Thursday ride: Millennium Bridge to Light Ash Farm on 29 August 2024

12 riders turned up at the Boot and Shoe public house for this Thursday ride. The weather was showery at first as we passed through the University and Galgate.

Our route took us through Five Lane Ends and over the River Wyre, always a pretty route. Elevenses was at Daisy CloughGarden Centre, a popular venue for cyclists. I think they like the different types of scones!

By now the weather was improving. Two riders returned home from elevenses, leaving ten to continue the ride. Our route took us over the A6 and canal, to meet the B5272. We bypassed Garstang, and turned right, through Nateby, later taking the toll bridge at Cartford to Little Eccleston, which costs 20p per bike.

We arrived at Light Ash around 12.30pm, which is near Myerscough College. Here we enjoyed some hearty meals, the weather being good enough to eat outside. Our return routetook us through St Michaels, and Pilling, where we felt the strong South Westerly winds behind us. We followed the A588 to Conder Green, which is quiet for a main “A” road. Here we split up into three groups, some riders going straight back, others taking the cycle way into Lancaster, and the remainder going for afternoon tea at Ashton Hall Garden Centre. A total distance of 47 miles.

PS Most of our riders on our Thursday rides are either retired or almost retired. If you are interested in finding out more visit CTC Lancaster & South Lakes

Thursday Ride: Millennium Bridge to Arnside on 15 August

WET AND WINDY - Thursday 15th August 

Rain showers and gusty wind was forecast for the Thursday ride. The leader was hoping that this would deter riders with a no show and one rider had already messaged to say the weather was too inclement for him. But there’s always one that is happy to face the elements and was keen to ride to the proposed coffee stop at Farlton View. So, the duo set off, the saving grace being a helpful tail wind. At coffee we met up with another rider from Kendal and the consensus was that we should continue to the planned lunch stop at the Bob In café at Arnside but by a much shorter and direct route than the leader’s planned route. Heavy rain showers were encountered en route and puddles of water were left under the table at the café. After lunch the three made their separate ways back home. The Lancaster bound pair encountered a strong and gusty headwind. The leader clocked up just shy of 40 miles for the day’s endurance and looked forward to a hot shower and a change into dry clothes.

Lancaster and South Lakes CTC have organised rides on Sunday and Thursday, new participants are always welcome! For more information see www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Thursday ride: Boot and Shoe to Knott End on 25 July 2024

We gathered at our usual start at the Boot and Shoe for what was going to be an easy straight forward ride to the Costa de Knott End.

Going through the deserted university(but through Bailrigg) we dropped down into Galgate. Dodging the usual parked cars we went up Stoney Lane and past Five Lane Ends to have brief regrouping at the Fleece. Continuing we went through Street and turned right at Harris End cross roads, then Station Road (avoiding the water splash) and continued down Long Lane to Scorton and Daisy Clough for our coffee break.

Leaving Daisy Clough we went over the Wyre bridge and crossed the A6 to ride along Cabus Nook Lane, Broad Lane, Church Lane, Island Lane and Garstang Road which took us into Stakepool. A quick U-turn took us down Bradshaw Lane and Lancaster Road and Scronkey, to go down Union Lane.

Forgetting to turn right, we continued through Hale Nook, Clay Gap and Sower Carr, turning left down Staynall Road. At this point, I was convinced we needed to turn right but was persuaded to keep straight on. This took us uphill where we turned right up another hill adjacent to the Wyre (with lovely occasional views across to Fleetwood) (going to the Heads). Not needing a toilet, we came down and turned left on to our intended Back Lane, finally turning left onto the main road at Stalmine to take us to Knott End.

 For Jim the lunch stop would have been the squash club with its excellent food(and other amenities!!!) and I (Mike) would have joined him, whilst others prefer the ferry cafe.

Suitably refreshed (that would have meant a cold pint for Jim and me) as it was, with no company from Jim, I ate a good but sober meal at the Knott End Cafe with the others. 

We left Knott End passing the zebra and went down Green Dicks Lane before we used the fast main road then a left onto Lambs Lane took us into Pilling.

 Out of Pilling past the picnic site onto the moss road. Here Jim (and I) had decided Gulf Lane had got too bad so I elected to go straight down the main road to Cockerham.

 Those of us who went on Wallings had a welcome break after a lovely ride then we went home straight down the main road, turning off up Ashford Road to end at Piccadilly.

 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.

Composed by Jim Gardner and edited by leader Mike Codd

Thursday ride: Kellet Crossroads to Staveley on July 18

11 riders set off from Kellet Crossroads under lowering skies but with the assurance of fair weather courtesy of the met Office. Another picked up at Kellet motorway Bridge meant 2 groups of 6 made their way via Capernwray, Borwick, Burton and Holme to coffee and cake at Beetham garden centre where several other riders were already waiting. Plenty of chat of course, but Wilfs cafe at Stavely beckoned. 40 minutes later 8 of us headed on from the coffee stop with one breaking away at Sedgewick soloing to Grange for the train home. After Ackenthwaite, Haverthwaite and Natland we skirted The Helm enjoying fantastic views across Kendal to The Lakes. Most of the lanes north of Matland were new to the leader, who was happy to delegate navigating duties to more experienced riders. 

