An old favourite via a new route

For today's ride we headed westward to the familiar destination of the Heriot Watt campus in Riccarton. But this time we took an unfamiliar outward route, and visited a different venue for our lunch stop. The leader's intention had been to include a section that we have not used before as a group; but the mile and a half on a rough track was scrapped due to muddy conditions. The day dawned unseasonably mild, bright and sunny. This clearly helped swell the numbers to 25, which was most impressive for a November ride, complete with some new faces. 

Following the customary leader's briefing from Mike, we headed through the quiet backstreets of Morningside, through Braidburn Valley Park and onwards to the stables at Woodhall Road via Colinton Mains, Redford Road and Bonaly. From there we took the rough path across to Blinkbonny Road. Seeing how muddy that path was led Mike to decide that the mile and a half rough track would be best avoided. A short stretch on a muddy path is one thing, but a mile and a half is quite a distance to deal with under such conditions. A dynamic decision made on the fly; but no doubt it was the right one. We continued along Blinkbonny Road and down Kirkgate, past the track we would have taken, before stopping whilst Iain passed round his delicious homemade baking. We then joined the Water of Leith Walkway for a short distance, before climbing up and crossing Lanark Road West. A short distance into the housing estate, up went the dreaded shout, "puncture!" Alan and Ken were soon on the case helping the stricken rider. It wasn't as straight forward as it might have been and took longer than expected. Two-thirds of the group were waiting ahead. After some discussion, it was decided that they would press on to the lunch stop, and the remainder would join them once the puncture was fixed. At least it was dry, sunny and mild. With the puncture fixed, we headed off in pursuit of the others. After threading our way through the housing estate to emerge at Curriehill station, we wheeled our bikes up and over the footbridge to cross the railway line. From there a short ride along Curriehill Road took us into the Heriot Watt campus by the rear entrance. Rather than head to the main admin building for a picnic lunch, we made our way to the Oriam sports centre. Some of the group headed to the café, others picnicked indoors, whilst the remainder took the opportunity to enjoy an outdoor November picnic.

With lunch over, we regrouped and made our way to Edinburgh Park via Gogar Station Road and the subway. Skirting the edge of the Gyle Shopping Centre car park, we made our way to South Gyle station where we had to dismount and negotiate the walkway in place whilst the road bridge is being replaced. Onwards from there via Broomhall and Saughtonhall to Murrayfield Stadium, where we made our way through the rugby fan crowds on their way to the Scotland v New Zealand match. We took the familiar route back to the Meadows via Fountainhall, the canal and the Leamington Bridge, where Mike declared the ride officially over.

Everyone seemed to have enjoyed the ride. Unfortunately, the totally new section had to be scrapped, but we look forward to using it in the future when conditions allow. But it was still a different route to the one we usually take, and we have found a new venue for lunch. The unseasonably mild weather was most welcome, and clearly added to both the turnout and enjoyment of the ride. With thanks to Mike for leading, Alan for back marking and helping with repairing the puncture along with Ken.

Leader: Mike

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

November ride to Heriot-Watt

We've got our penultimate rid of 2025 coming up next Saturday (8 November). We'll be heading westward, with a lunch stop at the Heriot-Watt campus in Riccarton. This will be a familiar destination for most of us, but this time we will take a somewhat different outward route, including at least one section that we have not done before as a group.

The total distance will be 21 miles. There will be a couple of steep-ish climbs near the start but no other serious hills. The route will include a mile and a half on a rough track that might be muddy. There will also be two places where we will have to dismount and push our bikes across footbridges. Apart from that, I don't foresee any difficulties.

As always, the above details should be regarded as provisional. In particular, we might vary the outward route to avoid the aforementioned rough track, depending on conditions on the day.

Lunch arrangements

When we visit Heriot-Watt, we usually make for the eating area in the main admin building for a picnic lunch. This time, just to make a change, we will be heading to the Oriam sports centre on the campus. The cafe there offers a selection of sandwiches, wraps, salads and soup, as well as hot and cold drinks - all at reasonable prices.

For those of us who prefer to bring a packed lunch, there is plenty of indoor seating within the centre as well as benches outside.

Time and place

No surprises here. We will gather at our usual spot at the top of Middle Meadow Walk, in time for a 10:30 kick-off.

I can't say for sure what time the ride will end, but given the short daylight hours, we will aim to be back at or near the Meadows well before dark (sunset that day is 16:20). That said, I suggest that you bring lights anyway - and check that they have plenty of juice. There is always the chance that we will be delayed, and you might also need lights to see you home if you decide to go for a post-ride coffee.

To the tower

We have often passed through Prestonpans, but today it was our actual destination. Yaz led us to Preston Tower - the remains of a 14th century castle, set on high ground in lovely gardens with a noted laburnum arch. With plenty of seating and fine views over the Forth, it was an ideal location for a picnic lunch. Whilst the forecast suggested we would have a dry and sunny day with a gentle breeze, we were not expecting it to be pleasantly warm for the time of year, which was an added bonus. In the 20 Milers 21st year, it is great to still find places we can visit for the first time.

