Is the Faroe Islands – in the North Atlantic, halfway between Scotland and Iceland – a country? Actually no, because it’s a dependency of Denmark, which looks after its defence, currency, policing and foreign affairs. And only has about five trees. But actually yes, because it otherwise self-governs, has its own football team, and has…
Author: Rob Ainsley
Falkirk: Wheels, tunnels and Irn-Bru
Lovely sunny weather for a route research jaunt along the canal from Glasgow to Edinburgh via Falkirk.
Rutland 2: Border ride
More route research in Rutland, this time a complete 65-mile circuit of the traditional county’s border.
Rutland 1: Water, water everywhere
More cycle-route research, this time in Rutland and with Tim. Yes, it will be more than a day trip, actually.
Skipton: Lift on a canal boat
I was doing a bit of route research round Skipton, and managed to dodge some of the bumpy unsurfaced towpath on the canal between here and Gargrave by cadging a lift… Canal boater’s breakfast: Peanuts and Chenin Blanc
Malham: Welcome to Norway
English scenery doesn’t really do spectacular, but some bits of Yorkshire come close. In a country of modest geography, the theatrical surprises of Malham Cove and Gordale Scar feel as vast as anything in Norway or Chile. Relatively, anyway; and the beer’s much better. No wonder author Bill Bryson chose to live here, in the…
Canterbury 3: Dungeness coast
More lovely Kentish route research, down to Dungeness’s strange shingle coast and back.
Canterbury 2: Margate and Otty Bottom
More route research, round the Kent coast from Canterbury.
Canterbury 1: Ham Sandwich
I’m researching cycle routes round Canterbury and Kent. Sadly I couldn’t find a sign anywhere saying SANDWICH DEAL.
Glasgow to Edinburgh 2: Falkirk to Edinburgh
The second day of route research, following the Union Canal from Falkirk along smooth flat tarmac towpath right into Edinburgh city centre. *slag heaps