Lancaster and S Lakes CTC Thursday 5 January ride to Wray.

There were 9 of us at the Millennium Bridge start point for Neil’s ride to Casterton. Having set off in the rain at 9.20 for our coffee stop at Bridge House, we ground to a halt at 9.22 thanks to a punctured tyre! Good start to the day as the rain persisted during our inner tube replacement. The rain continued as we made our way to Wray. We were a bit soggy, in fact, drenched, on arrival so a democratic decision was taken to return home rather than continue to Casterton after coffee. At Wray we met up with several other members who had arrived independently, so it was good to catch up! The day wasn’t wasted and we still managed 27 miles. It doesn’t rain every day, and tyres puncture rarely, so if you fancy a ride on Thursday or Sunday, you will be welcome!

Neil Westwell

Ride 22 12 2022 Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club

Leaving Millenium bridge we went down the cycle track(I had been down to reconnoiter before we tried!) then we went up Aldcliffe Hall Lane and through Aldcliffe village to join the main road to Condor Green. Going to Thurnham via Jeremy Lane and Moss Lane allowed us to get to Cockerham. Using the B5272 we got to Ratcliffe Wharf Lane and turned left. We crossed the A6 onto Hollins Lane for a short spell. Then we flew down Cleveley Bank then right at the junction to descend into Scorton for an early lunch as it was nearly Christmas.

Refreshed now, so we went back out of Scorton to Harris End crossroads then left and down through Street. I went past Five Lane Ends(others turned right to go along “happy valley!) and into Galgate. Home via a deserted Uni(what bliss). Yes a short ride but Christmas is a coming(and the cyclists are getting fat! please put a tot in the old man’s glass hee hee)

Merry Christmas to everybody and here’s to many more miles in 2023(I am leaving a tot of whisky for Father Christmas on Christmas Eve !! but only blended I’ll save the malt for myself).

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.

Lancaster and S.Lakes CTC (CUK)Sunday one stop ride to Ingleton.

In spite of the chilly weather forecast, several brave CTC members met at Millennium Bridge for Neil’s ride to Ingleton. Unfortunately, not all of us actually met at Millennium Bridge, one member deciding the meeting point was elsewhere! Having discussed, via mobile phone, an alternative starting point, convenient for both parties, the groups combined and cycled on to Nether Kellet. Through Nether Kellet towards Over Kellett we took the Kirkby Lonsdale road, but diverting through the tiny village of Swarthdale. We kept warm by pedalling along at a reasonable pace, although we weren’t assisted by the gentle breeze. Passing Red Well Fisheries and Red Well Inn, we continued along and took the Rabbit Lane turnoff leading to Gressingham. We went through Gressingham, crossing Loyne bridge, but didn’t take the Hornby turnoff, electing to head for Melling instead. Arriving in Melling, we took the Wennington road but stopped briefly to re-assemble before continuing. Wennington was soon reached and we headed on towards Low Bentham. It was a long slog up to High Bentham, but we finally arrived then carried on through to take the Ingleton turn off just outside Bentham. Ingleton was reached, and we were all pleased to climb the stairs to the cafe in Inglesport, where we were all greeted with the usual warm welcome. It had been a long journey without sustenance, around 25 miles, so we ordered a variety of refreshments, breakfast, coffee and cake or lunch, all of which were served quickly and efficiently. Having dealt with the food before us and caught up with another member, who had made her way to Ingleton independently, we started our journey home with the benefit of a following breeze. Wow, what a difference! We soon reached and ‘zoomed down’ Ravens Close! This is definitely the best direction to ‘conquer’ Ravens Close! Once again, we passed through Wennington and onto Wray where we took the decision to cycle as far as Caton before joining the cycle path. Arriving at Halton Station the participants took separate directions home. Personally, 41 miles were covered and almost 3000 feet of ascent achieved, and home before 2 o’clock, long before the early dusk! A good (half)day in the saddle! There are CTC rides every Thursday and Sunday and potential new participants are always made welcome! Why not give it a go?

CTC Ride Report Sunday 20th Nov.’22

The deluge came early !  Heavy rain was predicted from 2 pm, so we were confident of getting home in the dry as a small band of Cyclist Touring Club riders converged on Halton Station for a half day excursion to Glasson Dock.

The riverside path to Caton was busy with dog walkers hoping to make the most of the morning sunshine and the impressive autumn tints backcloth before battening down the hatches mid- afternoon.

