Thursday Ride to Sedbergh on 12th August '21

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As things seem to be getting normal(or almost) the ride on the 12th went to Sedbergh hoping for our usual warm welcome in the Red Lion. There have been times when me and Mike Codd have been the only two in the pub, this time no chance; the pub was SHUT!

A small group gathered at the old railway station platform at Halton and headed off up the Lune valley on the cycle track, we were heading for the Bridge House at Wray. After meeting others and being refreshed we set off back to the main road leading to Wennington. We turned up Spout Lane and dropped down through Wrayton onto the main road towards Kirkby Lonsdale. At the Highwayman we turned right and then just before Overtown I called a halt and asked the riders to show a bit of courtesy by walking through the hamlet to the wooden bridge. Once over Leck Beck we remounted and crossed the busy main road to ride along the old Roman road avoiding the ruts made by racing chariots!

We eventually arrived in Barbon to go down the single track lane running parallel to the A683 which we had to join for a few miles.

Just before the old railway bridge a right turn took us back on to the Roman road to enter Sedbergh via the Golf course. It’s a good job the others had their wits about them because at this point the leader was navigationally challenged!! and attempted to take them up a cul de sac. (Glad I missed that. Ed.).

Leaving Sedbergh after a meal(and a pint!) we travelled down the A683 to turn right to go over the bridge at Rigmaden which then led us to a lovely quiet road back into Kirkby Lonsdale.

In Kirkby Lonsdale the group started to split up because of where they lived and time. Some went via Biggins, some via Arkholme whilst me and Ian took to the main road to Melling then turned left to Wennington to enjoy a refreshment break at the Bridge House(again!).

After a long rest we set off for home and it was only when the road started to rise did my legs protest; however they had been protesting for the last 20 miles so I ignored them.

Arrived safely at home at about 17.45 with almost 67 miles in my empty legs.

From the comments made from the rest of the group they all thought the route was a good one and needed to be done again(mmmmm).

Thanks everybody for making it such a pleasure especially Ian for making sure a knackered old man got 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.uk.

Jim Gardner


Thursday Ride - Boot & Shoe to Knott End 29 July

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This was a ride to celebrate the Grand Reopening of Garstang Arts.

We have always had a smashing reception from the ladies who operate this centre and we were looking forward to our return. 

Three of us(me, Mike and Ian) gathered at the Boot and Shoe at 09.15 and set off for Garstang our usually way, University, Galgate, Whams Lane, Cleveley Bank then through Scorton and over Gubberford Bridge to Garstang.

What a welcome we got it’s was like meeting friends we hadn’t seen for ages. Here we also met Matt and Mary. Free drinks and cakes as will, the days can’t get better (are we missing working- are we hell).

After a lengthy refreshment stop (with an awful lot of chat) we prised our way out of Garstang to cross the A6 at the lights to go down Longmoor Lane then turned to go up and over Cogie Hill! and into Pilling. In Pilling we had a bit of a problem the leader was feeling well under par so he and Mike Codd decided to go direct to lunch.

Ian and Matt decided to do the full route and meet us at the Ferry Cafe. Once we had all met up Mike left us to get home as quick as he could so the three of us stayed in Knott End having a long break.

Eventually we had to leave Knott End and we decided the sea wall to Pilling would be too windy so we went via Green Dicks Lane into Pilling then on the moss road before turning to go to Cockerham via Gulf Lane. In Cockerham we decided to go to the University via Wallings(where Matt left us) then Ratcliffe Wharf Lane, Whams Lane and Galgate.

All in all a reasonable ride considering the weather forecast and for me 46 miles but Ian and Matts would have been longer and it was nice to see our friends at Garstang Arts(their cheese scones are lovely)

I have to say smaller groups like we seem to have at the moment make riding much more pleasant.

Jim Gardner

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.uk.

Thursday ride 15th July to Cleveleys fish and chips

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Our ride on Thursday 15th July was our annual trip to the flesh pots of Cleveleys to savour their delicious fish and chips(we also had a cruise lined up on the way home!).

Gathering at the Boot and Shoe were a number of Pensioners In Lycra On Cycles.  Leaving the Boot and Shoe for our coffee stop we went through the University, Galgate and Street before turning right at Harris End cross roads and descending through Scorton to Gubberford Bridge and the rough narrow lane to lead us on to Green Lane East then Green Lane West enabling us to cross the A6 at the traffic lights so we could go down Croston Barn Lane to the coffee stop at Bridge 64 cafe.

After coffee off we set off going through Nateby along Longmoor Lane then Skitham Lane. At the T-junction we turned left onto Lancaster Road then right onto Crook Gate Lane finally ending up on Bull Park Lane and Shard Bridge. Once over the bridge we were in the traffic and after safely crossing the main road (which was chaotic because of major road works) I requested that the riders stayed behind me going through Poulton because of lane changes, the one way system and traffic lights to negotiate.

Safely through on busy roads we soon came to the main road leading to Cleveleys and the only difficulty was crossing the tram tracks at the traffic lights. Once over it was plain sailing to the fish and chips. The fish and chips we had was called the small portions (it used to be called “pensioners portions”!)..

