Sunday 16 November 2014

High Elms - Westerham - (Woldingham)

On riding towards Sutton, the sun was breaking through but waiting at Carshalton Ponds, the  gathering mist portended gloom.  Still, as the ride through splendid autumnal trees proved, this was a late autumn ride.  The meeting at Carshalton was the occasion for two anniversaries: for Neil's first ride earlier this year and apparently Jeff's first encounter with your correspondent (well-remembered).  We were also glad to welcome Lilian after her long beginners Saturday ride through Woolwich.

Taking the direct route on the A232, seven rode over the Croydon flyover, presenting a few highlights: crossing the tram tracks at Addiscombe Road, the art deco of Shirley Library and West Wickham Public Conveniences.

Andy passed us as on Jackass Lane (via Kingsway from Coney Hall) -- the backward glance not revealing The Shard on the horizon.  A brief stop at the top of Shire Lane indicated a broken front brake cable for Neil.  At High Elms elevenses, he explained its 19-year vintage and subsequently mended it, so our concerns about a forthcoming one-brake descent of Hogtrough Hill were alleviated.  With only 8.5 miles to lunch and an ascent to Downe and the 25% of Church Hill, Jeff demonstrated his superior climbing technique to avoid spectacular wheelies to Cudham.  The descent towards Brasted, with good views despite low cloud, separated us from lunch but whither did Force Green Lane disappear?

Keith triumphant over Church Hill

Arriving at The General Wolfe (Westerham born; died leading the Battle of Quebec, 1759) at 1220 the hearty soup was more solid than liquid.  Departing at 1320, with the slippery decking gingerly negotiated, an ascent of Clacket Lane preceded another mystery: all but one preferred not to climb White Hill when pausing at the fine westward view of the bluff of Titsey Hill.  One wonders why.

A rapid descent of The Ridge left us passing Knight's at Woldingham at 1415 and all opting for an early return home, apparently by different routes.  For one, Burntwood Lane (pain) via Coulsdon Common offered the descent of Marlpit Lane (gain) at 41+mph and a return via Banstead High Street.  A return home at 1515 was welcome after merely 46 miles as steady rain started before 4pm.  Many thanks to my variously impressive companions.