2023

As Ian had the van all loaded it was just a case of the cyclists choosing which car to ride in and off we went.

Arrived at Kielder bang on schedule, oops I had not allowed for cash for the car park, however after we all rummaged in our pockets we managed to come up with enough for two cars and the van.

By the time we had surprised Trevor with the electric bike hire, and we all had a spot of breakfast and drinks it was nearly eleven before we set off.

I asked Graeme to map read to get us onto the route which was not signed clearly from Keilder Castle

I said it would get him back into his role and give Bob a day off, Bob thought it was a good idea so all he had to think about was peddling.

The ride was as expected scenic but hilly, which surprises most people as the route follows the lake side so you would expect it to be flat.

The weather was fine and sunny so looked like it was going to be a nice days riding

The usual group shot at the ride start. Taken by the kind staff from the cafe	Time for a chat and food. Also viewing the screens that have live feed from the Ospreys nest site.
Not far into the ride the viaduct catches our eye	Too good a spot not to stop and take a picture

Lots of great scenery
Views across the reservoir are amazing	Just have to keep stopping to take in the view.

Conner enjoying his ride around Kielder water

Dave loving it especially the flatter sections	We all enjoy the flatter sections.
We reach the bottom of the reservoir where the dam goes across to form Kielder Water	Cycle route marked for a different route and a commemorative plaque marking the opening of Kielder Water in 1982 by HM Queen Elizabeth 2nd

Looking back up the reservoir looks like a storm coming our way	Rain coats on just in time as it came on quick and heavy.
Not the scheduled tea stop but this one is at the bottom of Kielder water and as it was raining we made an unscheduled stop.

Every one has a smile when they are cycling

The top of the reservoir how far we have cycled and still have to go.

The Sun was shining so when we arrived at our scheduled stop, Tower Knowe visitor centre so we were able to sit outside.

The waitress messed up our order so a couple of us ended up with free cups of tea, nice reward.

Sitting out at Tower Knowe

Getting too comfortable, good job we are well into the ride.

Wonderful views over the reservoir from Tower Knowe	Even had some wild life to admire Click on picture for the video and see the chicks popping their heads out of the nest
Saddle up lads a few more miles and climbs to go	Is that Trevor looking smug?

The Weather kept swapping between sun, cool and rain, but we all really enjoyed the route, all off road and very scenic.
Got Finished at about 4.30 ish, behind schedule but not a problem, quickly loaded the bikes into the van, and the cyclists into the cars and set off for Jedburgh. Arrived safe and sound at 5.30

Got parked in the car park 100 yards from the hotel. Confirmed 60 hours free parking so all sorted.
Hotel was full and very busy, everyone seemed to arrive together, a coach trip of walkers and ourselves.

All checked in and rooms sorted agreed to all have a quick shower and change to get ahead of the crowds. We met for the booked meal at 7m, at the Taj Tandoori Indian restaurant.

I was so glad I'd had the foresight to make a reservation, otherwise we may have struggled. Peter had already been out researching the pubs, so we met him at one up the street.
It seems like there are only two open in Jeburgh on a Monday. After a quick drink went for our meal. Arrived for 7pm didn't get our starters until 7.40 and main meal at 8.30.

The place was very busy, but as the only premises doing food what can you expect. After the meal which was very good, went for a drink to the Cannon ale house,

it was packed, partly because there are only two pubs open and this one had a Scottish folk group playing live. They were very entertaining, but took up nearly half of the premises.

Last little bridge to cross nearly back at the start of the circular ride.

Peter is pleased he has found a pub that's open
and with live entertainment

Standing room only

By coincidence Bob has a sister that lives in Jedburgh, so he went to pay her a visit. I said I would send him a photo of where we were so he could meet up later.

Bobs sister told him the directions to the Cannon, what she didn't tell him it was a very hilly route. As if Bob had not seen enough hills today.

Conner went back early as he had suffered from earlier drinks on his last day at university and then a long drive north from Oxford.
Eventually we all made it back to our rooms, which were nicely decorated and clean as the

The Hotel had been recently refurbished the rooms were a decent size as well so all in all a good day.

All cosy waiting for the rain to ease	Ian had driven down to join us.
More artwork to pose with	So good we had to do it twice

The rain stops so coats back off	The sign confirms we are on route
Skies clear and the clouds roll away