A Mortonhall Meander

After twenty years of 20-Milers rides, it can be hard to find fresh routes that we haven't covered many time before. Last month, we followed a well-worn path to South Queensferry, but the leader still managed to introduce enough variation to keep up the interest. For this month's ride, my aim was to repeat that example. Our goal was Mortonhall, and although much of the route was familiar to most of us, I was able to find several bits that we had never visited before as a group.

Unfortunately, the weather was not great: a chilly breeze and a thin drizzle which later turned to heavy showers. Despite that, around a dozen riders turned up - not a bad turnout given the conditions.

After the usual briefing, we set out, first to Holyrood Park and the Innocent path, then through Niddrie and the bike paths in the Bioquarter (including the delightfully-named Wellbeing Walk).  

Next came a twisty route through the back streets of Moredun. I have to admit to being a little nervous about navigating these unfamiliar roads, but I managed to get the group through without any wrong turns.

Ellen's Glen

Cake stop

After crossing Gilmerton Road, we took a somewhat more familiar path towards Burdiehouse Burn Valley Park. This forms part of our standard route to Roslin. But this time, instead of turning left into the park,  we turned right for a steep climb up Ellen's Glen Loan. Pausing for breath at the top, our efforts were rewarded with a wonderful round of cakes kindly produced by Iain. I can't answer for the rest of the group, but this gave me the energy boost I needed to get through to lunchtime.

Cake stop over, we saddled up for another twisty section, this time through the Gracemount area, from which we emerged at Howden Hall Road. This was very busy with traffic but we eventually got safely across. Up to now, we had been cycling on quiet roads and well-surfaced paths. But the next section, which took us along the edge of the Mortonhall Crematorium grounds, was more of a footpath than a cycle path. It was just about cyclable at first, but it soon deteriorated into a rough, muddy track. We had no choice but to dismount and walk, but happily only for a short distance.

Picnic at Mortonhall

And so came our lunch stop, which was the garden centre at Mortonhall. The rain had eased at this point, so about half the group opted for an al fresco picnic while others made for the restaurant. Unfortunately, after about ten minutes, the rain returned with a vengeance, causing the picnic group to pick up their sandwiches and thermos flasks and make a dash for the meagre shelter of the bike shed.

Afternoon leg

The afternoon leg started off with the least pleasant part of the day: half a mile or so in heavy rain along a very busy Frogston Road. It was a relief to turn off onto the quiet road through the Winton Estate which we followed as far as Biggar Road. Next came another unfamiliar section, along a residential road through New Swanston. At a road aptly named Caiystane View, we paused to view the Caiy Stane. This great lump of Neolithic rock is thought to be 5,000 years old and sits somewhat incongruously amidst south Edinburgh suburban housing.

Next came another new bit: the very pleasant Fairmilehead Park. This was followed by a nice downhill run to the foot of Greenbank Crescent, where we joined a more familiar route through Braidburn Valley Park and the Braid Estate, and so back to the Meadows. 

Pausing to view
the Caiy Stane

At less than 18 miles, it was not a particularly long ride, but I hope everyone enjoyed seeing some unfamiliar places. One member of the group told me that, despite being a long-standing EH10 resident who lived a few metres from the route, we had taken him to places he never knew existed. It's always gratifying when that happens.

Leader, report and photos: Mike

Next ride this coming Saturday

 We've got our October ride coming up on Saturday (12th). I'll be leading us on a tour round the south of the city, taking in the Bioquarter, Mordun, Ellen's Glen, Mortonhall, New Swanston and Fairmilehead Park. The route will include one or two places that we have not visited before as a group.

This won't be a long ride: just under 18 miles. But don't get complacent. There will be several fairly steep hills, and at least one very rough path where we will probably need do dismount for a short distance. Apart from that, we will be on mainly well-surfaced paths and quiet roads, with only one short stretch on a main road that might be busy with traffic.

Lunch

For our lunch stop, we will visit the garden centre at Mortonhall. There is a spacious cafe there, offering a good selection of snacks and light meals. There is also space to sit outside for those of us who prefer to bring a packed lunch.

