In Search of Elizabeth Barrett Browning

In Search of Elizabeth Barrett Browning Sun 9th Oct 10am 13 miles Start Shincliffe - lay-by/old road below Betty Bees (DH1 2PF) Our ride will take us in search of an extraordinary County Durham woman, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, poet and political thinker. Elizabeth was born at Coxhoe Hall (now demolished) and although she spent much of her life in Italy she not only penned numerous well loved poems she also campaigned for the abolition of slavery and child labour reforms. We will follow some off road cyclepaths and quiet roads. Initially we”ll head to Bowburn and then to Parkhill from where we’ll pedal uphill to Quarrington Hill and back down to Kelloe via the reclamation site, after which we’ll stop at the site of Coxhoe Hall. It’s all fairly decent paths, albeit a bit hilly, and will suit all bikes apart from lightweight road bikes with skinny tyres. This is a suitable ride if you’re just starting to get out back on a bike or a longer break as well as for more confident riders wanting a relaxed ride with a bit of chat and Elizabeth Barrett Browning history included. Competent cycling children are welcome with supervised adults. Although not too many miles it is hilly. In order for the ride to leave promptly, please be punctual so we can carry out bike checks, etc. prior to us setting off. Please make sure your bike is in working condition and bring a spare tube to fit your tyres. We should be out for about two and a half hours but as always it is difficult to be precise about timing. As always we can’t predict the weather so please dress suitably. You are better to be overdressed as you can always take layers off. For any queries please contact us at [email protected]. For any last minute cancellations on the day please text 07708327943 (note this phone is only for the day of the ride) otherwise use the option to cancel when you log in to letsride.co.uk. If the weather is poor we will only contact you if we are cancelling the ride and will do so no later than 8.30am on the day. If you have not heard from us it is going ahead. We look forward to meeting you. Audrey and Ken

*

We never leave anyone behind