The great thing about club riding is that if you have a problem there's always someone on hand to lend a hand, be it practical help or moral support. Sure enough, about a mile out from Staveley one of the riders suffered a serious mechanical resulting in a broken chain and bent rear mech hanger. The silver lining was that it was mainly downhill to Staveley so a combination of walking and scooting got us to the cafe and Wheelbase bike shop - who fixed the hanger and chain while we scoffed more tea and coffee, soup and burgers various. 

Of course it wouldn't be summer 2024 without a bit of rain - a light shower as we set off - but it was warm and it soon dried up. Jackets off again as we headed back via Crook, Underbarrow, Levens, Storth and so to various points south. 

A great day out, 60-70 miles covered depending on start points, some nice climbs and fast descents. Good cycling, good company, good food and pretty good weather: even the met Office almost delivered. 

Lancaster and South Lakes CTC has regular rides on Sunday and Thursday! Check out www.lancasterctc.org.uk for more information, new riders very welcome.

Sunday ride: Beaumont to Bowland Bridge

CTC  Ride   Report     Sunday 7th July 2024

Six riders from Lancaster CTC defied the showery outlook in expectations of an invigorating ride to Bowland Bridge, a once -favoured destination not visited for a while. It is becoming the norm for electric-assists to be well represented these days, and this first Sunday in July didn’t buck the trend.

The six became seven, as the Club Secretary joined the bunch at Nether Kellet and continued through Capernwray, Priest Hutton, Cinderbarrow, and the squiggly route across Hale Moss to Holme and to coffee at the busy Beetham Garden Centre’s Wood Fired Oven. Here, we gained another two riders and lost just one who had jobs to do back home in the afternoon. It took a while to socialise and munch through the huge and delicious scones.

Switching sides (of the A6) led to Dallam Deer Park and across Heversham Moss. Here we spotted the usual swan family exploring the ditches. There was a brief stop at Levens Village Shop to stock up on sandwiches and cakes for later on.

There were interesting vistas of Lakeland to the west from the Brigsteerroad, but the Lakeland edge was ominously shrouded in slow-moving sharp showers. A brief stop was made at Brigsteer to ‘cape -up’ as donning waterproofs used to be termed. Rain fell on the lumpy lane to Crosthwaite, but didn’t dishearten the stalwart bunch. The back marker left to enjoy the flatter run to lunch via Tarnside whilst the fitter and motorised element tackled the long steep ascent to the Lyth Valley road.

There was a quick consumption of sandwiches whilst dodging the showers, and hot beverages in the pub before remounting for the return via Cowmire. The wooded twisting steep climbs catching some out in inappropriate gears. Waterproofs were stowed away as blue skies were spotted over the bay. We cut off the corner via Mill Side to the familiar old A590. The new road, quiet for a change, was crossed to the tranquility of Sampool.

There was a resumption of climbing mode through Heversham village to Ackenthwaite. The planned route was via Paradise lane, but this waswas closed, so we carried on to Whasset and Beetham. The group continued uphill again to Slack Head, but this was a hill too far for two riders, who opted for the gentler undulations of the A6. Fortuitously the two factions met again at Crag Bank for the final section back home.

Between 50 and 60 miles, this was an invigorating ride and not as wet as anticipated.

CTC welcomes new recruits. Take a look at our offerings on    www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Millennium Bridge to Kirkby Lonsdale on Thursday 4 July

Lancaster and South Lakes CTC Kirkby Lonsdale ride 04.07.24

Over a dozen riders left the Millenium bridge in Lancaster on a grey Thursday morning.

We took our usual route up Kellet Lane to Nether Kellet but turned left to enjoy a fast descent into Carnforth.

Elevenses was early, at Truck Haven, we were away for about eleven, taking the lanes through Borwick and Priest Hutton. The route took us north on the A6070 to Burton in Kendal, and we turned right soon after in Clawthorpe to head over Hutton Roof. We were fortunate having a tail wind, a typical South Westerly, as we so often get in our area, which helped blow us up the steep incline. Fortunately, the rain stayed off, so we could enjoy the views towards Ingleton. Soon after, we were descending quickly into Kirkby Lonsdale for lunch. Some riders went to Casterton Golf Course, while others enjoyed soup at the Bakery in the town.

While we were in the café, we couldn’t help noticing a heavy downpour outside. The plan had been to return over Hutton Roof, however, the wind was also getting stronger, in addition to the rain, so most riders headed directly back via Arkholmeand Halton. This is an attractive road with some good views, but today we were struggling to avoid been blown off our bikes, so our safety was our main priority. Fortunately, we arrived home ok having covered a distance of thirty-twomiles.

“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.”

Paul Rodman

Kellet Crossroads to Clapham plus Alternative ride

Ride report CTC Lancaster and South Lakes 27 June  

The Thursday Ride was a fairly unique event in that there were three official rides on the same day.

The original, long published route was led by Jasper who took the lead for the first time. The ride was announced as being from Kellet Crossroads to Clapham and onto Dunsop Bridge. There was a good turnout at the start, it being a little cooler, albeit windier, than the previous hot, sunny days. Almost ideal for cycling. The intended route included Mewith Lane, but it turned out that major harvesting and tractoring was taking place in the area, so it was decided to stick to the more major roads. So through Wray, Wennington, Low and High Bentham and on to Clapham where The Old Sawmill was Jasper’s choice for coffee! And an excellent choice it was, we spent almost an hour chatting and taking advantage of the excellent refreshments.

