Sunday 16th July 2017

ROWTOWN - WOOD ST. VILLAGE - RIPLEY

There was a  nice manageable number at Bourne G.C. for todays ride.  Bill, Margaret, Don, Alan and Bob made their own way from elevenses whilst Irene, Graham, Ed, Vic, Terry, Dave Ward and John Bellamy continued to lunch where Chris joined us.

My intention was to turn right out of the garden centre, over the hill to Woodham Park Road thence along the A247 to Monument Road to join the Basingstoke canal.  Vic came up with a good suggestion, hence we took the off road track on the right at the bottom of the hill leading us to join my route on the A247, with cycle lane.   Thanks Vic, nice one!

Upon leaving the canal at Brookwood we turned right into Cemetery Pales to Pirbright; A324, Cobbett Hill Road, Frog Grove Lane, into The Royal Oak for lunch where we were well looked after.  

We departed some time later, turning right out of the pub then another right onto a  bridle path taking us to Applegarth Avenue.  After a couple of roundabouts it was into Guildford University, exiting on to Walnut Tree Close.  Here one has to look out for a gap between the buildings, opposite the station, which took us over the River Wey into Guildford next to the cinema.  One or two lefts and rights, a walk across the A322, then a couple more lefts and rights lead us into Nightingales Lane where we turned into Stoke Park.

Yes.....we did go along the River Wey to the A3 cycle route!   Not so bad when one is looking forward to stopping for tea at Pinnocks in Ripley!   Lot's to chat about - as well as the Tour de France!!!

A very enjoyable day, thanks all for joining me and especially for back markers and corner markers. The only photo I am aware of is the one Dave took and put on his Strava!

Sunday July 16

Rather belatedly!

Another glorious day, so good that Alan and I were ten minutes early at Runnymede. Ten arrived but only eight departed. The outward journey needed to be stretched so Ed took in Windsor, Eton, Dorney and Maidenhead before turning south to Bray. The White Hart in Moneyrow Green had plenty of beer (festival) but no food. On their advice we retreated to The George On Th Green in nearby Holyport. With no trenchermen present we settled for starters from the limited menu.

A change of teastop was debated. We headed along B3024, passedthe  Liz and Phil looking distinctly aged to Dedworth and Clewer. Here we used the road bridge (only climb of the day) to reach the towpath on the north side of the Thames. And then the very familiar: Eton, Datchet, Wraysbury, Staines, Laleham for a final stop at Cafe Mocha in Shepperton. Just under 60 miles door to door.

Two points: Ed, Graham, Irene,Lillian,Pam,Terry,Tony, Vic
One point: Alan,Bob

Sunday July 2 2017

This was a perfect day for cycling, not too hot, not too cold. All (most?) made it to the revised 11s (Elm Nursery), a smallish venue made more crowded by a Food and Craft Fair. We bade farewell to Bob and Don on the restart, and to Alan and Tony shortly afterwards at Jacobs Well. Beside the Wooden Bridge we crossed over Guildford's two "bypasses"  (A3 and A25) and continued to the station where Ed and Lilian were standing with backs to the traffic! Short use of NCN22 was ended besides the waterworks/church in Shalford and a direct route (Peasmarsh / crematorium) found us in Farncombe and amongst hills. Behind Godalming station we were urged on by descending traffic despite this being a footpath (though tarmaced). Business must be good for The Supervet and another Channel 4 series in prospect as a massive extension is under way. With time to spare, Eashing's Grade 1 listed double bridge came next. To the surprise of all (except perhaps Irene) - just before A3, we took a "hidden" bridleway to The Squirrel with raised voices being heard on the short sandy section. All that remained was the swift descent from Norney to Elstead. Within a minute of our arrival at The Golden Fleece we were joined by Terry (family duties) making eight for lunch.

A quick drink and a packet of crisps and Dave was off; the rest lingered alfresco for a further hour before leaving. The Wey was crossed for a sixth(! but not final) time. Cut Mill and Shackleford and the familiar route via Charterhouse, Farncombe (Chris disappears!), Loseley, Guildford (Chris reappears!!) and the A3 led to a leisurely tea stop at Pinnocks in Ripley. 65+ miles door to door.

2 points : GFH, Dave W, Chris, Ed, Irene, Lillian, Pam, Vic
1 point  : Alan, Bob, Don, Terry, Tony

June 25 2017 - The Green Man at Hurst

Dorney Court to Hurst

Our leader Irene took us through highways and byways known only to her from Dorney to Hurst for a challenging children's lunch with a cocktail of ice cream to follow.

The children's menu was more than some could take, but the leader put on a brave face and all put on a smile (well, Paul nearly did) in appreciation of a lovely ride.

