Of blossoms and crumble

Dick Jones writes: Despite South-West Trains’ attempt to delay our arrival at the Black Horse, Norbiton, on April 25, 13 walkers departed only 13 minutes behind schedule after allowing the latecomers to finish their food and drink.

JP leads the way to the azaleas (photo: Phil Willis)

A short walk up Park Road took the group to the Kingston Gate where they entered Richmond Park and followed a gentle rise, passing a small herd of fallow deer, on the way to Thatched House Lodge.

Fallow deer passed en route to Isabella Plantation (photo: Phil Willis)

As they headed for the Isabella Plantation,  a break-away group of one set off directly to Pembroke Lodge from where he sent a picture showing “Lashings of jam atop lashings of clotted cream”.

Azaleas in the Isabella Plantation (photo: JP)

The rest of the group wandered among the paths of the plantation where the azaleas were at their best, although it was a little early for the rhododendrons. Still Pond had the most spectacular azaleas, monitored by a pair of mandarin geese. The group headed for Pembroke Lodge where the break-away member was waiting at the ice cream counter. Some of the group had an inordinate wait for their ice creams which were eaten on the walk through the gardens of Pembroke Lodge.  

Canada goose contemplates the universe (photo: George Taylor)

From the Richmond Gate it was just 200 yards to The Lass O’ Richmond Hill and further refreshment.

The forecast rain arrived as beers were taken under the canopy in the garden. While sitting out a  rain storm we slaked our thirst, then rendered some ditties.  The rain had now stopped: perfect timing!

The group, less the nameless one who took the bus to the finish, re-entered the park at Richmond Gate and walked east over open grassland, sighting a couple of herds of fallow deer but not the more spectacular red deer. After a comfort break at Sheen Gate, the group walked through the leafy suburb of East Sheen to the Pig and Whistle, arriving ten minutes ahead of schedule. Supper had been pre-ordered and Dick was served last as usual. 

The walkers scoff their crumbles (photo: Banners)

Dessert was the sought-after rhubarb crumble although he who had taken the bus, and had been provided with extra lashings of custard, was unable to finish his very large portion.  After singing a couple of numbers, the group took a short walk to Mortlake Station where they entertained the waiting customers until boarding the train where singing continued. At Clapham the group divided into their respective parts of the train, thus bringing to an end a very enjoyable afternoon .  Total distance = 10.95km/6.8 miles, half a mile longer than predicted.