Meeting time and place

This is the same as always: 10:30 at the north end of Middle Meadow Walk. The ride will probably end fairly early in the afternoon, but that will of course depend on progress, punctures and other factors.

And as you don't need me to remind you, all our rides are free, with no advance booking.

Other points

Talking of punctures, may I remind you to bring a spare inner tube suitable for your wheel size, along with any tools that might be needed to remove the wheel. That way, should you be unlucky enough to suffer a puncture, we should be able to help you back on the road without too much delay.

On another point, we always appreciate feedback on our rides as well as suggestions for future rides. A good place for that is the comment feature here on the blog. Just click the "Post a comment" link (or similar wording) at the foot of the page. (You can comment anonymously if you wish.)

Finally, you might like to know that our group received a brief mention in a Financial Times article on 17 September. It was written by Robert Orr, a journalist who came on our ride to Roslin in March. The article is available on line, but you need a paid-for subscription (or sign up for a free trial) in order to read it. (Thanks to Iona and Steve for telling me about this.)

That's all for now. I hope to see you on Saturday or on another of our rides. In the meantime, happy cycling.

Variations on a bike ride

When planning our rides, we try to avoid too much repetition: heading many times to the same old places by exactly the same routes. But often, by introducing a few subtle changes to a route, we can refresh an otherwise over-familiar journey. Today's outing was a case in point. Our goal was South Queensferry, a place we have visited dozens of times before, including as recently as last May. But this time, our leader, Yaz, made the outing that much more interesting by adding a few variations to the route, including to places where some of the group had never ridden before.

Nineteen riders mustered at the meeting point. The day was somewhat overcast but warmer than of late, with only a moderate breeze. In her briefing, the leader welcomed several newcomers and then gave us an overview of the route. On setting off, we almost immediately came to Variation No. 1. Instead of heading down Middle Meadow Walk and across Bruntsfield Links in the time-honoured way, we turned into the Quartermile. We passed the splendid new Futures Institute, which many in the group were seeing for the first time after the removal of the builders' hoardings around the site.

We exited the Quartermile into Lauriston Place, and then continued via Lady Lawson Street, Festival Square and Rutland Square to Shandwick Place and the West End. Unfortunately, the lovely new segregated bike path in Melville Street was blocked off by road works and we were forced into the road, where contra-flow traffic lights were operating. When completed, these works should result in a greatly-improved street layout around  the junction of Walker Street, especially for cyclists. For now, they were a nuisance, albeit a minor one.

Another first

The next part of the route was another first for many in our group: the CCWEL. This segregated bike path, which runs through the city centre, was opened just six months ago. It took us quickly to Wester Coates, where we joined the well-worn Roseburn Path. The next eight miles were in familiar territory: Craigleith, Barnton, Cramond Brig, Chapel Gate and the village of Dalmeny. Then came Variation No. 2. Instead of our usual route by the sports centre and Roseberry Avenue, we dropped down to the bike path that runs alongside the railway line. This took us onto the delightful Ferry Glen Path, a well-surfaced high-level path that offers a fine view of the Forth Bridge and the Firth of Forth. 

Leaving the path at the Co-op, we headed down The Loan and into the old part of Queensferry for our lunch stop. One or two of our riders made for the Little Bakery café. The rest of us made ourselves comfortable at our usual picnic spot on the steps overlooking the firth.

 

 

As picnic sites go, this is one of the better ones, with take-away hot drinks available from a nearby shop and public toilets just across the street. Two of our riders – both newcomers to the group – mentioned that this was not only their first visit to South Queensferry but also the first time they had seen the Forth Bridge close up. It's always satisfying when we can introduce people to places they had not been to before.

We had made good time through the morning, and by 1 pm we were on our way again. And so came Variation No. 3. Often on our Queensferry runs, we would head east at this point, along the cobbled main street and into the Dalmeny Estate. But to avoid the very rough – and possibly muddy – paths in the estate, this time we headed west, passing the harbour and then tackling the climb up Hopetoun Road. Where the road passes under the Forth Road Bridge, we turned back along Stewart Terrace and through the Hewlett-Packard Estate (that's not its official name, by the way, but it's what many people call it). Once again in Dalmeny village, we retraced our outward route via  Cramond Brig and Barnton. As is often the case, several members of the group peeled off at Craigleith. The rest of us continued on the Roseburn Path and the CCWEL. The only difficulty of returning by this route is that Lady Lawson Street is one-way, with no exception for cyclists, forcing us to dismount and push our bikes. Fortunately, this is only for a short distance. Almost immediately after mounting up again, we were back in the Quartermile. At that point, our leader declared the ride over – fortuitously, right next to the Caffe Nero, which is one of the usual coffee stops after our rides.