J

Sunday June 25 2017

DORNEY COURT GC  - THE GREEN MAN  HURST - CAFÉ NORTH  STAINES.

 

Bob, Ed, Dave, Chris, Graham, Paul, Alan, Jeff & Irene met up at the Dorney Court G.C, for tea, coffee & cakes.  At 11.15 am Bob, Alan & Ed returned home while six went on to lunch.  We turned left out of G.C. to Dorney Reach, then onto route 4 over the Thames before turning left past Bray Marina to A308.  Here we went straight over to Fifield and right onto B3024 to Paley Street and continued through Shurlock Row to Hurst for lunch. Three partook the childrens' menu which came with ice cream for dessert (lovely).

 

We returned past Billingbear Golf course to Moss End then across Ascot Racecourse to Windsor Great Park. We left through Bishopsgate to descend Tite Hill. Dave, Paul and Jeff pushed on for home leaving just three for cake and tea at Café North in Staines.

 

Thank you for a very pleasant day. The rain tried to spoil it at lunch time but decided to wait another day.

25th June Change of lunch Venue

The lunch venue for the 25th of June has changed to:

The Green Man, Hurst.

Tony..

Change of 11s July 2

As Tony (et al) are "raiding", here's early warning that 11s will be at Elm Nursery. Sutton Green GC is on the A320 whereas the (near adjacent) Nursery is on the more cyclists friendly Sutton Green Road and has a children's farm! It opens from 1000 on Sundays.

References: elmnursery.co.uk/GU4 7QD/TQ004543/51.27915,-0.56248. Oddly the runslist link currently points to Elm Nursery!

After 11s, the ride continues via the Railway Station and Wetherspoons so you could join in Guildford town centre but do email in advance.

Phew! Wot a Scorcher!

The hottest day of the year so far:  Ten of us went to Chertsey for elevenses, but only eight found the Chertsey Café.  We found Ed and Bob in a café just up the road, which might have been a cooler option, as the Chertsey Cafe is in an arcade which is built a bit like a greenhouse.  Margaret & Bill, Bob, Ed, and Alan were not joining us for the ride, leaving just five of us to brave the heat.

We headed across to Lyne and then around Virginia Water, seeking shade, emerging from Blacknest Gate to climb up to the mighty Peanut roundabout.  Then downhill all the way to Fifield, and across the Thames to Dorney, where we cycled along Dorney Lake and mostly tarmac'd cycle track towards Eton.  Irene suggested a quicker route into Eton itself which worked well and got us to the Waterman's Arms a couple of minutes after one.  We found tables reserved for us, outside but with some shade, and after a lengthy wait to order our drinks and food, the food came very quickly and we were away by just after 2pm.

Still, it was still a still, hot, sticky day (see what I did there?) - 32 degrees in fact - so we took it easy along the river and along the cycle track back to Windsor Great Park.  There was a glimmer of hope that we might stop for ice creams at the village shop, but it's shut on Sunday afternoons, so we enjoyed the views over Windsor and pedalled on.  Graham suggested a diversion to Runnymede for tea and ice creams, which worked out very well.  After tea Irene took us to see the nearby sculpture (or is it an installation?) called The Jurors, marking the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta.  And I now know where it was signed.  At the bottom, of course.

The Jurors, at Runnymede

18 June elevenses location - please read!

Under the arch on the left...

Elevenses this Sunday will be at the Chertsey Café, a new venue which is not easy to find ... and NOT where the link on the rides list pointed to until a moment ago, or where Google Maps takes you to if you search.   The correct location is here.
It is in an arcade, the Sainsbury Centre, just off the main shopping street, which is called Guildford Street.   On the left, about 100yds down the road, just after the scaffolding, and before the King's Head on the other side.   If you have difficulty, call me on 07952 932 823, or one of the other riders, and we'll come and find you.

South Bucks Joint Ride Report

 Sunday 7th May: Joint Ride with S.W. London CTC.

The month started with one of the highlights of the year; it is is the third year of our spring time rides with friends from  the  South  West  London  group, who  had  ridden  up  from  the metropolis  to Hampton  Court  and  then  onto  Black  Park  for  11s.  Sadly,    Chiltern  Hills  could  only muster two (Barry and JC) to join them, but we were soon welcoming Robert, Peter E. Fred  and  Baldrick  from  the  Thames  Valley  group  as  well  as  eight  riders  from  S.W. London.    It was great to resume old friendships with Tony Hopkins and company, many of whom regularly attend the Golden Beeches rally each October. After refreshment and chat, we set off for lunch at Tylers Green Village Hall.

