B group 20 August

                               After lunch at The Barley Mow (photo by Neil)

                                      Enjoying tea at Farncombe Boathouse

                                                      Shy(?) lady

After a train trip (for some) followed by very pleasant 11s at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre at Guildford we nineteen Bs used mostly cycle tracks to Farncombe. Then onto roads, which, out in the country, proved much less busy than we're used to consequently the surfaces generally were much better. We also noted several stretches of recent resurfacing - no, 'the races' didn't come this way.

Soon we passed Charterhouse school en route to Hurtmore and Shackleford. Lombard Street and Seale Road were even quieter before we briefly joined the B3001. Whitmead Lane next, narrow and with an interesting steep downhill stretch incorporating a tightish hairpin. It was then just a short, easy run to The Barley Mow at Tilford. Only thirteen miles but including a few undulations meant appetites were healthy and were well satisfied.

After lunch we headed south on the Tilford Road, eventually turning east on to Thursley Road and this afternoon's off-road stretch (Woolfords Lane) which, having 'overshot' we didn't get shot as promised on the MOD sign. Rejoining Thursley Road we were soon passing through Elstead then via Norney, Hurtmore (again), a quickish descent of Frith Hill to Godalming outskirts leading to waterside 3s at Farncombe Boathouse.

Having backmarked all day (thanks) Pam then led some to Guildford - unfortunately I had to return home sharpish so left to catch my return train from Shalford.

A very pleasant day's cycling on unfamiliar, well surfaced, tree-lined roads with good company - thanks all.

Terry