Ride from Boot and Shoe to Waddington, Thursday 15th June 2019

Thirteen seasoned cyclists gathered outside the Boot and Shoe for their regular Thursday ride.
Setting off, they went through the University and on to the Fleece and Dolphinholme using the usual route.
At the crossroads we took a left turn to go through Dolphinholme and on towards Abbeystead but instead of descending to Abbeystead we took a left turn to go up Plantation Lane to join the Jubilee Tower road where we turned right for a fast descent to the Tarnbrook turn off then the nasty little climb up Rakehouse Brow then on through the Trough into Dunsop Bridge for well earned refreshments at Puuddleducks.

Suitably refreshed off we went heading past The Inn at Whitewell (much to some peoples disgust we didn't turn left there). Taking the next left we did a small section of the old roman wall (avoiding the chariot ruts), through Cow Ark to pass Browsholme Hall.

Then we took the next left onto very narrow lanes just wide enough for large vehicles which was evident when we met one coming towards us. A sharp pull up Talbot Bridge brought us to the B6478 leaving a turn right and a fast descent into Waddington.

After well deserved refreshments (including a pint) we set off for Bashall Town then over Higher Hodder Bridge for the long slog up Chaigley Brow.

Turning left after Walkers Fold to drop down to Chipping passing the Gibbon Bridge Hotel.
Problems in Chipping due to lack of legs (mine) I decided not to go via the gliding club but take the flatter way. Unfortunately I hadn't worked out the alternative route but thanks to Mike and Ken we made it to the top of the lane leading to Walmsleys Bridge where they said “you know where you are now so lead on!”.
Usual way back to Scorton via Claughton, Sandholme Mill and Barnacre to stop at Daisy Clough for yet another refreshment break.

All in all an excellent ride with 62 dry miles for me and according to Neil 5000 feet of climbing.

Jim Gardner