A Trip to Sarthe with Frank and Françoise

A TRIP TO SARTHE IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF WILLIAM THE CONQUEROR

(28^th August to 8^th September 2012)

Sixteen Francophile cyclists who enjoy French culture and cuisine crossed the Channel via Portsmouth, on the evening of Tuesday 28th August 2012 to be met by Frank, Francoise, Marcel (Francoise's brother) and Brigitte in Ouistreham, Normandy, in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Following a flat route, Marcel led the group through the port along a cycle path besides River Orne. After a few miles we stopped to view the famous Pegasus Bridge, and the house (now a cafe) that was the first building in France to be liberated by the allies during the Second World War. We continued on the "voie verte" crossing the city of Caen.  From there we travelled through the plains of Normandy, against a strong headwind, to reach our first destination - Falaise - by lunchtime. We lunched in a small brasserie on a typical Menu du Jour or "Menu ouvrier". After lunch we visited the Falaise Castle where William the Conqueror was born. We then continued our way to our overnight stay at the "Hotel du Faisan Doré", in Fontenai-sur-Orne. In our quest for gastronomy, Mme Coiffard, the lady-chef at La Table de Catherine, had prepared our first group dinner.

Next morning we set off early as we had to ride 40 miles in the morning to reach one of the highlights of the tour: Le Musée du Vélo at La Fresnaye-sur-Chedouet in Sarthe. A few hills had to be climbed to reach some 375 m. The dense Forêt d’Ecouves crossed on the way was a sharp and agreeable contrast to the flat and windy roads of Day One. "Musée du Vélo", also known as "Musée de la Grande Echapée" (ie. Tour de France) retraces the history of the Tour from its inception. Bikes used from the first Tour de France to the latest one are exhibited. We were lead through the Museum by its enthusiastic and knowledgeable owner who showed us his entire collection of bikes and artefacts. Cycling through the Forest of Perseigne, we circumnavigated Alencon to reach les "Alpes Mancelles" where some challenging hills had to be climbed. These were soon forgotten when we reached the charming village of Saint-Léonard-des-Bois where everyone enjoyed a beer in "La Cave à Bière", an unusual beer kellar for France, with views on a mini canyon. Liz, who could not join us on Day One had no difficulty in finding “La Cave” and was waving to us as she spotted the group descending fast into Saint-Léonard.  Half a mile away, a restored mansion - Le Domaine du Gasseau - was our exclusive abode for the night. The group elegantly filled the smart dining hall where the only clue to Le Gasseau initial purpose was represented on the impressive fireplace by the engravings of two shapely-naked ladies. Next morning, the owner of the hotel revealed that Le Gasseau had been built in 1941 by the Germans and during the last war, it was used as a b..., in other words a house of ill-repute.

After a typical French breakfast of croissants and bread just coming out of the local baker’s oven, we set off through the Forest of Sillé to the village of Loué where Françoise and Marcel were brought up. The village and rural area around Loué is now famous all over France for its free range organic chickens. Most of the group stayed in wooden chalets by River Vègre for five nights whilst a few chose to stay at Hotel Ricordeau, a 19^th century coach-house. Dinner on the first evening was at Hotel Ricordeau which has continuously offered fine cuisine through the years; the group had an aperitif in the garden sampling "Rillettes", (a local potted pork which used to be the staple diet in all the surrounding farms) before sitting down in the Empire private room, to an excellent gourmet dinner, the main course being "Poulet de Loué"!

The following afternoon, a group of five riders was led by Marcel to Malicorne, a pleasant village situated by the Sarthe River. Frank, Brian, Terry, Tim enjoyed a fast ride and a well-deserved beer at a local cafe. The rest of the group had a more relaxing time visiting the garden of Manoir de la Massonière, just a two miles’ ride from Loué where a version of "English Tea" was served as a reminder that the restorer of the Manoir is English born. Then it was time for an “al-fresco aperitif” offered by Gerald and Marcel and served on the banks of River Vègre which flows at the bottom of Brigitte & Marcel’s garden. This was followed by a barbecue dinner at the chalets.

Sunday saw the group riding through the Forest of Charnie to Sainte-Suzanne in Mayenne, a fortified village that William the Conqueror - supposedly - was unable to capture. For lunch, we rode a short distance to a reconstructed medieval fort at La Ferté-Clairbois where, dressed in costumes, we were served a medieval style lunch whilst listening to period songs and lute playing. We were then entertained with an excellent show of jousting, sword fighting, archery and horsemanship.

