one way streets) of Poulton we soon got back on much quieter roads and then had to turn right onto the main road leading us into Cleveleys itself.

After a refreshing(but small portion) of fish and chips we then struggled up the promenade with its mixture of hills and dales so we could enjoy our afternoon cruise over the Wyre. We always enjoy this trip although in the past some of our members weren’t keen on the sailing!(unfortunately the duty free shop was closed!)

Once over the Wyre it was time for KOM trial from the ferry to the cafe(it was closed!!) then it was straight forward to home. Passing the giraffe then the pheasantry we joined the main road for few yards then turned left onto quieter lanes through Pilling village. We had a choice here, main road or Gulf lane and as Gulf lane has been upgraded and is considerable better we left the busy road and into Cockerham we flew, here we decided we hadn’t had enough tea/coffee so we went to Wallings. After Wallings we split up some going back via Conder Green and one going home via Ratcliffe Wharf Lane, Whams Lane, Galgate and the Uni. All in all a great ride but now back on the diet! NO CHANCE.

coffee at bridge 64

Awaiting fish and chips!

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular club rides on Thursdays and Sundays on our website:  www.ctclancaster.org.

Thursday Ride to Knott End on 19 June 2025



Starting at the Boot and Shoe we were aiming for a gentle flat easy ride to Knott  End.

Leaving the start we went towards the Uni but turned right down Sir John Fisher Way to cross the A6 at the lights A right and left then onto Burrow Lane and the first KOM climb up Highland Brow into Galgate. A right turn here let us climb the second KOM climb up over Sellerley to drop down into Conder Green where we headed out to Glasson where we took Jeremy Lane to head back to the main road at Thurnham. This lumpy main road led us to Cockerham where a left turn headed us in the direction of Garstang. After passing the Patten Arms pub we took a left at the cross road to go over the canal on Cabus Nook Lane. After crossing the A6 we had a sort section on Station Lane before a welcomed coffee(and maybe sausage butty!) at Daisy Clough.

Leaving Daisy Clough and  to avoid back tracking our route we went down Gubberford Lane and into Garstang so we could cross(yet again) the A6 at the traffic lights. Down Croston Barn Lane right onto Nateby Crossing Lane then left on to Nateby Hall Lane. After Nateby Hall we went onto Whitter Lane which took us to Island Lane.  I had to point out the first half mile would be rough but pothole free. Anyone who wanted to avoid this could go round by Winmarleigh and meet up at the Island Lane junction. Then it was Island Lane and finally Garstang Road. Then it was the main road all the way into Knott End via Green Dicks Lane.

After a lovely meal(and a pint but only one!) at the squash club it was back on the bikes heading back to Lancaster. 

Travelling along the main road it was either Pilling Lane past the zebra or the sea wall however the sea wall would be awkward for the tandem with its sharp bends so it was Pilling Lane to join the main road for a bit then a left onto the quiet country lane into Pilling!

Gulf Lane was enjoyed with its new upgraded surface(but only in bits!). In Cockerham we made the decision to change our afternoon break and instead of Wallings we went to Glasson Dock this was for the tandems benefit. After a short break we cycled down the old railway line but went our own ways at the pumping station to weave our way home after a lovely warm sociable ride.

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular 

 club rides on Thursdays and Sundays on our website:  www.ctclancaster.org.

Sunday Ride to Sedbergh on 15 June 2025

CTC Lancaster and South Lakes – Ride Report – Sunday 15th June 2025

A Ride of Two Halves

Nine members of the club met at Nether Kellet motorway bridge car park for a 55+ mile ride to Casterton and Sedbergh.  The forecast had been for an overcast morning, but we were pleasantly surprised by the arrival of the sunshine as we made our way through Nether and Over Kellet, then on to Capernwray, turning left at the church, then right half a mile later, around to Docker Park.  The roads were quiet and the recent rain had brought a shine to the greenery in the fields.  Joining the main Kirkby Lonsdale road at Newton, we progressed through Whittington, then over the A65 for the final mile or so to Casterton Golf Club.  We met 3 more of our members at the club and enjoyed a relaxing half hour in the sunshine outside, consuming our morning refreshments.