The afternoon was easy. From fish and chips it was a maximum of an hour straight up the promenade dodging walkers and dogs before our cruise across the Wyre (as it was a short crossing, no time for the duty free!).

Now things started to go wrong; our planned afternoon stop was at the ferry cafe but, guess what?, it was SHUT so we left Knott End past the zebra and giraffe ( watching for roaming hungry lions!) into Pilling  via Green Dicks Lane and Lambs Lane then right onto Gulf Lane to avoid the fast traffic to arrive safely in Cockerham.

In Cockerham a discussion took place straight home or a detour to Wallings for our afternoon cuppa tea guess what IT WAS CLOSED!! so we went to the University via Ratcliffe Wharfe Lane and Five Lane Ends.

A hot sweaty 55 mile ride but very enjoyable. I think the company makes these rides very enjoyable.

Thanks every body for making it such a pleasant day out.

Jim Gardner

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.uk.

Ride from Beaumont to Grange-over-Sands, via Levens – Sunday 11th July, 2021.

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After admiring John’s new bike – it was new before the pandemic, but we hadn’t yet seen it – eight of us set off down Green Lane to ride over Kellet Lane and through Over Kellet, where Bob joined us at the crossroads. When we hit the A6070 most of the group revolted at the thought of the ‘mucky farm’ and carried on via Burton. Two of us followed the ride proper, found that the mucky farm was not too bad and enjoyed the quiet of Hilderstone Lane with views across the fields to our left. We regrouped in Holme and continued northwards through Wassett and Ackenthwaite to turn left at Woodhouse towards Heversham. We negotiated the church goers at the pretty St. Peter’s church and rattled along through Leasgill to meet the very busy A6 and the short run to Leven’s Hall. There were other club members at Levens who joined in the coffee time chat. We lost two riders and gained one before the second outward leg to Grange. There was a sprinkling of rain and capes went on… and off again.

Now, people had been asking me questions about which way we were going and I was struggling to remember the route. But I did remember Sampool Lane and Gilpin Bridge and the old A590… The rest I was vague about. You see I plan the ride on a map and enter it into my Garmin Satnav, which, when it’s behaving, beeps and tells me when to make a turn. It saves getting out a map (which I carry on a phone) and means I don’t have to remember just which of the many possible ways I chose to go when I planned the ride. I knew we were going to the bottom of Tow Top, but not up it. But I’d forgotten how a lovely the Back of the Fell Road is, with its ups and downs, gentle curves with trees to the right and views over the watery fields to left. Anyhow, we rode into the back of Lindale and went up School Hill (who can forget its steep twists…). The group had got strung out a number of times, and it was difficult to remember who was where in the sequence but the conclusion of the fast descent into Grange did bring us all together for butties by the pond. Angry black-headed gulls screamed at each other as we ate. It’s so sad that the exotic species that made the spot special were all stolen.

After lunch we headed off past the golf club to Meathop and then across the moss back to the old A590. The meadowsweet was a feature of the day’s ride, flavouring the air and creamily clouding the tall grasses along roadsides. There was more spreading out of the riders and a long stop at Gilpin Bridge trying to work out who was where. As we set off I confused everybody by misremembering the route as going across the moss beside the Kent estuary. The Garmin reminded me it went up round the back of Levens to Sizergh. And even though I remembered it going along Nannypie Lane, I forgot that I’d put Sedgewick and Crosscrake in the route. The Garmin works as a sort of ‘extended mind’ (Clark and Chalmers, 1988) for me, filling in the gaps in my memory that my onboard mind struggles with. Some people use maps or notebooks with names of places and turns (which is the example Andy Clark and David Chalmers offer as an extended mind). Now the philosophers were keen to exclude digital devices and simple aide memoires from their extended mind thesis but I always thought their definition was too narrow just to provoke all the computer scientists. The debate has raged…

Whatever, following Vivier Lane, recrossing the outward route but using Paradise Lane (with luscious clover in between the two tarmac paths and nettles hanging out to catch cyclists’ arms) took us to Beetham. An earlier discussion had persuaded me to abandon the garden centre as a tea stop and so we went up Slack Head and bore right to head for Silverdale. This deviation caused Garmin to beep periodically, suggesting redirects and about turns to get back on route. But I used my onboard mind to overrule the electronic memory (you see, I’m not dependent on it, which is why Clark and Chalmers wouldn’t accept it an extended mind) and we passed Gait Barrows and Trowbarrow Quarry to get to Redbridge Lane. At the golf club most of us had tea but were jealous of Nigel’s cold pint of lager, condensation misting the outside of the glass. The club is welcoming of cyclists and in fine weather their raised forecourt makes for a pleasant spot with mature trees, well-tended greens and a view across the valley. We dispersed after tea, and Garmin stayed quiet as we found our own ways home, spreading out along the Shore Road and Ancliffe Lane.

Clapham to Dent via Kingsdale Thurs. 8th July 2021

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It was a perfect day to head for the high fells of the Yorkshire Dales. Lancaster CTC assembled an enthusiastic team of twelve riders at Halton Station for a challenging days ride to Dent via Kingsdale, led by Patience on the tandem.

