We cycled along lovely little farm lanes off the main roads (much of it newly done with tarmac byways through farmers fields as part of the Sustrans network) The coastline here was sandy dunes with the main road following it with much industrial development and wind turbines snaking along the road, so pretty dull and the whole area seemed pretty poor and lacking in employment.

Whitehaven - where the C2C meets the route 72

We passed through Maryport, Workington and Seaton before reuniting ourselves with the route 71 Coast to Coast at Whitehaven, which we had cycled in 2008. We dutifully dipped our wheels into the sea at the C2C sign and continued south on the path we had cycled before until our routes split at Cleator Moor. This was the only place we lost our route through poor signposting and ended up on the A595 heading for Egremont. It was most unpleasant with heavy lorries nudging you up the backside and we were really grateful for the wonderful routes that Sustrans take that are so traffic free. Lunch was taken in a great little cafe in the town centre.

Now we were back on the 72 on our final push south alongside the Lake District National Park and the light dancing around on the distant peaks made a breathtaking backdrop to our ride. It wasn’t long before we could see the round dome and towers of Sellafield Nuclear Reactor in the distance. The path took us right alongside the heavily barbed wire enclosure, stretching for several miles. Shortly afterwards we stopped in the dunes for our Radio Cornwall interview and gave the people at home an update on where and how we were.

Pat and Janie with Ravenglass in the distance

We only had 5 miles to go now through Drigg and Saltcoats to the beautiful little coastal town of Ravenglass and a great little pub on the sea front where we basked in hot sunshine relishing more shandy to slake our thirst and reward ourselves at the end of a brilliant ride.

Journey's End - a well-earned trip to the pub!

We did continue to the finish at the Roman Bath house and found Tom, our taxi driver waiting to take us the 3 hour drive back to Pete’s house with fish and chips en route.

What a brilliant 3 days we have had and we’re already hatching plans to get Pete down to Cornwall to ride route 3 and challenge his legs on our Cornish hills!

Miles cycled today: 53

Thank you to everyone who kindly sponsored Pat’s cycle ride.

The money she has raised will go to build a bike shed for Children’s Hospice South West, which offers care and support for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.  If you would like to donate, it’s not too late – go to http://www.chsw.org.uk/cyclechallenge.

First sighting of the wall!

The wall, stretching from the North Sea to the Irish Sea (from the Tyne to the Solway), was 80 Roman miles (about 73 modern miles) long, 8-10 feet wide, and 15 feet high. In addition to the wall, the Romans built a system of small forts called milecastles (housing garrisons of up to 60 men) every Roman mile along its entire length, with towers every 1/3 mile. Sixteen larger forts holding from 500 to 1000 troops were built into the wall, with large gates on the north face. To the south of the wall the Romans dug a wide ditch, (vallum), with six foot high earth banks. b Today many of the stones have been carted away and recycled into other buildings, but the wall is still there for people to explore and walk along, although this is discouraged.
This is a beautiful long, straight Roman road with the wall running alongside stretching into the distance near Birdoswald, another Roman fort. It was remarkably well preserved approx 1.5m wide and 2m high. It only exists in certain sections as over the years local farmers have used the stone to build more stone walls, houses and barns but the sight of it here in the open countryside in a long stretch was very impressive.

I wondered what the Roman soldiers must have thought up here in this cold and barren land having left their warm, sunny climate with plentiful food and wine to do their duty defending the Empire from the marauding Scots! A little further along the road we came upon a watch tower where a beacon would have been lit to communicate with other outposts along the wall.

Solway Firth

As we continued today, again in glorious sunshine but thankfully without the wind of yesterday, we made a gradual descent into lusher farmland with cows and bullocks as well as sheep – and villages with red brick houses built from the sandstone beneath. The route is delightful here as it meanders alongside the River Eden heading towards Carlisle. We had our first real hiccough of route following here as the signs seemed to take us out of the park and on to the main road. After trying all exits we managed to find the signs back down by the river’s edge and rejoined the 72 heading out towards the west coast through Burgh by sands along the Solway Firth.

