Sunday 23rd October Beaumont to Barbon

Nine riders set off in sunny but cold conditions from Beaumont College on Sunday for the programmed ride to Barbon, led by Mike Bridges.  A cold north-easterly wind blew as the group climbed towards and through Nether and Over Kellet.  The cold clear atmosphere led to wonderful views in every direction as they continued northwards to Burton in Kendal, where the headed west to cross the A6.  This enabled the group to join NCN Route 6 break for the last stretch to coffee at the Garden Centre in Beetham.

There was a typical swapping of additional members going onwards and some returning towards home, resulting in about 7 members following the leader and 3 making their own way to lunch.  After Ackenthwaite, Route 6 was re-joined by the riders and followed through Woodhouse to Stainton, where a right turn took them to Halfpenny for a loop north then east on the seldom ridden (by the Lancaster and South Lakes group!) Low Park Lane, continuing east on Gatebeck Road.

This section marked the one major climb of the day, with an initial section marked on the maps with one arrow and passing under the M6 on the way past the northern slopes of Warth Hill before joining the B6254 at Barkin House.  A short pause allowed the riders to regroup before the descent to Old Town, continuing on minor roads, still downhill, via Mansergh into the Lune Valley.  Here, the riders turned left along the valley, to cross the Lune near Rigmaden Park and approach Barbon via the A683.  Lunch was taken at the Churchmouse in Barbon, while some members ate sandwiches before using the café for a warming drink.

After lunch, the sun still shone but the fresh wind was chilling, although helpful since it was now following.  The riders headed south to Kirkby Lonsdale, crossing the Lune again to reach the road to Whittington and Arkholme.  There was the usual reduction in numbers as a few members turned off to reach their own homes, but the last of the group continued their appreciation of the fine views along the road as far as the turning at the Red Well, turning again and descending at the minor road past Halton Park and using the Lune Cycleway to reach the City.

It had been an enjoyable ride, completed via some seldom cycled (by the group) roads in clear but cold weather.