Castle Inn, Chiddingstone

Heavy rain, high winds, flooded roads, fallen trees – the weather forecast could not have been more daunting. Sharp contrast to 29th April 2011 when Kate & William enjoyed a beautiful day for their wedding.


However the fearless Frank and the pensive Pat duly arrived at Three Bridges Station at 10am. There we met a very keen potential member Simon Wales who had telephoned earlier in the morning to enquire weather (sorry dreadful pun) the ride was going ahead.

At ten past ten in heavy rainfall we set off at a good pace in the direction of Chiddingstone. The lane east of Lingfield through Haxstead was flooded but Simon was adept in riding along the crown of the road waving at car drivers and getting them to slow down.

After 20 drenching miles we squidged our way into the pub. The publican was friendly and invited us to hang our wet clothes on hangers above a radiator. So we peeled off our sodden outer layers and exchanged a bit of banter with the bar staff whilst ordering our lunches. Pat ‘pushed the boat out’ and went for the roast beef at £15.

As we dried out over a leisurely lunch we were delighted to see the sun beaming in through the windows. Refreshed and revitalised we retraced the route towards Crawley via Edenbridge, Lingfield and Copthorne. A pleasant ride home – spring sunshine and only a few puddles to contend with. Total mileage 40.4.

Frank & Pat

So you see, bad weather doesn't prevent us from a having a lovely day out - and I'm sorry I missed the ride (I was busy winning a car rally in Northamptonshire).    Bob.

Next weeks ride is another Three Bridges Station start (at 09:30) and will be VERY easy. We will make the short trip to Broadfield Stadium to look at the Historic Commercial Vehicles that will be stopping there on their London to Brighton run. here you will be able to get up close and personal to a number of old fire engines, buses, charabancs, lorries, vans and other commercial vehicles dating back to the beginning of the motor vehicle age - there may even be some that you remember from when you were young(er)!  The vehicle owners/carers are always keen to chat about their vehicles, so we can easily while away and hour or two. Then, depending on the weather and what people want to do, we may venture on a short ride to a pub for lunch.

As cycle rides go, they don't get any easier than this one!!