Ride from Beaumont to Bowland Bridge, Sunday 8th September 2019

Perhaps it was the prospect of a fine, windless day ‘awheel’ with crystal- clear views of the Lakes, or possibly the quest for companionship, which enticed  nine riders to converge on Beaumont for a fifty mile jaunt to relatively tourist-free southern Lakeland.

The Lancaster and South Lakes section of the Cyclists Touring Club was heading for Sizergh Castle and Bowland Bridge,  and began by taking the lightly- trafficked A6 to Carnforth. Familiar by-ways were followed through the Arnside and Siverdale AONB to Sandside and Dallam Bridge, exchanging greetings with faster ‘wheelers’ getting in a morning ride before the Sunday roast. Heversham Moss and Levens Village led us to Sizergh Castle café for scones and a natter.

Bowland Bridge for lunch only attracted five riders, who tackled the climb back over to Levens and savoured the scenic downhill to Brigsteer. At the edge of Crosthwaite, hedge lined single track lanes descended to the River Gilpin and continued on the far side of the Windermere  road through Tarnside. A picnic lunch, with fine views up the Winster valley and across to Strawberry Bank was mixed with further convivial natter. After exhausting both our food and discussions we turned south through the unfenced ancient woodlands of the valley side to Witherslack and the old A590. Crossing the new road gave access to the smooth tarmac of the Sampool area, now designated bridleway and a cyclists haven.

As it was still early in the afternnon, another stop at Greenlands café furnished teas and coffees, after taking to the lanes to the east of the A6 through Heversham, Holme and Burton.

Cycle touring is a wonderful route to fitness. Have alook at www.ctclancaster.org.uk to find out which of our range of rides  might suit you.