B Group

B group 29 December 2010

B group enjoying lunch at The Pelican

From Molesey I led Maureen, Steph, Cliff, Eddie, Godfrey, Harold, Ken, Les, Norman and Roger along towpath and roads to Walton bridge then via usual sideroads into parakeet country at Weybridge. A short ride alongside the Wey Navigation led to lunch stop at The Pelican at Addlestone. (Non-cricketing antipodeans have been heard to remark 'A peculiar bird is the pelican, Its' beak can hold more than its' belly can'). The landlord was pleased to see us, we trebled his clientele.
After lunch we headed west to Rowtown, Woodham and New Haw to Byfleet. Here Godfrey punctured but Eddie stayed to assist. The rest carried on, passing through Brooklands, along Redhill Road, semi-circumnavigated the M25/A3 roundabout when Harold punctured and Roger stopped to assist. Determined to have tea at Cobham we pressed on along Plough Lane to find The Medicine Garden closed so we headed for town and whatever might be open (it was only just turned 1500). Terry then punctured on the Mole bridge, stopped to repair it and bade the remaining few farewell. Hopefully everyone else had an uneventful ride home.

Report from Adam Dec 22nd

As John B may not have done a post and Harry wasn't planning to, here is a small contribution about our triplet of riders yesterday if you want to add it to your blog. I'm not quite sure how it all works , never having been responsible for such important news! Have a good holiday and see you soon, I trust.

"Connectivity with the internet proved a major deterrent yesterday as, when I arrived at Walton DC totally unaware of any warning blogs from Irene, Rob or Fuzz posted during my sleep, I saw only one parked cycle . My initial assumption that I had yet again chosen the wrong DC for 11's proved incorrect as I spied Harry Cole sipping a cuppa in the company of the locals and seemingly enjoying the ambience of the place. Just behind me came John Bassett who had diligently read the blog but disobeyed orders whereas Harry and I couldn't be accused of that, not being web savvy or even reliant!

After a brief democratic discussion as to where we should proceed , it was unanimously agreed to lunch (or maybe brunch would be rather more accurate) at the cafe at Pembroke Lodge in Richmond Park . Absolutely the only slush we encountered was for a few hundred metres on the south side of Teddington Lock in Ham ; the rest of the way passed without incident though disappointedly we'd only clocked about 20 miles according to John B's reliable (one hope's) odometer. After brushing aside fellow diners from a wedding reception taking place in an adjacent reception room ,(I cannot confirm whether a discount could be arranged for civil ceremonies through the SWLDA secretary in case there are any interested couples in our midst) Harry pointed out an information board at the exit with copious details of past owners and occupants of Pembroke Lodge amongst whom had been Bertrand Russell, the well known philosopher. He has, apparently read his biography and can even recite several humourous quotes which he will repeat when he is leading a B ride soon if there is sufficient request!

Adam "

B Group Dec 15th

A tiny group of 4 left Leatherhead for a quick lunch at The Cock at Headley, thence home via Walton on the Hill and Epsom Downs. Harry Steph Alan and Les
From Steph

B Group Dec 8th

B Group December 8

Despite the very wintry weather there was a good turnout at Dorking this morning. I had planned a short run so after leisurely 11s led Gill, Irene, Margaret, Pam, Adam, Brians G and N, Cliff, Harry, Jed, Pete and Simon out via North Street, South Street and the Horsham Road to cross the Holmwood roundabout. Things then became much quieter as we rode along Inholms Lane, keeping a good lookout for the icy spots, fortunately easy to avoid. Soon we joined Bushbury Road, the flatter stretch of road following our previous freewheeling competitions at Roothill. We arrived at The Royal Oak, Brockham, seconds before a group of walkers but we were served quickly. (Both Brockham pubs have been recently refurbished. The first one, The Royal Oak is still a traditional pub, the other, formerly The Duke's Head, now The Inn on The Green/ The Grumpy Mole is a gastropub, very smart, red tablecloths, a bit pricey . I prefer the first.) The return route was via the A25 (the cycle track was icy) then via Pixham lane to Leatherhead. Many went straight home, a handful stopped at Annie's. A very modest mileage, I recorded 26 d to d, arriving home in daylight.

Terry

B Group Nov 24th

A record number of 25 started from Teddington. We had to make a split when riding. It was good to have two new riders join our group.
We went south across Bushey Park, over Hampton Bridge, right to Ember lane
Then left along Lower Green Road, R and L By the railway straight on to the footpath over the river. Left at Molsey Road straight on through Hersham along Burwood Road left on the Seven Hills Road footpath, left into Rocket Lane, left through Cobham main street to The Running Mare at Tilt Green
A Very English Up market pub good food. A small group went on to the Plough at Stoke D Abernon.
On through S D A and Blumdel Lane, then footpath across Oxshott Heath, R and L Over railway along Fairoak lane one mile left on footpath to Claygate Common and along Woodstock Lane through tunnel under the A3. Through Long Ditton, Surbiton, and back streets of Kingston to a new tea shop at the corner of Park Road and Glenville Road on the way to Richmond Park.