Following discussions it was decided that one ride would become two and Neil was charged with leading a breakaway group to Ingleton via Austwick, Horton in Ribblesdale, and Ribblehead viaduct.

Jasper’s group, although slightly reduced by 4 cyclists was keen to get going, heading for Bowland Knotts. It was tough going over the Knotts with the wind and ascent combined, so lunch was taken earlier in Slaidburn, another excellent hospitality choice.

In the meantime, the breakaway group were also having a tough time riding between Ribblehead and Ingleton into a strong headwind, which slowed progress, somewhat. So lunch in Inglesport was a late affair, although the wait was well worth it, excellent food and quick service.

Jasper decided to change his route slightly, now including Cross of Greet on his journey. Unfortunately, this became a tale of punctures and bleak surroundings, although remaining dry. Taking a left before Bentham was the choice but, unluckily, it wasn’t puncture free! It was a long day, including lots of ascents and afore mentioned punctures. For Jasper’s first ride, where route changing ‘on the hoof’ was required it was extremely successful.

Back to the breakaway group, they took the Ravens Close, Wennington and Wray route home arriving well in advance of the main group.

Bowland Knotts Summit Cross of Greet Ascent

On the same day, Mike decided to offer an easier, flatter ride and his report is as follows:-

Five set out from the Boot and Shoe for the “easy” option on Thursday. Nothing exciting – we headed through the Uni and Galgate, taking route 6 to Scorton and turning right to go to Daisy Clough cafe, where we were met by Ann and Matt.

A leisurely chat there then back on the wheels into a light gale, crossing the A6 and turning right to pass Bridge 64, before turning right again on the Knott End road and a struggle against the strong south easterly, taking turns to go point, until we reached Lancaster Road and turned right towards Scronkey and Pilling. We turned right (again?) heading back to take a left (at last) down Taylor’s Lane to lunch at the Pilling Village Hall. We lost 2 to go home

After lunch we took the back lane to meet the A588, lose one more to go to a kiddies’ tea party and turn right, then left down Horse Park and left onto the Garstang road. Arriving in Winmarleigh, we turned left before the school, then at the end, left to pass the Patten’s Arms to Cockerham. Right at Cockerham and, deciding not to have early tea at Glasson, at Conder Green, Jim went over Selerley and Keith and I continued home to Ashton Road.

I forgot to mention the following wind was fantastic!

About 38 miles

Come and Join us at ctclancaster.org.uk.

Mike Codd

Beaumont to Casterton Golf Club on Sunday 23 June

CTC Lancaster & South Lakes   Ride Report    Sunday 23rd June 2024

The first Sunday of our 2024 summer saw a small band of five riders from Lancaster Cyclists Touring Club converging on Beaumont College for a 45 mile excursion to the Killington Lake area. Cycling conditions were near-perfect, cool enough for the climbs, and with full sunshine on the return from lunch at Casterton Golf Club. No opportunity yet for the heat haze to build up and obscure distant views across the Bay from Kellet Lane, or later on of the Lakeland peaks and western fells of the Dales.

Good progress was made along quiet tree-shaded lanes to Priest Hutton and thence by way of the fabled ‘mucky farm’ route and Hilderstone Quaker Burial Ground to the coffee stop at Farleton View, where tasty cheese and bacon scones were in favour. The party was here swollen by one more electric-assist, tilting the balance firmly away from the completely human-powered participants.

Continuing into deeper countryside east of Peasy Beck, the almost traffic-free lanes through Gatebeck treated us to aromas of newly-mown hay and to views across the patchwork quilt of fields to the Helm and distant Lakeland. Crossing over the M6, we entered more open fellside, passing by majestic wind turbines revolving desultorily to our right.

‘Heights’ appropriately signalled the start of the long steep descent into the Lune Valley, but the need to concentrate on bike handling meant little time to appreciate the vista to the east dominated by Middleton Fell.

A right turn halfway to the valley bottom gained the more relaxing balcony route through Rigmaden Park, stopping for a photo opportunity of part of the team framing a picture of newly-shorn immaculately white sheep, contrasting with the bright green sward of the Park.

Safely through the hordes of Sunday visitors in the centre of Kirkby Lonsdale and the hundreds of bikers at Devil’s Bridge, we enjoyed our well-earned lunch at Casterton, before setting off for home via Newton, Keer Holme and Capernwray.

CTC welcomes new riders. Please take a look at our programme of Sunday and Thursday rides on our website     www.ctclancaster.org.uk

The good, the bad and the ugly! the good took the photograph, you decide on the rest!

Nether Kellet to Grange (and back) on 16 June 2024

This ride was a variation of last week’s ride when only the leader turned up for the start! This occurred due to a couple of things, first of all, it coincided with the club holiday when a lot of Sunday ride participants were away, and of course, the old enemy, the rain!