On Lythe Brow , a huge peloton of ‘road men’ flashed past us and quickly disappeared from view, and we struggled up the two steep climbs to Postern Gate before recovering on the long gradual descent to Quernmore Church. The valley was bathed in the oblique autumn sun, and blue skies were the order of the morning.

Regrouping at Quernmore crossroads, most of us settled into a steady pace for the initial climb up to the scenic balcony road leading to Five Lane Ends, remarking on the clarity of the views across the bay.

Safely across the busy A6 at Hollins Lane , after being overtaken by another large racing peloton, we headed for Cockerham and Glasson Dock via Jeremy Lane and the headland overlooking Overton and Sunderland.

At the café we met up with other Club members and tucked into a hearty repast whilst noting with some concern the blue skies being succeeded by black clouds.

Waterproofs were donned just in time before being hit by the deluge, a good hour earlier than forecast. At least we only had to return to Lancaster. It could have been a lot worse !

CTC welcomes new riders on our Sunday and weekday rides, details of which are on our website www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club Ride on 17th November 2022

We set off from Millenium bridge went up Kellet Lane to Nether Kellet then dropped down to Carnforth traffic lights. Over the wooden bridge and despite objections we went round Warton Crag to the coffee stop at RSPB. We met other members who had cycled direct to the coffee stop but just 6 of us left RSPB to head for Arnside

We left the RSPB and turned left then right to go past Silverdale railway station then a turn left into Arnside via Coldwell Lane.

After lunch we took our usual route back via Far Arnside, Silverdale and round the crag then, because of the weather we decided to miss the afternoon break so straight home via Crag Bank, Bolton le Sands (including the floods on Ancliffe Lane) and Halton before we traversed Lancaster to get home.

Short ride(only 38 miles) but short daylight hours and the wet gear needed drying 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.

Cyclists Touring Club Ride Report Sunday 13th November 2022

 A sunny and calm Sunday enticed a goodly gathering of Cyclists Touring Club members to gather at Beaumont Gates for a ride to Casterton near Kirkby Lonsdale.

The well-worn route along Kellet Lane rewarded us with views down across the bay to Grange. Further on, the impressive crags of Green Hill captured our attention before we briefly joined the Kirkby Lonsdale road and diverted around Whinney Hill, this time savouring the crystal-clear panorama along the Lune, against the backdrop of Ingleborough. Across the main road again, to enjoy the swooping descent of Sunny Bank to Borwick and our morning coffee stop at the busy Greenlands café.

After a long natter, our numbers swelled to twelve for the onward journey. It was a late regrouping for the main leg of the ride to Casterton Golf Club café, and quieter lanes were sought from Burton for a diversion around Holme. Then it was back on the main road before again escaping the fast traffic on the lane to Millness and on to Preston Patrick.

Sheep safely grazed on the sun-drenched hillsides on both sides of the Gatebeck road. The thorn -threat was left behind as we sought out the steep stone-walled-in lanes leading up to Crosslands Farm on the B6254. Further climbing attained Old Town, the reward being the long downhill into Kirkby Lonsdale, where we weaved slowly around the Sunday visitors .

A convivial lunch stop stretched to almost an hour. At 2.15 we decided to bestir ourselves and head down the valley, some choosing the Arkholme road and others the more elevated scenic route via Docker Park, Capernwray and the Kellets. All arrived home well before the sun faded on an excellent day out, with about 50 miles covered and legs fortified by a few hills.

CTC welcomes new riders.  Visit our website to find out about our weekday and Sunday rides.

Len Howard

www.ctclancaster.org.uk

CTC Lancaster and South Lakes Ride Report – Thursday 3rd November 2022 Lancaster to Beetham and Oxenholme

 Wednesday’s strong winds had fortunately died down by the time Lancaster and South Lakes CTC cycling club members assembled at Millennium Bridge for the first Club ride of November.  Ride numbers have slowly returned to their healthy pre-Covid state and around 12 of us set off in the direction of Halton, some of the group choosing the cycle track alongside the river, and others taking the roads out of town and past the army camp.  Reassembling at the bottom of Arrow Lane in Halton we climbed up to the edge of Nether Kellett, then across to Over Kellett, Capernwray, Borwick, Priest Hutton and Burton in Kendal.

Turning left at Neddy Lane, we continued over the motorway to Holme, then in to Beetham Garden centre on the “back” road.  Other riders had made their way independently to the café where we tucked into tasty scones and cakes to fuel up for the next stage of the ride.