On Monday it was an early start (8:00 am) as we headed for Le Mans and cycled on 7 kms of the smooth tarmac of the famous “24 Hours” motor racing track. We enjoyed a very typical French lunch in the dining hall for elite apprentices (La Maison des Compagnons du Devoir) before visiting, with a lively English-speaking guide, Cité Plantagenêt, Le Mans old medieval quarters, and its famous cathedral. Both are often used as back-drop for films. Henri II (Plantagenet), son of William the Conqueror was born there.

At Brian’s suggestion (yes, we do take note of good suggestions), a picnic dinner was organised by Gerald, Marcel’s Anglophile friend, who loves Fish & Chips and English beer – and possibly the only French man to be stopped by the French Customs whilst returning from England with a large suitcase full of English food. On Monday night though, local charcuterie purchased directly from a local pig farmer/butcher, watered down with a few bottles of Jasnières (white wine from Southern Sarthe) were the order of the day.

Tuesday was an easy day with a ride to Solesmes. We visited the Abbey, built beside River Sarthe, and listened to Gregorian prayers chanted by some of the 55 monks who live in the Abbey.

On Wednesday, we had to leave the quiet rural village of Loué and Sarthe. We were off early - again - for a fairly long and at times arduous stage via Villaine-la-Juhel to the attractive spa town of Bagnoles de l'Orne. The luxury at Hotel du Béryl was a fine contrast to the rustic chalets of Loué and ensured a very comfortable night to all after the extremely good diner served at this hotel which overlooks a lake.

From Bagnoles, we had to face the longest and hardest day of the tour yet to reach Bayeux. The terrain was undulating and we completed 63 hard miles via a “beastly” hill, the top of which being dominated by military radars.

Friday morning, we admired the impressive Bayeux Tapestry that is nearly 1000 years’ old and viewed the events leading up to the Norman invasion of England in 1066. Most of the group would have been happy to spend longer in the Museum but we were scheduled to head for Ouistreham in the afternoon.

The route to Ouistreham was fairly uninteresting and had to be livened up by an ice-cream stop at Arromanches. However from Bernières-sur-Mer, we managed to cycle right along the seafront on a sunny afternoon. Not far from our destination, Françoise spotted a large terraced cafe where we all stopped for afternoon tea/beer - almost basking in the Normandy sun!

After dinner, Frank, Françoise, Brigitte and Marcel (the latter relieved and proud to have led an English group without any problems, to and back from his small country village of Loué) waved “Farewell” at the Ferry terminal to the 17 cyclists who, regardless of the road difficulties, had been such pleasant companions, on 700 kms of French roads for the last ten days (750 kms for the hard riders who went to Malicorne).

The success of any tour depends as much on the organisation as on the participants and we congratulate everyone for making such an excellent group. It has been a pleasure to organise this holiday for you and we have enjoyed your company both on the roads and during the numerous breaks and meals.

F & F

Statistics:

The group:

From the UK: Julian & Avril, on tandem Gill, Lynda, Liz, Pam, Sandy Bernard, Brian, Ian, Robin, Terry, Tim Cliff & Maureen, Dave & Jane

From France: Marcel & Brigitte, Gerald Frank & Francoise

Personal Best:  

1. Marcel - for leading an English group over so many miles of mostly traffic-free roads, at times through lovely forests, getting everyone motivated over the long and arduous hills. Marcel showed us his intimate knowledge of both Normandy and Sarthe small road network. We are grateful for Marcel’s leadership which got us to the right place at the right time! 
2. Sandy and Avril - Longest distance cycled in one day: 63 miles or 108 kms – Bagnoles to Bayeux 
3. Sandy - Highest climb - 375 m in Forêt d’Ecouves (Day 2 – Fontenai-s-Orne to Saint-Leonard):

Highest overall mileage (including the miles on the English side)

Pamela – 948 kms 

Terry – 948 kms plus Malicorne fast run of 54 kms

Maps and Profiles – Courtesy of Tim – Many thanks, Tim, for sorting out the elevation graphs which prove how well we all did and sharing your photos with us.

Punctures: 1

Photos: Tim, Pam, Frank & Francoise. More contributions are expected.

Please click on the following for maps and photos:

• All maps of our routes and, for the hilly days, the altitude profiles
• A selection of photos from various contributors
• Gill's photos - added 19/09/2012
• Pam's photos - added 27/09/2012 
• If it starts to rain click here for more photos

The above maps and photos are displayed in Google+. Unfortunately I haven't found a way to extend the time interval for the slideshow so it is probably best to click the photos or maps to move through them. Captions are displayed in the right hand panel, if the panel is left open. In the side panel, if you click on "Photo details" there should be a little google map for most of the photos to indicate where they were taken. It is possible to download individual photos.