On these events, we try to show our visitors  the  best  parts  of  our  area,  avoiding  the  main  roads,  skirting  the  towns  and housing estates and using a selection of the prettiest lanes in South Bucks. From Black Park, it was up to Langley Corner, we avoided Fulmer and Stoke Poges, up Gipsy Lane to cross the A355 at Egypt, into Harehatch Lane, down Ship Hill, turn left into Green Common  Lane;  is  there  a  prettier  lane  in  the  County  when  the  bluebells  are  out? Lillyfee  Farm  Lane  and  Whitehouse  Lane  (down  White  Hill  on  the  A40,  opposite  the former Mother Redcap pub)must run it close and were also part of our route. So we ended up at St Paul's church in Penn, from which it was but a short ride to Tyler Green, there to be greeted by some of our regular Coffee Potterers – John & Wendy, Audrey, Eleanor and Jane together with Mac, who had just got back from acontinental holiday.

Catering  was  provided  by  Cilla  and  Simone;  an  excellent  buffet  lunch  comprising
sandwiches and homemade biscuits from Cilla, with quiches, sausage rolls, crisps and cake which Simone had purchased plus plenty of tea and coffee, all generously funded by Chiltern Hills club funds. A collection was taken for the Air Ambulance, which yielded over £60. So a successful and enjoyable day and thanks to everyone who took part, especially Cilla and Simone for the catering. Next year, it is S.W. London's turn to hostthe  event  in  their  area  and  I  would  strongly  recommend  as  many  South  Bucks members as possible take part.

Article taken from South Bucks CTC monthly magazine.

Tony..

Sunday June 11 2017

A week of blustery weather had brought sun and shade in equal portion (and minor destruction) but didn't deter the fifteen (and two squirrels) who showed up at the Vineries. By 11 we were ready. Four (Bob, Dave, Don and Ed) headed home while the rest took an obvious line (Orestan Lane, Coombe Bottom, Albury). After the rough section from Surrey Hills, we regrouped at the closed Chilworth level crossing before climbing past the monastery. An ETA of 1230 left time for the detour via Lordshill Common. Just short of the lunch the P. fairy struck down Jeff; I turned to investigate. Others soon found out that the Bricklayers offered full roasts only (contrary to advice when booking) so they settled for the alfresco Red Lion, and a surprise reappearance from Ed!

The initial way back was towards Farley Green. At the first turn, five continued but six headed along Stroud Lane back to the main road. We crossed Smithbrook Common and round the back of Cranleigh to Park Hatch. With no need to rush, I picked out a "uneven surface" near Lower Breache Farm before returning to B2127/B2126 for the last miles to Capel. The stop was gloomy but the sun reappeared on the ride home. About 65 miles door to door.

Lost property Fleet tide

Dear Sir,

We are contacting you in your capacity as Rides secretary of the Cheam and Morden CTC Members group because we have had property handed in that we believe belongs to one of your members.

A green rucksack dropped off an elderly male cyclist’s pushbike on Sunday 4/6/17 whilst travelling through a road in Fleet and from the paperwork inside we believe they are a member of your group.

We were wondering if it was possible to message the participants of this ride in the hopes of re-uniting the loser with their property. Should anyone identify themselves as having lost this item, please could the in the first instance contact Hampshire police on 101 and ask to speak with Aldershot Front counter quoting ref number 44170212209.

Many thanks

Sunday June 4 2017

Alan, Chris, Don, Graham, Ed, Lillian and I met at Hampton Court and picked up Ray Wren en route for Windlesham.  There we met Irene, Pam and Vic and had a pleasant alfresco 11s (a bit fresh in the strong breeze)!    All but Don and Alan continued to lunch via Bagshot, The Maultway, Frimley Green, The Hatches, and a dodge round the back of Farnborough, via Prospect Park and Minley, to Cove.   Terry and Bob joined us at the Prince Arthur at Fleet and lunch was well up to Wetherspoon's standards.  The £4.99 Manager's Special was especially appreciated by several members!

We set off again under threatening skies and a few drops of rain but it did improve as we skirted the south of the RAE via the Basingstoke Canal towpath, a traverse of the Army Golf Course, and some quiet, wooded lanes between military establishments.  Vic showed us army huts deep in the woods where he had once been based.  They reminded me of my old junior school which was originally an army hospital in the war.   A cycle route allowed us to sidestep the traffic through South Farnborough and North Camp to Mytchett, and the ascent of Tunnel Hill was rewarded by a long freewheel towards Brookwood Cemetery.  We stopped for tea at Mizen's Railway, Knaphill where there was the traditional parting of the ways.

