Day 4 of our Ravens Route had been a challenging one. Our legs were, therefore, hoping Ravens Route Day 5 would prove a little easier.

Indeed, the day almost turned out to be a case of the sublime to the ridiculous … with a sting in the tail!

We left a little later than usual due to having a service wash to collect. This was also going to be the longest daily distance we would cycle on the tour, so it was good that we still managed to be on the road by mid-morning.

There was the usual mechanical to fix.

We crossed over Whorlton Bridge.

We were quickly into our stride, and with the wind behind us, cycling at a good speed, and making good progress.

Of course, we were occasionally slowed by the odd sneaky hill.

We cycled around the edge of Eppleby and Cleasby. We were following NCN Route 165 as it made its way through the Eden Valley.

We soon reached Hurworth-on-Tees.

Here we stopped for lunch at The Mustard Tree. We had to wait quite a while for the food to arrive (due to staff shortages), but it was well worth doing so. It was hearty and excellent.

We headed towards Neasham and then turned towards Hornby.

It was noticeably harder going though, for we were now cycling into a headwind.

We also had a few more hills to climb.

Stopping off for an afternoon break at Roots Farmhouse cafe at East Rounton, therefore, presented a welcome respite.

Back on the road again we headed for Hutton Rudby. The hills of the North York Moors were ahead in the distance – they, however, would have to wait until tomorrow.

We continued on towards Seamer.

Eventually, we arrived in Great Ayton. This was where we would be stopping for the night. Andy P, Sarah, Neil and Andy S at a Mill Farm B&B just over the River.

The other guys were staying at the Royal Oak Hotel on the high street. It was here where we would enjoy an excellent evening meal.

We had cycled 46 miles today. You can view our Ravens Route Day 5 from Barnard Castle to Great Ayton below:

Tomorrow – Whitby.