Two bracing March walks
The walkers made two outings in March. The base for the first, on March 7, was the Fleeting Brook in Caterham, with eight walkers taking part.
Walkers mid-way between Caterham and Kenley
The group progressed across Coulsdon Common and onto Kenley Airfield, pausing to read the information boards about its role in WW2. After completing a half-circumnavigation of the airfield, most of the group descended Kenley Common towards Whyteleafe. However Messers Perkins and Marshall couldn’t resist a shortcut to the half-way stop by continuing on the airfield circuit.
The main group entered the secluded Hawkhirst Wood, a little known part of the South London Downs National Nature Reserve, and ascended back to airfield level. From there it was a short stroll to rendezvous with the others at the Wattenden Arms for refreshment.
The eight walkers at Kenley Airfield - photo JP.
The return journey followed footpaths beside the old astronomical observatory back up to Coulsdon Common and The Fox pub. Messrs Perkins and Marshall somehow managed to avoid temptation there and everyone was soon back at the Fleeting Brook for supper. Mr Perkins challenged the waitress to provide him with never-ending extra lashings of gravy and custard. All were delighted when the bill arrived and he had been charged for every extra portion.
On March 28, eight walkers started (and finished) at the Ramblers Rest in Chipstead. After leaving the Ramblers Rest, they ascended Chipstead Downs and proceeded through the Harholt Plantation. We passed through Banstead Woods, then turned left at Parrots Farm and made towards the imposing edifice of the old Legal and General Headquarters. As usual when we pass this deserted monstrosity we mused on why it was still there and dominating the otherwise glorious landscape. Someone pointed out (to our surprise) it is Grade 2 listed!
Walkers pass deserted former Legal and General building
We crossed the railway line and ascended through an estate of enormous houses before crossing Kingswood Golf Course and descending to our halfway stop at the Well House Inn. The return leg included a short road stretch before climbing to the Sheepdog Trials meadows near Shabden Farm.
A level track led us to Old School House in Chipstead Valley, where we were delighted to find former chorister Ernest Williams at home. Of course he joined in a rendition of Anthem in his garden. Soon we were back at the Ramblers for dinner.
The eight walkers pose on sloping ground at the Well House Inn.