Way of the Roses | Coast to Coast by Bike | Day 3: York to Bridlington

The final days ride was to be 65 miles from York to the east coast town of Bridlington which we anticipated would be an easier ride with very few hills. ... The route took us down on to the promenade as our hysteria reached a peak and we stretched our necks like Meer Cats looking for the finish line and my awaiting family. Finally, we saw them and rode right up to the official “Way of the Roses” sign post for a photo opportunity and a chance to congratulate each other. We were duly informed that we stank and would have to ride home in the back of the car. We performed the ritualistic dipping of our wheels in the sea just like we had 3 days ago on the other side of the country. Then we headed into town for some well-deserved fish and chips and endless chatter about the adventure before embarking on the long drive home. We had seen every possible type of English countryside, met many friendly people, lost and found a wallet, had a surprise encounter with a friend, drank far too much beer and spent come great quality time together. I learned that it can be enjoyable to chat with complete strangers, that I am capable of long distance cycling 3 days in a row even with a hangover, and that there are surprisingly few cafes in the English countryside.