Many thanks to all who took part and I hope the ride was enjoyed. Dave

Dave, Chris, Ed, Graham, Irene, Lillian, Pam, Ray, Vic (2).
Alan, Don, Bob, Terry (1) 

June 4 Change Of Lunch Venue

Dave has emailed to say it's ......

The Prince Arthur (aka Wetherspoon), Fleet GU51 4BX (or SU806539.

Sunday May 28 2017

A very warm and very humid day saw several of us arriving before Upper Halliford's opening hour. Naturally we dined alfresco and the headcount eventually reached 11.

Ed must have been in nostalgic mode as we were treated a tour of Ashford (his birthplace, his primary and secondary schools). Toss in a roadblock(unsuccessful pursuit of four youths); it's not often we see warrant cards  flashed from unmarked cars. But after the railway we're back to the familiar through Stanwell Moor and over the M25 into Poyle. A surprise left in Datchet saw us crossing from Windsor into Eton where Alan departed. Finally Eton Wick led us to Dorney and The Pineapple.

Manfully we set about the customary and enormous sandwiches but most failed to clear their plates. The return was along the Jubilee river and through Datchet and Wraysbury for a visit to North's of Staines. A hint of what was to come saw the garden furniture hastily packed away and a move indoors. A repeat in Bushy Park saw me reaching the waterproofs but so close to home they were never donned. Just under 50 miles door to door.

All  the way: Ed, Chris, Dave, Don,Graham,Irene, Lillian, Paul, Ray W, Tony.

Sunday the 28th May

Upper Haliford-Dorney-Staines

 Our leader Ed's Tour de Ashford.

Rosemary Gardens Ashford

 

 Clarendon School

 

Thomas Knyvett College

Ed had planned a cunning route to pass his house where he was born in Ashford and his school and college with a photo stop at each.

Sunday 21st May

                                                        Lunch at Rusper

 

After 11s at Tanhouse Farm seven of us (including Angie and friend John) headed north to Newdigate, turning right into Church Road then via Parkgate to Charlwood. It was good to note the Aircraft Museum (under new management) is now open more frequently. There will be a Shackleton engine run on August 5. Keeping to the lanes we soon reached Ifieldwood and passed The Lamb at Lamb's Green. This was my first choice of lunch stop but on my recce I learned the pub would have limited accommodation due to renovation so we carried on, via Wimlands Lane, to The Plough and Attic Rooms, Rusper.  

 

Here we chose from the children's menu and the food appeared pretty quickly. We had a leisurely lunch, near the end the chef came out for a chat - apparently in the future they are going to cater even better for cyclists.

 

The Frog and Nightgown at Wimlands has reopened but only serves pasties and sausage rolls on Sundays.

 

After lunch Paul headed for home (thanks for backmarking), the rest of us set off along East Street and the gentle climb up Langhurst Lane then via Partridge Lane to Parkgate and onwards to Brockham cakes - well up to standard. 

 

A very enjoyable day, endless sunshine, negligible wind, dry roads and good company, thanks all.

 

Terry

May 21st Lunch Venue Change

P l e a s e  N o t e

 

The lunch Venue for next Sundays ride has changed to the Plough & Attic Rooms, Rusper.

Sunday the 14th May

Addlestone - Jealotts Hill - Shepperton 

Don and Dave were already seated in the Golden Café when I arrived just after 10am.  No Bob or Margaret and Bill this week?  By eleven o'clock Tony, Alan, Simon, Terry, Ray and Vic had arrived, and after their refreshments were ready for the off!
Don had other plans, Alan stayed with us to Englefield Green and Dave peeled off just before the lunch stop.
Our exit from Addlestone was via Green Lane to the two roundabouts.   From there we passed through Thorpe Green, Great Fosters and up Prune Hill to Englefield Green and into Windsor Great Park.  Our exit via Cranbourne Gate took us to the 'Peanut' roundabout, a short stint in Drift Road before turning off towards Winkfield.  Bishops Road, plus a few more lanes to our lunch destination, The New Leathern Bottle.  Our lunches were good but we did have to wait rather along time before the last lunch was served.  We arrived at one o'clock and it was two thirty before we were ready to leave.
Off we went on a route well known to some. A left turn after Moss End, past Warfield Church where a right turn took us to the A3034.  Mill Ride Golf Club now has a security gate but luckily one can just get through the side gate (with bike).  On to Ascot Race Course, Nine Mile Road, Cheapside then passing Blacknest Gate we continued to the A329, A30 , turning right at Virginia Water.
We were now heading for Chertsey then  Shepperton as we would not have got to Notcutts before 'last orders'.   Shepperton Lock came into my mind for tea........and that is where we enjoyed tea, cakes and chat...then it started to rain!!!   Not heavy for me on my way to Egham but I believe others may not have been so lucky!!!
Thank you Tony for the photo, and my thanks to all for joining me, making for an enjoyable day..... Pam :)
PS...Best wises to Simon when he returns to Scotland on Tuesday to continue with his 'Big Bike Challenge'!!!!

