Sorry for the delay in this report but my steam-powered computer has been in for repair.
When I arrived at Woldingham Garden Centre Ken, Paul, Janice, Lilian, Bob and David Ward were already sitting in the sunshine tucking into refreshments. We were soon joined by Graham and Jeff.
A prompt departure was preferred as lunch was over twenty miles away and an early arrival at the pub had been agreed with the landlord to avoid conflict with two large groups. As a result Jeff agreed to finish his large bacon sandwich at his leisure and meet us later.
We started with the quiet and gentle climb up through Marden Park and past the school before swooping down Flower Lane to the A25. My suggestion to shorten the route by cutting out the next hill was rejected by some and so we passed through Church Town and up the rather steep The Enterdent to reach the top of Tilburstow Hill. Down the hill and left just past The Fox and Hounds into Hart's Lane had us heading towards Oxted. A right turn at Perrysfield Farm took us to Merle Common.
From here Dwelly Lane took us past Haxted Mill, St Pier's Lane took us to the outskirts of Lingfield, leaving just a short ride into Dormansland and The Old House at Home.
A warm welcome and good food was promptly served and soon Jeff and Bob joined us.
After lunch the B2028 was used to get to Newchapel and then the quieter lanes to pass through Smallfield, north of Horley to Meath Green, and then Lonesome Lane to Doversgreen.
A vote was taken for the afternoon tea location and Reigate Garden Centre lost out to Denbies. So Trumpets Hill, Wonham Mill and Betchworth brought us to a short length of A25 to reach Pixham Lane and Denbies.
Four stopped here for re-hydration while others pushed on for home.
An enjoyable 38 miles from 11s to tea in the very late summer sun.
Author: Neil C
