So next week the pubs are open at last and just to make up for lost time we’re going to two. It has often been the custom to start the April “Dorking” ride at Henfold or Tanhouse Farm. For a change we are splitting the difference and starting at the Six Bells in Newdigate.
The pub says it is offering “Cyclists Lunch” from 9-12: elevenses for us. Enquiries with the landlord indicate that there will be croissants, muffins, sandwiches and energy bars together with coffee etc. - but not beer! They have a new wooden structure in the garden with seating and the toilets will be open. I plan to warn the landlord of likely numbers but since he is experimenting with no previous track record then I think we need to be understanding if he hasn’t got our first choice.
Because of the distance to elevenses I intend to start the groups slightly later than normal with the first group probably at 1040-1050 depending on numbers.
We are heading to the Sussex Oak at Warnham. Not far as the crow flies but your leader has designed a circuitous route of just over 20 miles. We firstly take in Leith Hill via the little climbed Broomehall Road and then a loop west as far as Ellens Green. In view of this (and the experience of the recce team riding from home without elevenses) you are strongly advised to ensure that you are adequately nourished before leaving Newdigate – or bring an energy bar or two if you plan to get to Newdigate two minutes before departure.
The return is fairly straightforward via Rusper and Partridge Lane to Denbies, 17 miles, so I would hope that all groups will be there by 4pm. The Denbies website says that the hatch servery will be open until 4.30 pm on weekdays from 12th April and the toilets open until 5pm.
Please let me know if you wish to ride by 6pm on Monday. briangreenwood@yahoo.co.uk Also whether you have a preference for an earlier or later start – I will do my best.
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