This week, no holiday, no rain, result, a good number of participants arrived for the 9.15 start. The starting point was Nether Kellet, the participants splitting into 2 groups, leaving around 5 minutes apart. Over Kellet, Capernwray, Borwick, Priest Hutton were easily conquered and after a brief ride along the A road, we arrived in Burton. We rode on very quiet roads through Holme, Ackenthwaite, Woodhouse and Hincaster, before arriving at Sizergh Castle, meeting up with a fellow rider who had ridden there independently.

After a nice, lengthy, refreshment break and chat ,we departed, saying farewell to a few riders who had other plans for the afternoon. We took the very steep up and down route to Levens with the electrically powered bikes leading the way. Past Levens, onto Witherslack and Lindale where we split to take our choice of different routes into Grange.

Various sources of refreshment were enjoyed before we decided to leave ‘sunny’ Grange, exiting along the promenade following the railway line. Via Meathop, Gilpin Bridge and Sampool we returned to bypass Levens and onto the ‘flats’ towards Dallam. We rode through the Deer Park, Slack Head and Silverdale, declining a further stop at Leighton Moss and making our way home.

An excellent ride with mixed, coldish weather, but NO rain and long periods of sunshine. 59 miles and almost 3000’ of ascent.

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular club rides on Thursday and Sunday on the Rides Diary.

Annual Fish and Chip Ride to Cleveleys on 13 June 2024

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club

Many hungry cyclists gathered at the Boot and Shoe for our annual outing to Cleveleys for fish and chips. To say they were hungry was an under statement, some had been starving themselves for days so they would enjoy(or excuse themselves) indulging in a fish and chip lunch.

Off we set going through the uni and into Galgate, Stoney Lane and right at Five Lane Ends. Whams Lane, Hollins Lane, A6, Station Road, Scorton, Gubberford Lane, Green Lane East &West. Then Croston Barn Lane and Nateby Crossing Lane to our coffee stop at Bridge64.

Onwards (following coffee, sausage butty and gossip!) Longmoor Lane, Skitham Lane then left down Lancaster Road. Right onto Crook Gate Lane then Chapel Lane took us to the road running parallel to the Wyre. Using this road we got to Shard Bridge where we then had to mix it with a lot of traffic. Breck roundabout was negotiated with a little difficulty(but easier than it used to be now that most of the traffic cones have gone but would have been easier with a map, compass and a guide!) and once over the rest was easy. Through Poulton on TitheBarn Street, Poulton Road, Bispham Road, Faraday Way, B5258, Russell Avenue, Norbreck Road and Shore Road.

Now on the main road(Fleetwood Road) before a left turn onto the old Bispham Road(badly rutted!) and to our fish and chip lunch stop on Victoria Road West..

Fully stuffed with fish and chips(but only small portions) and with full stomachs(some of us had bigger ones to fill ha ha!) it was an easy trip on the promenade to Fleetwood(about 50 minutes) to catch the Wyre ferry to Knott End.

Ignoring the ferry cafe in Knott End the route to Pilling took us along Pilling Lane past the zebra, Green Dicks Lane, Head Dyke Lane, Shaws Lane, Smallwood Hey Road and through Pilling. Passing the picnic site we got on the busy main road until we could turn right down Gulf Lane which whilst being quiet is quite badly surfaced. Arriving in Cockerham discussion took place, some went straight home whilst others aimed for another break at Wallings(Pudding House).

Leaving the Pudding House we headed for Ratcliffe Wharf Lane, Hollins Lane, Whams Lane, Galgate, Uni and home.

This fish and chip ride is an annual event and we have done it for a lot of years, various leaders and various routes but we have always enjoyed the ride(AND there is a cruise thrown in but unfortunately not a booze cruise).

Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular club rides on Thursdays and Sundays on the Rides Diary

Halton Station to Arnside on 6 June 2024

Start this morning was at the old(and I mean OLD) Halton station and we were aiming for an 09.15 start. For me it was after another break this time thanks to covid-19(I think the pint in Knott End was liquid covid not Carlsberg!)

Leaving the start we crossed the river on the old rackety bridge and then struggled up the short but very steep hill into Halton. A right turn at the junction let us glide through Halton village so we could turn left and soar up the apply named Arrow Lane(swift and straight we weren’t!) Going along the verdant country lanes decked with various species of hedges, grasses and flowers, listening to to chorus of the many species of birds allowed us to dropped down past the quarries to the Kellet Road and a nice flat run into Over Kellet.

Straight across at the crossroads in Over Kellet followed by the pleasant descent passing the fishing lakes and arriving at our coffee stop at Greenlands Farm at Tewitfield.

Leaving Tewitfield and looking forward to the many flat miles ahead of us, we realised that until the afternoon there weren’t any hills left(ha ha ha). A left in Burton in Kendal saw us joining the back lanes to Holme then it was straight forward towards Milnthorpe. At Ackenthwaite we turned to go to Woodhouse then descended to Heversham. Carefully crossing the busy A6 we went across the moss to the deer park gates then it was the busy road passing Sandside into Arnside.

It was months since I enjoyed a meal(plus a pint) in the Albion and it has kept up its standard.

Leaving Arnside via the big hill we went past Far Arnside, Silverdale, and in Carnforth we had a brief stop at the Brief Encounter! Ignoring the attraction of catching the train back to Lancaster we left the station and travelled back to Bolton le Sands via Crag Back then it was the familiar route back home. Arncliffe Lane, Kellet Lane cross roads, Halton Road and Lancaster.

