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It was a real pleasure to stay in the mess at 30 Signal Regiment last night. We lived at Gamecock barracks only 3 years ago, but it seems a lifetime. The twins have come along since then so I suppose it is, in fact, two lifetimes ago!
I left Nuneaton determined not to be caught out by the ‘cycle path trap’ so I re-routed to ensure I was on roads all morning. It worked as I made quick progress despite very tired legs (and a very sore backside). The going was flat and on small country lanes. I followed cycle route 68 (on roads) as far as Ashbourne. Here I took a gamble; the Tissington trail came highly recommended as a cycle path, but after yesterday’s adventures I was a little wary. I went for it and I’m glad I did. The route follows an old railway line and offers stunning views of the Peak District as it climbs into the national park. Because it is an old railway route the unavoidable climb into the Peaks is made as bearable as possible with a steady but shallow incline over 10 miles.
Beautiful Peak District countryside from the Tissington Trail.
Once in the Peaks my legs largely abandoned me, which was inconvenient as I certainly hadn’t seen the last of the hills. I finally made it to the Youth Hostel at Eyam where I was cheered up the final hill (all Youth Hostels are at the top of brutal hills) by my personal fan club. A pub meal and a few beers then fixed most ills!
Tomorrow – Boroughbridge