Seven of us left the Day Centre, with Barry joining us for the first time, and after the rush down to Wapses roundabout we went through beautiful Marden Park. The wind had risen and light rain led to the donning of waterproofs before the climb up Gangers Lane to the ridge road along the North Downs. Fine views are to be had over the Weald and towards the South Downs on a clearer day, but the rain had now eased and the wind was across and behind. The other features of this area are short steep descents to streams and short steep climbs up the other side, which require rapid gear changes at the bottom or potential damage to the knees climbing out.
We passed through Tatsfield Green, Hawleys Corner and Berrys Green before arriving at the George and Dragon in Downe Village, where the life-size Lizard and Gorilla replicas in the pub garden led to speculation on our distant ancestry.
The food was average for these times and was followed by a fast descent towards West Whickham where we joined NCN route 21 as far as Norwood Country Park. Despite threatening clouds no rain materialised before the tea stop at the Rookery cafe on Streatham Common.
With a good pace, no mishaps, and great company the mileage was 26 from Caterham. I did 43 by the time I arrived home, a distance that suits me fine.
Thanks to everyone for coming along.
Harry Cole
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