Up the Ribble and down the Lune - Mike Bridges

Sunday’s ride was one described by Ian as “up the Ribble and down the Lune” and by me as “Tour de Bowland”.  I am sure readers will make up their own minds!

The weather was bright with some sun and a light north wind when Ian and I met at the north end of Midgery Lane, like last week, and followed the same start to our ride.  This took us through Longridge and on to Chaigley, before joining Route 90 as far as the Copy Nook pub.  Apart from the views of the vale of Chipping, the main highlight was a brief pause near Bashall Barn to watch a hunting barn owl.

We headed on along quiet roads (apart from a few motorbikes) to Wigglesworth and Rathmell to reach Settle.  The town was crowded and we took our first lunch sheltering from the sun on a bench by the church door.  The other guests were dead quiet.

Leaving Settle via Giggleswick we crossed the A65, we followed Route 90 for a while, being diverted through Lawkland by tar laying to reach Austwick and Clapham then passing Clapham Station to reach Keasden.  Mewith Lane took us onwards and downhill to Wray, where we continued onwards to Caton.

We took our second (late) lunch on the Lune cycleway, which we followed towards and through Lancaster.  The route continued by road from Conder Green to Cockerham, where we followed Route 90 again (apart from a minor deviation via Moss Edge), this time via Stake Pool to Cartford Bridge.  South of the Wyre, we took a minor road to reach Elswick, continuing south to Wharles and Treales.

A brief stretch of the A583 from Clifton east brought us to the Guild Wheel bridge and there, Ian and I headed for our respective homes.  Another quality ride for us both, bringing in 101 miles for Ian and 104 for me.  It’s a few years since I have exceeded 100 miles, but we both thoroughly enjoyed it.

Mike Bridges