These rides are very pleasant. The country side round Lancaster is amazing and you can plan routes to avoid those tin boxes on wheels!

Just look at the view from the prom at Arnside!

Jim Gardner

Ride to Knott End on 9 May 2024

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club

Well this Thursdays ride was to my favourite lunch time stop, Knott End and for those of us who fancied it the Squash Club (because it is licensed!)

09.15 saw us gathering again at the Boot and Shoe for another leisurely geriatric pedal to Knott End (and it wasn’t the bikes that were geriatric!). On the way we had to have our usual coffee break and this time it was at Garstang Arts. We went via Galgate, Street, Long Lane, Scorton and Green  Lane East. We are always welcomed at Garstang Arts  and after much gossiping and coffee drinking(much to the amusement of the locals!) we left for the hilly ride to Knott End(with two king of the mountains sections involved!).

To make the journey more appealing we girded our loins! and went via Nateby, Cogie Hill (KOM) Pilling, Head Dyke Lane, Green Dicks Lane and after passing the zebra (and giraffe!) finally Knott End where we could ungird the loins!

What a great lunch stop, we are always welcomed at the squash club and the food here is fantastic(so is the pint, BUT only one!).

After a nice refreshing break (hic hic) I thought an interesting route back would be to Pilling via the sea wall however I missed a vital left turn so we resorted to return via Green Dicks Lane which was beneficial for the tandem. After Pilling we then went over Eagland Hill( KOM). Although the road is rough in places it is usually quiet. Green Lane West and East, Gubberford Lane, Station Road let us arrive at Daisy Clough for yet another refreshment stop(but no alcohol this time!).

After a lovely break and a coffee (plus even more chat!) we went home via the dual carriage way up Cleveley Bank, Whams Lane, Galgate and Uni. 

If we could cut the chatting down! coffee drinking (not forgetting the beer!) and food being eaten these rides would be a lot easier but not as pleasant! The socialising aspect of these rides is important as is keeping our mobility going as we get older, long may it continue. It also gives us an excuse for spending lots of money on bike parts!

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.

Lancaster and South Lakes Cycle Touring Club, Ride to Pilling 25 April

Ah well it’s the return of the Jedi/Prodigal Son or bad Penny take your pick!

Gathering at the usual time at the Boot and Shoe we were aiming for a very leisurely ride to Pilling via Bridge64 cafe. When I say leisurely I mean it as some of us had had weeks of an enforced layoff and weren’t up to miles/hills/speed/fresh air or saddles! so this ride was intended to be short, flat and slow(but without the alcoholic refreshment at lunch!).

We set off through the Uni and into Galgate then after the hard climb to Five Lane Ends we turned right to go down Whams Lane. At the junction we veered off my original route to avoid the major road works on the A6. Instead of going left we went right to join the Old Cockerham Road so we could cross the A6 at Potters Brook. We then weaved our way through the country lanes to get to Ratcliffe Wharf Lane then left at the end for a fair stretch on Park Lane before a right turn onto Nateby Crossing Lane and then finally coffee(what a relief! sausage butty here I come).

To get to Pilling I led them along Longmoor Lane and Skitham Lane before turning right onto Lancaster Road and into Pilling. To get to our lunch stop (and possibly another sausage butty!) a right turn here would have meant a very short ride so I made left turn onto Head Dyke Lane then right down Carr Lane to eventually go down Taylor’s Lane to our lunch stop.

After a simple welcoming lunch in lovely surroundings with plenty of chatting I eventually managed to stir them into action for the return home. But it would probably be slower carrying a couple of sausage butties ha ha ha. Leaving Taylor’s Lane we went past the picnic site then a short section on the main road before we turned left on the Horse Park Lane, Garstang Road, Cogie Hill(KOM!), Island Lane, Broad Lane, Cabus Nook Lane and Daisy Clough.

After another coffee(nothing to eat!) it was the easy simple way home via Forton, Wallace Lane, Whams Lane, Galgate and the Uni.

We try to make these rides as pleasant as we can make them. We always make sure nobody gets left behind, the rides go at the pace of the slowest and we stop often and allow everybody to regroup. We always have an experienced member at the rear so nobody gets lost. The stops are judged so we can spend time socialising, often the socialising time is longer than the cycling time. Come and join us, we are a friendly group(some say! others say mad)

Welcome back to leading rides, Jim. (Ed.)

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.

CTC Ride to Casterton on 4 April 2024

Nine of us met at Millennium Bridge for the ride to Casterton Golf Club with a morning coffee stop at Bridge House in Wray. The weather was fine as we set off, although the Spring sunshine was still missing in action! We followed the river towards Halton, then taking the left turn up Kellet Lane to Nether Kellet, pausing at the motorway bridge to reassemble. We rode on, but arrived at the temporary roadworks just after the lights turned green. Unfortunately, as we were going at cycle speed, uphill, through the works, the cars waiting at the other end were beginning to move towards us as their light turned green before we had passed through the roadworks. Perhaps more time should be allowed at roadworks before lights change to account for cyclists pedalling uphill. We continued, unfortunately, not for very far as one of our number was struck by a punctured tyre. Teamwork got the inner tube changed in reasonable time, but having lost possibly half an hour, the decision was taken to amend the route slightly so we got to coffee at a previously anticipated time. We took the Kirkby Lonsdale turn just passed the quarry and headed towards Redwell. Rabbit Lane took us to Gressingham then onto Hornby, arriving at Wray to find that we had missed a couple of riders who had made their own way to Wray.