A slightly different group of 11 of us continued via Whassett, Ackenthwaite, Woodhouse and Viver in wonderful autumn conditions, enjoying this year’s exceptional display of autumn leaves.  We paused at Sellet Hall bridge over the Lancaster canal to inspect the newly reinstated furlong of canal, which has been dug-out, re-lined and filled with water.  It has still yet to be connected to the canal by the removal of the existing bund once all safety checks have been completed.

We cycled on to the little school at Crosscrake, where we turned right up to the A65, which we joined for around a mile before taking the more northerly of the two roads over the Helm to our lunch destination at Oxenholme Station Inn, which is actually well outside Oxenholme, but has long been on the list of lunchtime destinations for the club.  The pub was very quiet and the staff welcomed us with open arms, supplying hot and cold drinks and a limited choice of food.

Our onward route took us on the B6254 towards Old Hutton.  We turned right at Middleshaw and down a rather mucky lane past the riding stables at Holmescales.  The attractive scenery and scarcity of motorised traffic compensated for the mud as we cycled on through Gatebeck and Goose Green to the A65 near Crooklands.  Avoiding the busy traffic at the motorway roundabout we took the small lanes through Millness before joining the A 6070 to Holme.  From here we took the Moss lane towards Hale Moss, passing the Wildlife park, then taking the Yealands route back to Warton.  The two climbs into Yealand Storrs and in Yealand Conyers tested our fitness, before we joined the Crag Bank route around Carnforth, then back to our various homes in smaller groups.

This was our first Thursday ride since the clocks have gone back and so 50+ miles was plenty for the time of year.

More information about the club and our programme of rides is available on our website. We welcome new riders. Patience Cooper

www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Lancaster and S. Lakes CTC - Ride Report 23 Oct. 2022

Considering the near-apocalyptic forecast, the turnout for the Cyclists Touring Club Sunday ride in late October was remarkable. The competitive streak in at least some of the riders may have played a part, as it was time for our annual freewheel competition. An attractive trophy and a high-end mug goes to the winner.

Assembling at Halton Station, six riders observed the University rowing club preparing for their water-based activity, in the expectation that our activity was soon likely to be caught up in the forecast deluge.

Our group was quickly dispersed by the series of climbs along the Kirkby Lonsdale road, coming together again on the lane to Aughton to enjoy the views across the Lune Valley to the wind-turbined fells beyond.

We met up with adjudicator Ray at the start of the straight downhill which fizzles out at Straits Head ( assuming that riders make it over the bump at Higher Snab ) . It was Adam who consolidated his position, having also triumphed in the 2021 edition.

As the light rain began, we hastened to Warton for morning coffee at The Old School Brewery. Unsurprisingly, the riders who had done well in the freewheel also shot past the rest on the long and winding road down Sunny Bank. Onto Borwick and safely across the A6, our arrival at the Old School Brewery café coincided with the onset of the heavier showers. The warming qualities of the large log burner were appreciated, and a consensus was reached that we would call it a day and forego an expected wet ride to the lunch stop at Arnside.

As is often the case, the deluge was delayed until late afternoon, to the relief no doubt of the rowers on the Lune at Halton.

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.

Len Howard

View fullsize

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club Thursday 20 October

We gathered at the Boot and Shoe for a leisurely ride to the Lakeside Bistro at Hambleton, nice easy ride because the only hills involved were steep canal bridges(or that’s what they thought)

After crossing Bailrigg Lane we turned right down Sir John Fisher Drive and then right again at the traffic lights onto the A6 for a very short spell then a left onto Burrow Road so we could go up Highland Brow into Galgate where a right turn led us on to Conder Green Road and up and over Sellerley to Conder Green. We then headed for Glasson Dock but at the roundabout we turned left to go to Thurnham via Jeremy Lane so we could join the main road into Cockerham.

Heading on the busy fast road over the moss we turned left to avoid the traffic using Gulf lane. After a brief encounter with the traffic we turned right and whizzed past Pilling picnic site and then went left on to Taylor’s Lane to our coffee stop at the village hall.

Now followed the intricate bit weaving our way through the lanes to Hambleton. Going through Pilling then turning on to Bradshaw Lane and then Lancaster Road enabling us to turn right on to Union Lane. We arrived at our lunch stop via Moss Side Lane, A588, Grange Lane and Brickhouse Lane.

