Ride Darlo - Ellerton Lake (Group 1)

Starting from the Beefeater Pub at Morton Park, we ride west out of Darlington through Blackwell, then head south through Stapleton, Middleton Tyas, Moulton and Scorton before reaching our stopover point at the beautiful Ellerton Lake. The return route brings us north east back through North Cowton, Croft, Hurworth, Neasham and Middleton St George on our return to the Beefeater.

This ride is classed as a CHALLENGING ride which is a little over 33 miles (~16 miles each way). The ride is undulating with some hill climbs. The ride is all on the road or cycleways – all bike types are suitable. It is suitable for riders who are comfortable sustaining around 10mph avg. and can continually cycle for around 2 hours each way. The stopover is usually around 1 hour. Bear in mind these times are a guide and the ride can take longer.

https://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/2381307751

The Covid-19 pandemic has introduced challenges and new procedures that must be followed in order to reduce the spread of the virus. From 4th July 2020, the guidance for Ride Darlo rides is as follows:

• You must not attend a ride if you have Covid-19 symptoms, have someone in your household who does and is in the extremely vulnerable category, or if you or anyone you live with have been asked to remain at home by the UK Government track and trace system.
• Do not use public transport to get to/from rides.
• All rides are restricted to a maximum of 6 people (including leaders). This is adhering to current government guidelines and as such, is a firm restriction. If you arrive on the day and have not registered in advance, you will be turned away if this takes the group size over 6.
• Rides must include social distancing at all times – stay 2 meters apart from other riders unless you are from the same household.
• In line with government guidelines, masks or face coverings are not required if social distancing is maintained. At this stage, using face masks or coverings is a personal choice but it should not restrict breathing.
• Rides will not always include café stopping points (as these may not be available). Bring along your own snacks and drinks to sustain yourself on the ride.
• Always ride single file.
• Do not share belongings (especially food or drinks) with other riders. Remember to bring equipment to keep yourself healthy, independent and clean – e.g. hand sanitiser, puncture repair kit, gloves (these are not mandatory). Try to wear sunglasses / safety glasses as Covid can ingress through eyes as well as mouth and nose.
• Refresh your memory on biking maintenance basics – you should be prepared to fix your own punctures and repair your own bike without assistance.
• Always remember to bring a charged and working mobile phone, plus a means of paying for sustenance or services should you need them.
• If you develop Covid-19 symptoms after a ride, you should notify the ride leader as soon as possible so that other members of the group can be advised.