Saturday 6th October 2018

I was quite anxious about introducing a new park and ride to the ‘C’ Group of Garstang Cycling Club. Would anybody travel the 43 miles to the start? Would they think it was too hilly? Would they think the café choice was too expensive? So I was made up when Petula gave me a little hug at the café and said, “This is just lovely!”

Five familiar faces and one new (welcome Ian) met behind the Bellflower. Leaving promptly at 8.45am meant we were at the starting point in Haverthwaite by 9.30 where six more familiar faces were waiting. The day was dry but cold when we set off at 10.

We made our way up a series of quiet lanes along the Rusland Vally and on to Grizedale Forest Park. The steady climb soon warmed everybody up. Despite their being twelve of us, we agreed to stick together as there were many opportunities to take a wrong turn. This proved to be no problem as the lanes were so quiet. Eventually, a steep descent brought us down to the road into Hawkshead.

We forced ourselves to avoid the many tempting eating establishments in Hawshead because we knew Hawshead Hill awaited us. This was by far the steepest climb of the day and one we were all glad to put behind us. Another swift descent took us to the lovely quiet lane which runs alongside the east side of Coniston Water.

The café was at Brantwood, John Ruskins House. It was here we had coffee, cake and much banter whilst enjoying stunning views across Coniston. The return journey took us the full length of Coniston Water. When the sun came out Kenny kindly had a puncture so we could spend even more time enjoying the views. However, all good things must come to an end, and after 25 glorious miles we were back at the cars. Everyone agreed it had been an excellent ride. Anyone up for another trip to the Lakes?