Following a delicious lunch(and a pint) we made for the A588 then Bull Park Lane, Whin Lane and Lancaster Road (again) turning on to Skitham Lane. We were on the homeward trek now because Skitham turned into Longmoor Lane then Nateby Crossing lane, Green Lane(west and east) and Gubberford Lane.

Another refreshment stop saw us girding our loins!!! for Cleveley Bank, Galgate and the Uni.

Thanks for all of you who made the journey with me it was a pleasure to lead you. Now that the days are getting shorter are rides will be shorter too so there will be more time for nattering(and coffee drinking!).

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 LANCASTER & SOUTH LAKES Thursday Ride from Millennium Bridge to Kirkby Lonsdale via Barbon on 13th October 2022

It was a bit cool on the Millennium Bridge at 9.15 am on Thursday when 12 members of the Lancaster and South Lakes CTC met for our ride to Kirkby Lonsdale but with a good weather forecast promised.

In two groups we set off along Halton Road and taking the rising Kellet Lane to Nether Kellet and then, unusually for this group, taking Birkland Barrow Road and Addington Lane to join the Kirkby Lonsdale Road. We then doubled back towards Halton and took the Aughton Road and Fall Kirk to reach Gressingham. Then across Loyn Bridge to Hornby and on to the coffee stop at Bridge House Tearooms, Wray.

Awaiting us, at the café, were four more CTC members who had made their own way to coffee by various routes but intending to ride to Kirkby Lonsdale. A straw poll of the riders decided that the preferred lunch stop should be at Casterton Golf Club and not Kirkby Lonsdale. A quick telephone call by the leader to the golf club confirmed that they could, indeed, accommodate the 12 riders for lunch.

Therefore, following tea/coffee and cakes, 12 riders (but not the original 12) set off past Millhouse Cottages and took the minor undulating lane to Wennington Station. After Wennington the group climbed the narrow lane to reach Wrayton and the A683 just before Hornby. The leader expected at least one puncture at this stage of the ride as our route had taken us over the dreaded hedge trimmings en route. But apart from a mechanical (chain off derailleur) all was well. By this time the sun was shining and some riders had shed their outer layer to keep cool.

Onward then along the A683 to Nether Burrow and taking the lane adjacent to the Highwayman Public House to reach Overtown. We, of course, dismounted our bikes to walk through the private access lane to the cottages in order to cross Leck Beck by the narrow pedestrian bridge.

Carefully crossing the A65 we took the Roman Road, riding below the beautiful colours of Barbon Low Fell, to the Dent road junction, Barbondale before descending into Barbon Village and passing the church and public house. The left turn at the war memorial was taken to pass the Church Mouse cheese emporium and following this lane eventually joined the A683 to Casterton and the Golf Club for lunch. By now it was warm enough to sit outside at the picnic tables provided and enjoy the marvellous weather for this time of year.

Once we had recharged our energy levels, we continued along the A683 to Devils Bridge and by crossing the bridge and the adjoining car park went into the Market Place at Kirkby Lonsdale. From the Market Place we took the left hander up the hill to pass Kirkby Lonsdale School to make our way across the A65 to cycle along the Low Biggins Road. Then up over Hutton Roof and the steep descent into Burton in Kendal.

A quick detour through Priest Hutton and Borwick took the remaining 5 riders (some leaving us to travel via Capernwray and the Kellets home) to the A6 roundabout, where we took the road to Warton, through Warton Village to Carnforth and the Brief Encounter Tea Rooms for afternoon refreshment.

Refreshed, once again, we took the coast road to Crag Bank and then our usual route via Anclffe Lane back to the Millennium Bridge and then dispersed for home.

I had completed 54 miles in fine, warm weather and with little wind in good company and having visited three excellent refreshment stops where we were welcomed and treated well. A jolly good day out!

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.

Keith Jewsbury

Thursday Ride from Crook O'Lune to Clapham on 6th October

We all gathered at Crook O Lune for our rescheduled ride to Clapham. I had decided to shorten the ride because of daylight hours and the weather.

Setting going we had to use the main road because of tree chopping and the cycle path was closed. We sped along assisted with a good wind before we turned off heading for Wray. My bike wanted to turn right in Wray for a sausage butty but I fought the handlebars because the bike was on a diet! . We carried on and flew through Wennington and into Low Bentham where we took a left turn up Burton Road(forget the slight detour).

At the crossroads a right turn saw us on Ravens Close Brow which we used as far as the next crossroad where a left turn onto Bentham Road allowed us to head for and into Ingleton.

