Seven hardy souls gathered in the pouring rain for a spin out to one of our favourite destinations….Beningborough Hall. We set off at a steady pace to get the legs warmed up towards Knaresborough and onto Farnham, Staveley, Minskip and Boroughbridge. We then headed into the back lanes down through the Dunsforths, into Ouseburn and over the bridge a Aldwark. We had a slight delay at the bridge as we had hit Sunday morning rush hour…it was then swiftly on to the farm shop at Beningborough to warm our bones with some coffee and cake.
The coffee stop was pleasant until Pete decided to take his socks off and wring them out on the flag stone floor, creating a puddle inside to go with the many ones outside. Malcolm also nearly nutted the girl behind the counter when he was the last to get his coffee having been the first to order it!
Anyway, after refuelling we retraced our steps to Aldwark and made our return to Harrogate, via Whixley, Cattal, Walshford and North Deighton. We left Rob at North Deighton as he was struggling and wanted to get back to Harrogate at his own pace. The rest of us returned via Spofforth, Follifoot and Rudding. However, whilst we were going up the Wetherby Road, we were heckled, by what turned out to be Rob…who had only phoned his wife and got a lift back…fineable offence that Mr Minors!!
A really good ride despite the weather.
Route details: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/72828997