Wow - what a superb day......

Started off at the services. 5 bikes (and 6 people turned up). Had all the excuses from the others [all good ones, of course]. So, off we set. First bit fairly boring - motorway and twisties with a few road repairs (= traffic lights). Got onto the A591 and past Kendal - onto the A6 over Shap. I do like that road - as the others found as I left them waaaaayyy behind. Stopped and waited for them so I could take some photos (see below)  and then off we went to the Red Rooster for a petrol stop.

From there, over the A686 - yes, another superb road -  to Hartside cafe. Nice quick lunch - met up with Peter (Pan) who had come down from Edinburgh to join us. At this point, we decided to have some culture and see if we could fin Hadrians Wall (to repel the invaders). Carried on over the A686 and down to Hayden Bridge. No signs for the Wall, so we wandered vaguely northwards until we found some. then on for miles until we got there.

After a quick stop, Ian suggested that, since we were on a culture tour, let's take in the Angel of the North at Newcastle. A quick reccie of the map and we were off. Down the straightest road I have ever seen. Must have been built by the Romans.......

Once at the Angel, we found two strange characters running around the statue. Turns out they were "Sortitout Man" and his sidekick "Dave" - from a TV show, I guess since they were being filmed. A quick chat and an ice cream and we were off to Barnard Castle for a drink.

From there, I led the posse down some tiny single track roads, over the hills, past the sheep and cows to Hawes and then Settle. Here more tea was consumed (and chips by some) and we all headed home after a fabulous day out.

Pictures: