A rare midweek ride for me. I’ve blocked a few days in the next few weeks either for writing or riding if dry. Today just about past muster and I headed off through Ingleton along the old road to Clapham. The first surprise of the day was a new café in Clapham with a bike shop attached called Paul’s pedals. An excellent cup of coffee and chat with Paul took me through Austwick and across the
Ribble. The big climb from Stainforth up to Malham didn’t seem too bad today although it was very cloudy and cooler on top. After a tour of the summit and the Tarn, I dropped down into Malham Village and then had a late lunch at the farm shop in Airton. After a very large toasted sandwich and some drizzle, the plan to cycle all the way back was shelved in favour of a train from Gargrave. Still 75 very enjoyable km with 1100 m of climbing.
Pictures contemplating the Strada Bianchi around Malham Tarn, the descent toward Malham and Gargrave station.