As we prepared to continue, clouds were building in the north and east, but a stiff breeze pushed us up the climb over Barbon Fell to Gawthrop in Dentdale.  This is one of my favourite routes in the Dales, with a long but steady climb in glorious remote country, surrounded by imposing fells.  At Gawthrop we turned left along the narrower and quieter road along Dentdale, taking care on the more gravelly sections and the occasional huge puddles, evidence of recent heavy rain.  Fortunately we made it to Sedbergh before the rain began in earnest.  Most of the group went into Smatt’s Duo café for lunch, with the hardier few having sandwiches by the Sedbergh School cricket pitch.

As we were preparing to continue after lunch the weather changed to give a very different aspect to the second half of the ride.  We were now riding into rain and a headwind, not a pleasant combination!  Just beyond Sedbergh, we took the road towards Kirkby Lonsdale, then turned right to cross over the River Lune and take the quieter lanes to the West of the river, towards Rigmaden Park, then continuing on towards Kerstwick and Kirkby Lonsdale.

Here, the group began to splinter, with two riders taking a more direct routes back to Lancaster via Tunstall and the Carnforth road.  The rest crossed over the A65 towards Biggins, then up towards the timber yard by Johnson House on the shoulder of Hutton Roof.  Further departures from the group were at the junctions to Whittington and Keer Holme, leaving just 3 of us to continue downhill to Burton.  One turned here to Cinderbarrow, another turned off at Priest Hutton, leaving the leader to ride in solitary splendour down to Warton, around Crag Bank, and back home along the A6.  We may have finished the day wet and a bit chilly, but the scenery and company more than made up for the hardship towards the end.

CTC Lancaster and South Lakes welcomes new riders.  We have regular club rides on Thursdays and Sundays, and a shorter morning ride on Tuesdays.  Please see our website for further information and contact details:  www.ctclancaster.org.uk.

A couple of shots of the sunnier part of the ride near Newton.

Thursday Ride to Arnside on 1 May 2025

Thursday ride to Arnside on 1 May 2025

It was a nice sunny morning as Lancaster and South Lakes CTC met at Millennium Bridge for the ride to Arnside, with a break at Casterton Golf Club, not for a round of golf, but a coffee and cake stop.

We took the route along the river towards Halton, turning left onto Kellet Lane. As we climbed, the vista opened up to our left, on a clear day it is surprising how far you can see over Morecambe Bay and into the Lake District, wonderful! We carried on through Nether Kellet, Gressingham and Hornby, not calling at one of our regular stops as we passed through Wray, our coffee break is elsewhere today and further from home. We took the easier, but probably longer, route towards Low Bentham, taking the Russells Lane turn off to avoid the steep ascent of Long Lane.

We soon arrived in Low Bentham then carried onto Burton, Ireby and Cowan Bridge before following the A road briefly then taking the old Roman Road towards Barbondale and down into Casterton. We sat outside, three table’s worth of us, and enjoyed our nibble and natter in the sunshine.

Leaving Casterton, we cruised down into Kirkby Lonsdale via Devil’s Bridge, admiring the assembled motor bikes as we passed. Leaving Kirkby, we took the Biggins turn off and made our way to Hutton Roof and then the A road down into Burton, this Burton being in Kendal as opposed to Lonsdale as was the last Burton! Very confusing! We followed Station Lane and briefly joined the A6, turning off past Wild Life Oasis, which appears to be undergoing major redevelopment, must call at the cafe there, one day. Passing through the edge of Yealand Redmayne, we soon arrived at our destination where the Bob-In was our lunch stop choice.

After a pleasant time, again outside in the sunshine, our lunch break was over and home was calling!

53 miles, 3400 ft of ascent in excellent company! Better that!

Why not join us? www.ctclancaster.org.uk for more information.

sunny lunchtime in arnside

Sunday Ride to Bowland Bridge on 4 May 2025

CTC Ride Report  Sunday 4th May 2025

The wind came from the north and the unexpected chill factor caught some of us unawares as Lancaster Cyclists Touring Club gathered at Beaumont for a 60 mile early May Bank Holiday Sunday cycle to Bowland Bridge.

