I had various route options in my head, eventually having a chosen route. A few miles in the Surrey countryside before entering Sussex and almost immediately skirting around the perimeter of Gatwick Airport.
A few miles later I came upon signs advising of road closures due to a cycling event, it was then that I realised it was the day of the annual London to Brighton cycle ride. Taking advantage of the closed roads I changed my route by heading into Brighton.
Passing through Turners Hill was slow, with a large number (probably well over a thousand) cyclists stopped at a red light. Moving again, after passing through various towns and villages, the next landmark was the climb up Ditchling Beacon. The stunning views from the summit made the climb worthwhile, not to mention it being good practice for when I reach the Alps.
A descent into Brighton and the cheering crowds at the finish line on the seafront. After a few minutes I set off, alone again, along the coast to Newhaven. A quick lunch stop 1/2 mile from the port and it was then time to check in.
The crossing was made more pleasant by meeting 3 other cyclists, one heading for Paris, another Alsace and the third to the Mediterranean and then beyond.
A three mile ride once in Dieppe took me to my hotel, bike safely stored in a conference room by reception.
