Hesket Newmarket to Hawkshead

Dep. 08:45 Arr. 17:00

Distance 48 miles

First good news, tyre still inflated. Luck is on my side. Eddies route planning needs serious alteration. Neither of us have a mountain bike but nevertheless the off road route was taken, including streams and rocks. Worth the stunning views of Skiddow and Basenthwaite apparently. Met up with Dawn at Keswick, which was very busy and decided to stop for lunch by Thirlmere, after the Dam. Great downhill into Grasmere (Top speed of 40mph registered). Eddie's Route took us up a one in four hill. (Note to self; while Dawn is on Picnic course, send Eddie on Map reading course). The road into Hawkshead was very narrow with stone walls at the sides. Eventually pulled in to find we had caused a 20-car tailback. Arrived at YHA, previously a manor house. Met up with Eddie's friend Rob. Went down to village for meal on the night of a hog roast and a man playing a piano in a truck.