RHGC Cycle Club

From Middleton Top nr Wirksworth to Summit nr Hebden Bridge a total of 84 miles in 3 days. This may seem short but the terrain was extreme. The first day to Hayfield seemed never-ending starting with a sharp climb to the start at the old station at Middleton. Then a long gentle climb to Parsley Hay (don’t you love the names) and a stop for coffee and some members to have a bacon and egg butty . This was a false dawn we thought to be at Hayfield by 3 o’clock. Then the downhill to the bottom of the first of 3 major climbs. About 1 in 4 I think all members ended up walking ! This on the road as well. So on to the next climb and again most walked I Rich may have made it up. Through some lovely scenery and dales with steep sides. Eventually to the fell above Castleton and only 4 miles to go. This seemed to take well over an hour and Richard puncture before a splendid descent to the fell above Hayfield. This was a great last mile and coast to a standstill at the Kinder Lodge where we were made welcome and downed a couple of well earned pints. A shower and off to the local restaurant owner by the same landlord as the pub.! Eric fell asleep bless him. Walk home and prepare for the next day. Only 17 miles or so it’s said. The climb out of Hayfield a test for the hardest of us. Most walked to the top. Then another test past Kinder Scout and descent again to a valley nr Comerford. Climbs again and off road on rough BW. Eden vale a scenic delight but walk up the other side again. Eventually to the Red Lion at tintwhistle and met Stan the dog who made it his mission to guide us over the next stage. Even defeating our attempts to make him return. Only the good offices of Gordon and the help of two ladies made it possible for the return to the pub of the said Stan .Then a short burst to the Waggon Inn at uppermill A stroll to the Indian restaurant and a pleasant night. Then the final day back to the BW and stiff climbs and dangerous descents. Watched some real mountain bikers make a climb look easy as we walked up an old road above a reservoir and across a fell. At this point Dick decided to have the injury of the tour. A peddle causing a deep shin cut to the bone. Still a great descent to Summit (a contradiction) and a welcome pint at the pub to finish the ride. A call to the taxi and a ride back via the Waggon Inn all the way to Wirksworth and the Red Lion for a splendid finish with super food and beer. Watched the semi final with the two most gorgeous barmaids we have ever had, a sleep and back to base.
All in all a demanding but enjoyable 4 days.