A relatively short ride. I arrived home just at lighting up time.

Cheers Robin.

B Group Nov 24th

B Group Nov 17th

Around 18 riders set off from Claygate on a rather murkey day through Hinchley Wood, Thames Ditton to Hampton Court. A quick skip via Bushey Park to Teddington, Strawberry Hill and Twickenham found us on the river
en route to Richmond. Passing through St. Margarets we reached our lunch destination at the Wharf in Isleworth. One wonders how they make a living, we were practically the only people in the place.
After lunch the group continued through Richmond Park via Ham and Teddington Lock to the YMCA (Hawkers) for an early tea stop before dispersing in our separate directions.
Not a great distance in mileage I'm afraid (I only clocked up 31 miles) but very pleasant.
My thanks to Stephanie as back marker.

Liz

10th November - B Group

Shepperton - Datchet - Lower Sunbury - not one of our longest rides but I felt it was far enough for this time of year! I did not expect such good weather when I planned the ride after swapping with Terry who was going to lead due to John Gould being unable to cycle after his accident - get well soon, John:)

Not such a good start for Frank, he had a 'flat' at Greenos but Irene very kindly stayed with F and F to lead them to Datchet whilst the rest of 'B' group got started. I had outlined the route to Terry who agreed to back mark (without words!!), thanks buddy!

We took the road to Chertsey and then through Thorpe to Egham, across the meads and on to Old Windsor. It was here that Terry went back for Ray who had a 'needs must' divert, but Ray arrived at lunch well before Terry! I understand they took different roads to Datchet! There were 22 riders plus Ron and Doreen at the Royal Stag where the food was excellent - as well as the service. It was later that I was told Terry had punctured as we left Datchet but said that we should carry on.

Our route to Lower Sunbury was via Horton, then a right to Wraysbury which I almost missed - guess what - I was talking!! At the far end of Lammas Park, Staines (or is it Staines on Thames), it was tow path all the way to Chertsey Bridge.

As we moved on to the road, the A group came storming past!! Oh no!!

Were they also heading for the same destination as us?! The last time both groups made it to the Walled Garden we had been asked to call in and warn the staff!! No problem, as Ed passed he mentioned the bakers at Shepperton!
Quite a few stopped for tea and quite a few continued on their way! One of them being a 'first timer' Peter Tiller, who shook my hand and thanked me, and explained that he will not be out next Wednesday as he has other commitments! We look forward to seeing you again, Peter.
Frank and Francoise asked me to say thank you to Irene and I wish to thank every rider for their company - great!

Pam

Nov 3rd - B Group

Not to be outdone by A Group and their liking for hills, especially with Mark as leader, I decided to throw in a big one for B Group on their way to Guildford for lunch. With amazingly mild and sunny weather, there was a good turn out at Cobham and it was a group of 19 which set off towards West Horsley. The gradient was fairly gentle up to this point but after crossing the A246 it increased dramatically as the road ahead disappeared into a mass of golden beech trees. This road, Shere Road, has two summits with a steep dip in the middle, so is a double challenge.

(Unfortunately, John Scott (nice to see you out, John) took a tumble on one of the steeper sections, drawing blood from a finger.) However, once up, the reward was a level stretch followed by the wonderful downhill run of Combe Bottom. From here we followed the A25 for a short distance before turning off on to the A248 which took us through Albury (tall chimneys) and Chilworth. Somewhere along this bit, Irene had a puncture, unknown to many of the group till she turned up a bit late at the pub.

At the far end of Chilworth, we turned right, and after crossing the railway line followed East Shalford Lane (another hill), Tilehouse Road (the outskirts of Guildford), left into Pilgrims Way, across the busy A281 and into Guildford on the cycle path. The Boatman is right on the path, beside the R. Wey - a delightful setting which half of the group could not resist and opted to sit outside to eat - is this a record for November?! Service was friendly and food arrived quickly given the numbers.

After lunch, our route was up Guildford High Street and out on the London Road. While trying to cross the road at the first major roundabout after Stoke Park, part of the group witnessed an accident between a car and a van, which caused a slight hold-up. At Burpham we turned left on to minor roads which brought us out at the path beside the A3 - the quick route to Ripley. With tea to be at the Medicine Garden in Cobham, we cut across Wisley Airstrip (little to be seen of the filming which had been taking place there) and approached Cobham via Plough Lane.

Eight of us partook of tea in dainty cups and saucers, with individual teapots, sitting outside (again!) in the courtyard - all very pleasant. As we set off for home at 4.00 p.m., lights were in readiness if not already on - the only sign of approaching winter on this mild day. Thanks, Terry, for being back-marker.