Marks Mystery Ride

Well not really but in my case after the foot tunnel from Greenwich it became a mystery. My mistake taking a last photo across the river as you all dissapeard with no back marker for protection (my fault). So where is the above found while trying to track you all down?

I meandered around Canary Wharf and along the Thames Path to St Katherin's Dock and over Tower Bridge where I photographed the Shard. My eventual route home was via Route 3 Clapham Common and then Wandle from Wimbledon to Morden Park to then get a call from Jeff to say you were all still in St. James Park by this time it was gone 4pm. An enjoyable day must pay a call on the "Hornyman" and look around.

 

London Ride, 12 September

The London Ride

 Horse Guards Parade

© Copyright David Hawgood and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence. 

A pot-pourri of images of Mark's excellent and intricate London Ride. Somehow he took us to the heights without our realising (well hardly) that we were climbing. I really should have snapped Admiralty Parade, The Cabinet Office and the back of No 10 - I was too busy admiring. At Vauxhall Bridge Rd, Pete, Tim and I were stranded by a red light. Pete hared off home while Tim and I crossed Vauxhall Bridge, where we were spooked.  Tim decided to consult his Garmin, while I sped off down S. Lambeth Rd to Stockwell Stn to pick up the CS7 Super Highway. However, with  no sign of a herd of mamils in sight by Balham, I diverted to Tooting Bec Common to head for home. Our thanks to Mark for an exciting day in London, with big city traffic managed effortlessy by all - the pedestrians are much more dangerous! Apologies to Mike for not realising that part of the lizard's tail had dropped off inside the tunnel!

Jeff

The London Ride 12th September

Well, that was quite a day out.  More than thirty of us left North Cheam this morning, taking a complicated route to Greenwich, home via the City and St James' Park.  Only 39.9 miles from North Cheam to Morden Hall, at a stately moving average of 7.7 mph.  

We started off along the London Road, but soon left it for Lloyd Park, then taking back-roads and paths along the Wandle Trail to Croydon.  Crossing under the dual carriageway it was more quiet roads to Crystal Palace Park, where we ascended the day's hill in fine fashion.  Along the top of Sydenham Hill and then a short run downhill to the Horniman Museum, for coffee, cake and views.

Busier roads, briefly, until we turned up to Blythe Hill.  Here we had an amusing incident where we lost a few riders, who had missed the corner marker, and flew on, pursued by the back marker.  Minutes later, they reappeared going the other way, and missed the turn again ...  The rest of us waited at the top of the hill taking in the views over Canary Wharf while they caught up and then it was down again to Ladywell Park and the interesting spiral bridge over the railway.  Some rode, some walked.

Serpentine but easy riding from here to Greenwich, and soon we began to see cranes along the river and then, suddenly, the Thames itself.  We gathered under the bowsprit of the Cutty Sark before heading to Wetherspoons for lunch.

Fed and watered we returned to the Cutty Sark for the next stage.  One or two had left - Pete B had a broken spoke, for example - but the rest of us crossed the Thames by the Foot Tunnel, some in the new lifts and some by the stairs.  Ten or twelve bikes per lift, which is impressive of itself, and I'd guess that a couple of dozen of us passed through the tunnel.

Through Millwall  (which is much prettier than it was) to Canary Wharf, where we did a short tour of the Banking Quarter and rode part of the route of the Canary Wharf road race held earlier in the year.  Then Limehouse and the C3 Superhighway that took us easily into the City.  On this part of the ride we began to get some of the problems that we have had in the past, as there are bicycle traffic lights on the Superhighway that change too quickly to get the whole group through.  The only solution we have so far found is to wait, which is fine, but it does slow things down rather.

A couple more left as we entered the City, but we were still a large group.  No problems along Eastcheap, and Cannon Street was closed to cars by emergency road works, giving an easy run to the wily cyclists.  Past St Pauls and then Fleet Street, where we got a completely different London experience.  It was really busy and we struggled to thread our way to the Royal Courts of Justice.  Here we nipped into Bell Yard, immediately traffic free, and at the corner some were delighted to note that we were, quite literally, in Carey Street.

Lincolns Inn Fields, Bow Street and then Covent Garden for acrobats and loos.  Here we had a brief council o' war.  It was getting on - about four o'clock - and we clearly weren't going  to get to Morden Hall by four thirty. The upshot was that some, individually and severally, began their rides home, and some agreed to take their tea in London.