The weather and the promise of visiting somewhere new helped muster 22 riders for an October ride. Following a comprehensive briefing from the leader, we left The Meadows behind and took the familiar route to Musselburgh via the Innocent Railway. Stopping at Musselburgh station, Iain handed round his delicious homemade cake and Yaz handed round sweets to sustain us until lunchtime. From there, we were expertly led on an unfamiliar twisty route through the backstreets of Musselburgh to emerge beside the blue arrow at the end of Goose Green. Pausing there, Yaz called on Mike to explain why the blue arrow existed and the story behind it. Mike expertly delegated the task to the writer, who told the story to the group. From there we took the path beside the sea that led us to join the road into Prestonpans. Along the High Street, we turned right onto Ayres Wynd and climbed the hill to Preston Tower. We spread out in the lovely gardens beneath the tower to enjoy our picnics in the warm sunshine.

With lunch over, we headed back down towards the High Street. After a welcome comfort stop, we turned right at the traffic lights, and just before the Robert Burns Memorial Gardens turned left down a slope to a path above the shore. Below us was another path right beside the sea. A couple of riders said they had been on it before, found it very slippery and did not want to go on it again. That didn't matter, as the intention was to stay on the higher path. A combination of previous experience and thorough recceing meant that the leader knew the lower path was unsuitable and shortly petered out resulting in a push across a stretch of of beach. But the path we took was a delight; twisting behind houses and giving fine views across the Forth before emerging back onto the High Street. A short stretch on the road and we were back on the path from the morning beside the shore. This time we headed inland and took the path running alongside Musselburgh racecourse, which is so much better now it has a proper sealed surface. Up beside the River Esk, across the Electric Bridge, a brief pause at Fisherrow Harbour and we were on Edinburgh Road heading towards Portobello. The group got split up on this section courtesy of temporary traffic lights. But we regrouped at the bottom of Milton Road and headed onto the Brunstane Burn path. At the end of the path, we re-joined the route we had taken outward in the morning. Via the Innocent Railway, we were soon back at The Meadows where the leader declared the ride officially over.

Thanks to Yaz for leading us on such an enjoyable ride which was enjoyed by all. New to many was the section between Musselburgh station and the Electric Bridge, as was the path above the shore running parallel to Prestonpans High Street. But the highlight had to be Preston Tower set in such delightful gardens. Thanks to Saqib back marking.

Leader: Yaz

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn 

October ride to Prestonpans

This is a reminder of our next ride, which will take place this coming Saturday (11th). Yaz will be in charge. We'll be heading east, taking in some lesser-known parts of Musselburgh and with a lunch stop in Prestonpans. 

The total distance will be about 22 miles. While most of the route will be reasonably flat, there will be a couple of moderate hills as well as one steeper climb just before lunch. For most of the time we will be on quiet roads and well-surfaced paths, with just one or two short rough patches.

Prestonpans

Those of us who like a picnic lunch will head up to the Preston Tower. This is the remains of a 14th century castle, set on high ground in a lovely garden with a noted laburnum arch. There is plenty of seating there, and fine views over the Forth.

Those who prefer to eat indoors can make for the Coastline cafe, which serves a range of sandwiches and hot snacks. There are also a couple of places in the village where you can pick up a take-away sandwich and hot drink.

There are public toilets in the village. We might also have an additional toilet stop at Fisherrow on the return leg.

Logistics

Nothing new here. We'll set out as usual at 10:30 from the north end of Middle Meadow Walk. Like all our rides, this one is free with no advance booking.

Saved the fast 'til last

For today's final Extra ride of the year we headed across the Forth to Dunfermline in Fife. There was nothing to suggest it would be when we set off, but it turned out to be [probably] the fastest Extra ride ever, and definitely the earliest finish for one. The weather forecast suggested we might see some rain before the ride was over; but it stayed off long enough for us to finish the ride and allow everyone to get home before it arrived. Although we didn't see the sun, it was one of those early autumn days that was warmer than it first appeared, but cooler when the wind blew - the type of day that makes it difficult to dress appropriately for.

Perhaps the forecast put off some riders, and there were a few regulars missing, but a turn out of just 10 riders was lower than expected for the final Extra ride of the year. Today's leader, Alan wasn't overly bothered. He knew that it is always easier to lead a small group, rather than a large one. He even opted to forego a back marker. We left Craigleith on the Blackhall Path and made our way to Cramond Brig via Silverknowes and Barnton. Following a brief pause, we were on our way again and it was beginning to look as if this may develop into a faster paced ride than usual. Going via the path beside the A90 and Dalmeny, we were soon skirting South Queensferry and having a comfort stop at the Forth Bridge visitor centre. Although it was somewhat dull and overcast, there was little wind as we crossed the Forth Road Bridge. Crossing the road, we made our way via cycle paths to Hilton Road and into Rosyth. A recently discovered route past the new Rosyth/SW Fife High School is a great shortcut that avoids a busy stretch of road. We were soon on Brankholm Brae. Whilst it is not the main road into Dunfermline, it was very busy, narrow and undulating. Turning off it onto Grange Road gave little respite from the heavy traffic. That section of the route was not nice at all. It was a relief to reach Pittencrieff Park in Dunfermline, and stop for a picnic lunch in the lovely sensory garden.