Gill Finlay

Free Wheeling Day

Leaving a damp Dorking behind us, the (mostly B) group crossed the golf course to Brockham, noting progress on the bonfire en route to Norwood Hill. Here Jeff’s (mostly A) group were awaiting us. The weather was gradually improving. After Brian pushed me off (not too literally) I thought for a moment I’d had a good run. A few seconds later Mark whistled by, stopping about 100 yards along the road ! Soon more contestants arrived and my second place seemed assured until Godfrey beat me by inches. Soon everyone had arrived and we rode on to Charlwood where we divided loyalties between two pubs and the Pine Shop. Sadly no ladies competed this year. After lunch I had to return home in order to go on holiday again, leaving Brian to lead one group to 3s and Jeff to do likewise, in grand, sunny weather. Thanks, gents.
Thanks to Ed for his handsome,unique carved trophy for the winner. Runner-up award was a (new) tube.
Terry

B Group Oct 20th

As I had been asked to give an expected number for lunch I made a note of B participants - and almost ran out of paper! A rather large group of 24, and I could not split the ride for nobody else knew the route! Terry very kindly took up the rear and I did not hear of any problems on the road! We turned left along the High Street and another left over Woburn Hill, across Chertsey Meads, then along to Willow Walk to circle around the rear of Laleham golf course to emerge onto the A320. Straight across through Thorpe village where we stopped to look at the Animal Pound of 1840 (unusual because it is made of brick) that has been renovated by local companies, plus some input from the Lottery! Also in the village is a 10th century church where photos were taken. It was here that I first saw Jeff had joined us, surprise, surprise! Onwards to Thorpe Green where we took a cut through to Stroude Road, up the hill to pass Virginia Water crematorium (now rather posh dwellings!) At Trumps Green we hung a right into Crown Road and then a short ride through the Wentworth estate, avoiding the greens and club house! And so to lunch at The Wheatsheaf, Virginia Water. This rather large Chef and Brewer pub was ideal for a large group! We were fed and watered with out hastle , then we were on our way into Windsor Park via the lake, totem pole and Saville Gardens to emerge at Bishopsgate. I am sorry to say that two riders went off route but Irene and Graham hung back to escort them to the tea stop! Thank you I and G :) Our return continued through Englefield Green and down Prune Hill, back to Thorpe Village to A320 where we used the cycle path into Chertsey, cut out a little of the town by using Colonel's Lane and Willow Walk, over Chertsey Bridge to tea at the Walled Garden, Lower Sunbury....where Irene and Graham AND the A group were already tucking in to tea and cakes! Unfortunateley two riders had mudguard problems but no tumbles! A wonderful sunny day - even though a trifle chilly - great company - thank you all, Pam :)

B Group Oct 13th

B riders crossing Thames Lock on return from Chobham.

B Group Oct 6th

Early morning rain kept numbers down at Cobham but it was dry as 15 B's set off towards Effingham Junction. From the Drift Road we climbed towards the William IV before dropping to and taking on the Jury Farm concrete. Between the prison and A3 turnoff both Jarvises punctured becoming detached but happily they rejoined at lunch. The New Inn was sunny and warm enough to dine alfresco and watch the boats go by. Easy Riders were emerging from the Seven Sisters as we headed into Ripley. At the A3 roundabout Irene surprised us by continuing to the footbridge before entering Wisley airfield where Spielberg is filming battle scenes for his latest film, Warhorse. After diversions and rubbernecking, we overtook the Easys again beside the Mucky Duck before tea'ing at Sainsbury's. From Graham

B Group Sept 29th

After lunch Bernard very thoughtfully arranged for a visit to church so that we could kneel and pray for our safe return. Steph

A small group at North Cheam and an even smaller group for Redhill – eight to be precise. I suppose with so many members living west it’s not surprising. Or maybe it’s the hills, in metres I noticed 45, 170, 100, 190, 85. We managed to make a mistake on the way to Redhill, I blame Ed who said he knew the route “intimately” but wasn’t at the front. We got there in the end and eight of us set out from Redhill. Not the same eight, we were Brian, Christine, Ed, François, Frank, John G, Stephanie and yours truly. We were en route to Rusper. All went well until I took the wrong turning out of Charlwood, one thing led to another and soon we were in the suburbs of Crawley. After a U-turn in a shopping centre we then explored the extensive and fascinating industrial estates on the west side of Crawley. By now I’d given up with the map and was just using my compass! We got to The Star Inn in Rusper (built in 1486) at about 1.30 after 23 miles from coffee. The food was pretty good, Christine had a steak and kidney pudding that was intended for a family of four while Stephanie was consuming a gigantic pudding. We then had some easy miles to Newdigate, Rusper is the highest village in Sussex so it was gently downhill and with the wind behind us. We stopped and had a quick look at St Peter’s Newdigate parts of which are 12th and 13th century. On to Brockham, across the golf course and tea at Denbies vineyard. Just as we arrived the rain started – the forecast had been dire but we had stayed dry, even a few bits of hazy sun – but the tea was good after which we went our several ways. 50 miles from North Cheam.
Regards
Bernard

B Group Sept 22nd

From Weybridge. 20 set off with;- Bernard, Pam, Steph, Gill, Les, Terry, Eddie, Mick, Godfrey, Dave, Judy, Pete B, Francoise, Frank, Dave, Jane, Allan, Bob, John, and Robin.