The social get-together at Ireby Green café was reached via Wennington and the Wrayton loop, against the backdrop of a bucolic landscape of contrasting green and bright yellow fields. At one time it appeared as though rain might intrude on our appreciation of the countryside, but the threat soon passed. More club members had made their own way to the café, swelling our numbers to twenty.

Eventually a group of ten took up the challenge to continue up Kingsdale via Burton in Lonsdale, Westhouse and the gentler ascent via the telecoms mast. The view up Kingsdale from the first summit, towards Braida Garth, was savoured before freewheeling by the side of the beck to Kingsdale Head. The closed gate afforded a brief interlude to contemplate the climb before setting off up the steepest section towards White Shaw Moss, topping out at 470 metres. The group came together to enjoy the precipitous views down Deepdale, before testing their brakes on the steep descent to Gastack Beck Bottom, and absorbing the atmosphere of this hidden gem of a side dale to its junction with Dentdale.

It was heart-warming to note the campsites in the village being well used by staycationers whilst we enjoyed a well-earned lunch, before turning our wheels in the direction of Gawthrop and Holme Fell. Two of our number decided to peel off and return via Barbondale, apparently not having had enough steep ascents to maintain their fitness.

There was time for another extended social interlude at Casterton Golf Club, before the final leg home via Arkholme. A sixty-plus mile day for most, with about 4,300 feet of climbing.

Our CTC member group operates a varied programme of rides, not all as challenging as this one. Information can be found on our website  www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Patience Cooper

Thursday ride to Dent via Ireby Green, 8th July 2021

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It was a perfect day to head for the high fells of the Yorkshire Dales. Lancaster CTC assembled an enthusiastic team of twelve riders at Halton Station for a challenging days ride to Dent via Kingsdale, led by Patience on the tandem.

The social get-together at Ireby Green café was reached via Wennington and the Wrayton loop, against the backdrop of a bucolic landscape of contrasting green and bright yellow fields. At one time it appeared as though rain might intrude on our appreciation of the countryside, but the threat soon passed. More club members had made their own way to the café, swelling our numbers to twenty.

Eventually a group of ten took up the challenge to continue up Kingsdale via Burton in Lonsdale, Westhouse and the gentler ascent via the telecoms mast. The view up Kingsdale from the first summit, towards Braida Garth, was savoured before freewheeling by the side of the beck to Kingsdale Head. The closed gate afforded a brief interlude to contemplate the climb before setting off up the steepest section towards White Shaw Moss, topping out at 470 metres. The group came together to enjoy the precipitous views down Deepdale, before testing their brakes on the steep descent to Gastack Beck Bottom, and absorbing the atmosphere of this hidden gem of a side dale to its junction with Dentdale.

It was heart-warming to note the campsites in the village being well used by staycationers whilst we enjoyed a well-earned lunch, before turning our wheels in the direction of Gawthrop and Holme Fell. Two of our number decided to peel off and return via Barbondale, apparently not having had enough steep ascents to maintain their fitness.

There was time for another extended social interlude at Casterton Golf Club, before the final leg home via Arkholme. A sixty-plus mile day for most, with about 4,300 feet of climbing.

Our CTC member group operates a varied programme of rides, not all as challenging as this one. Information can be found on our website  www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Patience Cooper

CTC Lancaster and S Lakes ride to Staveley. 4th July

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It was a less than encouraging forecast and as I set off for the start at “Kellet Crossroads” I was expecting a smallish turnout. Shame on me; I had underestimated the spirit of our band of bikers. Our optimism was rewarded with a pleasant morning of cycling in quite balmy conditions. 

We followed a fairly direct route via the Kellets, Tewitfield, Cinderbarrow and Holme to reach our morning coffee stop at Farleton View. There were a few predictable remarks as we sloshed through the permanent “mud” patch outside the farm near Cinderbarrow, but hey, cyclists love to clean their bikes! Once at the cafe we met a few more people out for shorter jaunts. There was a moment as we sat outside sipping our coffees when the skies darkened and a damp chill spread through the air. “Now we're for it” we thought and conversation turned to who was going on and what were the alternatives.  

In the end a group of seven set off for the second leg, to Staveley, some saying they would see how the weather turned out. It turned out very well, tempting us ever onwards along NCN route 6 to Natland. Then we went up the Helm road and along the delightful lanes which lead across the fellsides towards Meal Bank, sweeping views over Kendal buoying our spirits. By this stage of the ride I was well and truly leading from the rear. I'd have done well as a General in WW1. Len did an excellent job at the sharp end.

 

At Meal Bank there was a steep descent with a rough surface near the bottom before we made our way via Bowston and the lovely back lanes which undulate at the fells edges to bring one to Staveley's back door. In Staveley some went to eat sandwiches whilst the less well prepared headed for Wilf's cafe, where all assembled a little later. The weather was still reamarkably good as we all sat outside, chatting to a lady who had approaced us with a view to joining the club. What had gone wrong with the forecast? 