Alan had allowed us 30 minutes for lunch, which was sufficient time. We left the park and retraced our outward route back to Rosyth. This time, Grange Road and Brankholm Brae were even worse with heavy traffic. It was a relief to take the quiet paths and weave around the yet-to-be-completed school. We left Rosyth and made our way back towards the Forth Road Bridge. Thanks to a suggestion from Howard, we were able to avoid the narrow and quite busy Ferry Toll Road. Instead, we meandered along cycle paths through some woods and alongside deserted roads to get to the bridge. We had to contend with a strong headwind as we crossed the bridge, meaning the comfort stop once across, was most welcome. From there it was a simple matter of retracing our outward route from the morning back to Craigleith, where we arrived at 2.30 pm. To finish a 20 Milers ride by that time is quite an achievement, but to finish an Extra is unheard of.

Everyone seemed to have enjoyed this year's final Extra, and we were all relieved the rain had stayed off. Thanks to Alan for leading. Probably shouldn't say this, but thanks to Glenn for opting to take on the role of back marker, albeit in an unofficial capacity.

Leader: Alan

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

Last of this summer's Extras this coming Saturday

We are planning to squeeze in one more of our Extra rides this summer. This will take place this coming Saturday (27th). Under Alan's leadership, we will be heading over the Forth Road Bridge and into Fife, with a lunch stop in Dunfermline. The route will be on a variety of roads and paths, including a couple of stretches on main roads that might be busy with traffic. There will be some long-ish climbs in the morning but no real killers (and some nice free-wheeling in the afternoon). The total distance will be 32 - 35 miles.

Please remember that these Extras go at a faster pace than our normal rides, with fewer stops. They are suitable for those of our riders who find our usual runs well within their capabilities. Those who are less fit or who haven't cycled for a while will probably prefer to skip this one.

Lunch arrangements

Our lunch stop will be in Pittencrieff Park in the centre of Dunfermline. This is an ideal spot for a picnic, so I suggest you bring a packed lunch. Alternatively, there is a cafe in the park, serving a soup of day and a good range of snacks and hot and cold drinks.

Meeting time and place

For this ride, we'll assemble at the Craigleith path junction (see here if you need directions). Please aim to get there in time for a prompt 10:30 departure.

Looking ahead, our next ride will take place on 11 October. As usual, I'll post full details nearer the time.

Dalkeith Delights

Our destination for today's run was Dalkeith. That's somewhere the group often ride to – we visited it as recently as last April. But this time, under Alison's leadership, we managed to add a little variety to the route with a couple of interesting variations.

Nineteen riders turned up, including three newcomers – all very welcome. The first eight or nine miles were on familiar territory: the Innocent Path, Bruntstane, Newcraighall and Musselburgh Station, then on the new-ish bike path to Monktonhall and then onto the River Esk walkway. We paused for the customary breather at the top of the stiff climb up to Cowpits, then on through Whitecraig and the bike path past the Dalkeith school campus and along Salters Road.

Normally we would head straight into Dalkeith town centre from this point. But this time we turned off the road just before the bridge over the South Esk, taking a pleasant path through Waterfall Park. After crossing the Maiden Bridge, we continued through the woods next to Newbattle golf course. This is really a delightful spot. We normally approach it on the return leg from Dalkeith. Seeing it from the opposite direction made a welcome change.

The final leg of the morning took us across the busy Abbey Road and so into King's Park for our lunch stop. A few of the group headed to the nearby supermarket cafe, while most settled for a picnic lunch in the park.

Up to now the day had been dry, sunny and reasonably warm. But as we saddled up for the return leg, clouds started to appear and a few drops of rain were felt. This continued as we cycled through Dalkeith town centre. By time we reached the entrance to Dalkeith Country Park, the rain was much more in evidence, so we paused in the Restoration Yard to give those who hadn't already done so a chance to put on their waterproofs.

Re-opened gate

When cycling through Dalkeith Country Park, we normally head for the gate in the north east corner by Smeaton Farm. This takes us onto a busy stretch of road towards Whitecraig. This time, we were able to avoid the traffic by turning left just before the gate, taking a winding route through pleasant farmland to another gate, at Old Craighall. Older members of the group will remember that this used to be our normal route out of the park, but that gate was closed in 2013 and remained closed until a few weeks ago. It was good to be able to go that way again, if only for the sake of variety.

From Old Craighall, we took a shortcut through a new housing development and were soon on the path leading back to Musselburgh Station. By now the rain had eased off and blue skies were again in evidence. For the rest of the ride, we retraced our outward route back to the Meadows.

Despite the rain, it turned out be a very pleasant run, made more interesting by the variations to the normal route. Thanks to Alison for planning the route (helped by Alan) and for stepping in at short notice to lead the ride (not for the first time this year).

Leader: Alison

Report and photos: Mike