Winter Hill Wonderland

Gary's mountain route to build fitness. Today we take to the hills in what is to be the first of a series of rides aimed at getting our fitness levels up in preparation for the Manchester 100 next month. Starting from our usual start point @ Leo`s Carpets we head out over Mellor before dropping down and crossing the A677 before travelling up Further Lane over Samlesbury Bottoms to Houghton, from here we make our way to Brindle before turning left at the Cavendish Arms on to Water St. where we continue the ride heading towards Wheelton, Heapey and White Coppice before arriving at Rivington for a very deserving cuppa. Once refreshed, with gells and energy bars at the ready we restart the ride by tackling the biggest hill of the day up and over Winter Hill to Belmont where we continue our ride heading for Edgworth with the prospect of an ice cream from the famous ice cream shop there. From Edgworth we head out over Broadhead Rd. over the staggeringly beautiful moors before dropping down riding through Belthorn and Guide, from Guide we turn left diving down through Lower Darwen before once again selecting a big cog to climb up Bog Height Rd. towards Feniscowles, from here we ride through Pleasington, Revidge and Pleckgate before arriving back at the start point Todays ride is a GRADE A ride of approx 55 miles and will be ridden at a pace to suit all riders. For more details check www.busstopbikers.co.uk