Till: we meet again

 

 

Part of the rationale for getting a folding bike was that I could avoid climbs by putting it in the boot of the car and heading out for flat rides in areas that are less hilly than our immediate surroundings. The plan has worked, but after a few months I felt ready for something a bit more demanding. At the weekend I tried routes around Wooler, but the weather wasn't great and that turned into a short, cold ride with showers of rain and hail. 

Three days later the weather today was a big improvement. So I headed back to Wooler to attempt something more ambitious. I began by revisiting Weetwood and Fowberry. Instead of turning back I then headed for Chatton. Then on to Chillingham, where I had a break outside St Peter's Church. I continued south, almost as far as Old Bewick. Then back via Lilburn Tower. I wanted to avoid riding along the busy A697 so I had intended to head north through Haugh Head. However, I missed the turning. A short stretch along the A697 wasn't as bad as I feared, then I was back on quiet country lanes and the Pennine Cycleway through North Middleton, and Coldgate Mill.

Highlights of the ride were the quiet roads, a variety of fords and old bridges, and great views across lovely countryside. The hedges haven't started to blossom yet, but spring is definitely in the air. I couldn't have asked for better weather. I was looking for something a bit more demanding than usual, and this certainly wasn't as flat as I've been used to. But for a ride of just over twenty miles, it felt more demanding than I intended. I'm not ashamed of getting off and pushing. But really, a bit more practice across similar terrain  is called for.