Flat beyond Reigate

True summer sunshine greeted the six walkers leaving the Skimmington Castle on Reigate Heath on Wednesday 19 June. Navigator Dave had promised nearly flat terrain – an exact reprise of the second choir walk he had led way back in 2015.

The June 19 six (selfie by George Taylor)

It started with a gentle incline and long descent through a field carpeted with a huge variety of wild flowers. After a short road stretch the group were back on a field boundary path which led to the former pond and buildings of the 18th century Flanchford Mill. The nearby River Mole was crossed by road via Flanchford Bridge before the group turned southwards again on to overgrown paths.

Linda runs through a cornfield (known as "Doing a May"). Photo: George Taylor

There was some trepidation as we approached a field with a stile which bore the sign “Beware of the Bull”, but the occupant seemed to be happily absent. Flat open fields led to a short road stretch and the well-kept village of Leigh with its welcoming Plough pub. The sunshine drove the walkers to sup their recovery beer in the shade before starting the return journey.

John Parker and Neil Pontin strode off confidently into the distance, chatting away, and missed the point where the path took a hidden turn through a hedge. As they were out of earshot, George Taylor valiantly tried to phone them, but in his panic made an audio call to all 25 of the WhatsApp walking group. Even a day later, some members were wondering about the mystery call and ringing back to find out what was going on…

The route

The River Mole was recrossed via the pedestrian Rice Bridge, where some remembered Enid Blyton-aged youths fishing with primitive equipment on a previous walk. Some recognised the World War II pillboxes defending the line of the river.

One more gentle incline and descent though the horse paddocks of Littleton Manor Farm led to the final steepish ascent back to the Skimmington Castle. The excellent dinner was enjoyed outside in front of the pub under the warmth of the midsummer evening sun.

Report by Dave Bannister