Er, nothing was wrong with the forecast: as we pedalled up the hill that leads past the station the skies developed substantial leaks. It chucked it down, buckets, hoses, persisting it and other expletives. Actually, once you got over the surprise it was quite pleasant as it was warm and not at all windy. Susan differed with me on this point and turned tail to take her chances with the cycle friendly policies of our railway system. She got home the same day. 

The rest of us, mistrustful of the railway system, continued over through Underbarrow and Brigsteer, the weather improved enough for us to take off waterproofs. The ever more familiar miles rolled beneath us as we headed via Storth to a welcome cup of tea at the RSPB Leighton Moss, before wending our various ways home. 

It was a lovely day out despite a poor forecast. If I hadn't been the ride leader, I probably wouldn't have bothered. It just goes to show.

Andy Gordon

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club Ride 1st July 2021

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We gathered at the Boot and Shoe for what should have been our ride to Goosnargh via Garstang Arts cafe for their grand reopening; however, due to new Covid regulations the grand reopening has been postponed so our ride was adapted. I decided to keep the lunch stop the same but the coffee stop would now be The Apple Store in Scorton.

Instead of us going our usual way to Scorton I took the hillier way straight up Hala Hill passing Blea Tarn to drop down to the Conder to then climb up to the “Happy Valley” road to turn right to reach Five Lane Ends.

We then went our usual way passing Street and turning right at Harris End cross roads. Instead of dropping straight into Scorton a left turn took us over the water splash to enable us to drop down Snow Hill Lane to The Apple Store and the lovely welcome.

Suitably refreshed we then retraced our steps back up Snow Hill Lane to complete what we call “the Barnacre loop”. At the end of Keeper’s Lane we turned left to climb up past Barnacre Church(at this point riders left the group because they had alternative plans for the afternoon) and then onto the lanes going to Inglewhite. Turning right in Inglewhite onto Silk Mill Lane we weaved our way into Goosnargh. Our usual lunch stop at The Grapes was a no no because it was shut so off to the chip shop but there was a queue but we noticed the Stags was open so it was a no contest.

Leaving Goosnargh on Goosnargh Lane we then turned left onto Langley Lane then right onto Whittingham Lane crossing the old A6 in Broughton. We then went down Newsham Hall Lane and turned right onto Hollowford Lane then left on Eaves Lane then right on Benson’s Lane. This took us eventually to St. Michael’s Road.

We crossed the A6 to go up Bilsborrow Lane and turned left onto Lydiate Lane, now we were retracing our outward steps and eventually we came to the rutted descent past Barnacre Church which we negotiated very carefully so it was a slow careful descent and after a few more miles we dropped into Scorton. A unanimous decision was taken and a coffee stop was called for at Daisy Clough

The home run was gentle via Five Lane Ends, Galgate and the Uni.

All in all a pleasant 49 miles in great company and lovely warm weather(and the lunch time beer was excellent)


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.uk.




Cyclist Touring Club ride to Kettlewell 27th June

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Lancaster CTC members extended their usual range by visiting Littondale and Wharfedale last Sunday, starting at Clapham. Nine riders started the ride, with eight continuing after morning coffee. Perfect cycling conditions prevailed all day, mainly overcast but with clear views from the fell tops, and frequent sunny spells to light up the newly-mown meadows in the valleys . Riders had to be alert, as the route mirrored that of a huge sportif , with participants hurtling down the long hills as we ascended.

Due to the limited number of options, a coffee break was taken early,at Little Stainforth campsite café after a short ride through Austwick, Wharfe, Swarth Moor and Stackhouse Lane.

Prising ourselves away from the views down Ribblesdale from the café terrace, and convivial chat with fit guys from ‘Foulridge Postal’ road club, we crossed the medieval bridge over Stainforth Force , flirted briefly with the edge of the village, and braced ourselves for the long climb over Pen-y Ghent Fell. Dozens of  freewheeling Sportif riders shouted encouragement  as we tackled the hills and then down into Littondale at Halton Gill. Sticking to the north side of the Skirfare, we  passed  through Hawkswick before joining the main road which undulated into Kettlewell. A quiet corner by the maypole was found to enjoy our sandwiches.

Reverting to the narrow by-ways on the east side of Wharfedale, progress was made through Conistone, Grassington, Linton and Cracoe, where a visit to the farm shop café was thought advisable before tackling the next big climb. This was reached via Hetton and Airton and took us up the long drag over Scosthrop Moor, encountering the Sportif riders again. The route passed Scaleber Force waterfall, where some sightseeing was indulged in by two of the party, and ended with the scary near-vertical descent into Settle.

Giggleswick and Eldroth quickly passed as the legs had now worn in, and the cars were reached at 5.30. A reasonably hilly 53 miles ,with 4,800 feet of climbing. Alternatively, about 95 miles for one of our party who eschewed the car-assist.

We welcome new members, including those on electrics, and our varied programme of rides can be found on www.ctclancaster.org.uk.

Len Howard, Hon. Sec.

Lancaster and S. Lakes CTC - Thursday ride around Lancaster's countryside

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We left the old railway station at Halton and went along the cycle track to Caton where we crossed the busy main road and weaved our way out of Caton on to the Postern Gate road. At Postern Gate we turned left to head to Quernmore cross roads and the start of “Happy Valley”. (Looking to our right, we could see the I.o.M Ferry coming into Heysham. Ed.).