Inglesport is always a welcome break before the rigours of Clapham Old Road but we did eventually, after a short ride, reach Clapham.

Approaching Clapham we turned left on Eggshell Lane(yes it is a real name!) to get to the Old Sawmill Cafe where a table had been reserved for us.

Leaving the cafe, suitably refreshed!, we cycled down the river side lane straight into a gusty head wind then onto Station Lane and across the busy A65. Then we reluctantly went past Clapham station and up Wenning Bank to get to Kneasden cross roads where we took a right turn. We were now on familiar roads because lane after lane followed and eventually Mewith Lane was met and the another refreshment break in Wray followed(without the sausage butty!).

After Wray straight down the valley to get on the cycle path again at Caton then through Lancaster and home. A short day, I arrived home before 16.00 but with 50 miles in my legs with the last 20 straight into a strong gusty wind.

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 

Sunday Ride from Beaumont to Grange - 2nd October 2022

One of the Cyclists Touring Club favourite destinations on our sunshine coast was the focus of our ride on the first Sunday in October. Grange-over-Sands beckoned through a kaleidoscope of bright autumnal colours, vividly enhanced by ever- increasing oblique rays of strong sunlight, and interspersed by the craggy outcrops of Whitbarrow and Newton Fell. A glorious day to be ‘awheel’; a sentiment shared by the twelve riders gathered at Beaumont College.

Two separate groups set off, sorted naturally on the ‘ fleet of foot’ principle, with the faster riders aiming to get to morning coffee at Beetham Garden Centre before the ‘plodders’ arrived.. The two groups then chose different routes from Over Kellet, the faster group meandering through Capernwray whilst the plodders steered through the Road Closed signs and negotiated the deserted road works on Kellet Bridge. Thus it was that both groups briefly coalesced at Borwick, the faster group having picked up serendipitously another recruit en-route.

Most of the denizens of north Lancashire seemed to have decided that the Garden Centre café would be a decent Sunday breakfast venue, so our sojourn was an extended one, this exacerbated by having to negotiate the airport-style routes through the shopping malls.

The two groups ,having agreed to rendezvous in Grange, took different routes onwards. One sought out the narrow lanes, whilst the leader and other plodders opted for the A6, which was remarkably quiet, and thence via Sampool marshes to Gilpin Bridge. Whitbarrow and the southern fells stood out in bold relief, the crags illuminated by the oblique rays of the back-end sun.. Then onto the delightfully traffic-free old A590 to the Derby Arms and across  Meathop Marsh to our picnic lunch in the park at Grange, missing still the spectacle of the  of the gaily-coloured exotic ducks, not yet replaced after being stolen years ago.

Scouring the cafes for signs of the faster group, but finding no trace, it was decided to head for the hills for the return, via Lindale, Tow Top foot and Witherslack. News then came from the faster group, beset by punctures on the thorn-strewn narrow lanes and deciding against continuing to Grange.

The plodders passed through a Tolkienesque landscape of small crags and scrub woodland towards an early afternoon tea stop at Levens Village Shop. This gem is a mecca for cyclists, with tasty cakes and hot pies and a drinks machine, and provided the perfect interlude for another convivial chat.

Sights were now set on the return, which followed the well-worn route across Heversham Marsh, Sandside, Carr Bank and onto Waterslack and Carnforth.

A perfect autumnal day for a leisurely bike ride, covering about 60 miles and home by 5pm. New riders are welcome to join our Club rides. Our Diary of Sunday and Thursday rides is available on our website      www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Lancaster and South Lakes Cyclists ride on Thursday 29 September

A splendid turn out for the Thurs ride ,this time starting from Carnforth, with a later start , enabling the south Lancaster riders to have a coffee stop in Carnforth before continuing north . The morning was dry and sunny.
The ride took in Warton, the Yealands , and Beetham village before crossing the A6,
and taking Paradise Lane , proceeded towards Hincaster via Ackenthwaite . Still in morning sunshine , a loop upto Sedgwick and passing under the old Lancaster- Kendal canal , the turn south was made . Passing under the West Coast main railway line a couple of times ,and passing through Hincaster once again , one more dive under the railway , saw us en route for White Lane and Farleton.
Junction 36 Cafe Ambio was visited (at Kendal Cattle Market) , a little busy , but a splendid spot it was for lunch ,
with everyone enjoying cakes provided provided by Steve in honour of his imminent birthday.
After a welcome break here , several riders took direct routes home in various directions , and the main bunch took the very scenic and hilly route along the side of Farleton Knott , and via Newbiggin , to the Clawthorpe to Hutton Roof road .
Passing through the village of Hutton Roof with its very old road sign to London, a short climb took us up to the junction for Burton in Kendal .A bit of a wait here , whilst the leader ( me ) fixed a broken chain with the help of Dave E , and Ian R .
All the bikes behaved then , to the tea stop at Capernwray diving centre , which we reached just before closing time !
We rode onto Over Kellet where the Lancaster riders proceeded homewards , and the
Hest Bank and Warton riders braved the very busy road into Carnforth
A good ride in very good company ………Thanks all for coming ,,,,,,cheers DAVE HUGILL.