Emergency first aid!

Here the scenery changed again to low lying salt flats with long straight roads again with marker board along giving the depth of water when the road flooded. We could clearly see Scotland on the other side of the estuary but unfortunately we couldn’t see a decent pub or restaurant and ended up on the side of the road eating Snickers bars and apples with Janie giving Pete’s legs a good old massage!
We pushed on through Port Carlisle and to the northernmost point at Bowness on Solway where Hadrian’s Wall starts/ends but saw no marker to indicate the exact spot. We were now in the Solway coast area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and an RSPB nature reserve. It was very low lying and bleak and we were challenged by the wind again. We were seeking out a spot somewhere near Newton Arlosh out of the wind so we could meet the 3.15 deadline for our live Radio Cornwall spot. It was found and the interview went well with a guest appearance from our Geordie guide with his beautiful lilting accent!

Now just a cruise down the route through Abbey Town out to the west coast at Silloth, our overnight stop. This was not our favourite spot – a bit dull and sad with its ranks of closed shops. Looking neglected and deserted. We stopped for a welcome drink in the Balmoral hotel to be told that there was nowhere open to eat – they did pizzas but did not recommend them!

Arriving at the Nith View

We found our B&B – Nith View – the bikes and us were ushered in and had to begrudgingly bargain for a 730 breakfast. Only a shower today so climbed in to soothe those aching muscles but nowhere near such a hard day without the wind and hills of yesterday. We did manage to find food at the only place open – the Hotel Golf and all had the chicken and leek pie, which was good.

Miles cycled today: 64 miles

Thank you to everyone who kindly sponsored Pat’s cycle ride.

The money she has raised will go to build a bike shed for Children’s Hospice South West, which offers care and support for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.  If you would like to donate, go to http://www.chsw.org.uk/cyclechallenge.

Following Route 72

Day 1 – Tuesday 17th April

We started at Pete’s house then down to Millenium Bridge at Gateshead to join the route heading west on the north bank of the River Tyne.  Raining at first so all kitted up but sun soon burst through the clouds and within 20 minutes we stopped at Newburn Riverside centre to take the waterproofs off!  A brilliant countryside ride and on to Wylam  (having cycled past Stephenson’s cottages (steam train fame) which was closed so on to stop for choc bars for energy boosts but waylaid at lovely little coffee shop so both were consumed.

We saw no actual sign of Hadrian’s Wall but plenty of road signs to it off to our right so we knew it wasn’t far away. After the ruin we cycled on to a great little pub at Fourstones where we ate roast pork sandwiches alongside a roaring log fire washed down by delicious beer shandy. We knew that this was the start of our climb to the highest point on our trail and although it was now dry it was still chilly and the headwind was strong.

Fortified, we pushed on climbing steadily and the scenery started to change with stunted windblown trees and stone walls with sturdy long haired sheep and lambs keeping us company. There were many beautiful grey stone farmhouses and buildings but we were impressed how well kept they all were, painted in bright colours and renovated with particular care of the style and details to keep them looking as they would have been years ago. We pushed on into the wind steadily climbing, each of us now quiet as we delved into our inner strength of legs and mind to push against the force of the wind which necessitated us pedalling downhill! – reminiscent of our first 2 days of LeJog!

Highest point of Hadrian's Wall Cycleway

Janie took the lead and whistled past Grindon Lough to the highest point on the ride 260m at Morwood on the southern edge of the Northumberland National Park – wild, high ground with no shelter and settlements tucked down in valleys and dips away from the relentless wind. We then had the pleasure of some downhill whizzes to Vindolanda, another Roman fort guarding Hadrian’s wall.

Hadrian was something of a celeb as far as Roman Emperors go and was highly regarded. It was common knowledge amongst his peers that he was gay and here at Vindolanda he built a pleasure palace to entertain his friends. We stopped for a quick drink and a speedy look around the site where archaeologists were still excavating but we were getting chilled and it was getting late at 5pm.