At Five Lane Ends we took a hard left to go up the long drag on Starbank Lane before dropping down into Dolphinholme. We left there on the Wagon Road and then turned left onto Tinkers Lane leading to the Trough road where we turned right to descend to Scorton and refreshments at Daisy Clough cafe. As we descended, looking back left across to Haythornthwaite Fell I remember the night I spent up there with my search dog looking for a missing little boy who was found safe and well about 7.00 in the morning 

We decided to stop at Daisy Clough for refreshments and after we were all suitably refreshed the more adventurous of us set off. We crossed the A6 and headed down Cabus Nook Lane. At the end we went right onto Park Road into Cockerham then on towards Conder Green. At Thurnham we turn left on Moss Lane then right on Jeremy Lane to finally go left round the back of Glasson Marina to get to the Bistro and dinner.

Now all the hills were behind us and we were suitably refreshed so we took the old railway line into Lancaster and crossed the Lune at Millenium Bridge. Continuing along the cycle track till a left turn let us skirt the cycle race track to get to the road leading past Snatchems (I had checked the tide times). We sailed (I did mention the tide was out!!) through Overton then into Middleton and took the narrow lane to Half Moon Bay cafe for an afternoon break.

Leaving the cafe and going through Heysham we zigzagged along the prom dodging walkers, cyclist and dogs to get to Bare. Going up the hill we turned  right at our usual place and weaved our way through the lanes to end up on Manor Lane so we could cross the A6 onto Bottomdale Road then Foundry Lane into Halton to go across the Bailey bridge to our starting point at the old railway station.

All in all I considered it an interesting ride not moving far from Lancaster, involving some climbs and putting the miles in as well but enabling riders who didn’t feel up to the miles to escape home early in fact with people joining us and leaving I was the only one to make it back to Halton station. A 50 mile round trip from the station and 60 miles for me from and back to home.

Jim Gardner

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular club rides on Thursdays and Sundays on our website. ( You don’t have to do the whole ride but can join and leave at the refreshment stops.) :  www.ctclancaster.org.uk.


Sunday ride to Clapham via Ireby Green, 6th June 2021

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There were only five of us at the Boot and Shoe and we set off a bit late over the Newlands and Quernmore Roads to Caton, Brookhouses and then Wray. There had been a move to stop at the Bridge Cafe but having gathered another rider waiting patiently for us, we set off westwards, crossed the River Hindburn and then turned north up Russell’s Lane to join the Old Moor Road. There were few cars and the roadside was full of wafting cow parsley with the odd pink campion. A whizz down Long Lane took us into Low Bentham and to the steep pull out on Burton Road. The elec. assist on Matt’s recumbent trike meant he was able to be our back marker, discouraging blasé overtakers even on the hills. Once on the top we had an almost straight undulating route to Burton with the countryside spread out on either side. The recent top dressing meant that we were all a bit cautious of going too fast down hill and round the bends on the descent to the River Greta.

From Burton it is an easy ride along Ireby road to the Cafe at Ireby Green with great views across fields of buttercups, daisies and grass that had been left to grow, eastwards towards Ingleborough and the line of fells. Glorious views across the countryside were a feature of the day’s ride which was marked by blue skies, little wind and clear air. At Ireby Green we met all those CTC riders who had followed the less exotic routes popular with more cars. The cafe is well organised and was very busy with many cyclists as well as petrol heads.

Those coming on - a couple dropped out, a few joined - retraced our route back across the River Greta to wind along the minor roads to the east of the A56 (Bentham Moor Road, Dumb Tom’s Lane, Langber End Lane, Whinney Mire Lane). This was a new route to some of us, though others were reminded of solo rides during lockdown. The lanes were quiet and gave us a route towards Clapham without including Ingleton or High Bentham. Once east of the A56 there was of course a climb up through the pretty hamlet of Cold Cotes on Lowkber Lane to the Old Road between Ingleton and Clapham, that got steeper and steeper. A breather at the top gave us a chance to take in the panorama looking south-west before gliding off on a freewheel descent into Clapham.

The Reading Room and Bunk House where we’ve enjoyed many a poached-egg-and-beans-on-toast is no longer in business. The building has been taken over by someone selling drinks and snacks but had little to offer us. The village shop however has become a thriving business selling all sorts and welcoming cyclists by offering to fill water bottles and providing a DIY tea counter.

Our way home was by the traditional Reeebys Lane and Mewith Lane big dipper, again giving views of the fells away to our right. The day was too good to end soon so we all pulled into the Bridge cafe at Wray for tea and ices and more chat. It was good to be riding in company again and to find out how everyone had been faring over the last eighteen months.

Tim Dant

CTC  Sunday Ride to Grange over Sands    30th May ‘21

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Lancaster and South Lakes Cyclists Touring Club enjoyed a 60 mile Bank Holiday Sunday ride to bustling and sun-drenched Grange via Beetham. Seven riders hastened from Beaumont to the Garden Centre for morning coffee, taking in the delightfully green and pleasant countryside around Burton and Holme. We met up with another four Club members for a good chin-wag before eventually deciding that we needed to turn the cranks again in direction Grange.

