Thursday, July 04, 2013

B ride - 3rd July 2013

COBHAM - EWHURST - MICKLEHAM  (Denbies)

I had originally planned to go to the Little Park Hatch in Cranleigh, the largest village in England. When does a village become a town? You may ask.  “Leigh” is the Anglo-Saxon word for a “clearing in a forest”. “People who like this sort of thing will find this sort of thing they like” as Abe Lincoln allegedly said. However after a reccie on Sunday, I realized that the standard of food had dropped considerably since our last visit with the Cheam & Morden a few years ago and the garden which was then full with families enjoying their Sunday roast, was empty in spite of the sunny afternoon.

I therefore resorted to Plan B which was a visit to the Bull's Head in Ewhurst and a 6-mile shorter ride. 14 of us promptly left Cobham and headed to Hungryhill Lane, via Plough Lane and East Clandon. We then climbed Staple Lane to reach the picturesque village of Shere. We then proceeded straight up from Shere on the long  (some thought tiresome whilst others enjoyed the shade) climb of Hound House Road before dropping down to Ewhurst. Whilst two cyclists had to return straight away, 12 of us had lunch which was served by pleasant staff, even though they had no forewarning of our arrival. The food was of a good standard, served pipping hot and a choice of beers was on offer. “Senior” main courses are available – a slightly smaller portion, costing little more than a sandwich in other places.

Suitably rested, I led the group back by a flatter route via Ockley Road to Capel, Henfold and the usual route to Denbies where 10 of us enjoyed a "discounted" tea, although the Duty Manager of the day claimed no knowledge of the agreement for group cyclists.
Discombobulations: chain jumping in mid-climbs and a broken spoke, but nothing serious.
A total of 32 miles from Cobham to Denbies and 60 miles door-to-door for F&F.

Frank

Click on the link to view Frank's ride in OpenRunner: 




 

1 comment:

Simon L said...

By an amazing coincidence, I had also originally planned to take the A group to the Little Park Hatch at Cranleigh on Wednesday. I also felt the hygiene in the pub left something to be desired, and changed my plans...