Pam

Sunday the 7th May

Great Joint ride today with South Bucks CTC who lead us from Black Park to Tylers green village hall where they had a buffet lunch waiting for us.

Many thanks to John Capel for leading and the crew at the village hall and those who made the cakes and sandwiches, a special thank you to Cilla for the home made Ginger biscuits.

Afternoon tea was at Norths of Staines, thank you Irene. A nice 76 miles into the Chilterns and a nice Sunny afternoon.

Photo courtesy Simon Lambourn.

Tony.

Sunday the 7th May

J O I N T   R I D E

This coming Sunday we will join South Bucks CTC at Black park for 11's then they will lead to Tylers Green village hall for lunch.

Meet at Hampton Court main gate toilets for an 8.30 start.

Lets have a good turnout.

Tony..

Where We Went Last Sunday Afternoon

Missing out most of the boring bits

30 April, 2017

Long Ditton - Leatherhead - Long Ditton

 It is a long time since I embarrassed everybody with a photograph, so I thought that I should pick up the camera where I left off and closed the shutter cap, in more ways than one,  in April 2015. As no more than an historic record of the lads and lasses who assembled for a packet of seeds,  a fortifying  pre-ride cup of coffee and congenial company at Squires, Long Ditton for Tony's enjoyable rearward assault on Leatherhead via Little Switzerland and to remind us that the camera may lie, here is the evidence.

Banksy

 How many can you count?

Jeff

Sunday 23 April - ride to Iver

Fifteen cyclists met at Upper Halliford, including Bill and Margaret Squirrel, Lilian, Maureen and Bob who were not able to join us for the ride, leaving ten intrepid riders to head for the Malt Shovel near Iver.   Only eighteen miles to lunch but following the Thames path from Chertsey to nearly Staines, and then the track by the M25 across Stanwell Moor (with planes roaring overhead - the joys of the countryside!).   David Ward departed at this point, and we then followed a more conventional route from Colnbrook to Iver village before a detour onto NCN 61 for a bit more off-road, rather too exciting with sandy/gravelly patches and a few young nettles to liven things up.   We sat outside by the canal to eat lunch while Irene and Tony went to try the tea room by the lock.

Return journey included the lovely Old Mill Lane and a bit of canal towpath before rejoining the traffic at West Drayton, heading south to Harlington and then directly east to re-join the canal at the top of the Hanwell locks, and descending to Brentford and Syon Park.   Thank you to Tony for back marking and keeping us all together, and to everyone for your company.  An enjoyable day out.

Easter Tour 2017

Enormous thanks as ever to Ann & Steve for all the hard work in planning and organising yet another very successful Easter Tour to Falfield near Bristol including a ride over the Severn Bridge and up to Tintern Abbey. In all I did 361 extremely hard and cruel miles for me. I rode my Van Nic for the first time in full touring mode with panniers only to find that some of the hills were just too severe for an old and rather declining man (also not in good Nic!). The gears were not low enough and I will have to lower for my next tour (Birthday Rides). I hope I can manage the IOW Randonee next weekend. Hope to see you on that Graham Holder.
Congratulations also to Simon L on his first Easter tour he seemed to really enjoy it and with the help of Neil's OS map plotted a homeward rout on his Garmin to bring us home from Streetly YHA on Tuesday through country lanes, some rough stuff and along the Thames Tow Path for much of the way, eventually back via Virginia Water and Ascot race course then Walton Bridge, Esher and Claygate for me, 60 miles on the day.

Some photo's of the tour.

Above Good Friday on the Ridgeway.

Below Peter Southworth and Simon having fun

Below Severn Bridge

 

Sunday April 16 2017

Sunday dawned sunny but with a biting wind which plagued us all day.  Eight members gathered at Polesden Lacey for elevenses and five hardy souls continued to Godalming. The ride to lunch took us along five off road sections including a long section of the North Downs Way.   Given the recent dry spell, there was no problem with mud and our road bikes coped admirably, although Keith was taking no chances on his mountain bike!   The ascent of Shere Road was slipped in to give a bit of relief from all the rough stuff!

Lunch was served with the usual efficiency at Godalming Wetherspoons and we then set off  via Mount Browne and the towpath to the Wooden Horse, eventually ending up at Ripley for tea after a quirky route to Jacobs Well and the A3 path.   With another two off road sections from lunch to tea and the two I also rode to 11's and from tea, that makes nine in one club ride (including two sewage works paths). Is this a record?