So it was round Trafalgar Square and under Admiralty Arch to St James Park for tea, then homewards down Horse Guards.  (We had to miss out the Mall as it it still being cleared up after the Olympics and Paralympics). 

At Vauxhall Cross our back marker disappeared in heavy traffic.  We were unable to find him and eventually concluded that he had fallen prey to shadowy agencies, so there was no option but to press on.  CS7 Superhighway took us efficiently to Colliers Wood - the same traffic lights problem, but less so now as the group was much smaller, and finally the Wandle Trail to Morden Hall where we arrived at about five thirty.  

Farewells from the happy band of heroes and heroines, then the last few miles home - quite a few, still, for some.

Special thanks to Terry and Jeff for acting as back markers, and to Peter and Colin for being excellent greyhounds, marking corners as we went along.  Thanks too to the Wayfarers, for being such good company and for their skilful riding in a fascinating, but very busy, city.

Mark

Tour of Britain

Official Website

If you are following the Tour of Britain, this link gives you all the details:

http://www.tourofbritain.com/

Jeff

B Group 5 September

Cobham - Irons Bottom - Annies

Despite a slim-line attendance at Cobham, double figures opted to give me a run for my money on a fine day for cycling. After a tour of the Tilt, it was a steady rise from Stoke d'Abernon through Fetcham to Bocketts Farm. Here tarmac was thrown out of the window and we bounced our way across Fetcham Downs and Norbury Park, past the Saw Mill to meet Crabtree Lane and a cooling downhill to West Humble. After some cycle path we took the Coach Road to Brockham, then through Leigh to Irons Bottom and the Three Horseshoes.

Lunch was leisurely beneath blue skies. Service was also leisurely but worth waiting for, even if I was only a spectator. There was no clamour to remount, but at last we turned tail and passed Leigh and Flanchford to reach Wonham. At the Manor gates, our gallant Sir Phil leapt to the rescue of a pretty cycling maid in distress, whose saddle was parting from its post, no laughing matter for maid or man. Her distress was soon assuaged with the help of a tool of appropriate guage. In recompense she took our picture before departing with a smile - and with her father.

With a righteous glow of service rendered, we cantered on to Betchworth, Brockham and Old  School Lane, past Bushberry Farm (well known to veterans of the Free Wheel Competition) and empty of the cattle I had bumped into on my earlier visit. Tilehurst lane had a little sting in its tail before Punchbowl Lane. Then, with the scent of tea in the air, it was Pixham and the cycle path along the A24. The leader caused a flurry of consternation at Burford Bridge, by ignoring the cycle path above the underpass. However, order was restored and we regrouped to pass through Norbury Park Farm, before the final rise into Leatherhead and Annie's welcoming arms, already fully occupied with the A Group, who had pipped us to the teapot. Our circuit had taken in some 35 miles or so in pleasant late summer sunshine, untroubled by stress or perspiration.

Jeff

A Group 5 September

A Team Wednesday 5^th September

Our group of 11 left Cobham BL at 11-15 comprising of  Mark, Paul, Peter, Rob, Simon, Colin, John, Vic and Tony D.

At a briskish pace we set off  on the well trodden route to Plough Lane, Ockham, Hungry Hill (it wasn’t closed) to East Clandon but not up Staple Lane, but right along the A246 for the short ride to Merrow, then up to Newlands on the quieter Trodds Lane.

Re grouping at the top it was a very fast descent down the newly resurfaced A25 to Abinger Hammer where right up the steady climb through Sutton, Holmbury St Mary to Forest Green, continuing on to Wallis Wood and Okewoodhill and lunch at The Punchbowl Inn.

A better day to lunch in the garden you couldn’t wish for, service was a tad slow but all agreed, well worth the wait for the excellent meals.

Watered and fed, it was off across the A29 along Weare Street, this familiar beautiful quiet road is ruined by the bad surface in many places, then to Ockley, Capel, Newdigate, Blackbrook and Pixham Lane for tea at Annie’s in Leatherhead, just ordering our tea and cakes before the arrival of the B group.

40 miles from Cobham to tea, for me 76 miles from door to door quite possibly similar to many of our group.

