Ride Report - Windy Sunday 16th July

Hold on to your hat – if the wind didn’t blow it away earlier - as this ride report might have you scratching your head with all the comings and goings and route options!

Today’s ride was from Café Barbera in Stoke D’Abernon, where 15 were present for elevenses. I had planned a slightly hilly route for those who wanted a longer ride to Epsom, with the option of the flatter, more direct route for those who were happy to make their own way and meet us there. And so six came with me – Bernard, Terry, Ray W, Chris, Mark and Dave – and four went directly – Ed, Sabina and long-standing CUK friends Audrey and David. Tony, Carolyn and John, and Graham had other plans but nevertheless it was lovely to see them if only briefly.

My group followed the usual route round Downside and over Bookham Common, where today’s ride version took us left through Great Bookham and up Dorking Road turning into Chapel Lane. We paused for some photos by the 12^th century chapel wall, and then continued to the Bypass where Terry peeled off to lead himself on to Epsom. 

It's how Chapel Lane got it's name apparently.....

The rest of us scooted past Ryka’s and up Little Switzerland and Tumber Street to Headley, our second and last climb of the day. Downhill into Epsom was much easier going, and we re-grouped at The Assembly Rooms to find we were now 14, having been joined by Bob, Ann and Colin – fabulous to see them. Lunch was as expected, we sat outside in the fresh air and chatted for a time.

Epsom Spoons

I wasn’t sure how many could be persuaded to come on for afternoon tea, as there were so many other things to be done, and in the end it was five who continued on towards East Molesey, the long way round. Ray was quite enthusiastic about having been introduced to an off road stretch along the Hogsmill, but time was marching on and Chris decided to leave us at Green Lane. Ray, Sabina, Bernard and myself continued on through Kingston and along the Thames Barge Walk to the cricket club at East Molesey where a match was being held. Sabina convinced a chap he wanted to give us his table and so we were able to enjoy a final drink, chat and cake (hmm maybe that was just me with the huge slab of cake) in the sun before heading for home.

 

A fine day for cricket

Thanks to everyone for coming out on such a windy day, to all who offered to back mark for me, and to Dave the Unstoppable who once again took on the job.