Rob, Sarah, John and James headed out from Harrogate on what we thought would be a nice ride to Ilkley and back, however Rob had other plans, probably influenced by James saying he wanted to crack 50miles at some point during the week before.

Anyway, we headed out through Kirkby Overblow and Weeton before heading to Pool and Otley. In Otley we went over the river and turned towards Askwith and Ilkley. After having to make way for a beard of cows we gathered pace on a steady run, past Ilkley Golf Club. It was here that Rob said that Bolton Abbey was in reach so let’s head there and see how we feel!

We reached Bolton Abbey feeling good, so during a coffee/tea stop at The Abbey Tea Rooms we collectively decided to head back to Harrogate by heading up towards Appletreewick and past Stump Cross Caverns to the top of Greenhow Hill. Sarah took some pursuading, but that was where we headed. After a long steady climb, which was pretty steep in sections we reached the top of Greenhow to be rewarded with ome stunning views. From here it was a swift return to Harrogate past Menwith and down Penny Pot Lane, before one final climb up to Harlow Hill.

A really good ride totalling nearly 57 miles and 2,700 ft of climbing resulting in some sore legs and bums!!

View the route here: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/14479480