Weeks into 2016 and we are already lining up the good stuff. VC Melyd is looking to organise a larger group away to the Lake District. Based in Grasmere – we have bunk accommodation for 24 reserved already (which, at the time of writing is filling up), as well as those wishing to make their own less cosy/social/communal arrangements. “# It’s a Harknot Life, for us…”
The initial plan was for the Fred Whitton Challenge route. However given the time of year, the mixed abillity take up (a great thing and to be encouraged!) and the sheer scale of that challenge there are also discussions of riding it over two days, or just adventures out to take in the scenery / ascents.
However the importat part is ARE YOU WITH US? … then you had best get the time booked off work :D
While the thread and discussion can be found in full, and most importantly up-to-date over on the FB group – this kicked off with the text below. Updates, availability and pricing will also be covered there with occasional updates here.
It’s getting to the event planning time of year. A few have mentioned riding in the Lake District – a weekend away riding taking in the iconic “Fred Whitton Challenge” route. The route takes in some stunning scenery and includes some iconic climbs. There is Kirkstone, Honister and Newlands Passes. Then of course there is Whinlatter, Hardknot and Wrynose to name a few more.
The riding there is fantastic.
Having taken time to sort a few things through with our social secretary, we are proposing a weekend away Sat 19th March/Sunday 20th March 2016. We’ve looked at many dates and tried to work it out of the main events season and not in school holidays. We appreciate there is bound to be a clash with something whilst trying to get in two away days riding. Some may want to travel on the Friday and ride too. We could do the full FWC route on the Sat as a club whilst making stops along the way for refreshments. De-brief it on Sat eve then ride a shorter route on the Sunday morning – or whatever takes our fancy. See how the legs are and decide what sort of ride we want.
We are going to look at accommodation close to Grasmere and options and prices for Friday and Saturday night. You can of course sort your own accommodation or drive there on the Sat morning and we will see you there for an early (ish) start. Just let us know. We stopped at a bunkhouse just down the road from Grasmere last year. It was cozy but did the trick. It had a kitchen to cook food and a small bar.
I know a few would have been to Spain a couple of weeks before so you can put the training to test!
Please append your name as a comment to this thread if you’re interested we will sort it. Just let us know if you want to be in a group booking for accommodation and which nights. If it’s the bunkhouse – it’s first up best dressed! Literally.
Please don’t be put off by the climbs. We will all get up them together and in our own time.
Not heard of the Fred Whitton Challenge route? A quick Google search will reveal all. Many clubs do the route independently of the challenge as club event – I’m sure a few will do the “FWC” proper this year too! If we have different groups of riders who want to do part of the route – we can sort that too.” — Darren Wareing.
At this time we are looking at pricing for accommodation is £41 for the Friday and Saturday night – however this may vary as we will need to cover costs of unfilled rooms.
We have booked the entire 24 bed location, and while in rooms of up to three bunks / six beds each – this should be a good laugh. There are still (at this time) some places left if you are interested.
“VC Melyd has exclusive use of a lovely 4* hostel in Grasmere in the Lake District for the weekend of 18-20th March.
Routes for all abilities will be planned – some avoiding the famous mountain passes!
Rain or snow or wind are not expected that weekend but poor weather options will be available.
There are some spare beds so if you would like to join us in what will be a fun filled weekend please post below or contact myself or Darren.
Those who have shown interest please check your Messages as I will send you further details.” — Sally Cunliffe