It's a frosty start to day1 after a night of broken sleep due to an undetermined rumbling sound penetrating the hotel room. It doesn't take long for the frost to lift and we use the opportunity to load up on breakfast with a touring party of septuagenarians.

After a few moments of head scratching we manage to figure out how to pair the intercom system ( go IT dudes! ). Then it's out on the open road in lovely sunshine.

It's a decent start to the day as we head off on our way to Shrewsbury. Speeds are reasonable, the roads interesting and the views pleasant. The other side of Shrewsbury on the way to Uttoxeter however we're caught in rain followed by hail followed by sleet and followed by rain - oh and it's windy too just to spice things up. The rain follows us through Telford and Stafford. The riding is still enjoyable but Razor is suffering badly from steaming up and his body warmer auxiliary plug isn't inserted correctly so he's chilly too. As we enter Uttoxeter it's time for a break and a Waitrose store with covered parking comes just a the right time for some toasted sandwiches and a coffee.

The sun is back out on departure and we're reinvigorated heading towards Ashbourne, Buxton, high peak, glossop & Holmfirth. Before long though we then encounter what can only be described as an eternity of mind numbing 20,30 and 40 mile an hour roads constantly following traffic and stopping every other minute for traffic lights. It's pretty enough and a good example of the local housing and settlements but hampers progress. I need to refer back to the map for the exact stretch of road to deter anyone else from riding it. It's a bit of a setback and hits the schedule hard.

We are then treated to some amazing riding through the Rest of the Peak District and on to the Yorkshire dales. We can be quick, overtaking comes easy and the scenery is stunning. We've had a few more showers by this time heavy at times but by the time we get to Settle the sun is out and it's turning into a great day. The sun stays with us all the way to Lancaster and Heysham where we are staying for the night at the Port House B&B. Our cordial host is welcoming and very keen to tell us all about his facilities and the local area. We have an apartment setup which is great. Interestingly it turns out we are staying right by Heysham nuclear power station - who knew! Quick shower and change and it's a 20 minute stroll into Heysham to the Royal hotel for beers and food.

It was a big day considering it was the first day of the trip. 270 miles with 8 hours in the saddle.