Some reflections at just over 2/3 of the way to Land's End

On a rest day outside Chepstow, time for a few thoughts on our ride so far. All the below could alter after the next four days though!

Best day's ride: Into the Lakes

We left Scotland on day eight and headed into England. Almost immediately we saw the mountains of the Lake District rearing up ahead of us.

In glorious sunshine we skirted the edge of the park getting ever closer, gradually climbing. The views just got better and better. Then finally we turned right and dove right in amongst the peaks.

After winding through the uplands for a while we kicked off the top and descended down to Ullswater along a lovely sweeping road with seriously heart in mouth beautiful views. It was also very very fast.

Doesn't get much better than that.

Best climb: Kirkstone pass, the Lakes

On the way out of the Lakes we climbed over Kirkstone pass, the highest major road in the Lake District. 

A long, steep grind up the mountain, challenging but not impossible. And a real sense of achievement at the top.

I was rewarded at the top with a chorus of bleeps from my phone as we suddenly got mobile signal for the first time in more than 24 hours - I like to think of it as everyone cheering my efforts! 

Fabulous views at top and a great descent down the other side. A really wonderful morning.

Best pub (so far of course): Traveller's Rest, Glenridding

It had been a tough few days (see midges below) so we deserved a pint. There was a chap playing indie hits on his guitar. Nice local beer and a good selection of single malt whisky too. Magic.

Still time to beat it as we head into the West Country of course...

The best new kit discovery: Chamois cream

If you use it already - you know what I mean. If you cycle a lot and you know what it is but have never dared try it - trust me and buy some. If you don't cycle and don't know what it is - nothing to see here, move along now. I wouldn't google it if I were you.

The worst kit discovery: Nothing stops West Coast Scottish midges 

I came loaded with midge spray. So did Stew. We were ready for midges. We'd had experiences before.

But nothing, nothing at all, comes even close to the midges you get around Oban. Oh My Lord. 

Foul disgusting clouds of doom. All those people trying to invent 'drone swarms' to fight future wars really shouldn't be wasting their time - they already exist right here in Scotland.

Only now are my bites starting to properly heal...

Best support cycle mechanics: Dales Cycles, Glasgow

The brilliant Dougie at Dales resurrected my mean green cycling machine just when I thought all was lost. Even though another shop... maybe made it worse first...

Huge credit to the Scottish cycling wizards at Dales. Thank you!