The seven riders were joined by two more at Five Lane Ends; by that time the climb had warmed us up, and the crystal-clear views over the Bay with the backdrop of Lakeland were our reward. Through the Kellets we pedalled, and went to inspect the recent damage to Kellet Lane canal bridge. Via Cinderbarrow, Hilderstone and Holme we reached Beetham Wood-Fired oven for a welcome drink and tasty scones, and a rendezvous with two more Club riders.

The roads seemed eerily quiet for a Bank Holiday Sunday, as we continued through Ackenthwaite, Heversham and Levens. Signs of spring were evident everywhere, from the wild garlic and bluebell carpeted woodlands to the lambs at the adventurous gambolling stage.

We continued along the old A590 at the foot of Majestic Whitbarrow, lit up by the mid-day sun, which made an appearance from time to time to cheer us on our way.

We never tire of the two miles of scenic byway from Witherslack to the foot of Tow Top, with its small woods and craggy pastures. The vista of the Lakes opened up to us as we made our way up the Winster Valley via Thorphinsty, to arrive at Bowland Bridge for a well-earned picnic by the  familiar orchard and drinks for some at the Hare and Hounds.

Our now wind-assisted return route took us to Tarnside on little-known neglected byways to Crossthwaite, Underbarrow and Levens village. Another stop here at the cyclists haven of the Village Shop, before wending our way home across Heversham Moss, the Deer Park, and Gait Barrows.

Why not join us on our scenic cycles into the countryside of north Lancashire, the Dales, Bowland and areas to the south of Lancaster. Take a look at our website for more information

www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Ready for the off

Thursday Ride to Kendal on 24 April

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club (CTC) ride Thursday 24th, April 2025

This Thursday’s ride took us from Millenium Bridge, Lancaster to Holgate’s Caravan and Leisure Park at Silverdale, for a welcome coffee stop. We had all the right ingredients, good weather, a good number of riders, (I counted fifteen at coffee), and some pretty lanes to cycle in.

The lane from Holgate’s, heading north, is always very attractive, with sea views over Morecambe Bay. We continued down into Arnside, and enjoyed the views towards Whitbarrow Scar, before passing through the village of Milnthorpe.

At Sedgwick, the lane to Natland was closed for repairs, which forced us to take the A65 into Kendal. This was not a major diversion, and lunch was gladly received at Hanson’s café near the Asda in Kendal, who coped well with our large group. We sat in the garden in the sunshine, which was very welcome.

Our return journey took us back along the A65, but this time we took the pretty lane through Stainton, where we passed over the canal, which has received recent improvements to the tow path. Later, we rejoined the main A6070, south of the A65, before turning right for Holme village. Our route then took us through Over Kellet and Nether Kellet, and back to Lancaster, a distance of just under fifty miles.

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our Sunday and Thursday rides on our website: ctclancaster.org.uk.

a good gathering of ctc lancaster and south lakes members in hansen’s garden in kendal

Thursday Ride to Chipping on 17 April

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club

Finally after many months of idleness it was my turn to lead but only because the intended leader was unable to.

I kept to the original plan so we were all gathered at Millenium bridge for a 09.15 start. The intended route took us down the quay and onto the old railway line. Last time I led a ride down here there were many grumbles about possible punctures and yes one of us did puncture, it was me!

Unfortunately we did have a problem with a wobbly bollard which jumped out in front of a rider and made him fall off but he righted himself and carried on with a bloody thumb!

Weaving in and out of the fine weather walkers we eventually arrived at Conder Green, I then took the group into Glasson Dock over the Marina bridge and up Tithebarn Hill. Travelling round the marina a right turn took us onto Jeremy Lane then Moss Lane to get back onto the main road at Thurnham.

From here it was a straight forward ride up and down to Cockerham then a left heading towards Garstang took us to Wallings and the end of my short lead.

Come and join us you will find we are a friendly bunch full of chat(and coffee!)

( The ride did continue after our coffee stop at Wallings, Kenny showed us the way through Garstang and onto Chipping where we sat outside in the Spring sunshine at the Farm Shop for lunch. The return journey took us through Longridge and Scorton. 65 miles and 3700ft. A great day in the sunshine!)

Thanks to Jim and Kenny for taking over the ride at short notice.