Lancaster and South Lakes CTC- President’s ride 2022

Sunday 25th September, the first Sunday of autumn.  This was the date chosen for this year’s Lancaster CTC President’s club run for the retiring incumbent. The weather was truly autumnal – fine but much colder than what we had become used to. 

It was a good turnout at the start in Scotforth. As there was a large gathering the riders split into smaller groups as they rode straight out to Conder Green, Cockerham and the coffee stop at Canal Bridge 64.  After refreshments ten riders continued on to the toll bridge over the River Wyre at Cartford Bridge en route to Great Eccleston. Turning right in the village they then proceeded through Elswick and the villages of Roseacre and Wharles, both of which  have had a high profile in the debate over fracking. From Wharles the ride headed for Inskip turning south for Catforth. Blackleach Lane and Roots. This was         at the half way stage of the ride and they all enjoyed a grand lunch at the café there.        

The purpose of the ride had been to complete 80 kilometres as a celebration of the President’s octogenarian status. So far so good.  The remaining 50 km were to be ridden on relatively minor roads. This was very definitely a ‘Fylde’ Ride with little upward gradients apart from the humped back bridges over the canal. From Catforth they turned onto School Lane and then Hollowford. Old Nell’s and Bilsborough. After successfully  crossing the A6 at the Roebuck they rode towards Inglewhite but turning earlier northwards to Ducketts Lane and Claughton on Brock. Here, after a brief discussion, they opted for a relatively hilly route through to Scorton which took them over Sandholme Bridge and up to Barnacre Church. 

Most stopped for a brief while at the refreshment van in the centre of the village. The return to Lancaster was via Four Lanes End, the Fleece, Galgate and the university. The total mileage had been just over 50 miles – or 80.5 kilometres. Mission accomplished!

Mike Hutchinson - President.

Sunday 18th September. Beaumont to Ingleton, Ribblehead, Horton and Wray

The forecast was for a cloudy day, with possible showers around lunchtime in the vicinity of Ribblehead.  However, the day got off to a fine start and there was a good turn-out at Beaumont for the Cyclists Touring Club ride.  We cycled out to Halton, past the army camp, then joined the Lune Cycleway by Denny Beck bridge which has now re-opened following “works” on the bridge.  There was evidence of some new paint on the iron-work, but the job appeared to be only half done – a bit disappointing, but not surprising in the current economic climate.

At the end of the cycle track we took the roads to Wray, then on to Wennington and up Ravens Close.  This hill seems to get longer with passing time, or is it just some of us aren’t as fit as we used to be?  Our climbing efforts were rewarded with the long swoop down, then onward to Ingleton for a welcome morning coffee stop at Inglesport Café.  As we cycled into the village we encountered our first shower, somewhat earlier than forecast.

Leaving Ingleton after a relaxed and convivial break, we dropped down the hill, over the river and then up the initially steep climb on the Twistleton Scar road to Chapel le Dale.  Noting the speedy traffic on the main Ingleton to Hawes road, we were glad to be on the quiet side of the valley.  When we re-joined the Hawes road, our climbing muscles were put back to use on the gradual climb up to Ribblehead.  The viaduct was looking splendid and was clearly being enjoyed by the many car users who had parked up at the road junction to Horton in Ribblesdale.  Taking this relatively quiet road we soon made our next destination – Blind Beck farm café just before entering the village of Horton.  Good, solid cyclists’ fare of baked beans and eggs refuelled us for the next leg of our journey.