Frank C   

Easy Riders 5 September

Wayfarers - Easy Riders - C Group 5th September - Cobham

I was standing in for Lynda who had arranged an alternative Tour de France. There was a dearth of Easy Riders but we made up a very select group 6. John, Roger, Brian, Mick (I hope I got the name right) Norman and myself. Roger suggested a visit to The New Inn at Send, this met with approval and we set of in that direction. We followed the usual route, Plough Lane, Hatchford, and Guiles Lane. We had intended to go via Hungry Hill but were greeted by ROAD AHEAD CLOSED sign. Not wishing to risk the chance of meeting a complete impasse (and not being overly keen on that particular hill) we dutifully followed the diversion signs skirting Ripley to find our way to Potters Lane and eventually The New Inn at Send. (Brian had a front wheel puncture but was not far behind us). 

 It was a delightful day for cycling and we were pleased to eat lunch in warm sunshine in the garden overlooking the canal. Mick had left us just before lunch so we were down to five. We found the Inn welcoming and reasonably priced. There seemed to be a lot of renovation work going on, and I was slightly worried to see a sign advertising for a Manager and Staff - that does not always bode well. Hope I am wrong - we shall see. Present staff are very pleasant and looking forward to Sunday 16th September when the Tour of Britain passes the pub - bringing a lot of custom they hope.

After lunch we set off for Ripley via the towpath and Papercourt Lock (minus Norman) 1 down 4 to go.) We stayed as a group of four until The Black Swan cross-road where Roger and Brian made for Cobham. John and I headed for Effingham, John for a train, and I for home.

Mike W

A Group 5th September

Summer at last for Frank's ride to the Punchbowle at Okewood Hill.  39.8 miles from elevenses at Cobham to tea at Annie's; rolling average 14.1 mph; maximum speed 39.2 mph and 2,043 feet of ascent.

Mark

The London Ride 12th September - No Mystery!

I've been talking this over with Brian, our Rides Secretary, and we have agreed that giving people more information about the ride is probably more sensible than keeping it a secret.  So here's the outline of the ride that I'll be leading on 12th September.  It will be a London Ride, just as we have done for the last couple of years.  People seem to have enjoyed these rides, and we very rarely visit the Capital.

We will start, as usual, from North Cheam at 0930.  Much of the route is NCN Cycleways - quiet streets or paths - and there is only one hill, up to Crystal Palace through the park.  Not steep, and no traffic.  Naturally, as this is a London ride, some parts will be busy, but we'll take it steadily and I'm sure it will be fine.

Elevenses will be at the Horniman Museum on Streatham Hill, and lunch will be at the Gate Clock, a Wetherspoons in Greenwich.  I plan a slightly extended lunch break, so that people have time to look around if they want.  After lunch we will cross the Thames by the Greenwich Foot Tunnel, pass through Canary Wharf, which people liked last year, through the City to St Pauls and Covent Garden.  Then down the Mall and Birdcage Walk to Westminster Abbey, over Vauxhall Bridge to the Oval and the Superhighway back to the Wandle Trail at Colliers Wood.  This will take us the last couple of miles to Morden Hall Park for tea.  I expect to be there by 1630.

We'll need to be in single file for much of the ride, and if the group is large I'll divide it up with a second leader to make life easier - we can see how that goes.  There will be a back marker and a rider will wait at each major junction.

For those who want to, it is possible to cover part of the route by public transport.  The Horniman Museum is a mile or so from Crystal Palace station and about six miles from Clapham Junction; Morden Hall Park is close to Wimbledon so 'train assists' to begin or end the day are easy.  And adventurers can cross the Thames by boat rather than through the Tunnel - about £4, less with a Freedom Pass. (The Tunnel is free, of course.)

I'll bring some printed copies of this note to Cobham next Wednesday, but it would also help if people could pass the information on to Wayfarers who don't use the Internet.

Mark

A Group 29 August 2012

Farnham

Sheltering off the beaten track beneath the vines at the Bat and Ball

Ed's ride to Godalming

Lovely ride from Effingham to Godalming.  What a pretty traffic free High Street, old buildings, some dated 1666.   Arrived a little damp for lunch as a heavy shower forced us under cover.  Lovely lunch, lovely company.  Drizzle continued after lunch persuading Pat, Pete and John to head for the train, the remainder headed for Wetherspoons in Leatherhead where the cheesecake with fruit coulis was very tasty.   Thank you Ed for a lovely day.

A Group 29th August

Another of the Summer's longer rides - Paul led us 45.78 miles from elevenses at the Vineries to tea at Squires, East Horsley.  Lunch was at the Bat and Ball, Farnham.  A fine pub, but, as Paul warned, one of the hardest in Surrey to find.  That may be true, based on Tony's and my experience.  Rolling average 11.8 mph; total climb 2,545 ft and 2,051 calories.

The forecast rain arrived promptly, but was of little consequence - everyone enjoyed the day.