Easter Sunday (16/04/17)

Please note:

 

11s is the Granary Restaurant  (not Cowshed Cafe near entrance) at Polesden Lacey. Prompt departure at 11.00 am.

 

The ride includes five off-road sections, unsurfaced but in good nick; any mud can be avoided.  There are a couple of moderate climbs before and after lunch.

 

Dave

Sunday the 9th April

Windlesham for Lunch.

What a glorious sunny day. 11‘s at Saville garden (with the new re-vamped interior (reflected in the price)) saw a good crowd of Simon, Chris, Bob, Pam, Irene, Alan, Jeff, Vic, Lillian, Graham, Ed and Terry. We left on time and headed down Crimp hill to Datchet and onto Windsor riverside and Vansittart road and into Windsor G P at Windsor cemetery. We stopped for a photo at the Queens Jubilee statue and then out of Rangers gate to Ascot, South Ascot and to lunch at the Sun pub Windlesham.

Lunch in the garden and nice to feel the warmth of the Sun. A longish relaxed lunch and then off on the Chertsey road before an off road stint and then under the M3. Through to Burrowhill and Stonehill, Chertsey, at which point several headed their own way home, and along Thames Side to tea at Notcutts at Laleham. Again a long relaxed tea in the sun before reluctantly headed home. A great days cycling with a great crowd.

Tony..

Sunday April 2 2017

I wasn't sure if there would be any takers at all for Sunday's ride but was very pleased to be greeted by Graham, Paul and  Rachel  at Oaks Park.   We took a relatively easy but pleasant route via Purley and Marden Park to Oxted (a mere 28 miles for me) and the cool, cloudy conditions fortunately soon gave way to warm sunshine!   

At Oxted we found several other members had made their own way to 11's, and others continued to trickle in until, eventually, after a small delay over Richard's slice of cheesecake, twelve of us rode off towards lunch.  The main group travelled via  Broadham Green, Crowhurst Lane End, Blindley Heath and Smallfield with some very pleasant lanes included.  We suffered the ignominy of twice seeing Bob, riding alone and to a slightly different route, streak ahead of us at junctions!

The service at Wetherspoons at Horley was friendly and efficient and there were no delays in setting off homewards via Lonesome Lane and Brockham.   At Denbies there was a parting of the ways with different tea factions going different ways, but I think we all enjoyed the ride, and especially, the weather!  Well ridden all!

Ride update

Please Note: This coming Sundays rides lunch venue has changed to the Sun pub at Windlesham.

Tony..

Sunday the 9th

Please note that this Sundays ride lunch venue has changed and is now the Sun pub at Windlesham. Tony..

Sunday March 26th

                                          11s at Pinnock's

What a marvellous spring day for Mothering Sunday and cyclists.
After a pleasant if noisy 11s at Pinnock's (Ripley), eleven of us headed for East Clandon via Grove Heath Lane and Gambles Lane. After Back Lane we paused briefly to study the garden fence made of old bedsteads and tools before tackling Staple Lane. From the top we had a quite good view to the north. Combe Lane led to the A25 and Shere where Keith bravely rode through the ford. Peaslake was approached via Jesse's Lane and Pond Lane and left via Ewhurst Road. From Ewhurst we took the B2127 to Forest Green (my original choice of lunch stop) then headed north to The Royal Oak at Holmbury St Mary arriving about 1330. The pub was very busy and we had a not unexpected long wait for lunch, which, when it arrived, was very good. Chris joined us for lunch.

After lunch, Irene, Pam, Graham and Vic headed for home. The remainder set off, ostensibly for Capel. Jeff soon left us and after a brief discussion decided Capel was a cake too far and we should head for Denbie's. We could see the South Downs fairly clearly from the foot of Leith Hill. A quick descent of Coldharbour Lane brought us to Dorking where Lilian requested a stop at Gorgeous Gertie's café, but it was closed, so on to Mullin's café, also closed, but the new cyclist's Musette café was still open so we quickly took our bikes in with us. Good refreshments were partaken, Chris and Terry helped the management out of a terrible dilemma (Could you please eat these last two portions of coffee and walnut cake FREE?). After tea we went our separate ways.

Thanks to all for company and corner/backmarkers.

Terry

Change of plan

Hopefully due to lots of mums being taken out for lunch on Sunday, March 26th, I was unable to reserve a table for us at my preferred pub. However after some ringing around The Royal Oak at Holmbury St. Mary will accommodate us at 1330. Tea will still be at Capel, their first t'n'cakes Sunday this year. See you at Pinnock's.

