Thursday Ride to Sedbergh on 12th August '21

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