Mark

Easy Riders, 22nd August

Roger's ride from Shepperton Greeno to Thorpe for lunch, thence to Hampton Court (?) for Tea

Photos and GPS data by Ron W.

Petersfield train supported ride

Train supported group at Petersfield, suitably refreshed, about to explore Hampshire lanes, top picture.

Lower picture awaiting further suitable refreshments at The Cricketers, Kingsley.

Thanks to Brian for a well-organised, enjoyable ride in unfamiliar territory.

Go West young man! A ride 29 August

I'm leading next week from Vineries Garden Centre, Effingham and given the opportunity of a westerly start point, I'll be going further west to Farnham to one of the best pubs in Surrey - and one of the most difficult to find!

Ride to lunch will be a little further than normal at 25 miles, but with only one hill of note as we go over the Downs via Coombe Lane, then rolling roads to lunch and then similarly after lunch to West Horsley for "4's" - total 45 miles 11's to tea.

I'd like to start from the Vineries no later than 11:10, please.

Regards & Happy Riding,

Paul Kelly

A Group 23 August

Some boys never grow up!

After lunch at the Rose and Olive Branch

A Group 22/8/12

With a B+ ride to deplete the number of A's for Wednesdays ride and the Greeno centre looking bare of cyclists I was pleased to have a group of 10 for the ride to Virginia Water for lunch, almost. Jeff was concerned that he could not change gear and on examination I discovered that the cable had actually broken, so off he set with only 2 high gears to get a replacement agreeing to meet us at lunch.
Frank was on his new rather exquisite trike, having lifted it up it weighs less than my old Raleigh!  We headed into Shepperton and then left into Laleham road and left again into Sheep walk, a right into  Chertsey road and through Chertsey  and onto Thorpe road and a right a Thorpe green took us off road to Hurst lane, Stroud lane and a left through to Prune hill and Englefield Green and Wick road and into Windsor Great park. A loop up Bishopsgate road and left into Prince Consorts drive lead us to the HRH Jubilee statue for a minor photo shoot.
On past the Guards Polo fields and out to Blacknest road and across the A30 and into the Wentworth estate and a left took us to Callow hill and down to lunch at the Rose and Olive Branch where Jeff, camera in hand, was waiting.
Once everybody, apart from Jeff, had had their fill we were off the easy way down Callow hill and back to Chertsey(Vic departed at the bridge), past Shepperton Studios and on to Upper Haliford and through Ginge Farm estate, Hazelwood golf course and onto Hampton and back roads to Squires Garden centre at Fulwell for afternoon tea.  For me 54 miles with a nice crowd and good weather.

Petersfield excursion - Aug 22nd

I'll admit that a week or so ago as I wrote the instructions for eight people to get to Petersfield from five different stations I wondered if all this was too complicated. So by the time John Austin, Terry and I had met at Guildford I was relieved not to have had any emergency calls from those on the Wimbledon/Surbiton route, especially given earlier reports of delays. Then I checked the phone to get a message that the pub had a power cut but could do sandwiches if that was OK. Was this an omen? We boarded the train to find the cycle spaces occupied by two enormous suitcases so two bikes were propped against them and John's fitted in on a "move as required" basis. Four of the others, rather than two, were already on the train having boarded at Woking but none had seen Peter C or Harry at Surbiton. We found them already seated ( as planned) at Heidi's patisserie in the square at Petersfield. Wednesdays are market days and a busy scene with music could be enjoyed by those with seats outside.

So far, so good. Nine of us set off up Bell Hill to Steep and then followed Mill Lane towards Hawkley. The direct lane to Hawkley was blocked by cones and a Road Closed sign but a quick check of the map confirmed that we were following Cottage Lane to the left around the slopes of Wheaten Hill. A further 200 yds and another Road Closed sign - this time with concrete blocks to keep out the motors. It had been some months since I checked the route! A trail of horse droppings suggested that larger steeds than bikes could continue and so we did. After signs of the road slipping down the hill we emerged past another barrier at which point the surface deteriorated! I had to convince the others that this was not off road and was mapped in yellow! On to Hawkley and then a steady climb to Newton Valance along lanes almost devoid of traffic. Now the climbing was over and a swift descent to Selborne followed. From here we took Honey Lane with its views of the "golf balls" of RAF Oakhanger, the "listening devices" being sufficiently sensitive that no trace is marked on the OS map. Our route took us north past these to the Cricketers at Kingsley for lunch where power had been restored.