Terry

Sunday, March 19, 2017

Runnymede - Mayford - Cobham

 

Nineteen arrived at the Runnymede Magna Carta tea rooms this morning and ten left promptly at 11 o/c  for the ride to the Mayford Arms.  Up Priest Hill to Englefield Green, over the A30  Callow Hill, Wellington Avenue to Trumps Green, across the motorway to Kitsmead Lane, Longcross,  Accommodation Road, Chertsey Lane to Philpot Lane and Horsell Common. Right & Left to Bulbeggars Lane, over the Basingstoke Canal to Wych Hill and down Hook Hill Lane to the pub.  Paul & Ken carried on to go straight home.  We were made very welcome and most of us made short work of the 'Small Persons Roasts '  PLUS  ice cream and chocolate sauce!!  After lunch we made our way to Cobham  Sainsburys café for afternoon tea.   It actually turned into a lovely day and the wind wasn’t as frightening as I thought it would be.

 

Thank you everyone for a lovely day, for Simon being a wonderful T.E.C. - you did a wonderful job,  and for all the corner markers; it really does keep the group flowing.

 

Irene

Sunday March 19 2017 PROMPT RESTART

Irene's route to Mayford will take around two hours so the departure time from Runnymede will be 1100 hours.

If you want to tag along, a group will be leaving from Kingston Bridge at 0900.

Sunday March 12 2017

What was forecasted was heavy rain from nine but dry by eleven. What we got was rather difficult!

There was no rain until the Tilt. This had petered out as I reached Squires where Dave was tucking into his customary full english. By the time of departure, a dozen had arrived but so had heavy rain. Quickly abandoning any thoughts of an attractive (hilly) route, Blake's Lane and the A25 into Guildford led to the only hill, One Tree. Down in Chilworth and Wonersh we met an oncoming sportive and by 1215 nine were inside The Wheatsheaf at Bramley selecting from the weekday menu (by prior arrangement) - not a single taker for the sunday roasts!

A hour later it was still raining - though more a light drizzle. Thoughts now turned to home. We left together but after the back road into Shalford we were but five heading up Guildford's High Street and only two in Ripley so no afternoon tea. Home before 1545 and after 50 miles.

Sunday 12/03/17 Change Of Venue

As they're prepared to offer us the full menu (http://www.wheatsheaf-bramley.co.uk/page4.html, rather than roasts only), I've changed the lunch venue to:

The Wheatsheaf Bramley GU5 0HB    Tel:  01483 892 722

It's a couple of doors south of the Jolly Farmer so you shouldn't have difficulty finding it! Whilst I'm on the subject, my recce off-road was muddy so Stoke D'Abernon isn't so attractive and I'm open to offers on the tea stop.

Sunday March 5 2017

Heavy rain made an inauspicious start to the morning, but by the time I had reached Fairoaks it was sunny and dry!  Fairoaks is always busy on Sundays so I arrived 15 minutes before opening and managed to bag three-quarters of a four-seater table!

The Squirrels, Vic, Paul and Pam braved the weather to join me at elevenses, and Vic, Pam and I continued to lunch.  Expecting mud and heavy showers I curtailed the planned route to Lake End and we rode to The Windlesora at Windsor via Windlesham, South Ascot, Ascot race course and the west side of Windsor Great Park.  Tony Hopkins joined us for lunch and the rest of the ride

We were lucky with the showers, just a few light ones during the ride and a heavy one while we were at lunch.  Return was via Datchet, Wraysbury and Staines to Laleham for tea.  I continued without stopping for tea and clouds were gathering ominously as I reached Walton!   About 45 miles and 340 metres of ascent so not a bad effort by us all considering the weather forecast!

 

Dave

Sunday February 26th

                                               Walliswood

Ten of us left The Vineries, Effingham, heading south to Walliswood. This, of course, means hills. After keeping to Effingham backroads we were obliged to briefly join the A246 before turning into and up Greendene which led to Combe Lane and down to the A25. A quick right and left led to Shere, much of which we omitted by using Rectory Lane and the footbridge rather than checking depth of the ford. Sandy Lane led to Hound House Road and the descent of Pitch Hill to Ewhurst. To comply with Tracy's (manager of Scarlett Arms) instructions for table occupation I omitted a small loop and headed straight for the pub.

Orders were taken at the table and fairly soon appeared. Everyone seemed pleased and we were easily able to leave before the next table occupants arrived. We returned via Okewood Hill (good to see The Punchbowl now re-opened and busy - must check it out soon). Following the 'usual route' via Weare Street we were soon in Capel where we used the 'alternative' slightly shorter and less hilly route partly alongside the A24 before returning to the lanes, Mill Road leading to Four Wents mudpatch. (National Trust are making it healthier for the fish). A short distance then to Denbies where some with still quite a ride home chose to continue tealess, hope you got home in daylight and dry.