The lanes around Heversham were busy, as was the A6 for the short distance to the A590 before we regained the lanes at Levens Village. Passing the Derby Arms and through Meathop, encountering family groups seeking solitude, we arrived in Grange to a carnival atmosphere, with brightly-roofed craft-stocked gazebos on the promenade.

After being slowly baked in the mid-day sun we tried to generate a welcome breeze with an initially rapid ride to Lindale and up the Winster Valley, taking a slightly more circuitous route past Witherslack Church. A further more hilly departure from the traditional route, around Mill Side, occasioned a mild revolt by half of the company before a choreographed reunification at the cross roads on the old A590.

Crossing the very busy dual carriageway at Gilpin Bridge was thought too risky, so it was a retrace to Levens Village and onwards over Heversham Moss , Sandside and Storth. As it was only 4 o’clock, advantage was taken of the recently re-opened café at Leighton Moss RSPB, sitting in the shade until gentle hints caused us to head for home.

The Club programme of rides and other events can be found on our website, www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Len Howard

Thursday Ride to Little Town Farm (Thornley) 27 May

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We gathered at the Boot and Shoe for our ride to Little Town Dairy at Thornley near Longridge with an anticipated stop in Scorton for coffee on the way there and on the way back.

Setting off on our usually route through the University. The six of us were enjoying the warm sunny weather. In Galgate we turned up Stoney Lane passing Five Lane Ends and went through Street to turn right at Harris End cross roads. Heading for Scorton we took the first left to go over the water splash and travel along the fell road. In stead of doing the “Barnacre Loop” which would have meant us back tracking on ourselves we turned right to drop down to Snow Hill Lane and on to our refreshment stop at the Barn.

Suitably refreshed we went through Garstang and turned left at the Brockholes Arms to weave our way through the lanes going through Inglewhite to arrive at Chipping Road coming out of Longridge which meant after a left turn it was about a mile to our lunch time stop.

We had an excellent lunch sat in the warm sun(included a bottle of beer for me and Mike to show how the lockdown is starting to ease!). After lunch it was across the road to take the road down the side of the Derby Arms. We weaved our way though the pleasant country lanes avoiding the turn to Walmsley Bridge and Claughton Estate to arrive back into Scorton via Sandholme Mill.

Another refreshment stop but without Mike and Tim who both decided to carry on home.

Leaving Daisy Clough we decided to take our usual Winmarleigh loop as it was such a lovely afternoon. Eventually the six were whittled down to 3 the others making their own way home.

By the time I arrived home at 17.15 I had 52 miles in my legs but very pleasant miles with excellent company

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.uk

Jim Gardner

CTC Ride to Arnside:  Sunday  23 May 2021.

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Lancaster & South Lakes Cyclists Touring Club enjoyed its first organised Sunday ride for 14 months on the 23 May. The Sunday rides programme was relaunched with a leisurely 40 mile ride to Arnside, including some extended cafe stops to allow us to socialise after the long break in activity.

Eight riders gathered at Beaumont College and headed to the morning coffee stop at Farleton View fisheries, pushed along by a fresh breeze from the south. A weather eye was kept on the higher ground to try to spot encroaching showers as the route followed quiet lanes through the Kellets, Capernwray, Borwick and Priest Hutton. At Cinderbarrow a brief heavy shower meant a frantic search for waterproofs before continuing via Hilderstone to Holme and the much anticipated rest at Farleton View. Here awaited us another five Club members, some of whom we hadn’t seen for over a year. Thus began an extended sociable interlude. Knowing that we hadn’t far to go and that we might even escape the forecast more persistent rain.

Eventually we set off again through Woodhouse, Heversham, and across the Moss to Sandside and Arnside. We were pleasantly surprised to find that the excellent Wayside Café opposite the Station had reopened. So began another sociable soiree before turning our wheels in the direction of Silverdale, Carnforth and our respective homes.

The forecast heavy rain duly arrived at about 4 pm, after everyone had got home and put their feet up with another mug of tea. All in all, a steady start to our relaunched Sunday rides programme. Details of all our regular Club rides can be found on www.ctclancaster.org.uk, if you are interested in joining us.

Millennium Bridge to Milnthorpe 13 May

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Ride on Thursday 13th May by Jim Gardner

Six of us met on the Millennium Bridge in Lancaster for a ride to Greenlands for coffee then lunch at Milnthorpe and hopefully an afternoon break at Silverdale Golf Club.

Following the river initially we turned left at the army camp heading for the Kelletts. Once through the Kelletts a pleasant run to Tewitfield and Greenlands.

After a refreshment stop at “Wellies” we headed towards Burton but turned left heading to Holme via the “mucky farm”. After Holme things got interesting because we ran into the monsoon belt. A quick stop enabled 5 of us to don our waterproofs leaving the sixth to get soaked!!

In Milnthorpe Tim and Phil decided that the weather wasn’t going to improve so they didn’t linger and set off for home whilst me, Mike, Ian and Keith sat in the rain and had lunch from Sue’s Cumbria takeway and had a quick chat with my youngest daughter.

