Anyone will tell you that here is a weather jinx about me and my rides from Guildford - it usually rains on these occasions, and usually torrentially! But just to keep us on our toes, this time round the weather genie served us up something different, making us nostalgic for past deluges!
Anyway, neither heat health alerts, nor the dismal prospect of one of my rides could deter nine other 'A' groupers joining me for my latest debacle. There were no drop-outs, and all were prompt to arrive for leisurely refreshments in the shady garden of the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre. Two groups, the first under the skilled leadership of Janice (many thanks indeed arebdue to her for volunteering), the second contending with me, set off on time and in quick succession.
The hills very quickly beckoned, and worsened, and it got hotter, but, undeterred and indefatigable my group (Brian G, Sue C, David V (our back-marker) and Ged L) stayed together and failed to produce even the most minor mechanical issue! Consequently, we arrived at The Holly Bush Inn, Headley (Hampshire) about a quarter of an hour early for our lunches. The pub treated us very well last year, and did not disappoint this year either. Just the sort of range of lunchtime fayre we need and at very reasonable prices.
Eventually it was time to drag ourselves away for the cool and shady garden and head back to Guildford. There wasn't a long distance to cover and by now the heat was it at its worst. Progress was slower than before lunch, but we made it, and were back at Guildford station just before 4.00 pm. Then there was the train trouble, but that's another story! All made it home for the solar event of a generation - something even rarer than one of my Guildford rides without any rain!
Of her group's experiences Janice writes
The day was forecast to be hot, 32° according to the Met Office, although in the event my Garmin showed it slightly hotter later in the afternoon.
Frances and I met in Epsom to cycle to the Yvonne Arnaud theatre in Guildford. We arrived early but the rest of the group comprising Steve D, Guy and Patrick soon joined us. After a brief refreshment stop and eager to get away to try and beat the heat of the day we set off over the small bridge and various footpaths until we were able to join a road.
Very soon we were leaving Guildford on a road that I don’t remember using previously (which is not to say we haven’t) but it set the scene for the rest of the ride. Lots of lovely tree lined and shaded roads, some vaguely familiar and some not with the occasional place that I recognised popping up.
Given the choice of a slightly shorter and less hilly route, the group opinion was that we should do the full route. I’m glad we did as the whole ride was lovely, albeit hilly in places.
We had our usual photo stop at the top of the Devil‘s Punchbowl and then had many miles of descent, eventually arriving at the pub in Headley. As in previous years the service was cheerful and efficient and the sandwiches delicious. A pub that knows the meaning of hospitality!
With the temperature rising there was nothing for it but to brave the heat and the hills for the homeward journey. We decided to avoid the off-road section near the golf club and took the B3000 instead which was as busy and unpleasant as expected. However, we arrived in Compton more than ready for cold drinks and cakes.
By now it was really hot in the sun and Steve left us to find his car, whilst Frances peeled off in Guildford for the train station.
Patrick, Guy and I cycled back and this gave me a total of 80 miles and 4,800ft for the day.
We all agreed that Dave had plotted a beautiful route through glorious countryside. (Too kind, I'm sure - Ed) With lots of shade from tree cover it was perfect for a hot day.
Thanks Dave! Also thanks to my group for their good company and especially Steve for so ably back marking.
