We've been to Craigies Farm several times before; but for today's ride the leader devised an interesting new route, taking in the Cramond waterfront and the River Almond walkway. The weather was very kind to us with sunshine, blue skies and what seemed like the mildest temperatures in months - it finally felt as if spring had arrived. It was great to muster 26 riders, with both new faces and some we hadn't seen in a while. With such a large turnout, we even discussed the need to split into two groups to keep things managable. That is something we have not needed to consider for a number of years. In the end, we decided one group would be OK, and it was.
Following the leader's briefing, which covered safety and an in-depth description of the route, we rolled away from the top of Middle Meadow Walk. Following a familiar route we made our way to the Leamington Bridge where we regrouped. Every time we ride down Leamington Terrace, the road surface seems to have deteriorated still further. How nice it would be to arrive there one day to find it had been resurfaced. From there we made our way to the Roseburn to Union Canal active travel route. It's a great path, and so much better than twiddling through the streets of Gorgie used to be. Just a shame that the point where you cross the Western Approach Road is such a bottle neck, especially with a large group. Soon, we were up the zig-zags and making our way along the Roseburn Path. The group became stretched out along this busy path, and the back marker [and his self-proclaimed assistant] had to put a spurt on to catch the riders in front. They thought they had caught them, but were confused by the American accents. It turned out they were a small group of cyclists that were not part of our group. One of them was attempting to take a photograph whilst riding along; they hit the back marker's rear wheel and went down. Fortunately, there were no injuries or damage. Our two bade them farewell and set off in pursuit of the right group. With us all back together, we turned left at the Craigleith junction and made our way to the Silverknowes Esplanade, which was teeming with people making the most of one of the nicest days in a long time. Along there to Cramond, past the boat yard, past the now defunct Cramond Falls Café and we were at the foot of School Brae. It's not a long climb, but is steep enough to give the group their first workout of the day. After regrouping at the top, we made our way along Whitehouse Road. A right turn down the delightful Peggy's Mill Road, and we were on the River Almond Walkway which led us to Cramond Brig. Following the obligatory pause on the bridge, we took the cycle path beside Queensferry Road. But only for a short distance, before heading through the subway. Soon we were back on the road and heading towards our lunch stop. The steepest climb of the day took us to Craigies Farm. The group split up with some heading to the café whilst others bagged picnic tables.
With the group fed and watered, we headed off for the return journey. Soon we were whizzing down a steep hill, and on the cycle path beside the A90. Back past the subway entrance from the morning, and once again we paused on the bridge. Our return route saw us head through Barnton, Silverknowes and along the Blackhall Path to Craigleith. From there we retraced our outward route via the Roseburn Path, Roseburn to Union Canal active travel route and Leamington Bridge back to The Meadows, where the leader declared the ride over.
Thanks to Alan for leading, and devising an alternative route now that our old route through the Craigiehall camp is closed off. Everyone seemed to enjoy the ride, and given it is still early March, the lovely weather was an added bonus. Thanks to Neil for back marking, and good to see he suffered no ill-effects having been ridden into.
Leader: Alan
Report: Glenn
Photos: Glenn
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