Easy Riders - 6th October

Those Easy Riders who did not attend the annual lunch had an enjoyable ride in fine weather from Cobham, at least from the point we left the main road (A307). Our group comprised Madeleine Shearer, whose plan our ride was based upon, Dawn Moriarty, Sandy Bayliss, Gillian Calder, Liz Jordan, Sue Jong, Kamaljit kaur Heer, Cam and myself.

A left turn took us past the flooded green at West End, across the Esher-Hersham road into the quiet of a private estate most notable for the Wayneflete Tower. I was asked about the history and, contrary to my hazy memory from an earlier ride, I’ve learnt that the original 15th century building was a gatehouse for Esher Palace. The present structure is 18th century.

From there we made our way via the perimeter of Sandown Park to East Molesey, followed the Thames Path from Hampton Court to Kingston and on to our lunch stop at The Anglers at Teddington Lock (minus Dawn and Liz who opted to eat in Kingston).

The Easy Riders have tended to favour the neighbouring Tide End Cottage when in this vicinity but, prompted by Madeleine to give The Anglers another chance, we were not disappointed. It has undergone quite a facelift, is good value and the service was pleasant and efficient. The garden was perfect to soak up the autumn sunshine.

We crossed the river again for our return home via Kingston.

Frank C