Eight of us enjoyed the beautiful scenery and quieter roads of Lower Wharfedale in perfect cycling weather.
Major roadworks greeted us at the parking and starting point, but we found our way through and set out towards Bolton Abbey via a few sharp steep hills and some recently top dressed surfacing. The views over to Ilkley Moor were most impressive.
The Brownie Barn near Appletreewick again served us excellent coffee, cakes, sarnies and even ice creams for two. These kept us going onto Burnsall and up Barden Moor Road over to Embsay with great far views of Pendle Hill.
Late lunch was at The Abbey Tea Rooms, which powered us up for the tough Cow and Calf climb out of Ilkley. Two newbies to this ride rather surprisingly, hardly noticed the famous rock formations, although they had spotted more ice cream sellers! A kind litter picker (and cyclist) took a full team photo at the top (minus Greg, who was now way ahead) and we savoured extensive views of Almscliffe Crag, the Chevin and beyond. Plus lots of aeroplanes and red kites.
At Menston Steve took us a quicker way down into Otley, albeit busier. Back at the riverside a few of us celebrated a great ride with cold drinks in the beer garden.
We stayed together well and covered 45 miles and almost 4,500ft of ascent.
Special kudos goes to Mike and Greg for over 100 Strava achievements! It pays to come back again. Well done Nicky too, for putting up with all the male banter!
Thanks for coming.
Graham