20th June 2025

York  -  Northallerton         67kms    720'

Our air b&b was a haven of peace and tranquility and really gave us time to draw breath.  However, we did join the thousands of visitors to the city and took in the ambiance. We duly admired the minster from the outside ( 20quid to go in !) We wandered the walls, the gardens, the posh shops and the river, vying for space with the multitude. However, beyond the centre, York was much like any city and M & S was never far away! So armed with two microwave meals, we eventually found our way back to our house. Glad we had the opportunity to see the old town.

This morning, Master  Navigator played a blinder getting us through the endless traffic and onto finding our route north. On our way along another cycle lane blocked by cars, we were taken aback by the fact that the offending vehicles were all German registered Aston Martins of the type that you might view on Top Gear. Why they were in York, I have no idea. Couldn't see any cameras! Ironically, only around an hour later, on much quieter highways, we were beguiled by the appearance of truly vintage cars with drivers and passengers all dressed up. Once again I have no idea where they were off too either. 

We enjoyed a couple of meet and greet sessions. This time I was joined by a gentleman who decided to ride alongside me and explain how he had lost his confidence on a bike although had been a bit of a whizz in his day. Now he was riding a top of the range electric bike which he had acquired from a friend. Somewhere in the telling of the story, I lost the plot - sorry. Nice man though. As we were heading through Northallerton, we passed a Tesco (don't they just get everywhere?) Anyway,  needed cash and cold sore cream, so Al was left in charge of the bikes while I shopped. He made the mistake of sitting on a bench! When I returned, he was being chatted up by a great grandmother! Anyway port in a storm. No, she was quite harmless and had made the ride to John o' Groats some 25 years ago and was sure that we were in need of invaluable information on the topography of Scotland in particular. She had obviously thoroughly enjoyed her experience and wished us all luck.

It has been a good day, if very hot and now quite humid. Still, much better than the rain. In fact, we have made such good time, that I am writing this before dinner so am slightly less befuddled than usual. Tomorrow, it looks as if we will make Al's home town - Sunderland - for those who are new to this blog and to Old Bones. It's yet another little milestone. Be lovely to see the sea.