A last minute change

For today's ride we were meant to head to Musselburgh via an interesting and unusual route. Unfortunately, the leader was unwell which necessitated a last minute change of plan. The in-depth and combined knowledge of the group's organisers meant a new route and leader were in place by the time riders began to gather at the meeting point. Apart from the change of destination, the alteration went seamlessly thanks to all those involved. For the second ride in a row, we were blessed with lovely weather - long may it continue. Clearly helped by the weather, we had a very respectable turn out of 25 riders. Along with the regulars were some riders we hadn't seen for a while along with some new faces.

With the leader's briefing over, we headed off towards Dalkeith. We took that well-worn route towards the Innocent Tunnel. But, rather than turning left to head to the tunnel, we swept past and into Holyrood Park. Along Duddingston Low Road, a right turn, down the steep path and we were on the Innocent Railway Path. Crossing several roads, we stayed on the path as far as Musselburgh station. After a brief rest, we headed down the lovely smooth path, crossed under the railway twice and were soon waiting to cross the busy B6415. Crossing took longer than usual thanks to four-way temporary traffic lights. With everyone safely across, we continued through the Ferguson housing estate, crossed the bridge over the River Esk and were on the Grove heading towards Whitecraig. We took our customary breather at Cowpits to recover from the short, sharp climb to the road at the end of the path. The leader took us on an unfamiliar route through the houses in Whitecraig to join the path to Dalkeith. We meandered through the backstreets of Dalkeith to avoid busy roads as far as possible, and were soon at King's Park for our lunch stop.

Following a delightful picnic lunch in the warm sunshine, it was time to begin our journey back. Down the path at the side of the park, across Abbey Road, into the new housing estate and we were soon queuing to get through the kissing gate. In Alan's absence, Sakhib did a sterling job of manning the gate to let 24 riders and three golfers through. Through the woods, over the Maiden Bridge, past the far-from cycle-friendly barrier, through a couple of parks, and we were soon heading into Dalkeith Country Park where we had a comfort break. Given the lovely weather, the paths in the park were busy. But the number of walkers decreased the further we got from the car park. Leaving the park behind, there followed a brief stretch on the busy A6094 before turning off and heading to Cowpits and following the Grove down to Musselburgh. A further comfort stop at Fisherrow Harbour, and we were soon on the Brunstane Burn path. From there we headed back to the Meadows on the paths we had headed out on earlier. But this time we went through the Innocent Tunnel. At the Meadows, the leader declared the ride officially over.

Thanks to Alison for stepping in at short notice and providing a ride enjoyed by all. Thanks to Yaz for back marking, and thanks to the weather for being kind to us for the second time in as many rides.

Leader: Alison

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

April ride this coming Saturday

 Our April ride takes place this coming Saturday (12th). If you haven't done much cycling over the winter, this will be a good opportunity to ease yourself back into the saddle. There will be no nasty hills or muddy tracks to cope with, and the total distance will be just under the statutory twenty miles.

Iain will be leading us on what promises to be an interesting and unusual route. We'll take in part of the new CCWEL route through the city centre, then weave through quiet streets and pleasant green spaces in the east of the city before heading towards the coast on NCN1 and the River Esk path. The return leg will be via the Brunstane Burn and Innocent paths.

Lunch

Our lunch stop will be at Musselburgh, where we'll head for a nice picnic spot on the banks of the Esk. Those who prefer to eat indoors will have a couple of cafes to choose from. There are also at least two places where you can pick up a takeaway sandwich and hot drink. There are public toilets near the picnic spot, and we will have an additional comfort stop early in the afternoon.

Time and place

This is as constant as the North Star. We'll set out at 10:30 from our usual departure point at the north end of Middle Meadow Walk. The ride is free and open to all, and there is no need to let anyone know in advance whether you plan to attend.

More thoughts ...

If your bike has been in the shed all winter, it would make sense to give it a quick check-over before setting out. Make sure the tyres are properly inflated, that they are free of stones and other fragments that might cause punctures, that the chain is well lubed and the brakes and gears are operating smoothly - not to mention packing that spare inner tube and whatever tools are needed to remove a wheel in the event of a puncture. If you are in doubt about any of this, your favourite bike shop will be happy to advise.

With the hope of better weather to come, we can look forward to lots more nice rides - including our longer Extra runs - in the months ahead. As always, I welcome your suggestions for routes and destinations. Get in touch by email, or use the comments box at the bottom of this post.