Graham, Greg, Nicky, Roly, Paul and Marcus joined me for the promised 43 mile, hilly ride to Rievaulx Abbey yesterday. As I sipped my pre-ride coffee outside Swainby Village Store, I received a stiff reprimand for not advertising this option to all. I firmly blame Graham, who when I arrived, was already comfortably seated at the window tucking into his scone and topping up his tea!
Notwithstanding, I thought I'd push my luck by suggesting we tackle Carlton Bank, listed in the top 100 climbs. It is lengthy and said to have a maximum gradient of between 19 and 30%, depending on your reference, but in reality perhaps closer to 19%. Surprisingly, no one objected (I think!) and 20 minutes later we were all in bottom gear, fighting to keep front wheels down on the tarmac and puffing frantically mid climb.
Paul who, legend has it, is descended from the Himalayan mountain goat, was at the top first and heading back down. I thought this was to offer assistance to stragglers, but as it turns out it was merely to collect photographic evidence of the suffering!
It was satisfying for everyone to reach the top and, once pulses settled, we were rewarded with the scenic descent through Raisdale to Chop Gate. The B road to Helmsley was picturesque and relatively sparse of traffic. That said, it was nice to leave the main road at Laskill and climb the quieter lane up to Hawnby. Paul left us at this point, lured by the tearoom offerings and apparently under new ownership. The rest of us paused to photograph some impressive and highly poisonous toadstools, before the climb back up the hillside to the main road.
Arriving at Rievaulx we had a quick group photo in front of the Abbey, boys holding girl's bikes and girls holding boy's. Best not ask! We then enjoyed lunch in the Abbey cafe, along with the the usual animated and slightly too loud conversation!
Our way back took us to Old Byland and Caydale Mill. Negotiating the lengthy ford through 3 or 4" of water added to the excitement, but the subsequent 25% climb soon removed any smiles!
It was not long after we re-entered Hawnby, via a figure of 8 route. Then followed the demands of plenty more hill climbing, but accompanied by splendid views across Hawnby Moor.
We eventually arrived back in Osmotherley and in turn Swainby, tired and unfortunately too late for tea and cake, but with over 5000 feet climbed and satisfied with our efforts!
A great day out and thanks to those who joined me.
Mike P