Fleet Moss

The Apprentice has a day to remember in Yorkshire Dales

I'm often asked why he's called The Apprentice... it's quite simple. He has much to learn. No breakfast, no spare inner tube, no bike pump, no suncream, no pocket money, no mobile and only one bottle of water... FFS a bottle of water!

Trough of Bowland to Dentdale

Bank Holiday Monday. It was billed as the hottest day of the year. Leaving Bolton, we met up with Steve (aka FIGJAM) at Starbucks on A59 just outside Clitheroe. We then rode together through Edisford Bridge to Waddington and over Newton Fells. This was our first big climb of the day. We settled into a good pace, as Steve and The Apprentice introduced themselves by playing top trumps with who's done what and in what time. 

We took the road from Slaidburn to High Bentham (one of Sir Bradley Wiggins' favourites). The From the war memorial, this 10km undulating road is mostly uphill. It has a few twists and turns along the way. The final 3km averages 6%. The views throughout are stunning. On reaching the summit (Cross of Greet), it's worth taking a minute to drink in the view. The descent that follows is wickedly quick, especially with the slightest of tailwinds. Watch out for the blind summits with reverse cambers... especially when approaching speeds of 80 km/h. 

We stopped in High Bentham for an unscheduled pitstop. It was here we found out The Apprentice hadn't eaten breakfast. To be honest, I was getting hungry too. We called at the Coop and found some shade to refuel. Back in our saddles, we followed the lanes to Thornton in Lonsdale (near to Ingleton) and made our way to Dent.

Dentdale

The road to Dent has to be the quietest, most perfect stretch of tarmac in the Yorkshire Dales. Leaving Ingleborough behind, there is 400m climbing ahead. As you reach Whernside, the full Glory of Dentdale opens up and the road falls away. You have enough time to take a quick breath. This is THE MOST AMAZING VIEW (photos will not do it justice)... before head down and full concentration as you embark on a adrenaline filled -25% descent. But beware, watch out for cattle grids and five bar gates! 

Dent Station climb. Don't look up. Look back regularly. Keep pedalling. Admire the quality of tarmac. The occasional cry from Steve... 'my God', and 'FFS'. kept the spirits behind alive. On reaching the station. 

Hawes to Bolton Abbey

Lunch over. We had finally reaching the highlight of the day... Fleet Moss. 

Silsdon

Hebdon Bridge

Todmorden

Emergency services at Rawtenstall

Final few miles

The Apprentice will ride again

The Apprentice had requested an 'Epic Ride' to remember... he certainly got what he asked for!