Thanks to all for company and especially backmarker and corner markers.

Terry  

Sunday 19th February 2017

HALIFORD SQUIRES - WOODSIDE - SHEPPERTON

A very good turn out today for elevenses.  Nineteen in total, nine went their own way from the garden centre whilst ten of us continued to lunch. 

The nine who went their own way- Bill and Margaret, Lilian and Maureen, Richard, Bob and Miles. Dave and Alan started with main group but left us before lunch.

Hence; Irene, Ed, Roger, Tony, Graham, Terry, Vic, Ray, Chris and of course, myself left the G.C. 11.13...for Shepperton, Chertsey and Longcross.   At  Sunningdale we crossed the A30 into Broomhall Road, right into Station Road, Silwood Road, taking  us to the A329. Straight over into Buckhurst Road turning left just before the Peanut Roundabout....to Woodside Road where we lunched at The Duke of Edinburgh.  The service was excellent, the food superb and the ale is very nice!!!  An absolute must for more visits.

The ride to tea....well...quite straight forward!  Around the 'Peanut', into the Park, out at Bishopsgate, through Englefield Green to descend Prune Hill. Unfortunately one of our group took a tumble near the bottom of the hill and a driver stopped his car, gave a first aid kit to the guys, then drove off, leaving it with them.  Yes, there sure are decent, thoughtful drivers out there! 

We ALL stopped for tea at The Mocha café - that doesn't happen very often!   These longer days make such a difference.

My thanks to all for your company, for back markers and Tony for photos.

 First Daffodils

Cheers Pam :) :)

Change of Lunch Venue

This Sunday the lunch Venue has changed to the Duke of Edinburgh Woodside.

12/2/17 The Anchor Pyrford Lock

My first time leading the Cheam & Morden riders.  Despite leading the Wayfarers for several years, it is quite different.  I hope I did OK.  We were twelve for elevenses at Addlestone on a(nother) perishing cold and grey day.   Alan returned home and Bill and Margaret were not riding today, so nine left towards Stonehill Road and Chobham.  Somewhere along the line, David W disappeared, never to be seen again.   The majority verdict was that he had opted to do his own thing: I hope I didn't lose you David.     

Dodging Chobham at the last minute we headed south towards Horsell and Woking, a bit of a maze trying to avoid the one way system but we came out the other side intact and headed down White Rose Lane, where a big sink hole at the end had just been filled in.  (David W had definitely left us before the sink hole, just in case you were wondering!)  Road still closed at the junction and we had to walk round the corner, but after a brief pause to pump up Pam's front tyre we headed through Old Woking towards Send Marsh, now into the wind and even colder.    But it was only a few miles to Pyrford Lock and The Anchor.    A table was waiting in the warm interior, and we were informed they don't do sandwiches on Sunday (my mistake for not checking - sorry).  However we all found something suitable and the food was good.    

We were all going different directions from there, so Pam, Irene, Tony, Graham and Vic went their separate ways, while Ed, Terry and I headed to Cobham and the café at Painshill Park, where we observed some mountainous pieces of bread pudding, but none of us felt up to the challenge.   Maybe another time.    Thank you all for your company and I look forward to the next time.

~ Simon

C&M Ride 12-2-17

Simon's Ride to Pyrford Lock

Grahams is just out of shot. (handheld selfie)

Brighton YHA

I am aware that a number of members have stayed at this 5* hostel which was formerly a hotel and has been refurbished to a very high standard. It is situated very close to Brighton Pier and the Lanes behind the bus station. I had been invited to a Gig in Hove on Sunday night 28 Jan and decided to take advantage of my CTC half price YHA membership thus giving me a clean prepared bed for £15 and a first class full English breakfast for £5.75 and no duties were involved like the old days of peeling potatoes etc. The common room was serving drinks until the early hours.
Unlike most former hostels here you can choose a luxury suit at a much higher price. My room was a dorm for 3 with an en-suit bathroom, see picture below along with a picture of the entrance hall.

C&M Lunch at the Angel

Dear all, I do not know what is happening to the C&M blog at the moment but I have tried to access (Graham Please note) but I was unsuccessful. So I post this tribute on the Wafarers!

Thank you Steve and Ann for both organizing and being such splendid hosts!  The hospitality you showed at your home beforehand was so Splendid with the fantastic cakes and most appreciated aperative's. They were the best starter to any meal one could imagine! So some pictures to remind!

 For Mike Morley