B Groups - 16th September

We split into 3 sub-groups led by Tim Gibbons, Christina and myself (Ken).

My usual approach to route planning is to avoid traffic where possible, and explore new routes, and that inevitably means hills and some off-road if you live near the Surrey Hills, and this ride was no different.

The first section was up to The Ledges on West End Common which I think was a first for most of the riders. There is a riverside path along the Mole with several sections of boardwalk which makes a nice circular stroll – even more fun when the Mole floods. (Not recommended for bikes)

On the Ledges, leader and peleton

We followed familiar tracks across Bookham Common and climbed up High Barn Road to Ranmore. I am happy to trade the steeper climb (same elevation gain) against the lack of traffic compared to the parallel Critten Lane, but from the murmurings there may have been some disagreement.

Down White Down and up Abinger Lane to lunch at the Abinger Hatch, where we were joined by Pete Beyer. The new rule of six complicates booking but the pub has managed it well with plenty of outside tables. But what happens in winter?

Although mainly down-hill the route through Friday Street has a few sharp uphill’s which seemed steeper as an A Group subgroup left us in its slipstream. Luckily, we went down the dreaded Sheephouse Lane of Hilly 50 fame.

Route 22 took us to Dorking – en route we said Hello to the Alpacas in Balchins Lane. From Dorking some riders decided Norbury Park was not the right direction and opted for alternative ways home.

(photo by Christina)

Crabtree Lane and the surfaced track to the Wood Yard in Norbury Park is a very pretty ride and again not well known.  There is now a tea and coffee wagon just inside the gates of the Woodyard. A possible tea stop in a nice location but it has limited opening hours Mon to Friday 9am to 3 pm.

(Christina)

Blue Plaque on the Leladene Arch at the entrance to Camilla Drive

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For my group of three our ride ended at Bocketts Farm where Ann and Tim headed for Leatherhead.

I enjoyed the company and the perfect weather. Particular thanks to both Tims, Christina and Dave Fixie for volunteering as sub group leaders.

~ Ken

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Neither Ann nor I had any memory of riding through Ken's Crabtree Lane route in Norbury Park so we greatly enjoyed it.

As for the Critten Lane vs High Barn Road vs Hogden Lane debate, opinion seems to favour Hogden Lane. A certain amount of mumbling and grumbling is part of our weekly ritual but really High Barn Lane is a very nice way to go if we're up for the challenge of a slightly steeper route.

I enjoyed my cup of Earl Grey and Lemon Drizzle cake at Charlie and Ginger and as the weather was still bright I took the track from the Epsom Gap on the A243 through to Horton Lane on my way home.

Thank's to Ken for a well planned ride.

~ Tim

or if you prefer:

https://www.strava.com/activities/4069319225