So many thanks to Yaz for leading us on such an enjoyable ride, and especially for finding those clever variations that added so much interest to what is already a very pleasant route.

Leader: Yaz

Report and photos: Mike

20-Milers: 20 Years

The very first 20-Milers bike ride took place on 11 September 2004 - twenty years ago today. So let's look back over some of the highlights of the last two decades.

By Mike Lewis

A grand total of three riders turned up for our first ride: Chris Pearson, myself and one other. It was a dreary day. We got as far as Musselburgh, but by then the rain had set in, so we took refuge in the Brunton Theatre café. By the time we had finished our coffee, the rain had got worse so we abandoned the ride and went home.

After that, things rapidly improved.

2005. By now we are attracting more riders – well into double figures for most of our runs. Darren Mirfield comes up with the name "20-Milers".

2008. We are now on a more organised basis, with a dedicated email address (how did we manage without it?), a blog and a Facebook page (all this is thanks to Livia Marchant). In May, we see a record turnout of 27 riders.


2009. Several members of our group take part in Pedal for Scotland, an annual charity ride from Glasgow to Edinburgh which at its height attracted over a thousand cyclists.

2010. In July, we have the first of our Extra rides. These longer runs quickly become an established part of our programme.

2011. Our first half-day Christmas ride, now very much an annual tradition. Seven riders turn up on that first Christmas morning; the turnout increases rapidly in subsequent years.

2012. To mark the summer solstice in June, we have our first evening ride. This too becomes an annual event for a while. Our August ride attracts a record turnout of 34 cyclists.

2013. That record is broken in June, when 38 riders turn up for a ride to Dalkeith Country Park. Such large numbers are welcome but not easy to manage, so we decide that from now on at least two potential leaders should recce every route. That way, we can split the ride into two groups when necessary. This happens several times over the next few years.

2014. Our busiest year ever. In May, around 30 of us cycle to Blackness as part of a national event to celebrate the opening of the John Muir Way. In June, twelve of us take part in the annual Lepra charity ride to St. Andrews. July sees our first weekend away: a circuit of the Forth, with an overnight stop in Stirling. And on 20 September, the highlight of the year: a ride and lunch to celebrate our tenth anniversary. As part of that celebration, we launch our distinctive red T-shirts and sweatshirts (organised by Ken Roxburgh, with a logo designed by Glenn Brearley).

2015 to 2020. Many more Extras, weekends away, summer solstice rides and Christmas morning rides.

April 2020 to August 2021. Covid-19. Along with all other local cycling groups, we are off the road for the sixteen months of lockdown.

2021 to present. In August 2021, we resume our full programme of rides following the lifting of lockdown. And in September 2024, another milestone: a ride and lunch to celebrate our twentieth anniversary.

During the twenty years since our first ride, I reckon we have organised more than 300 rides of one sort or another. I can't begin to estimate how many cyclists have taken part, but it is clearly a very large number. Many friendships have been formed within the group, including at least two marriages. Some of our members regularly get together for cycling weekends or longer holidays, and we've enjoyed many social events over the years.

Many people have contributed to the success of our group in many different ways: planning and leading rides, backmarking, taking photographs and writing reports for our blog, providing mechanical support, and much more. If, thanks to their efforts,  we have introduced just a few people to the pleasures of cycling and encouraged them into a more active lifestyle, it will all have been worthwhile.

Do you have any special memories of riding with our group? Feel free to post a comment (below) to share them with the world.

South Queensferry this coming Saturday

For our ride this coming Saturday (14th), Yaz will be leading us to South Queensferry. This is a familiar destination for most of us, but this time Yaz has cleverly managed to find a couple of interesting variations to the route, which should make for variety.

