Cycling the Matterdale Valley

The ‘Royal Riders’ had their first bike ride one sunny day in mid July.

 

Organised by Cecilia, we area group of very mixed ability cyclists, with a wide variety of bikes included road, mountain, electric, and even a tandem. We gather at The Royal Hotel in Dockray at 9.30 on a Saturday morning and usually cycle for about two hours varying between 17-22 miles and between 500-2000 ft of ascent, and, of course, descent. This is followed by coffee and one of Michelle Castles delicious cakes at theRoyal.

 

We started off as a group of eight and quickly grew to a list of 30 which includes children and some visitors to the valley. This is no Tour de Matterdale, and we don’t go out in dreadful weather, but we’ve cycled along our local less frequented lanes, marvelled at the views of HighStreet, Plaice Fell, Blencathra, and Skiddaw stretched out before us and chatted to our neighbours.We’ve had fun, got a bit fitter, made new friends, and burned at least enough calories to justify the cake at the end. It’s been great, and a huge thanks are due to Cecilia for organising and inspiring us.

 

Sadly we’ve had to stop meeting. Although we’ve always socially distanced the local Covid guidelines of no more than two households meeting have put paid to our rides as a group for the time being. BUT we will be up and cycling again just as soon as we can.