It was to be a carefree adventure in the wild Wolds of Sussex and Kent. But it was not to be. Shakespeare would probably have put it more eloquently, but even if he was blessed in the language department, he didn't have a bike, so there.
The weather forecast said heavy rain and 30-40mph wind, so plan B said a more local ride.
Naturally, on the day, we woke up to calm, blue skies. Despite the lack of ride ambition, twelve came to elevenses, eleven set off on the ride, and ten reached the summit at Walton on the Hill, Terry having diverted to Headley and Helen having come to 11s for a chat, and possibly out of curiosity.
 |
| Down with the kids at Nork Park (Chris having a go on the track too) |
That's English and Maths covered, now for Geography, History and Domestic Science:
Tadworth and Banstead completed the climbing bit of the ride and then it was downhill to Sutton, and following a route suggested by Eric, we found the back streets to Nonsuch Mansion, which had an open day in the servants' quarters. By now the weather had a hint of rain but no actual rain fell until around 2.30, when some had already visited the exhibition and the rest of us were about halfway round a fascinating insight into how "downstairs" worked in these large Victorian mansions.
 |
| Mischief in the 'dry pantry' |
 |
| The amazing model of Nonsuch Palace, which, as everyone except me knew, is different from Nonsuch Mansion. (the last 2 photos from Niall) |
By the time we set off for home, it was raining lightly but no Arks were needed, so I think we got off lightly. And I confess, when I got home, I waited a bit until everyone would be safely home and then did a little rain dance, in the hope of a downpour to justify cancelling the trip to Tunbridge Wells.
Many thanks to all of you who joined us for your company, and to Andy for suggesting that we make use of a rainy afternoon to get to know Nonsuch Mansion a bit better - and for back marking. I hope to reschedule the Tunbridge Wells trip for a dry day next summer.
 |
| Would it fit on my bicycle? |
For weather enthusiasts ...
 |
| Actual wind .. rather modest |
 |
| vs. forecast wind |
No comments:
Post a Comment