After spending a pleasant time enjoying the company and refreshments, we took to the road again heading towards Low Bentham via Russell’s Lane to avoid the steep climb at the start of Long Lane. We joined Old Moor Road then rejoined Long Lane a bit further along, taking us into Low Bentham. It’s a steep climb out of Bentham on Burton Road, but becomes pleasantly undulating once the summit is passed. Through Burton and onto Ireby Road took us past Ireby Green farm and onto and across the A65 passing through Ireby. Through Leck we approached the A65 again, turning right onto it towards Kirkby Lonsdale. Previously we would have gone across the busy main road through Overtown, but a local resident and landowner have decided they don’t welcome cyclists anymore and despite local council discussions we are still not welcomed. So the A65 it was, albeit briefly before we took the road past the old station onto the old Roman Road, no Romans here to prevent our progress! We soon arrived at Casterton Golf Club where we met up with several more fellow cyclists. It was nice to sit and chat for a while, enjoying the excellent lunch, efficiently served as usual.

It was decided, although perhaps not universally, to bag a few more feet of ascent so we headed towards Hutton Roof via Devil’s Bridge, Kirkby Lonsdale and Biggins. The ascents, although tough were all quite short, but the descent down towards the second Burton of the day was rewarding. From Burton, we headed all the way along the A6070 passing Greenlands, crossing the motorway bridge, turning left at the roundabout then the right turn towards Warton. Riders were leaving the ride now as they neared home. A good day, covering 50 miles and ascending 3000ft.

We ride on Thursday’s and Sunday’s and new (and old (and young)) participants are always welcome! See ctclancaster.org.uk

CTC Ride Report 31st March 2024

The Lancaster CTC Easter Sunday ride attracted 10 members, some new faces and the welcome reappearance of some more historic ones. Perhaps it was the later start in Carnforth, or a spring in the step following the springing forward of the clocks, or more likely the prospect of a warm sunny ride through the unparalleled scenic beauty of north Lancashire to a coffee stop at Levens Hall.

The ride quickly settled into a tale of two groupings, and so it was that the faster riders chose a more challenging route via Thrang End and Hale Moss. The more sedate group settled for a slightly easier ride via Cinderbarrow. Both groups coalesced naturally at Woodhouse for the final run into Levens.

Table 29 in the Levens Hall courtyard resounded to cyclists’ babble, and hats were donned to protect the more follically challenged from the fierce sun. Eventually it was time to move on, and the group again divided equally between the homeward bound and the Grange-over-Sands contingent, keen on making hay whilst the sun shone. Quickly seeking the level byways of Sampool, and pushed along by a helpful easterly breeze, the five ‘continuers’ were nevertheless hard-pressed to find gaps in the bank holiday traffic on the A590. The cyclists haven of the old main road led on to Witherslack and the heart-rendingly scenic craggily-wooded byway to Tow Top foot. Newton Fell tracked our progress along its lower slopes, and we looked down on still-flooded levels till we rolled into Lindale.

A fitter trio tackled the steep School Hill ascent, whilst the rest chose the main road, regrouping for sandwiches at the picnic tables in the park overlooking the lake.

It was suggested that the return trip include early afternoon tea and cake at Levens Village shop, a cyclists’ mecca in these parts. The Meathop route was explored and the floods by the railway deemed passable, except for the electric-assist which decided to play safe via the main road route to Meathop.

Yet another regrouping at Levens shop, and yet more chattering amongst the cycle-touring class, before a sedate return via Dallam Park, Storth, and Leighton Moss. A cracking Bank Holiday outing of 60-odd miles for most in glorious spring weather, along scenic byways in north Lancashire and south Cumbria. Our varied programme of Thursday and Sunday rides and social events can be found on our website.

Sunday 17th March 2024

It was cycle touring, but not quite as the old guard would have known it!  CTC Lancaster’s St Patrick’s Day Sunday ride attracted early rain which dissuaded a lot of riders from assembling at Halton Station. The old guard would have been surprised to find that four out of the five cyclists who made it to the start were electric-assisted; the Social Secretary was particularly keen to test out her retro-fitted’ Pendix appendage’ on her Thorn. Tradition was represented by the Club Secretary (a septuagenarian on a fifty-year old Mercian.)

Nevertheless, the group was was helped by a following wind up the Lune valley, and the rain had ceased by the time we set off. The morning’s destination was Ireby Green café, via the well-worn route through Wray. Bucolic variety came in the form of Spout Lane, meandering through a hummocky landscape to Wrayton, and sporting a curiously-situated urban litter bin in the middle of nowhere. Further hummocks stretched our legs between The Highwayman and Cowan Bridge. Small patches of sunlit fields added interest to the views south from the Leck and Ireby lanes. We rolled down to cross the A65 to Ireby Green and well-earned, excellent freshly-made scones.

