B Group - 31st January

We assembled at the Weybridge DC, the weather forecast had said we might see some rain around eleven o’clock, however whilst we were there it absolutely poured down and this together with the prospect of a strong chilly wind kept the numbers down. However, fifteen of us left the Centre and in persistent ‘drizzle’ rode out of Weybridge and heading in a generally easterly direction took some side roads and paths towards the Angel Pub at Giggs Hill Green. Incidentally this was the same route that some had taken to get to ‘elevenses’, from there we passed the Squires Garden Centre and under the Kingston Bypass before making our way towards Epsom by way of the Chessington Road and then Horton Lane.

A track through part of Epsom Common took us to Woodcote Side and thence to Willmerhatch Lane, pass the RAC club and up Headley Road. This section was defiantly ‘lumpier’ that the previous section of the ride, Walton Road led to the descent and then climb up Hurst Lane. A left turn with a steep climb up Church Lane and we arrived at the Cock Inn for a well-deserved lunch Due to the rather inclement weather two of our party decided to go home at various places and Steph chose to go straight back and skip out from lunch.

We had pre-ordered our food, which was a good thing as the pub was busy with lunch time diners, our orders were served quickly and whilst Grant took time out to repair a slow puncture, ‘we tucked in’

Whilst we were at lunch the weather changed somewhat, whilst still cold and windy the sun came out, hence the blue sky and brightness on the photo outside the pub. At this point, some turned right to go back towards Epsom/Leatherhead whilst the larger group turned left, up again and over Headley Common and then to the Dorking Road. Chequers Lane, Walton on the Hill and Tadworth whisked past and on to the Epsom Downs. We descended the very steep Chalk Lane, somewhat retraced our previous route through Epsom Common and ended up again in Horton Lane.

Afternoon tea was at the Old Moat where to our surprise and pleasure we were joined by Helen.

Frances very kindly paid for our teas and cakes, which whilst not necessary was greatly appreciated.

We left to make our various ways home, before it got too dark and to warm up.

Just under 18 miles from Weybridge to lunch and 9 miles from the pub to tea.

Great company, and I hope everybody that came on the ride enjoyed it.

Thanks to those that marked corners that enabled the ride to keep moving along, and also to David J for back marking.

Ride safe.

Jennie

Sun shines on B Group but Vic in total eclipse

~ Tim