Castle Howard Lake

Set off early this morning for a bike ride across the Vale of Pickering and onto the Howardian Hills. The morning was beautiful with clear blue skies and sunshine. Had too many layers on and had to make a pit stop on the first climb to remove my thermal top and winter gloves.

Met a number of cyclists also making the most of the good weather. Half way round I made another pit stop to see what I could spot on the Lake. Liked this shot the best as the blue sky was reflected in the water and the circular ripples made a great back drop for this Coot.

An excellent ride and a good excuse to replenish the spent calories at the end!