Mini-Tour du Lake District

The time came that I had a couple of days off.  Thoughts were thought, decisions decided and reneged on, and a full-morning lie-in was had.  And Lo!  I found myself on the bicycle hereby known as 'Sally' trundling down the drive of the Castle (my most recent abode).  We were part loaded with panniers on the back and a bag on the handlebars.  Our aim was threefold;

1. Test how Sally coped with a lump like me and some baggage
2. Assess my ability to keep touring pace
3. Purchase a set of front panniers from Ghyllside Cycles in Ambleside.

The day was just right, with warm sun (but not too warm), a cooling breeze (but not too cool) and no pressure (except that in the tires).  As we wound through the rolling countryside surrounding Cockermouth, I realised it had been a long time since I had lifted my head and really took in what was around me.  Moving out of the National Park has shown me just how beautiful it is.  Being able to gaze upon the Northern Fells from a country lane felt like I was getting a wider view than possible before.

Looking towards Skiddaw

All feelings of grandeur were diminished soon after, as I realised a wrong turn had been taken and added about 3 miles before we'd even started properly!  We found the correct road and enjoyed almost traffic-free rolling most of the way towards Keswick.

I became aware of dropping energy levels as we passed through the busy town centre and I resolved to have a food stop soon.  However my need for food conflicted with my usual bullet-headed compulsion to go just-a-bit-farther.  A mile of 13% uphill and a few more of steep undulations found me in a layby pleasant enough to dismount and have a chew.

Giving the UK2Africa jersey a run out

The continuing 13 miles to Ambleside were without incident, some gentle but long climbs and an increase in traffic levels the only discussion points.

So!  Sally and myself had arrived on our inaugural tour.  Now it was time to refuel.  We gathered a gang and tucked into a carvery in Windermere.

Time off in Ambleside

Next morning I visited the cycle shop.  Unfortunately they didn't have the panniers I wanted so I'll have to return next week.  Still, they're a great shop so call in if you're ever about (http://www.ghyllside.co.uk/).

The return journey to the castle was straightforward and gave me plenty of time to practice my camerawork while pedalling...

Heading back past Skiddaw

The path less travelled?

Rollercoaster road

From the Fells to the Sea

Mini-Tour complete!

And the aims?  Sally coped well with the weight, even feeling more settled when loaded and I managed to keep within the pace relatively well.  No panniers yet though!

We're still collecting money for Alzheimer Scotland via JustGiving.

See www.justgiving.com/uk2africa2013 for how you can donate too.

John