No point leaving stupid early because weather forecast not great for Hadrian’s Wall country. So left at 7am and took it slowly to Hexham, where the first loop starts.

Chilly for June. And very very windy riding west.

One needlessly dangerous overtake on the Military Road and umpteen fabulous, over-in-opposite-carriageway overtakes including a Ramage HGV driver, police driver, ambulance driver, 4+ white van drivers and more.

Stupendous. Is it my bags? Whatever, I’m liking it.

Bought a Leatherman Skeletool in Hexham Millets then had cream tea in front of the medieval gaol. Bike tourists are good for local economies!

Now for the 90km loop and a hotel stay for my first night — the George at Chollerford. And the sun is coming out.