The highlight of the ride came early: our first use of the spanking new Canal-Roseburn cycle route. The name is a bit of a misnomer because this much-needed route doesn't actually start at the canal, but rather from the Telfer Subway, about 300 metres to the north west. So we still had to cross Dundee Street and negotiate the rounded steps (affectionately known as "the bumps") leading down to the subway.
But after that, the route was a delight to use. A new toucan crossing took us safely over the West Approach Road and into a revamped Dalry Community Park, with its impressive sports arena and play area. There is a new bridge over Dalry Road and another over the Mid Calder railway line. The whole route is wide, well surfaced and well lit, with easy gradients and gentle curves – not to mention some interesting views across the city. In short, it is a splendid addition to Edinburgh's cycling infrastructure.
After leaving the new route in Russell Road, we were soon in the more familiar territory of the Roseburn and Blackhall paths. At Davidson's Mains, we headed north for a short distance along Cramond Road South before entering the grounds of the 16th-century Lauriston Castle. We took a short breather here while chocolates were handed out.
We had another quick stop – a comfort break – at the mouth of the River Almond, then continued along the Silverknowes Esplanade. Then came the only work of the day: a steady climb up Silverknowes Road back to the Blackhall Path. We then retraced our outward route back towards the start point.
By the time we reached Bruntsfield Links shortly before 1 pm, all but five of the group had peeled off, so the ride was officially declared over. At 14 miles, it was just about the right length for a mid-winter run. We'll have another short ride in January and then return to our normal full-day programme after that.
Leader, report, photos: Mike
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