Downs and ups on the Downs

Seven walkers, including new guest Andrea Scott, set off from the Harrow Caterham in midsummer sunshine on July 8. At the nearby Quarry Hangers viewpoint, Dave the Navigator paused to reminisce about the glorious sunset they had witnessed from this spot at 17.06 in January 2016, and pointed out Mercer's Lake in the distance which was close to today's half-way pub.

Six of the Downs walkers (photo Andrea Scott)

The group contoured along the downs and ascended back to the North Downs Way, before dropping down for a quick break on the bench above the dramatic Park Ham bowl (see group photo and subsequent one of the group starting to descend around the edge of the bowl).

After descending the bowl, the walkers passed by some curious goats, then cut across the lush lower Park Ham meadow and hopped over a gate into Hilltop Lane. Dave led them carefully down the road and across the M25 before diverting onto the disused lane that once served the defunct village of Warwick Wold. He apologised for not offering a refreshment stop at the Warwick Arms pub (formerly the Spotted Cow) as this was demolished in 1972 to make way for the M23. 

Embarking on the descent of Park Ham Bowl (photo John Parker)

The group passed under the M23 bridge and then circled the delightful Spynes Mere and its nature reserve.  The walkers were surprised to see masts of sailing dinghies dancing ahead above the treeline - all became clear when we reached the expanse of Mercer's Lake and its associated watersports. 

The sun was still beating down and all were relieved to reach the Inn on the Pond and a refreshing pint of ale. A single pint failed to refresh Martin and Andrea and they decided that a second one and a taxi were the best option for the ascent back up to the Harrow. The five remaining walkers set off through paths diverted due to sand quarrying and back under the M23.

It was then northwards past the historic Pendell Court, now the Hawthorns School, and through a final tunnel under the M25. The steep scarp face of the North Downs loomed ahead, and some of the party may have wished they'd shared Martin and Andrea’s taxi.

Six of the seven walkers - spot the difference (photo John Parker)

At the foot of the downs, Dave offered options for the ascent: steep, very steep or impossibly steep. All five walkers bravely took the third option and roped up for the climb.  No heart attacks were registered and all emerged safely near the Harrow.   Martin and Andrea were supping drinks in the sunny beer garden and Sally Blewett had just arrived too. All tucked ravenously into dinner, eaten outside on a balmy summer's evening.

The next walk will be on 12 August (The “Glorious 12th“) starting from the Carpenters Arms, Limpsfield Chart, with half-time at the Diamond, Hurst Green.