Passing through Horton in Ribblesdale, and still helped by a following wind and welcome sunshine, we took the Helwith Bridge and Austwick road, still hugging the sides of Ingleborough, and (almost) completing our circuit of this wonderful hill which so dominates our skyline to the east.  In Austwick we turned left after the church, down to the A65, then across to Keasden and the cyclist-haven of Mewith Lane back to Wray.  On this second visit we stopped at the Bridge House café for further liquid refreshments and chat.

On leaving Wray, the group split at the junction to Hornby, with some taking our outward route straight back to Lancaster, and others going via Hornby and Gressingham to the communities north of Lancaster.  Rain once more caught up with us on the final leg home, but as we neared the coast the sun returned to cheer us back after our great adventure.  A 60 miler day to be proud of.

For more information about our club, please see our website:  ctclancaster.org.uk.  We have regular rides on Sundays and Thursdays. New riders are always welcome.

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club Thursday 15 September

On the 15th September we gathered at the Boot and Shoe for our belated trip to Cleveleys for fish and chips.

Setting off we went through the Uni into Galgate and up Stoney Lane to Five Lane Ends where we turned right down Whams Lane allowing us to get to Cleveley Bank via Hollins Lane.

Through Scorton we flew and crossed the road into Cabus Nook Lane eventually, just before Winmarleigh school, we turned left to weave our way through the narrow potholed and bumpy lanes to our coffee stop at Bridge64 where we were treat to a lovely welcome coupled with fantastic smiles.

Leaving our coffee stop we went along Longmoor Lane then Skitham Lane. At the end a left turn then a right let us weave our way to the banks of the Wyre which we followed to Shard Bridge.

Negotiating the major road works was a bit of a mess but we finally made Poulton le Fylde then Cleveleys.

Suitable refreshed with pensioners portions of fish and chips we then went straight up the promenade to Fleetwood for the ferry crossing to Knott End on Sea. Leaving Knott End we went past the zebra, thinking the sea wall might have been busy, then into Pilling. We got to Cockerham via Gulf Lane. In Cockerham some of us turned right for yet another refreshment stop at Wallings.

After Wallings it was straight forward, Ratcliffe Wharfe Lane, Hollins Lane, Whams Lane, Five Lane Ends then Galgate and the Uni.

All in all a very pleasant ride of 56 miles with an excellent group of people, I feel following the pandemic which has reduced the numbers coming out on rides the rides have been much more of a social pleasant ride.

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 Report. CTC Lancaster and South Lakes. Sunday 11th September. Halton, Wray and Barbon

7 of us set off on a beautiful Sunday morning from Halton railway station, travelling north along the cycle track to Caton and thence to Brookhouse. The sun still shining on us we experienced wonderful views as we climbed behind the wind turbines.  We climbed even higher to see in the distance Roeburndale and beyond to the Yorkshire Dales. 

We had a glorious descent into Wray Garden Centre for coffee. Here we were joined by 4 other members who had opted for the easier route.  After lots of good-humoured chat just 5 of us carried on through Low Bentham, Burton in Lonsdale, Ireby and Cowan Bridge.  After a short stretch on the A65 we cycled on the lovely Roman Road to Barbon for lunch al Fresco.

We made our way past masses of bikers at Devil’s Bridge to negotiate the quiet country lanes of Biggins to Hutton Roof.  We made our way home through Capernwray and Kellet after exactly 50 glorious miles.

Liz Finley

Lancaster and South Lakes CTC ride Guild Wheel 8th Sept 2022

On the 8th of September a small group of cyclists gathered outside the Boot and Shoe planning to ride down to Preston to “do” the Guild Wheel.

We went our usual way through the University to Five Lane Ends then down Whams Lane to Hollins Lane. Turning left onto the A6 for short spell then left again to go through Scorton finally Green Lane East and our coffee stop at Garstang Arts.

Leaving Garstang we headed for the Brockholes Arms so we could turn left to go along Ducketts Lane and Lydiate Lane where we turned right dropping us down to the A6 which we crossed. Taking the first lane on the left we weaved our way to eventually arrive in Broughton and the start of the Guild Wheel.

Cycling round the Guild Wheel is not pleasant anymore instead it is like a “Tour de Building Site” but we finally made our lunch time stop at the Beach Cafe at Preston Marina where your illustrious leader made his acquaintance with slippy railway lines and hard rough tarmac so he ended up cycling home after loosing a bit of weight(albeit skin and blood!)

After a fantastic lunch time stop we set off to finish the rest of the Wheel then we struggled through school kids leaving Broughton Academy( what a bunch!!)