Vindolanda

We pushed on to Haltwhistle and I must admit my legs were tiring and as we pulled up the steep hill through the town I wished this was our overnight stop. Never mind, just another 5 miles to the little hamlet of Greenhead to the welcome sight of the Greenhead Hotel. It was equally welcoming inside as we were greeted by a charming and friendly landlord who set up 3 bar stools for us in front of a roaring log fire and from where we stripped off outer layers and steamed gently whilst downing the best drink of the trip – a brandy and ginger ale which warmed us from the inside out.

Janie and I had a room with a bath and took turns to soak away the strains of the day in the deliciously hot water. Pete had the best meal of the trip here – a home made steak pie but all the food was good and we crashed into nice comfy beds and up for a 7am breakfast. 57 miles.

Look out for part 2 coming soon…

We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite local producers, farm shops and farmer’s markets to help you seek out the best of what Cornwall has to offer while you’re on holiday (just ask in the office or take a look at the board in the laundry). In the meantime, whet your appetite with the selection below:

From Cornish cheeses to ice cream made on local farms and organic meat, there’s plenty to tempt you. And if you’re after fresh fish (but don’t want to catch your own), we’d recommend Mevagissey Wet Fish. Head down to the quay and you’ll be able to take your pick from that morning’s catch – just make sure you get down early or they’ll have sold out. You can’t get fresher than that!

Lobb’s Farm Shop (just down the road in Heligan) has a deli and a huge range of locally grown produce. You can also order from Lobb’s online when you’re back home – they’ll deliver UK-wide. The Orange Farm Shop in Charlestown harbour is a new mobile shop which operates out of an old milk float and has a range of tantalising local produce on offer from freshly baked bread to smoked fish and homemade chutney. Humfrey’s Farm Shop in Tregony, Trudgian Farm Shop, Trevaskis Farm and Watts Trading (organic emporium in Lostwithiel) are all recommended.

If something sweet’s more your thing Roskilly’s and Callestick both make simply divine ice cream made with fresh milk and cream from their dairy herds.

There are also local farmers’ markets in St Austell, Grampound and Truro where you’ll find a huge variety of edible delights and get to meet some the people who’ve produced them too. For fresh-off-the-boat fish, head down to the quay at Mevagissey and check out Mevagissey Wet Fish for the catch of the day.

And after all that, you might need something to wash it down with. Try one of Camel Valley’s award-winning wines (if you do the Camel Valley cycle trail you’ll go right past their vineyard and shop) or quench your thirst with some Cornish cyder.

So that’s the food sorted. Next question – who’s cooking? And will it be a big family BBQ, traditional picnic or a romantic dinner for two?

Parts of the inn date back to the 13th century – with its low-beamed ceilings and flagstone floors, when you walk in, it’s almost like walking back in time.

The Pandora was ravaged by fire in March 2011.  After months of hard work, it’s been lovingly restored to rise like a phoenix from the ashes.  While little has changed on the ground floor, the first floor has been transformed into a beautiful dining room with high vaulted beams made using traditionally pegged green oak.  It positively oozes atmosphere, and is ideal for an intimate romantic dinner for two or a large group celebration.

They serve food all day, and there’s a varied menu plus several daily specials.  Chef Tom Milby uses locally sourced produce from Cornish farmers and fishermen wherever possible.  Naturally seafood is big on the menu. There’s also a range of light bites and a kids’ menu on offer.  Or if you prefer, pop in for a delicious Cornish cream tea – served every afternoon.

Enjoy a drink on the Pandora's pontoon

In the summer, the pontoon is a lovely place to sit and soak up the atmosphere and the sun’s rays over a Cornish ale or a glass of crisp white wine.

There’s always something happening on the water to draw your attention and it would be easy to while away an afternoon or an evening here watching the world go by.

There are some nice walks around the area, which are perfect for walking off your lunch  – or working up an appetite for dinner.

