Left the city and took the B road to Gretna Green avoiding the horrendous A74. Made excellent time, covering 31 miles in 2 hours. Took photos at the border and, Brian got married to a Malt Loaf and we proceeded on into England.
Entered Carlisle which we wet and unpleasant, heavy and dangerous traffic. Took the A595 towards Workington, this proved to be busy with close passing lorries and vans and old blokes who toot at you for no good reason. Bad road surface and a head wind for nearly 20 miles proved to be a bit of a trial.
Eventually turned left off this nightmare road towards Keswick and the Lake District.
Good road surface (makes a big difference to the rear end, riding with 2 pairs of shorts on today, the Rolls Royce of saddle comfort), following wind and largely, down hill was an excellent finale as was the extra wind power derived from the spinach omlette eaten at lunch time.
Arrived in Keswick at about 6.30pm (71 miles) where Brian (Judas) Mercer abandoned Phil and I, to stay with his wife and family at the Keswick Park Hotel. Strangely, no sighting of any malt loaf! Will have to watch him for withdrawl symptoms.
Me, Phil and Phil's knee retired to the Hostel (Denton House). Phil sneaked in to see if everything was passable and we retired after a well earned curry. Rest day tomorrow, then inexorably southwards. Will report when I can next get Internet access.
What's been keeping you. Though it's great to see your blog. Iv'e ordered 2 Tons of Malt loaf to be delivered to your next stop oh yes and some chips! I will try to keep in contact, however off on holiday on monday. Depends on internet access at our 5 star Hotel!. Keep well and safe. You are all doing very well
ReplyDeleteDon Sunday 21st June
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ReplyDeleteLooks like good progress. Try to avoid that traffic at all costs, sounds like a nightmare! I'd forget the maltloaf - just eat well at mealtime and take some energy gel when you need a little turbo. It works a treat! Raisins too. That knee sounds nasty. I find tiger balsam soothing. Is your saddle high enough - raising it may help. Use low gears and keep in behind Dave - that'll tire him out and keep him from nattering so much!
Keep it up.
Isabelle