We turned right at the cross road then left to go up Langley Lane finally through Inglewhite and just made it to the Barn for a refreshment stop.

After this to avoid the main road we went via Cleveley Bank and back through the University and home.

On the way back I thought I might need help sleeping that night so I called at Bargain Booze and got a bottle of sleeping medicine.

By the time I got home I had 68 miles in my legs and we had had a nice warm dry day but the Guild Wheel has lost its charm with all the building work.

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

Ride from Beaumont College to Talebrigg Hill, Bank Holiday Monday, 28th August 2022

‘Heights’ was the apposite name of the highest point ( 210m) of the Cyclists Touring Club ride on the Bank Holiday weekend. To rescue this place from the depths of obscurity, it is better described as being between Park Hill and Talebrigg Hill on the fellside to the west of Middleton (to the south of Sedbergh).

In any case, this remote and as yet unknown destination proved sufficiently attractive to eight club members for them to get together at Beaumont on a calm and sunny Sunday. Or perhaps it was just a better option than the predicted Bank Holiday traffic jams .

With the latter in mind, the ride route sought out the by-ways to the coffee stop at Farleton View fisheries. Capernwray, Priest Hutton, Cinderbarrow and Hilderstone took us traffic-free to Holme, from where it was but a short hop to coffee. Here, we met up with another six riders for a chat.

Realising it was nearly midday, we continued under the busy Kendal by-pass to Preston Patrick and thence the lane to Gatebeck, marvelling at the various hues of late summer greenery on the patchwork of fells ahead. The gradual climbing continued past Holmescales and under the welcome shade of the tree-lined lane to the crossroads at Old Hutton. A steeper but short climb took us over the M6 and into a fellside of stone walls and gently- undulating lanes, passing the huge wind turbines, ‘at rest’ in the calm conditions.

‘Heights’was attained before the steep descent to the junction at Egholme Farm, and the gradual stepped descent to Kearstwick and Kirkby Lonsdale. Regret was voiced at the continued closure of the stricken bridge at Rigmaden, which would have been the route of choice to the lunch stop at Casterton. We will have to wait another twelve months to get a replacement . Instead, extreme caution had to be taken to weave a path amongst the hordes of day visitors at Devil’s Bridge, to arrive unscathed at Casterton Golf Club café.

Clouds arrived to provide more temperate conditions for our outdoor feasting and chatter, before heading for home through Whittington and Arkholme, with between 50 and 60 miles on the Garmin for most of us.

If you are searching for a steady-paced ride with a friendly group, the CTC welcomes new riders. Find our range of weekday and Sunday rides on our website www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Len howard

Club Secretary

Ride Report – Lancaster and South Lakes CTC – Sunday 21st August 2022 -Dent via Kingsdale

The challenging climb over to Dent via Kingsdale attracted a good number of riders last Sunday.  A forecast of dry weather and light winds, along with the prospect of superb views, did not disappoint.  From our starting point at Lancaster’s Millennium Bridge, we took the riverside cycle track out to Bull Beck, which was fortunately fairly quiet.  Our outward route took us through Wray and Wennington, then over Ravens Close to Burton in Lonsdale.  Morning coffee was at Ireby Green, where we met up with additional members who had made their way to the café independently.   

After a convivial break, we headed back towards Burton, turning sharp left before the village, then out through Far Westfield, before crossing the A65 and beginning the long ascent up Kingsdale, which was blissfully quiet apart from just one pair of motorcyclists and a couple of cars.  The views from the top, looking down Deepdale to Dent were splendid and a just reward for all that climbing.  The descent was taken steadily as some of the steeper sections had loose grit on the surface following recent heavy rain.  We all managed to reach Dent safely, apart from one snapped chain, which was quickly repaired.   

Most of the group chose to have a relaxed lunch at the farm café just beyond the village centre, with the remainder having a picnic lunch on the benches outside the church. 

Returning to the saddle, with hunger satisfied, we took the less-used by cars route on the south side of the River Dee, via Gawthrop to the fell overlooking Sedbergh, before veering left to join the Sedbergh to Kirkby Lonsdale Road.  By consensus the planned tea stop at Barbon was cancelled, with most members of the group preferring to carry on to Kirkby Lonsdale, then home, for the majority, via Whittington, Arkholme and Halton. 

CTC Lancaster and South Lakes welcomes new riders and we have a range of rides on Tuesday, Thursday and Sundays.  For further information, please see our website:  www.ctclancaster.org.uk.

Patience Cooper

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize