We headed out through Ladywell Fields, to Catford and then back roads to Beckenham Place Park on a beautiful morning. Beckenham, West Wickham flew by under blue skies. Soon we were heading up Corkscrew Hill to Layham Rd, through fields and hills in place of built up streets. There are some beautiful views of Kentish meadows rising and falling alongside the pretty lanes and they were at their very best in the clear cool light of this sunny winter’s day. 
On to Skid Hill Lane and then we descended Beddlestead Lane with rather less abandon than usual as the recent heavy rains had left the lanes covered in debris and still damp.
That descent is followed by a fairly long climb up to the ridge of the Pilgrims’ Way. Then we began another fast descent but quickly turned off on to Chestnut Lane, through winter bare trees, the gentle winter sun sparkling through the branches as we negotiated this lane which becomes a fairly rough track. It brought us neatly out, at what I still call the Spinning Wheel, although the odd old building which gave this junction its name has been replaced with something less distinctive. From here it’s an easy ride to Downe, up and down a few lanes.
We stopped at the Holmwood Farm Cafe for a snack 
and then headed back out for the final leg of our short post Christmas run. Up to the Leaves Green Rd junction and then one of my favourite routes back from Kent, Jackass Lane. Once that last descent was over, it wasn’t long before we were heading back to Beckenham Place Park, a few of the group bidding goodbye on the way. Six of us were left to head back to Ladywell, where we chatted a bit, enjoying the late rays of a beautiful December sun, that had not deserted us even for a second that day. A terrific ride in good company. Thanks to all who joined me. And if you think the photos look good, that’s because they were taken by Martin Lesanto-Smith, not me. Thanks, Martin.