Suitably refreshed we set off going through the deer park and weaving our way to Silverdale Golf Club where we enjoyed a cup of tea (or coffee). On our way the roads dried out as if it hadn’t rained at all.

After the afternoon break we set off and decided to go up and over Warton Crag (mmmmm) then crossed the A6 at Carnforth lights then into the Kelletts via the road past the quarry(it’s a stinker).Over the motorway we turned left heading for Kellett crossroads where we turned left to drop down into Halton and over the metal bridge and back to Lancaster by the new cycle track and home via the railway station.

All in all a good ride with 40 miles (and 2700 feet. Ed.) on the clock by the time I got 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.uk.” 

A Haylot Advnture - Mike Codd's Ride 6 May

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I set out with three others from Millennium Bridge at 9:15. We headed by the simplest route – riverside – A683 – Wray, Bridge House Farm for coffee and sustenance. Sitting outside, we put the world to rights for a while, girding our loins for the next part of the ride into the hills.

We had to engage bottom-bottom gear almost from the get-go up School Lane, hitting an early steep section, before the ascent moderated. We continued climbing,  then came the stinker after what had already been a hard ascent, passing a house on our left, the road hit a long 15%before levelling out for a superb panorama, where we all stopped for a breather.

Sweeping round from the east, we spotted Fountains Fell, Pen-y- Ghent, Ingleborough, Whernside, Gragareth, Crag Hill. Then to the northwest, we saw cloud and mist over the Lake District fells, where it clearly was raining.

That was the Taster.

Keith left us here with prior arrangements. We three joined Moor Lane, continuing uphill, and stopped again, just past the first cattle-grid, to catch our breath, then continued, descending steeply to cross the Roeburn, then steeply up past the little chapel where a parked car, boot open, displayed large tea-making kettles and teapots - clearly a chapel that people used.

Continuing up on this road (which eventually leads to the Hornby Road) we opened the gate on the right, clearly labelled “Haylot”. This took us downhill, to cross the Roeburn again then through a gate onto a steep ,recently-tarmacked road. The workers had filled the holes well with loose gravel, but not using enough tar, had left it in an unsuitable condition for safe cycling, so we walked for 100 yards, before picking up the climb to Haylot Farm. Then it started hailing, fortunately not heavily.

Undaunted, we enjoyed a rapid descent to cross a feeder stream of the Roeburn, pushing again for a while then ascending to near Winder.

Ahead of the others, I turned left, suddenly coming across the intended turn to Crossgill. Turning round, I saw Tim follow round the corner and come to a stop; Phil, who had been ahead of him was spotted descending rapidly straight on.

After some thinking Tim and I descended through Crossgill, then met Phil coming in on the other road. Ride rescued!

We then descended to cross Artle Beck, then up to The Cragg. I suffered the “bonk” on this ascent, being in bottom-bottom gear up to the top, but managed to stay in the saddle. A quick swig of sweetened cold black coffee sorted it out.

After this, the ride became easier. We descended, past Baines Cragg, turning left down Rigg Lane, through Quernmore, zipping along Bay Horse road to 5-Lane Ends where we took the Chipping road.

Past the Fleece, we turned right and descended across the M6 and through Cleveley Bank then  right to arrive at The Barn, where queues of would be diners convinced us we’d go to Daisy Clough on Station Lane. We enjoyed a leisurely lunch, only briefly interrupted when we left our exposed table for a sheltered one, recently vacated, to avoid a passing shower.

We crossed the A6, past Holly farm and then joined the road to Cockerham, then, turning off at Thurnham, approached Glasson, via Jeremy Lane. All were keen to get home by now, so we eschewed tea and cakes in Glasson and took the riverside path back to Aldcliffe, where we dispersed for home.

We rode only 45 miles but climbed 3660 feet – Phew!!

 

Mike Codd

Ian's meander, 29th April 2021

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There have been a couple of informal groups riding together since the ‘rule of six’ returned and I joined one of them a couple of times recently. This ride was led by Ian, with Mike, Jim, Keith and Phil following his twists and turns between cardinal coffee stops. To the north we went to Wellies at Greenlands for coffee and scones, to the east we stopped off at Wray for lunch of bacon butties and poached eggs. And then the rest went on to have some tea in Scorton. None of these stops is very far from Lancaster (which made it easy for Phil and I to bunk off after lunch) but as we set off in the right direction, Ian would put in a short ‘diversion’ to ‘get in some extra miles’. Such as the pretty road going east from Priest Hutton that bypasses Borwick. But then we did some work puffing up Sunny Bank! There are other informal groups (we saw the Bolton-le-Sands mob zip off up the A6070 while we stuffed scones…) that have been riding together, everyone beginning to get fitter in time for the emergence of a new rides programme in a few weeks time if the restrictions are relaxed a bit further.

Hope to be linking up with more old friends (they are mostly old…) in the not-too-distant future!

Tim Dant, 2nd May 2021

A Footnote to “Ian's Meanderings” - The Cardinal Tuesday Morning Coffee Shops

on 29th April, 2021

From Millenium Bridge we gained Greenlands Farm (the most northerly) via Kellet Lane, Back Lane, the wooden bridge, Back Lane & Borwick Lane (Warton), the A6 and the A6070.

