Once again on a Sunday morning, the shout of “hills” could be heard echoing around the front of St Aidans as we gathered deciding where to go.  After little deliberation, we opted for a route up past Beckwithshaw, Swinsty and Fewston and then continuing up into Timble and onto Askwith Moor beyond.

That certainly got the legs warmed up and we were glad of the descent into Askwith village before turning right into towards Ilkley.  We eventually settled on Cafe Avanti for our coffee and cake stop and we were not disappointed.  The carrott cake was gorgeous and Alex went back for seconds!!

We left Ilkley along the same route we had entered it, but continued through Askwith and onto Otley and Pool, before crossing over the Wharfe and turning down the lane to Castley.  We met up with Jamie (who had overslept) and then climbed up to Almscliffe Crag, through North Rigton and to the top of Brackenthwaite Lane, where the legs were once again hurting.

It was then a steady run back to Harrogate through Burnbridge.  A really nice ride and plenty of hills to get the early season strength building.

View the route: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/64789154