Sandra changed her plans to suit the septuagenarian’s legs, and we decided on lunch at Goat Gap instead of Clapham. The group now reduced to two ladies and the traditionalist. The electrics waited patiently at the top of the hills we encountered beyond Buron-in-Lonsdale and along Nutgill Lane to the summit of Newby Moor and onto lunch. Replete, a brief free-wheel took us to Clapham Station before the steep ascent to Keasden and the familiar snaking route along Mewith Lane. By now, the summit of Ingleborough was clear and the valley flooded with afternoon sunlight. A sight to gladden the heart after all the recent rains.

Further hills via Gressingham were eschewed in favour of the free-wheel down the valley. The traditionalist’s legs had decided that 50 miles and 3,500 feet of climbing was sufficient for one day.

You too can join our friendly inclusive rides.  As long as you have cyclist’s legs and/or enough battery charge to avoid range anxiety!

Sunday 10th March 2024

A cold strongly gusting wind from the north east put paid to any plans by the cycle tourists to extend the Sunday ride beyond the coffee stop at Arnside. Only five riders from Lancaster CTC made it to the start at Beaumont College, though we did pick up another two by the time we got to Carnforth, and a further one joined us at coffee.

Against the wind for much of the way, it was 10.45 before we made it to Bob In at New Barns, just beating the Mothers Day rush. By the time we re-mounted, the high tide was lapping at the green grass, and was almost level with the track round the bay edge.  The railway viaduct appeared perilously near to the water from this vantage point. A closer view from the promenade showed at least enough headroom for a canoeist!

There had been thoughts of continuing to Grange, but the return would have been hard work, and the train might not have taken all the bikes! So it was home via the flat water-filled dyke landscape of Heversham Moss, Heversham village, Ackenthwaite and Holme. Then more water-filled ditches and geometric road patterns on Hale Moss, followed by the nicely dry ‘mucky farm’ and onto Borwick and the Kellets.

A tricky rear wheel puncture in a newly retrofitted electric-assist detained some of us for an hour, but fortuitously happened at Priest Hutton. Thus we were able to benefit from the excellent hospitality of villagers who are Club members, offering a heated garage and an unplanned early afternoon tea stop.

A pleasant meander of 40 to 50 miles for most, and home for a late lunch. What’s not to like?

You can also experience the wind in your wheels on one of our sociable rides on Sundays and Thursdays. Just look at the Rides Diary.

Sunday 3rd March 2024

Ten riders from CTC Lancaster gathered at Boot and Shoe on the first Sunday in March for an exploration of the Bowland fringe and northern Fylde. The conditions vastly exceeded expectations gleaned from the forecast, and we revelled in warm spring sunshine for the 50 or so miles of the ride.

Heading south from Galgate, we pushed into a lively breeze, but nevertheless arrived early at the Applestore café in Scorton.  Our route was via the ‘water splash’, where Ian almost came to grief on his gravel bike watched by an audience from the footbridge. Undaunted, Ian continued his off-road exploits through Grizedale whilst the others benefited from the sun-drenched vista across the plains to the Lune estuary from the balcony route skirting Nicky Nook.

We spent a profitable 45 minutes at coffee, and most were happy to continue to Knott End for lunch.  Fair progress was made through Winmarleigh, but our lunch was delayed by half an hour due to the Fylde being an unfamiliar habitat for the leader, together with the absence of a road sign at Cogie Hill.  The café at Knott End slipway was busy, but they coped admirably due to good staffing.  We were soon on the return journey through the Pilling village lanes, followed by the remarkably quiet main road to Cockerham, the white mass of Heysham power station glinting away to the north and the University to the north-east. Sandra chose the off-road option at Conder Green, whilst the rest headed directly for home on the tarmac.

As spring seems to have sprung (for now), you might want to consider joining our friendly CTC group for days ‘awheel’ in our scenic north Lancashire countryside.  Electric-assists, tandems and all types of cycle are welcome. Information on rides is in our Rides Diary.

CTC Lancaster and South Lakes ride from Millennium Bridge to Grange over Sands on 29 February 2024.

CTC members were out in force for Neil’s ride to Grange over Sands with a morning stop at Levens Hall on the way. Starting at Millennium Bridge we followed the River Lune out of Lancaster towards Halton, taking the left turn to start the long slog up Kellet Lane to Nether Kellet. Always a warming start to get those lungs and legs working hard! Through Nether Kellet and Over Kellet, we carried straight on to pass the diving centre at Capernwray and on through Borwick and Priest Hutton. We briefly paused to reassemble before turning right to follow the main road to Burton. We took the left turn down Neddy Lane, over the motorway bridge to Holme. Eagle eyed readers may have noticed by now that no mention of the weather has been made so far! Well, there was no noticeable weather to report, it wasn’t raining, thank goodness, it wasn’t sunny, shame! It was just average for the last day of February, although there were still plenty of puddles along the way. What does seem to be more noticeable on our rides is the growing amount of ‘new lakes’ springing up in the fields alongside our routes. Not much help to the farmers!

We continued through Whasset and Ackenthwaite, then turning left in Woodhouse, we rode down the gradual descent into Heversham, turning right at the junction and followed the road until it joined the A6, which we followed to our coffee stop, Levens Hall. Nice coffee, enormous cakes to enjoy, we took our time in the busy cafe, drinking, eating and ‘chin wagging’.