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular club rides on Thursdays and Sundays on our website:  www.ctclancaster.org.

Sent from my iPad

lunch at the farm shop in chipping

Sunday ride to Dunsop Bridge on 23 March

CTC Lancaster and South Lakes – Ride Report – Sunday 23rd March 2025

Despite a mizzly start to the morning, the forecast was for improving weather and sunshine in the afternoon.  This tempted 7 people to the start at Millennium Bridge.   Four of the seven riders took the planned route along the riverside cycle path to Caton, picking up another member by the Crook of Lune, and two more, waiting for us at the entrance to Gresgarth Hall.  At Caton we turned away from the river and cycled up through Quernmore, over Happy Valley to 5 Lane Ends, enjoying glorious views over to Lancaster and the Fylde coast beyond.

Three riders chose to take a slightly less hilly route up through Lancaster, then via the University to Galgate.  In both cases the onward route carried on from Five Lane Ends to Long Lane, then via the water splash to the bottom of Nicky Nook, with a brief swoop down to the Apple Store café at Wyresdale Park above Scorton.  The two groups reconvened here, with the addition of a further member from Garstang, bringing our total to 11.  However, one decided not to carry on over to Chipping, so the peloton was now settled at 10 members for the rest of the ride.

After a pleasant and rather busy break at the Apple Store, the onward route climbed back to the base of the Nicky Nook fell, then turned southwards along Eidsforth Lane on blissfully quiet roads, turning eastwards after crossing over the river Calder, then climbing steadily towards the green slopes of Fair Snape Fell and Parlick, with fine views of Beacon Fell to our right.  The undulating route took us past fields of lambs, onwards to our lunch break at Chipping, where we split again into the picknickers and the café diners, who all regrouped some 40 minutes later, refuelled and ready for the challenges to come.

The route crossed over to the Hodder valley via the Wild Boar Park, veering north towards Dunsop Bridge along the valley bottom.  The sun shone as we began the journey through the Trough of Bowland, taking the climb to the summit from the steeper side.  Some decided to walk the final steepest part, but all felt exhilarated to reach the summit cattle grid and the boundary stone.

We were then rewarded with a stunning swoop down towards the valley bottom and Marshaw hamlet.  Another long, gradual climb saw us ascending to Jubilee Tower where we paused for some photos and to enjoy the rather hazy views across to Morecambe Bay.  Care was needed for the steep descent back to Quernmore, where we crossed over the outward route and down to the crossing of the infant river Conder.  At the crossroads above the river crossing the group split up, with the Lancaster dwellers continuing on into the city, and others turning right along the ridge towards Caton and thence to various homes to the north of Lancaster.

An epic day out, covering over 60 miles and climbing something over 4,000 feet was celebrated back home with a welcome cup of tea, or something stronger according to taste.

CTC Lancaster organises regular group rides on Sundays and Thursdays, as well as informal Tuesday rides and a programme of social events.  New riders are very welcome.  More information can be found at www.ctclancaster.org.uk.

Thursday Ride to Milnthorpe on 20 February

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club (CTC) ride Thursday 20th, February 2025

The snow drops are out, as the old joke about the Liverpool docker, who replied “Will that affect us!” Seriously though, living in Northern Europe at this time of year, we can expect our weather to be cold and wet much of the time. This makes the planning of winter cycling rides more challenging to say the least.

Today, we had planned to go to Milnthorpe for elevenses, and Kendal for lunch, a total distance of around forty miles. The weather forecast had been poor, and it was raining and windy, before I even reached the meeting place at Millenium Bridge. In fact, I wondered if anyone would even turn up on such a damp and miserable day. Well, I was soon surprised when ten riders had arrived at the start, (including one tandem) showing a real enthusiasm for today’s ride. I would add here that we do cancel rides, due to weather, for example, when it’s icy.

We were soon heading out through Nether Kellet and Carnforth to Silverdale where our progress was halted by a closed road, due to the removal of fallen branches at the roadside. I must confess, as a cyclist, I would normally try and get through such obstructions, as diversions can be a long way round on a bike. Anyway, the gentleman carrying out some of the work was having none of it, and we reluctantly turned back. Fortunately, one of our experienced riders knew of an alternative route through a pretty wood at the roadside, and we got round the diversion. A positive result. From here, we enjoyed the misty view from Sandside over the estuary, before arriving at Rivers and Roads café, for hot drinks and cakes.