After a short, busy stretch of the B3004 we crossed the A325 to find more quiet lanes taking us through Wishanger to Frensham Great Pond, enlivened with a colourful display of dinghy sails. A right turn at Millbridge led us past the Rural Life Centre to Tilford, then Whitmead Lane  and on to Elstead. Now we were on familiar territory and only a few miles more took us to the cafe at Farncombe Boat House, overrun with a summer school outing when we arrived.

After copious quantities of tea we went our separate ways, three to Guildford station, four along the A246 towards home and Terry and Richard heading home via Shalford.  32 miles from Petersfield to tea, 52 for me to home. A different format and a change of scene, little traffic and for me a very enjoyable ride in good company.

Wednesday 22 August B Ride

Our leader not wishing to be identified.

Lunch in the sunshine.

Lovely hair!

Our lunch pub at Chobham.

Tea at the Walled Garden.

 

B Group - 22nd August

John Gould led us from Shepperton Greeno to Burrowhill for lunch and back to Shepperton for Tea (22.7 miles)

A Group 22 August

An entertaining ride from Tony today, combining the familiar with the novel at a good pace.  36.73 miles from elevenses at Shepperton to tea at Fulwell with lunch in the garden of the Rose and Olive Branch, Virginia Water.

Prune Hill (and others) gave us 1,095 feet of ascent; top speed 30.9mph and 1,646 calories.

Mark

Easy Riders 15 August

We had a change of leader last week as we decided to visit Phill Marx in Teddington Memorial Hospital after lunch en route to 3's.

David S. led our group through Richmond Park over to Petersham and to the river to Richmond bridge. We had lunch at The London Apprentice, sitting outside. A nice pub, one of my favourites for location and food. About six of us continued to Teddington to visit Phill. He looks well, with rosy cheeks and extra weight. He says he is eating well but misses not being able to ride in the fresh air. We left him a Cycling Weekly with Olympic photos; we also signed a card for him to read and keep. On the way out I asked a nurse if they could take him in a wheelchair to the garden to sit outside when the weather is good. She seemed very amenable and said they would take him out the next day. As we left, we saw Phil walk with his zimmer frame. He seems well in himself; and says his daughter cycles over to see him. On the way back, David showed us Mo Farah's gold post box in Teddington High Street. We had our photo taken by a passer-by, so maybe that will come on the blog next. We continued through Bushy Park and stopped at 5 at the Bridge for tea.

Lynda

A Group, 15 August

Caterham-on-the-Hill - Chiddingstone - Fanny's

The babbling forecasters all agreed – heavy rain. They were wrong. Undeterred by the tea-leaves, an octet saddled up to leave the comfort of Caterham-on-the Hill Brunton Centre for a foray into the ups and downs of Kent. We started off with a descent, followed by a longish climb up Woldingham Rd to follow The Ridge to Botley Hill. Then it was downhill again towards Westerham before dropping down Rectory Lane and Clacket Lane. The surface (what surface there was) left something to be desired, as did an on-coming lorry peeling back the hedgerows as it advanced and we retired.

We crossed the A25 by the Grasshopper to start the gentle rise of Moorhouse Road, until Dave’s Marathon tyre proved unequal to the penetrating power of glass. The volunteer spirit prevailed and with spirits reinflated, we pressed on to Limpsfield Chart and down Trevereux Hill past the Marie Curie Research Centre to Swaynesland and the foot of Crockham Hill. No time to visit Chartwell, so we made a smart pace to Four Elms and Bough Beech. Now within spitting distance of Chiddingstone, the gremlins took a bite out of Brian’s tyre. A team of domestiques supported him, while the rest completed the last few furlongs to the Castle Inn at Chiddingstone.

The food was fine and the Larkins beer from the small, local brewery was excellent. The Platinum Blond demands attention, though not from monocular John, who dropped a lens at lunch. The brewery has been going for some 25 years, but the beers are only available within a 30 mile radius. It was a shame that we did not have time to drop in but had to cycle past, as well as postpone a visit to the Chiding Stone. Our return was pretty flat via Four Elms, Marlpit Hill, Stafffhurst (where we did stop to see St Silvan’s Church), Tilburstow (not flat) and Merstham to take a late tea and cake at Fanny’s.

Apologies from the leader, who blotted his copybook by pressing on at Tilburstow, where Brian was carrying out the invaluable duties of TEC. We came together for the last hill and the ride up Harp’s Oak Lane, also not very flat. Though mileage was modest (53 miles for me), we were often fighting the clock and some had many a mile to go before reaching home. Tony, I hope that you got home in the light and John, I hope that you made the start of the Prom. Many thanks for the good company and good cheer.