Top tip: If you’re planning on parking at the Pandora, get there early as the car park is small and it can be difficult to find a space.  Otherwise, park in nearby Mylor Bridge and walk down to the inn, or if you prefer, arrive in style by Aqua Cab from Penryn or Falmouth.

Research shows that 77% of people own a bike yet only 14% use them regularly.  So the idea behind Bike Week is simple: to promote everyday cycling for everyone and to get more people cycling, more often.  There a range of events happening across the country, with something for everyone from seasoned pros to complete beginners.   Families, schools and companies can all get involved.

If your bike has been languishing in a shed or garage, this could be the perfect opportunity to dust it off and get it out again.  And if you need a little help fixing it up, drop in to one of the ‘Dr Bike’ sessions and have it checked by an expert.

And in the meantime, if you’re looking for places to cycle near you, take a look at the National Cycle Network for maps, information and inspiration.

Pat’s charity cycle challenge

Pat has been out on her bike almost every day recently as part of her training for her latest cycle challenge – the Hadrian’s Wall Cycleway. 

She and her friend Janie aim to complete the route – all 171 miles of it – in just three days to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West .  To find out more about the challenge, and sponsor Pat online, take a look at her fundraising page.

Digital panel in Lowen shows how much energy is being used, produced and saved

1. Try out renewable technology

Our eco-house, Lowen, is a zero carbon, energy self-sufficient house. It uses energy from the sun and ground to provide electricity, heating and hot water to the house (as well as sending surplus electricity back to the grid). You can even see how much energy is being generated, used and saved at any moment on the LED panel in the hall.

Greentraveller came to stay in Lowen and gave it a big thumbs up.  Take a look at their review.

2. Travel to Cornwall without a car

Bosinver is close to St Austell which has excellent train/bus links.  Don’t forget, if you choose to travel on holiday to Cornwall by public transport, we’ll pay your taxi fare to/from the station.

3. Recycle and compost your waste

We recycle plastic, glass, cardboard, paper, tins and cans (you’ll find bags for recycling in your cottage).  Not only does this help conserve resources, but whatever we recycle also helps raise money for St Mewan playgroup.  We’ve got compost bins around the farm and we use the compost produced on the gardens.

Why not cycle to the Eden Project?

5. Try local produce

You can also order locally grown vegetables from People & Gardens, who will deliver to your cottage.

And if you’re here at the right time of year, you’re welcome to pick salad leaves and herbs from the garden, and enjoy fruit from our trees.

Here are a few of our top picks:

1. Head to Lanhydrock and follow the Easter garden trail (31 Mar-15 April).  Find all the clues and you’ll win a special Easter themed prize.  Over Easter weekend, they’ve also got races, face painting and much more family fun. 
2. Trebah Garden is a popular place for families and even has its own beach!  Pack a picnic, explore the award-winning gardens, and try their Easter Trail (runs between 24 March – 15 April). 
3. As you explore Paradise Park  this Easter (31 March – 15 April), hunt for clues and claim your own mini egg prize.  Don’t miss the antics of the macaws and cockatoos in the new Free Flying Bird Show.  You can also see the birds of prey in action in the Eagles of Paradise display!
 4. Crantock Easter Egg Trail. Crantock is one of the most beautiful beaches on the north coast with heaps of golden sand and dunes.  Join the local National Trust rangers on the beach for a fun Easter trail on 7/8 April between 10.30am-3pm.  Contact North Cornwall National Trust on 01208 863046 or northcornwall@nationaltrust.org.uk for more info.

5. Join the Search & Rescue crew at the Maritime Museum in Falmouth. Their blockbuster exhibition features a 70ft Sea King helicopter (you can ever climb inside it), dress as a pilot and find out what it’s really like to be part of a rescue crew.