Being a democratic club, I asked each rider if they wished to proceed to Kendal or return from Milnthorpe. Possibly because most of us had wet feet by now, and were generally feeling damp, you can guess the result! We returned by lanes through Holme and Priest Hutton villages to name two.

The total distance was around 30 miles, but quite far enough for this time of year with the weather described.

Anyone who would like wet feet or is interested in joining us can find information about our Sunday and Thursday rides on our website: ctclancaster.org.uk.

Paul Rodman

Thursday ride to Barton Grange on 13 February

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club (CTC) ride Thursday 13th, February 2025

Eight riders turned up at the Boot and Shoe on this cold February morning. Fortunately, it was dry, as we worked our way through the University cycle ways. Elevenses was at the Applestore Café near Scorton, where we were pleased to get inside. This is an interesting café, which is a little off the beaten track, with an excellent range of food and cakes, so worth finding.

The lanes from Galgate to Scorton are always attractive, having enough height to ensure some good views of the surrounding countryside.

Having filled up on coffee, tea and cakes, we reluctantly moved on, through the pretty village of Scorton, to Garstang. Here, we rode through the old town centre, which is well worth a visit and look around.  We stayed on the B 6430 southwards through Catterall. This originally, would have been the main road. There are old mile posts to prove it.

Lunch was at Barton Grange Garden Centre, where we arrived for an early lunch. This business has two restaurants, and plenty of room to accommodate groups like ours. Again, it was a blessing to avoid the cold for a while.

The route home took us over the M6 motorway on the Lancashire cycle way, on attractive lanes, back through Scorton, and to Galgate as before. Here we crossed the A6, to meet the A588 at Condor Green. Some of the group enjoyed a final tea stop at Ashton Hall Garden Centre café, while others continued home, not wanting to get too comfortable, on such a cold day.

The total distance was around 35 miles, but quite far enough for this time of year.

Anyone interested in joining us can find information about our Sunday and Thursday rides on our website: ctclancaster.org.uk.

Paul Rodman

Sunday ride: Nether Kellet to Sizergh Barn on February 2

CTC Ride Report    2nd Feb. 2025

Eight riders from Lancaster & South Lakes CTC met at Nether Kellet for an early February Sunday foray into the quiet lanes of north Lancashire and Westmorland.  There was a hope that we had bid farewell to the freezing conditions which had beset a number of rides in January, a feeling reinforced by the noticeably lengthening days. The goal was a one-stop leisurely excursion to a new (for us) venue, Lower Sizergh Barn, via the first half of a figure of eight route.

We were soon joined at Over Kellet by a couple of our hardy Rough Stuff Fellowship members, and continued via Capernwray, greeting the usual lone lane strollers attending a retreat at the hall. Hopefully we didn’t cause them to break their weekend vows of silence!

Our group continued in talkative mood, perhaps reflecting the general optimism that Spring may soon be upon us. We stopped in Priest Hutton to chat to club member Myles, on his morning constitutional.

Burton, Holme, and Milnthorpe arrived quickly enough, and we crossed the A6 so as to approach Sizergh via Heversham Moss and Levens. On the Moss, the front group had a brief moment of drama as a couple of inattentive ducks nearly got caught up in their wheels. At Levens we once again slowed down to take in the timeless vista of the Lythe Valley and distant Lakeland peaks.

Sizergh Barn proved popular, though we were too late (or early) to observe the milking spectacle from the glass-walled café. It was midday before were on the move again. The few spots of rain came to nothing, and held off till we got home.

Cyclists from other clubs greeted us  as we returned via Hincaster, Milnthorpe and Storth. Three riders needed more altitude in their legs, and chose the high road over Warton Crag.

Most of us were home by 2.30, in time for the TV sport. For most of us a ride of between 40 and 50 miles, with some hills to warm us up. CTC welcomes new riders. Take a look at our website to find out about our Sunday and Thursday rides.      www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Thursday 14th November 2024

It was an unusually good turnout for the Lancaster CTC Thursday ride in mid-November.  This may have had something to do with the sunny and calm outlook, but also with the choice of rides on offer, catering for both the faster riders heading for Settle and those seeking a slower ‘amble’ along the lanes to Ingleton.

