B Group - 1st July (Pete Beyer's route)

Report from Pete

A very good attendance for today's ride to Coldharbour.

Prior to departure we were all treated to a slice of cake from Christina, very yummy it was too. (I'm sure there was a bit of cannabis in mine). 

We were formed of four groups of six, and started to set off at 10.45 and then at 15 minute intervals.

My group departed 10.45 and we headed up to Effingham and across the A246, and then a left turn into High Barn Rd and another left into Hogden Lane where upon you get a glimpse of the top of Polsden Lacy.

Then a descent down Whitedown to the A25. The plan was to go straight across the A246 to Abinger Hatch, but we were prevented from doing so by a chap wearing only shorts and a large number of tattoo's and pushing a large road roller. Not wishing to confront him over the matter we did a right turn towards Abinger Hammer and a left turn towards Holmbury St Mary, turning left by the Volunteer PH and on up to Abinger Hatch and Friday Street, whereupon we stopped for a few photos and a chat. And then it was on to Coldharbour for coffee and a snack, and we were very fortunate for the farm shop closed just 10 minutes after our arrival. Sadly the other three groups missed out.

With rain in the forecast for about 3pm we decided to abandon afternoon tea at Leatherhead and head for home via Dorking and Headley. We did however stop briefly at Walton on the Hill for me to give a little history lesson on Gun Corner.

And finally I would just like to add that it was so lovely to see everyone again after what has seemed an eternity, I hope you all enjoyed the ride, and you are all such good company.

Best Wishes to you all.

Pete

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Report from Dave C

Our Six keen cyclists sailed off promptly at 11.15 from Cobham,  Turning right into our well worn route along Plough Lane, and onwards to Effingham. formally the home of Sir Barnes Wallis (He of the bouncing Bomb fame) - (The Dam Busters). Then onwards and upwards through Effingham into High Barn Lane, gaining elevation, as was to be the theme for the day. 

 A break from the climbing came at Whitedown Lane (nobody seemed to complain though?) There were some road work signs stating that Raikes Lane was closed, but we were unable to understand why? 

The 3B's happily glided up Abinger Lane, a left and a right took us to the picturesque Friday Street. Then it wasn't long before we joined Leith hill road and on towards our Lunchtime destination, which seemed to get further and further away as we peddled? 

The expectation of sustenance was in vain 😕  Since the Shop at the Inn had closed promptly at 1pm. This however didn't stop us enjoying our descent into Dorking, and the along to Leatherhead.

Richard felt that we hadn’t done enough climbing, so he headed for Box Hill, & homewards. Three of us stopped for tea in Charlie & Ginger's. 

Thanks to Steph, Gill, Bob, Richard, & Arwyn, 

~ Dave C

The Stephan Langton Inn beyond the Mill Pond

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Report from Tim C

As with groups 2 and 3 our last group didn't need to make the detour via Abinger Hammer and could wheel our bikes around the barrier and over the freshly tarmacked trench but nonetheless we were much too late for the farm shop and its very good tea, coffee, pasties and other delicacies.

Christina's group 2

But as we expected Pete's route took us through much of the very best scenery Surrey has to offer including the excursion through Friday Street and back up along Leyland's Road towards Leith Hill. Mike, who was wise to the sort of mischief Pete makes with his route design, took the more direct route from Abinger Common along Leith Hill Road and was waiting for us at Coldharbour.

We did note for future use the walled field next to the church opposite the Abinger Hatch as a very desirable venue for our picnics.

Christina's and Fixie Dave Cullen's teams departed some time after our arrival in Coldharbour. Mike zoomed off for a Zoom meeting with folk from his church and we eventually departed. Terry took over leading when we arrived at the outskirts of Dorking and took us through Cotmandene so that we could avoid the one way system and the more obvious route through the town.

Team Christina

We arrived in Leatherhead to find that Charlie and Ginger was closing after serving the earlier groups. By this stage it was just Terry and myself lingering for a cup of tea and a biscuit at Amici, just up the road. As we finished our tea the rain started and by the time I reached Epsom it was full on, very wet stuff.

Another very good day out. Thanks to Pete and to everyone for your company. A big thanks to Christina and Dave who made their debut as leaders on this ride and made a very good job of it.

~ Tim

Hollyhocks in Cotmandene

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