The total distance will be just under 20 miles. The route will be mainly (but not entirely) away from traffic and mainly (but non entirely) on well-surfaced paths and roads. I can't promise that it will be flat, but at least the hills will all be reasonably gentle.

Lunch

With the closure of two of the cafes in South Queensferry last year, the choice of lunch venue isn't as good as it once was. The Little Bakery and the Ferry Tap both serve light meals, but they tend to be busy at times and therefore the service is often slow. Many of us prefer to bring a packed lunch, and there is a nice picnic spot where we can eat it, overlooking the Forth. Another option would be to pick up a sandwich at the co-op, which is fairly close to our stopping point. There is also a shop nearby that does take-away tea and coffee.

Logistics

As always, we'll gather at the top of Middle Meadow Walk in time for a 10:30 departure. We'll aim to get back to the Meadows around the middle of the afternoon.

A 20-Milers Milestone

Around two dozen of us - including many old friends from our early years - got together for a ride and lunch today, to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of our cycling group.

All photos by Neil Miller

Gathering at Middle Meadow Walk for the start of the ride

Alison gives the customary briefing

Not the sunniest of days

On arrival at the Butterflies Cafe, Yaz says a word of welcome

Speeches, presentations and a quiz

Here's to the next twenty years

August Extra ride cancelled

I am sorry to report that the Extra ride we had scheduled for next Saturday has been cancelled. This is because of circumstances completely beyond our control. It was to be our traditional August ride to Merryhatton, which many of us were looking forward to. So apologies for the disappointment.

This won't affect our September "second Saturday" run, which will go ahead as planned on the 14th. And we are still hoping to fit another Extra into the programme before the autumn weather closes in. Details of both those events will be posted here in due course.

Far from the madding crowds

Once again, for the August 20-Milers ride, we opted to avoid those parts of Edinburgh that would be heaving with tourists. This was our festival escape time, so we headed to the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) at Ratho. The weather was pleasantly comfortable, rather than hot; but it did stay dry all day. There was a stiff breeze, but it was only noticeable on open and exposed sections. A turnout of nineteen riders mustered at our usual starting point, which was now festooned with festival posters. This didn't stop the leader from hanging the 20-Milers banner over one of them. In fact, he forgot to take it down and it remained there all day, being collected at the end of the ride. Wonder how many passers-by saw it and thought the 20-Milers was a show in the festival? 

Following the customary leader's briefing, we headed off through the Meadows which were already busy. Via Leamington Walk and Whitehouse Loan, we were soon in Canaan Lane. The last few riders in the group were delayed as a delivery van turned around having realised it was only a through road for cycles and pedestrians. We emerged from the quiet back streets onto the busy Morningside Road and turned right at the lights into Balcarres Street. Through the gate in the wall, and we were riding through the woods. At Craiglockhart Pond we had to carry our bikes up a few steps to get back on the road. We were soon on the busy Colinton Road where a courteous driver stopped to allow the whole group to make a right turn. Quiet back streets and paths led us to the Union Canal towpath. Heading west, we dismounted and walked across the Slateford Aqueduct. We continued on the towpath past Longstone and Wester Hailes. There were lots of pedestrians on the path just before we turned off at Hermiston House Road, where Iain passed round his delicious home baking. Onwards through Ratho village and up what the leader had called the "monster climb". With the climb behind us, we turned right at Bonnington onto the B7030 for a nice downhill section, before turning right onto the quiet road that lead us to the EICA. There were three options for lunch: picnic tables on the terrace, sit inside and watch the climbers on the wall, or downstairs to the café.

