We had five tandem teams with one solo rider set out for the relatively early start in
Boroughbridge today. This is a beautiful ride through lush, open countryside and
picturesque, quiet villages, we followed the NCN688 on the entire outward leg.
Some very good junction marking on today made it easy to ride as a group.
We were serenaded on our circuit around the centre of Ripon by a full peel of bells from
the majestic cathedral.
Onwards we rode, into a full headwind and now gently but relentlessly uphill, we
entered Studley Royal Great Park over the cattle grids and under the gatehouse,
onwards along the die straight carriage drive towards the distant church spire on the
horizon. How special that feels!
We paused to admire the magnificent herds of Fallow Deer, before regrouping at the far
gate. We had one slight issue with a stoker saddle that refused to stay at the height it
was set, but did we let that spoil our fun? No, not a bit of it!
The sun emerged as we approached the Fountains Abbey visitor Centre, so it is not
surprising that the comfort break and bottle fill was followed by a swift ice-cream cone
for several of the crew.
With 15 miles under our belts and the wind now at our backs, our drop back towards
Ripon was as relaxing as it was swift. Should we use the canal towpath to avoid the
roundabout on Ripon ringroad? A no Cycling sign answered the question, so we stuck to
the road which proved to be unusually quiet today.
Over the river bridge and a right turn towards Newby Hall and we were once again on
gently rolling country lanes all the way back to Boroughbridge.
A slightly belated lunch stop at our favourite café on the High Street, and we were ready
for our journey homewards.
Some lovely comments from our riders: “My favourite ride
so far”, said one. “The Studley Park ascent was most impressive. All in all a lovely route
with beautiful towns and villages”, said another. “What a great ride! I really enjoyed it” is
a sentiment we can all agree on. Unloading of the tandems by pilot and stoker, we were soon ready for a welcome nap!
What a great team.
Until the next time amigos.
Write up by Stevie
This was my first time to tga lanes around Ripon. A great day out.
This was my first time to tga lanes around Ripon. A great day out.