Guy Fawkes Night 2017 (part 2)

A perfect autumn day (sunny but chilly NW breeze) drew a bumper crowd to the Vineries cafe. With an early lunch booked I was keen to get away so 11 (or thereabouts) set off at 11 (or thereabouts).

High Barn Road and Hogden Lanes led us to the top of the Downs. Then began the long descent from Ranmore Common into Dorking. We left the one way system at Horsham Road before crossing from west to east using St Paul's Roads. After a brief dalliance with the A24 Blackbrook was next. Here a glance at the watch indicated time for an offroad detour so we turned left at the still muddy waters of Forwents Pond. We now encountered an unexpected hazard - smartly dressed riders and horses, dozens of them! They'd done their best to ensure that any mud was well and truly churned. But soon we were through and heading for Shellwood Manor. It needed a burst of evens to ensure that we (or more accurately I) reached The Royal Oak reached at the appointed time of 1230. It was heaving but already arrived were the softies who'd used the Gap. That made 16 (more than my guestimate of 10). However by the time the food arrived the pub had emptied (to watch the Morris Dancers?) and we were all seated.

Toasting marshmallows

With no intention of stopping for tea I led across the Coach Road to the A25. In Pixham Lane came news via Ann (and presumably Steve) that a rucksack had been left at the pub. Mine! so here my ride ended. And to make matters worse - crossing Ashstead Common I punctured, a lengthy stop as it took forever to inflate the tyre with a mini-pump. Home before sunset (1630) after 50 eventful, stressful miles.

Apologies for the mud; none on Wednesday's recce. Finally that letter box: TQ181591

2 points: Graham, Irene, Pam, Ed, Ian, Ray, Brian, Paul, Ann, Vic, Tony, Richard. Bob, David W, Mike
1 point: Alan, Don, Maureen, Steve.

From Pam:

Leaving? without a rucksack

Spot The Morris Dancers