Carrot Cake 110km

Entrants completing the Carrot Cake ride will need a good level of fitness as the route ventures in to the North Downs hills. But the big climbs are reserved for Fruit cakers so no need to panic.

The first section of the route takes you south to Betchworth, Brockham and the first short climb of Henfold hill. After that little test you’ll be taken through Newdigate and Capel.

Take care as you cross the A24 before heading over to Ockley. You’ll pass the feed station on the right where there’ll be food drink and mechanical support.

Soon after Ockley you’ll be facing your first real test of the day – Leith Hill. This is an oft avoided hill for Surrey cyclists as it’s steep gradient takes over five minutes to conquer. It’s beautiful area though, so if you have the chance, be sure to take it all in.

As you get your breath back on the long descent, be sure not to miss the left fork at Abinger Common. This takes you into some tight and twisty roads to continue your descent down to the A25.

Here you turn left and continue all the way to Shere. The little town, that feature in the Hollywood movie The Holiday is around halfway, so not a bad place to stop for a cuppa and a piece of cake. We’d recommend The Lucky Duck Cafe.

Don’t eat too much though as you’re climbing straight out of Shere towards Peaslake. This popular Surrey village is where the second big test of the this route comes – Radnor road. It’s not steep, but it seemingly goes on forever through the pine trees of Leith Hill. If the sun’s shining you’ll be rewarded with spectacular scenery.

After descending off of Leith hill you’ll take a left over to Forest Green and back to Ockley. Here you’ll recognise the route as you head back towards Capel and once again past the feed station and mechanical assistance provided by Neutral Support.

The route continues over to Rusper via the wonderfully named Muggeridge Hill. After Rusper you’re soon back on quiet little country lanes heading towards Charlwood and Salfords.

This is where you join the Jaffa cake route, so be sure to give encouragement to any other participants you see.

After Salfords it’s not long before you’re back in the lanes riding towards the pretty little town of Outwood. This is where you turn left again and head north gaining height all the time.

In Bletchingly cross the A25 and keep heading north to take you over the M25. You’ll see a big hill ahead of you, but fear not, you’re turning left down Springbottom lane and avoiding White Hill.

Before you know it you’ll be in Merstham and approaching the final climb past Fanny’s farm shop. John spent a lot of time in this unique café and farm shop, so feel free to pop in for a cuppa. But don’t forget, you’re almost back and there’s plenty of food and drink on offer at the finish in Walton on the Hill.

The last stretch takes in a short section of the A217, so take care here. Once you’ve turned off this busy road you’re almost back at the village hall to be greeted by a friendly face.

Congratulations, you’ve completed the ride and earnt yourself a slice of cake!

Details:
Length: 110km
Feed station: two (at 21km and 52.8km)
Climbs: seven

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