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?