West along the High street right into Bridge Road to Addlestone station to Green Lane, Holloway Hill, left and right round Oxhills Golf course. Left and R. over M3, through Wentworth Estate via East Drive, exit at western end L at A30 then R. to Coworth Farm. L at A329 R. into Blacknest gate Windsor Park,. Out of the Park at Rangers Gate and cross the A 332 and right onto the cycle path 1 mile then right back to the A332 to Windsor Weatherspoons. After lunch up past the castle, out along King Edward Av. through Datchet and Wraysbury onto the tow path just before and under Staines Bridge, avoiding the Staines traffic. Along the Thames to Chertsey Bridge, Docket Eddy Lane to Shepperton lock for tea with 11 in the shade under the owl.

Beautiful warm sunny day approximately 31 miles coffee to tea stops.
From Robin

B Group Sept 22nd

B Group Sept 8th

It was a select group of nine which formed B Group this week - Liz, Pam, Bob, John, Grant, Pete M., Ed, Godfrey and me Gill. We let A Group go first as they were going to be following the same route as us at the start but then found ourselves cutting them off at the pass as they opted for the longer route out of Fairoaks, and we the shorter route! As we were heading to The Royal Oak in Wood Street Village for lunch, we began by going due south to join the Basingstoke Canal towpath just off the Lockfield Drive roundabout. From here our route was westwards. As always, it was pleasant cycling beside the canal - we saw two herons, one of which stood to attention by the water's edge as we cycled past, the other took evasive action and flew up into a nearby tall tree till the danger had passed. A swan family with five teenage cygnets was treated to crumbs from an energy bar courtesy of Liz. The original plan was to come off at Pirbright but Bob knew of a quieter route and took us off at Brookwood where he led us through the tranquil grounds of Brookwood Cemetery, coming out at Pirbright Green from where we continued southwards. With the weather looking dubious, a table had been reserved for us indoors at The Royal Oak and we were well looked after. After lunch, a new route for most was taken across Broadstreet Common, where Pete met an old friend,(Mole Valley Walking Group) then on cycle paths past Tesco at Park Barn and across to Guildford University where we cycled through the campus to the back of the station, and crossed the R. Wey on a footbridge. Here the rain which had been threatening, came down with a vengeance and waterproofs were donned for the wet ride up to and across Stoke Park. After this we followed the usual route through the nature reserve to the path by the A3, by which time the sun was out. Three left us in Ripley while the rest of us continued to Cobham, turning off at the bakery and going via Ockham and Martyr's Green. Liz punctured on this stretch but Dr Ed soon had her up and running again. At Cobham, Pete knew of a new tea place - the Hothouse Cafe in the Medicine Garden between the pub at the end of Plough Lane and the timber yard. Four of us had tea in a huge walled garden before exploring the courtyard garden centre behind it. Open till 5.00 p.m. it is to be put on the tea place register for future use. All in all, a great day - thanks everyone for your contributions. (Gill Finlay)

B Group Sept 1st

From Cobham in ideal cycling weather twenty of us took the direct route to Ripley and on to Pyrford Village, where the aptly named and scenic Sandy Lane took us downhill for half a mile into Pyrford proper. North of Maybury, we joined the Basingstoke Canal, following it for about two miles through the Centre of Woking, and leaving the canal path at Arthur's Bridge. Passing to the East of Goldsworth Park Trading Estate, we took Carthouse Lane and Guildford Road into Chobham, and turned left into Bagshot Road, and right onto Clappers Lane. But I had to give the order to reverse (again!) after initially missing the right turn into the (again!) aptly named , but much narrower than expected, Watery Lane. Emerging from the latter onto Ford Road, we turned East along Windlesham Road and Red Lion Road to lunch ( all twenty of us) in the large and peaceful garden of the Red Lion Pub in Burrow Hill. After a leisurely meal we took Gracious Pond Road and Stonehill Road almost into Chertsey before turning right through Botley Park, Bittams Lane, Green Lane and Victory Park to Addlestone. With a little help from Pete Mitchell, we found the bridge over the railway by the old mill next to the River Wey and proceeded via Weybridge and Walton Bridge to tea at the Walled Garden at Sunbury. John Gould