ACC Social Sunday Off-Road – Report by Ian Wilkinson
On Sunday 25th April nine of us set off from Farthing Downs for a social off-road ride to Polesden Lacey near Great Bookham.
A chilly start soon took us into Happy Valley and then up onto the North Downs. From there we rode all the way to Box Hill via Reigate Hill with only a short road section.
Box Hill is where we suffered our first puncture whilst enjoying the stunning views across the valley to Ranmore Common. From Box we headed through Denbies Wine Estate, over Ranmore Common to Polesden Lacey.
Polesden Lacey is a National Trust owned Edwardian House and Estate – definitely worth a visit with the family with planned walking routes for everyone.
After lunch, and our second puncture we headed back through Leatherhead onto Ashtead Common, over Epsom Downs, past the racecourse before heading back via Banstead Common and Oaks Park.
It was pretty windy by the end, but at least the sun was out all day.
Lots of highlights from the day – stunning views, some awesome descents and great company.
This is a superb route, roughly 45 miles, suitable for Gravel, CX and MTB bikes with relatively few road sections.
It’s amazing how many off-road trails we have on our doorstep. A little exploring will take you deep into the Surrey Wilds!
Our next Social Sunday off-road will be on Sunday 30th May, destination to be announced.
We will also be starting our Wednesday Night social off-road rides starting 26th May. More news to follow.
