Ride Report – A group from Cobham 6 September

Despite forecast near record temperatures and my advice about undulations en-route, there were 20 riders at Cobham ready to go. In former years Godalming was a Wayfarers favourite, and remains so for C&M.

I left first with Alan, Sue C, Sue F, Christina, Keith and back marker Dave F (thanks Dave).

Neil C left second with, Brian, Richard, David & Jennie, Peter S and Andy C.

Frances’ speedy group left last with Patrick, Dave B, Steve D, Andy H and Neil W.

At the top of Shere Road all the groups met up and exchanged places. Frances took the lead all the way to lunch, and my group took a more measured pace to arrive at lunch last. There we were all pleased to see Ged, who had arrived by train, and joined Frances group for the return.

Mostly we were riding in shade, which was welcome, but climbing was hot work with temperatures approaching 30°. As we progressed the lanes became less familiar, and Thorncombe St was a scenic oasis of calm.

Few had ridden Allden’s Lane before, but the climb was rewarded with spectacular views, not least at the Hilltop Kitchen café, where the prices are equally spectacular. 

Climbing was rewarded with a compensating long descent to Godalming. Lunch was quickly served, but the temperature was a bit of a shock when we resumed riding. The afternoon had only one climb, Combe Lane, but all made it without difficulty.

Thereafter it was a long, almost uninterrupted descent. Frances’ group elected for tea in Leatherhead. After a few en-route defections Neil’s and my groups met for tea in Cobham.

Thanks to Brian for inspiring sections of the route around Thorncombe St. Big thanks to Neil and Frances for leading their groups, and to everyone for your company on a challenging day.