Time to leave our pleasant, comfortable surroundings, our role call showed that we had lost 3 personnel, leaving to fulfil other engagements, but gained 3 who had made their own way to Levens Hall. From here we briefly followed the A6, taking the left turn towards the A590, but took the left turn towards Sampool. A combination of road and bridleway, all hard surfaced, took us to the point where we could cross the A590, carefully, to Gilpin Bridge, where we turned to follow the road or cycle path, turning right at the pub towards Town End, then left towards Witherslack. We carried on until we came to the junction with the almost impossibly steep ascent of Tow Tops in front of us and the turn to Lindale to the left. In spite of the many protests, it was decided to follow the road to Lindale! Reaching Lindale, participants had the choice of straight on to Grange, or right up Lindale Hill briefly, turning up School Hill to join the main road and following the swooping descent into Grange. 3 chose the hilly route, the rest the reasonably flat way. We all arrived at the Coffee Pot, our lunch destination of choice, together so we were able to lock our bikes behind the gate and take our seats at the tables, where we seemed to monopolise that area of the cafe. We were served quickly and efficiently by what appeared to be only 2 members of staff! Well done Coffee Pot!

Departing through the car park we joined the promenade, following it to the narrow bridge over the railway line at the end and onto the main road. We did take the right turn past the golf club, but this road was so badly flooded we decided to retrace our wheels and rejoin the main road back to Lindale, where we took the right turn. We followed this road almost back to the A590 before taking the right turn to Meathop. We were now back on track after our diversion near the Golf Club. Back across the plain we found our way back to Gilpin Bridge, then on through Levens village, across the Mosses, through Sandside, Hazelslack, Waterslack, Silverdale and Crag Bank where the ride was declared over so people could go there separate ways home.

62 miles, 2500 ft of ascent and one shower all day! It’s great to be a cyclist with all these most suitable roads and destinations to explore, not to mention cafes! CTC Lancaster and South Lakes have organised rides every Sunday and Thursday! Please join us, look at our website for more information! www.ctclancaster.org.uk

Neil Westwell

Cycling UK Millennium Bridge to Brickhouse Bistro on Thursday 15 February 2024.

The weather forecast for Neil’s ride to Brickhouse Bistro in Hambleton had been pretty pessimistic all week, but when it came to Thursday morning’s departure time, it looked a bit more promising. There were 9 of us at the start including Paul arriving for his first ride with us. Welcome Paul!

We crossed Millennium Bridge and joined the cycle path towards the railway station. We rode past the station and onto Dallas Road, then Aldcliffe Lane all the way to Ashton Road. We took the right turn onto Ashton Road, taking the next left along Tarnwater Lane. This is a very appropriate name to include on this ride given the amount of enormous puddles we had already navigated. In fact some of the puddles we encountered later in the day were more like lakes, never mind tarns. Perhaps we should have brought water skis with us instead of the bikes! In spite of all the standing water, we were only bothered by the odd shower as we made our way through Galgate. Following Stoney Lane all the way through Street, we eventually took the right turn along Long Lane, then turned left towards the water ford. We reached the ford which had quite a fast running stream of water running over it, we were glad there was an alternative footbridge we could use.

We climbed the hill from the ford and took the right turn along Higher Lane. The plan was to follow Higher Lane all the way to the end, but given the fact that it wasn’t a well travelled road and crossed a couple of basically bridged streams, we instead took Tithe Barn Lane into Scorton and subsequently onto Garstang where Garstang Arts was our morning stop of choice. This is an excellent stop for bargain hunting refreshment seeking travellers. We had been pretty lucky with the rain from above at this stage, although water from below was a different matter, some of the puddles navigated saw wheel rims being completely submerged, it’s a good job for waterproof shoes and overshoes!

We left Garstang well nourished towards Nateby, taking the right turn towards Knott End. We rode through Stake Pool and found our way through Pilling Village, rejoining the A road briefly before turning right along Green Dicks Lane and continued to the outskirts of Knott End, then taking the turn towards Preesall. We took the turn onto Back Lane and followed this quiet road almost all the way to Hambleton, although we had to retrace our wheels briefly when we came across two horses who were a bit spooked by our bright coloured cycling gear. We arrived at Brickhouse to find the restaurant almost full, but luckily a threesome were happy to move from their larger table to a smaller one so we were able to sit together and place our lunch orders.

We had kept pretty dry so far but the journey back was a little wetter with the odd shower falling. It was never too heavy, so it wasn’t a problem, although the wheel rims continued to disappear in the lakes(formally referred to as puddles). We found our way to Clay Gap Lane, Union Lane, and onto Lancaster Road and as far as Stake Pool where we took the Garstang Road and then onto Winmarleigh. We joined the B road as far as Stony Lane We found our way to Potters Brook and Bay Horse, then Galgate and along the cycle path through the University campus to Scotforth where we split to go our separate ways home.

Just short of 60 miles were covered at an average speed of 11mph, or should it be knots?

We have 2 organised rides every week, Thursday and Sunday, opportunities for all! See our website for details at www.ctclancaster.org.uk.

Neil Westwell