Heading up the Lune Valley Cycleway, the warming sun kept extremities happy once we escaped the chilly air of the temperature inversion by the river.  The vistas from the Crook-o-Lune were enlivened by patches of grey mist hanging on the hillsides.  Good progress was made to Wray, where the ’amblers’ decided to take an unscheduled coffee stop at Bridge House.

The faster group had chosen the direct route to Settle via Bentham, Clapham, Austwick and Lawkland, with a sting-in-the tail climb over the southern edge of Buck Haw Brow to Giggleswick.  There was a brief delay in Bentham as one rider had to remove his rear wheel to fix a loose mudguard.  The planned lunch stop at the garden centre café was changed on learning that only coffee and cakes would be available at this time of year.  This turned out to be serendipitous as the alternative choice of the market square cycle shop and café provided ideal cyclist lunches and shopping temptation.

The slower riders meanwhile continued to Mill Houses where the warming coffee was reinforced by body heat generated by the steep climbs leading to Mewith Lane. This charming balcony route afforded pin-sharp views across to Ingleborough, framed against an autumnal blue sky. A little-used route off to the left dropped us to Waterscale and the bridge crossing the railway and the River Wenning, followed by a steep pull which deposited us near the top of Newby Moor. Our route trended downhill along Nutgill Lane to Tatterthorn, and an early lunch at Inglesport, where we tucked into cyclists’ fare.

The extended convivial meal eventually came to an end, and we turned our wheels towards home, via Thornton-in Lonsdale, Lower Westhouse, and Burton. We couldn’t escape the climb back out of the Greta Valley, but chose the more layered ascent onto Bentham Moor via Clifford Hall. This took us to the mind-focussing fast descent to Ravens Close to regain the Wenning Valley and Wray.

Unknown to us, we were passing through Wray at the same time as the faster group were enjoying an unplanned afternoon brew at Bridge House after their return from Settle through Eldroth, Keasden and along glorious Mewith Lane.

A very pleasant 40-odd miles for the amblers, whilst the faster riders clocked up 58 miles. Both groups home well in advance of the sun going down.

CTC welcomes new riders. You can find our rides and social events on   www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Thursday Ride: Millennium Bridge to Sizergh Castle on 31 October 2024.

A fine drizzle and a drizzly forecast was the order of the day as a good number of riders met at Millennium Bridge for the ride to Leighton Moss and Sizergh Castle.Having made our way up Kellet Lane to Nether Kellet, we were joined by a few more participants waiting for us by the bridge over the motorway. Onto Over Kellet, Capernwray and Burton, we crossed the main road by Wild Life Oasis to Yealand, then passing Silverdale Railway Station and Golf Club we arrived at RSPB, Leighton Moss. As ever, the selection of cakes was extensive, and if you are car free can include a free hot drink. Given the weather, but wearing the appropriate clothing we weren’t really wet, so having been joined by more participants we set off for Sizergh Castle.

Up the hill towards Silverdale village, we took the left turn towards Jenny Brown’s Point, turning right just past Wolfhouse Gallery. we rode through Silverdale and took the left turn towards Arnside, via the Knott.

Pausing in Arnside on the pier for the photoshoot, don’t we look a happy bunch, in spite of the weather?

We carried on through Sandside and crossed the mosses joining the main road towards Levens. We decided to turn right just past Levens Hall crossing the busy Grange road with great care with the traffic roaring past. We arrived at Sizergh Castle to find an enormous queue for food and not much chance of a table. We decided not to wait and try and find somewhere else to dine. Unfortunately, it rather fell apart after that when one of our group had a puncture, which resulted in the group splitting up and taking lunch in different places, the shop in Levens, the kiosk at Levens Hall and Rivers and Roads in Milnthorpe. The four of us still together after dining well at the Levens shop set off the usual way back via Haverthwaite, Burton and Warton. Home for 4.30, 55 miles and all the waterproof clobber having done its job, pretty dry.

A nice ride out in good company, why not join us for a memorable experience?