I arrived at Oaks Park with my sister Moira who was visiting from
Canada in time for a coffee. Just before 9 we were joined by Matt and a
few minutes later by Dave.
The four of us set off towards
Woodmansterne before riding through Coulsdon and across Farthing Downs
to Caterham. This was followed by a quick descent of Burnwood Road and
shortly after a not so quick ascent of the hill up to Woldingham Church.
Then it was an easy downhill ride to our coffee stop in Westerham where
Bob was waiting.
Dave and Bob left us there so three headed
up Hosey Hill towards Chartwell then Four Elms and Bough Beech before
turning onto country lanes passing through farmland and woods.
Then
a climb - Bayleys Hill was the gentlest I could find to get us up to
Stone Street although Moira wasn't convinced. After that it was a
gentlish ride through forested roads to our lunch stop at the Padwell
Arms.
Matt headed off into Stone Street to find a picnic spot
while Moira and I checked out the menu at the Padwell. On the
reconnaissance I chose the small portion of whitebait but was completely
defeated. Moira decided on a cheese and pickle sandwich this time so I
chose that as well but had to leave the salad. The Grumpy Old Git
bitter is recommended.
After lunch it was downhill to Seal
then on to Kemsing to pick up the Pilgrim's Way. A few miles of easy
riding then a long slog up Starhill Road. That put us on more or less
the same level as Tatsfield so the remainder of the ride to tea went
quickly.
The forecasted shower started while we were having
our tea so we moved inside until it finished. After tea a shortish
climb up to the Croydon Road roundabout then downhill through Warlingham
to Purley. Moira and I turned off along Woodcote Valley Road leaving
Matt carrying on towards Belmont.
In total about 57 miles.
From Dave S
Pictures here:
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