From 31 March – 5 April they’ll also be running hands-on children’s craft activities between 12-3.30pm.  Build a rescue rocket, create a lifeboat money box or construct a whirling helicopter… 

And if you’re looking for more family-friendly activities to get you out and about, why not try a Treasure Trail?  We’ve got trails for a range of places in Cornwall on sale in the office at Bosinver.  Whether you choose a treasure hunt, spy themed challenge or a murder mystery, each trail will take you to places a little off the beaten track in the area you’ve chosen as you solve the clues.

Kite flying is a great way to get the kids outdoors on a day that’s perhaps not the ideal weather for going to the beach.  Wilfred and Megan were wrapped up warm and soon totally captivated by flying their kite  – they weren’t bothered by the cold at all.  Once they were up on the Tor, the sun even came out…

How high can my kite fly?

Helman Tor Nature Reserve is Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s largest nature reserve with 536 acres in total.  As the reserve has so many different types of habitat - including wet and dry heathland, wetland, acid grassland, willow and oak woodland – numerous species of butterflies, dragonflies, birds, mammals and reptiles all thrive here – (although on a rather blustery early spring day Nanny Pat and the children didn’t see much wildlife this time).

Wilf & Megan at the top of the Tor

There are several interpretation boards around the reserve to help you identify wildlife.

If you enjoy walking, download the Wilderness Trail leaflet from Cornwall Wildlife Trust which has details of walking routes on Helman Tor.  The full trail is 8 miles long, but there’s also a shorter 2.5 mile trail which is great for families with younger children or when you’ve only got a limited amount of time.

Getting there: Helman Tor is 2.5 miles south of Bodmin.  Full directions can be found on Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s website. There’s a limited amount of car parking at the reserve.

PS: If you’re coming down to Bosinver, you can borrow kites like the ones Wilf and Megan flew from reception. They’re easy to fly, even for young children and don’t take up much room in the car!

This post has been linked to the Outdoor Play Party hosted by Abbie at the fabulous Greening Sam and Avery. For more stories and inspiration on getting your own children outdoors and playing, visit the Outdoor Play Party every week via any of the hosting blogs which includes Abbie’s, together with Mama Pea Pod, Learning for Life and The Golden Gleam, all of which are must-read parenting blogs.

The SW Lakes Trust is made up of 19 different lakes and country parks in Cornwall and Devon. They’re great areas for walking and picnics, and many of them also have a range of other activities available, including fishing, bird watching, water sports and other outdoor activities.

This week, Nanny Pat, Wilf and Megan set out to see what Stithians Lake Country Park had to offer.  

Stithians is a great place for families with children of all ages.  The circular walk around the lake is 4.8 miles, and there are plenty of lovely spots to stop for a picnic. If you prefer to cycle, you can also hire bikes here. 

One of the best things about this kind of day out is that once you’re there, you don’t actually need to spend any money – there’s plenty of free fun to be had outdoors!

For younger children, there’s a good adventure playground and a small bouldering /climbing wall.  Wilf (age 4) really enjoyed this, as it was big enough to offer him a challenge and sense of achievement.  He also loved beating Nanny Pat and Megan to the next ‘acorn’ (each of the way marked posts has an acorn design on it).  It’s a very simple thing, but it added an extra element of fun.

There’s also an Outdoor and Active Centre at Stithians, which offers sailing, windsurfing, rowing, kayaking, archery, climbing and WOW balls (these really look great – huge plastic balls are tethered at the edge of the lake and kids of all ages can roll around in them!)

Summary
A great family day out.  There’s plenty here to do to keep active kids occupied for free.   

Nanny Pat’s top tip: If you haven’t brought a picnic, Caffe Nova does good, freshly made food including homemade cakes.  The menu’s not extensive, but everything is done well.

Getting there
From Bosinver, Stithians Country Park is about 40 mins drive.  Take the A390 towards Truro/Falmouth.  Once you reach the outskirts of Falmouth, take the A394 towards Helston and follow the brown signs to Stithians once you reach Rame. 
The postcode for SatNavs is TR16 6NW, and there’s ample parking.