As I arrived at The Jolly Farmers in Buckland I was greeted by a host of bikes lined up by the fence and more by the door. Worries about cycling alone were dispelled.
Inside the gathering throng had commandeered the largest table and were stoking up for the journey ahead. Pam, Irene and Alan arrived for a rare visit this far east but I failed to convince them all that my ride was short and flat. So they tarried, along with those with family duties, while nine of us set off towards Walliswood.
We headed west on the A25 briefly before turning left at Buckland church towards Betchworth. Sandy Lane brought us to Wonham Lane, Wonham Mill and south along Flanchford Road towards Leigh.
The roads were quiet, the sun was shining but there was still a chill to the wind.
Through Leigh we headed for Newdigate, approaching the church via Hogspudding Lane and Old School Lane. Kingsland, Trig Street and Misbrooks Green Road led us to Capel. Across the A24, and past Ockley Station we reached Weare Street.
Notwithstanding the road surface, this is a delightful lane and we stopped by the pond to visit the geese. However they seemed less than pleased to see us and we soon beat a hasty departure before blood was spilt.
Crossing the A29 and through Oakwoodhill we arrived at The Scarlett Arms in Walliswood just before 1.00.
Some used the rustic wooden bicycle rack while others thought better of it and made other arrangements. Inside a large table had been reserved for us in the back room. Most chose from the Starters section of the menu with "Bubble and Squeak with Smoked Salmon and a Fried Egg" a popular choice. I pushed the boat out and went for the full Sunday Roast Lamb.
Leaving about 2.20 we headed north to Forest Green and towards Holmbury St Mary. Andy wanted to ascend Tanhurst Lane to Coldharbour but couldn't find much support so we continued the gentler climb to Holmbury SM. Up Pasture Wood Road and down Hollow Lane brought us back to the A25.
This appeared a little bit quieter than usual but at the bottom of Coast Hill we turned into Balchins Lane to follow the cycle path around the back of Westcott. Briefly back onto the busy roads of Dorking, but with one final detour led by Terry where we cut across the railway and the vineyard to arrive at Pilgrim Cycles for tea.
A sunny spring ride in good company. Thanks for joining me.
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