After coffee, having surmounted Sunny Bank as per Tim's write-up, we used Rabbit Lane into Gressingham, Loyne Bridge, the A683 to Melling, Lodge Lane over Melling Moor to Wennington and the 'B' road to Wray, for Bridge House Farm (the most easterly).

From lunch it was 'the usual' valley route to Claughton where Tim & Phil cut for home. The 'main party' of three climbed over Caton Green then climbed to Postern Gates for a traverse of 'Happy Valley before taking a left turn over Procter Moss, down into Lower Dolphinholme and the Wagon Road to Street for a right turn at Harris End crossroads, down Long Lane, a left up Brewers Lane, across the bridge by the ford then Higher Lane, across the top of Snowhill Lane to descend Tithebarn Lane for tea at The Barn (the most southerly).

We wended our merry way home via Cleveley Bank, Whams Lane and the university, to give me personally a total of 54 miles, front door to front door.

Ian Roberts.

Jim's Circuit of Lancaster 22 April 2021

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We decided as it was such a lovely day for the three of us (Mike CODD, Ian Robert’s and Jim Gardner) to do a complete circuit of Lancaster.
We started at the old railway station at Halton and went up the cycle track to Caton where we took the Postern Gate road, but at Postern Gate we turned left to head over “happy valley” (also known as Bay Horse Road!) and through Quernmore. Just as we were arriving at Five Lane Ends a sharp left turn took us up the very long drag on Strawbank before we dropped down into Dolphinholme village.
We left Dolphinholme using the Wagon Road but instead of turning right at the end we turned left on Tinkers Lane to join the Trough road which we used to descend into Scorton for a much needed refreshment stop at the Priory (coffee, sausage butties and veg hotpot!)
Scorton was left via Station Road and we crossed the A6 on to Cabus Nook Lane to head for the Cockerham road. At Thurnham we went left on to Moss Lane then Jeremy Lane and round the back of Glasson Marina to get our dinner at the Bistro cafe(excellent food, sat in the sun, the chips are fabulous not greasy).
Using the old railway line to Lancaster then the cycle track passing the race track to Snatchems (tide was out), Overton, Middleton then a coffee at Half Moon Bay cafe before we risked the prom at Morecambe. Which idiot suggested the ride along the prom in weather like that??? (Go on, Jim. It wasn’t that bad! ED.).
At Hest Bank we cut through the lanes to Hatlex Lane crossing the A6 to head past Kellet cross roads dropping down to Halton and over the metal bridge to complete our circuit.
By the time I got home I had just clocked up 60 miles but the beauty about this sort of ride is anyone feeling it is too much they can cut it short at a lot of points because nowhere were we more than 10 miles from the centre of Lancaster.
Any one who feels they would like to join us our web site is CTCLancaster.org.uk which gives details (soon - Ed. - Mike Codd) of our Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday rides .

JIm Gardner

Sunday Rides, 29/11 and 06/12/20

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Last week’s ride was a bit of an unintended exploration.  We had intended a route to Slaidburn via Longridge, Hodder Bridge, Waddington and Grindleton, returning via Dunsop Bridge, to Longridge and Preston.  In the event, the ride went as planned as far as Dunsop Bridge, with a break for elevenses at Slaidburn.

However, the road between Dunsop Bridge and Whitewell was completely blocked by shoring work where it runs alongside the Hodder, so we were forced to return via the Trough to Marshaw thence to Oakenclough (ok, we could have gone via Scorton).  Route 90 through Bilsborrow was also closed (by United Utilities); this forced a last minute diversion through Inglewhite to reach Preston.

This week’s ride (6 Dec) was altogether different.  It was inspired by rides led by Nick Hall, with an attempt to complete a long distance without being far from home.  The first target was Jeffrey Hill.  From near the golf club we had fine views of a beautiful cloud inversion in the Ribble Valley.  There was no ice, but the hilltops were coated with snow.

Our next hill was the section up Church Raike and past the chair factory at Chipping.  There are 3 sections of slope approaching a gradient of 20% towards the top.  However, the views were still wonderful along the road via Bleasdale village to Oakenclough and Harris End Fell and continued to be so throughout the ride, with sunny clear weather predominating.

Ian and I had a brief chat with Mike Hutchinson as he was returning home from Dolphinholme.  We rode together until Ian and I turned for Bay Horse.  The route was flattish from here, via Forton and Winmarleigh to reach Stake Pool for lunch.  A second traverse of the mosses took us via Nateby to Garstang to follow Route 6 then the A6 south for a while.

There was a traffic control on the A6 because of the large hole in the road here, this being the cause of the road blockage we encountered the previous week. However, we turned right at Owd Nell’s and headed along the St Michael’s road to reach Inskip.  The last leg took us to Traeles, then Clifton, before reaching the Guild Wheel and home.

Both rides were about 75 miles, the first one feeling longer because of almost 5000 feet of climbing, but both rides were very satisfying, and a goodly distance for a late Autumn ride.

Mike Bridges