Jeff

Maps for two Easy Riders routes from the 1st and 8th of August

Mike Withers' ride from Cobham to Effingham and back to Cobham on 1st August:

David Salmon's ride from Walton to Ashford and beyond on 8th August:

B group on 15th August

Seven of us left the Day Centre, with Barry joining us for the first time, and after the rush down to Wapses roundabout we went through beautiful Marden Park. The wind had risen and light rain led to the donning of waterproofs before the climb up Gangers Lane to the ridge road along the North Downs. Fine views are to be had over the Weald and towards the South Downs on a clearer day, but the rain had now eased and the wind was across and behind. The other features of this area are short steep descents to streams and short steep climbs up the other side, which require rapid gear changes at the bottom or potential damage to the knees climbing out.

We passed through Tatsfield Green, Hawleys Corner and Berrys Green before arriving at the George and Dragon in Downe Village, where the life-size Lizard and Gorilla replicas in the pub garden led to speculation on our distant ancestry.

The food was average for these times and was followed by a fast descent towards West Whickham where we joined NCN route 21 as far as Norwood Country Park. Despite threatening clouds no rain materialised before the tea stop at the Rookery cafe on Streatham Common.

With a good pace, no mishaps, and great company the mileage was 26 from Caterham. I did 43 by the time I arrived home, a distance that suits me fine.

Thanks to everyone for coming along.

Harry Cole

Jeffs A's Ride to Chiddingstone in Kent

A very nice ride with a few hills thrown in. For me 84.9 miles door to door.

A group 8 August

Photos from David

A Group, 8 August

 Henfold - Stopham - Tanhouse

A Group 8th August

An early start from Henfold gave the opportunity to go further south than normal, destination Pulborough, and a good group of 15 set out. Familiar roads via Capel & Weare St, skirting Rudgwick led to Drungwick Lane and Wisborough. This was the start of the scenic but challenging 400ft climb to Fittleworth, followed by a rewarding descent.

Lunch at the White Hart by the old Stopham packhorse bridge over the Arun, surprisingly tidal to remind us we were not so far from the sea.

                                 

We were in competition with a group of walkers for lunch so only left around 2:30 with rain clouds gathering. Luckily the rain which fell on the B’s spared us, as we headed north via West Chiltington, Warnham crossing, and Rusper. Brian reported that he thought Rusper is the highest village in West Sussex; yesterday it certainly felt that way.

Tea at Tanhurst Farm, by now in the sunshine, was most welcome. A few departed from here. Those who continued to Wetherspoons in Leatherhead did 77 miles from N Cheam and enough climbing for one day.

Many thanks to Simon for back marking throughout the day, and to Graham who guided the rearguard (including Paul, injured in a skirmish with a tyre lever) back to Tanhurst.

B Group 8 August

Taking advantage of a southerly 'elevenses' I decided the Bs would head further south to briefly ride one of Doctor Beeching's follies. From Henfold our route was via Newdigate and Capel to Weare Street, which these days has to be treated with utmost care - the surface is downright dangerous for anyone on two wheels. The roads were quite good and quiet through Oakwoodhill, Ellen's Green and Cox Green to Rudgwick where we turned off the main road to join the folly (formerly the Guildford - Shoreham railway line, now known as the Downs Link). Soon we crossed the A281 and continued along the Link to the two tier bridge (see photo). The gradient from the brick bridge over the River Arun to Rudgwick station was considered too steep so the upper bridge was built. (Look closely at the photo - some of the Bs are about make a mass dive into the Arun to meet up with the As at Pulborough ). Returning to the A281 we rode to lunch at The Fox at Bucks Green.

Just as we finished the rain started but after a few minutes' wait it showed no sign of stopping so we started off heading north, passing through Cox Green, Ellen's Green, Ewhurst Green (Plough Lane is not quite as bad as Weare Street) to Forest Green. As we turned into Abinger Road it was considered safe to remove waterproofs before tackling the lower slopes of Leith Hill. Approaching Coldharbour the view to the south wasn't very good so we pressed on to tea/coffee and cake at Parkway, Dorking. Hopefully everyone arrived home dry.

About thirty miles Henfold - Dorking, but I expect most rode many more.

Terry   

A Group 8th August

A grand ride from Dave today - quiet roads and pleasant rural scenery. 48.7 miles from elevenses at Henfold to tea at Tanhouse Farm, lunch being taken at the White Hart, Pulborough overlooking the Arun.  65.07 miles from Cheam, with 3,357 feet of ascent for those who started there.

Mark