During my first ride in London, I stopped at teatime for British scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream accompanied by a mug of thick, rich hot chocolate. This classic British dish originated in Scotland in the early 16th century, with a first print reference in a 1513 poem. They were originally larger, made with... Continue Reading →
Fresh fish, battered and fried in hot oil, served with friend potato slices. Arriving in Manchester late this evening, I knew of no more appropriate way to prepare for an early morning ride than this British classic! This iconic national dish of the United Kingdom is an international fusion food--the fried fish was introduced by... Continue Reading →
The Cornish pasty I ate last week at The Dough Miner in Salt Lake City has lingered in my imagination, so imagine my excitement to learn of The Cornish Pasty Co. restaurant group in the Phoenix area. The menu is brimming with scrumptious-sounding fillings, but in keeping with my Southwestern trip I ordered the carne... Continue Reading →
Ever since I learned this new 'raunt would open, I have been looking for a reason to visit! Today's ride to Richmond Park provided the perfect excuse. The Dough Miner connects British history with Utah history by bringing new American life to the savory Cornish Pasty (pronounced "PASS-tee"). Because it was my first visit, I... Continue Reading →
In eighth grade, my nickname was Sven. I was new to the school and when the English teacher asked another student what my name was, the dude responded, "I don't know, Sven or something." And so it stuck. All year. My blog takes its name from the Old English word swain, which in turn comes from... Continue Reading →
My annual goal to ride 5,000 miles with the British magazine Cycling Weekly involves monthly challenges that break up the large task and offer some fun. For April, one such mini-challenge is to take a selfie at a cycling café and report on its best cake. How hard could it be to find a British... Continue Reading →
In 1760, the Anglican Reverend East Apthorp commissioned architect Peter Harrison to build a private residence high above the bank of the Charles River. The resulting mansion - one of the largest and most magnificent in Cambridge - was surrounded by extensive grounds that extended to the river front. The home's opulence, combined with East's... Continue Reading →
the Bikeswain 