Sunday Ride Report – Beaumont to Arnside 14 November 2011.

The brilliant hues of autumn featured prominently during the Cyclists Touring Club mid November Sunday excursion to Arnside, calling at Sizergh Castle on the way for morning coffee.

An enthusiastic large bunch of riders gathered at the gates of Beaumont College in bright sunshine, a harbinger of the splendid cycling conditions to come as we rode along the gradually denuding hedge-lined and tree shaded lanes through the Kellets, Priest Hutton, Burton, Holme and Ackenthwaite.

At the Sizergh tea rooms our numbers were swelled by socially-minded members who ride independently to enjoy a chat over coffee. The interlude was extended due to long queues for drinks and scones; it seems even the National Trust is not immune to supply and staffing problems. The benign conditions meant that we were able to socialise outdoors on the verandah, the location of choice for most other visitors.

Slightly behind schedule , we turned the cranks slowly over the big hill and through bronzed -leaved woodland to Levens Village, where we regrouped briefly to absorb the engaging view across the Lythe Valley, bathed in the oblique winter sunlight with a backdrop of Lakeland hills not yet enobled by snow cover.

Once free of the A6, we relaxed and indulged in desultory chat as we crossed Heversham Moss. A less-frequented approach to Arnside saw us seeking out the lanes of Carr Bank and the quieter route up Briery Bank to get to lunch at the Bob-in, Newbarns. Again, most of the cafe customers opted for the outdoor tables in the sunshine, with views across to the viaduct and up the Knott.

On the return home through Silverdale the sunshine was gradually replaced by high cloud, but this just served to emphasise the glorious conditions savoured earlier.

The CTC welcomes new riders. It organises a range of rides to suit most abilities. Details can be found on the club website   www. ctclancaster.org.uk

Len Howard