Lunch over, it was time to begin heading back towards Edinburgh. Returning to the B7030, we turned right down to the bridge that carries the M8 motorway. A sharp left turn, followed by another saw us on a steep gravelly track heading up to the Union Canal. Given the loose surface and tight approach, all but Neil on his fat-tyre bike opted to walk this section. We took the towpath back as far as Ratho, leaving it at the Bridge Inn. We were now on what would be expected to be quiet back roads; but were actually quite busy with traffic - it's probably used at a cut-through route given its proximity to the A8. At Roddinglaw, we left the road and took our own off-road cut-through past Kellerstain. Soon we were heading under the subway to emerge at Edinburgh Park.  From there we took the cycle path past Sighthill and Broomhouse, before joining the path beside the tram tracks to the old Jenners Depository. Past Murrayfield Stadium, through Roseburn Park and the familiar route back to the Meadows via Russell Road, the Telfer Subway and Leamington Bridge. Whilst the Meadows had been busy when we left, now they were teeming. It's surprising how many people cannot grasp the difference between the lanes for pedestrians and those for cyclists.

The leader declared the ride officially over, and seemed somewhat surprised to be given a round of applause. Thanks to Alan for leading a ride that allowed us to escape the festival crowds, and thanks to Saqib and Neil for sharing the back marking.

Leader: Alan

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn 

August ride to Ratho

 We've got our August ride coming up on Saturday (10th).

Under Alan's leadership, we will be heading west towards Ratho. It promises to be a pleasant route along some nice country lanes. There will also be a couple of stretches on the canal towpath and a couple of short sections on paths that might be a little rough in places. We will face a fairly steep climb just before lunch, but I don't expect any other difficulties. The total distance will be about 22 miles.

Our lunch stop will be at the climbing arena in Ratho. This has a café which serves hot and cold drinks and a limited selection of sandwiches and cakes. For those who prefer to bring their own food, there is a sunny terrace with picnic tables as well as some indoor seating with views of the climbing wall. There are also vending machines selling hot and cold drinks.

The rest you already know: we'll meet at the north end of Middle Meadow Walk in time for a 10:30 departure. We'll aim to get back to the Meadows around the middle of the afternoon. As always, the ride is open to all, with no advance booking.

August Extra : Change of date

Please note that we have re-scheduled our August Extra. This will now take place on 24 August. I'll post full details in due course.

What, no trains?

For our third Extra ride of the year we headed to Bo'ness Station on the preserved Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway. Despite it being a summer Saturday, we didn't see a single train. Not sure if we were there at the wrong time, or if none were running; but this was to be our first ever train-free visit. But it was a lovely route, being quiet and peaceful in many parts. It was reasonably warm and alternated between sunny and bright, but overcast. We had a couple of light showers, but they didn't last long. We mustered 23 riders for what was one of the longest and fastest rides of late.

Following the leader's briefing, we left Craigleith and took the familiar route to Cramond Brig via Silverknowes and Barnton. The group had spread out a little, and those further back were most surprised to discover there was no stop on the bridge. Instead we pressed on to the Burnshot Bridge and took the road towards Kirkliston. At this point, one rider left the ride to head home. Apparently, the pace was far too pedestrian for their liking. We turned off the road and made our way up the rough and rocky path to join the old railway path. Whilst most riders were content to wheel their bikes up this section, a few riders commendably rode up. There was a comfort stop at the leisure centre, where not one but two lots of home baking were passed round. Thanks to Ian and the leader for sustaining the group. There followed a short stretch on the road to Winchburgh. A bridge under the M9 motorway, and we turned left onto a quiet road. Another bridge under the M9 and we were in lovely countryside heading towards Niddry Castle. Leaving the road, we joined the delightful Union Canal towpath for the next 4 miles to Philipstoun. At the point where we left the canal were a pair of swans with their signets, in the water. On the recce a couple of weeks ago, the swans were on one side of the path, and the signets on the other. Left with no choice but to cycle between them, pecks from the parents made it clear we were not welcome. From there more quiet roads led us towards the busy A904. We crossed the M9 for the third time, this time the bridge taking us over it. A very short stretch on the busy A904, a left turn and we were again on a quiet road. There followed a delightful downhill run to Blackness where we joined the lovely coast path towards Bo'ness. A short stretch through the woods was rough and unsurfaced, but most of the coast path was wide and well surfaced with beautiful views across the Forth. Through Bo'ness, and we were at our lunch stop at Bo'ness Station. Some of us sat outside to enjoy our picnics, whilst others headed for the café.

With lunch over, we took the coast path back to Blackness, where we joined NCN 76 through Wester Shore Wood and the Hopetoun Estate. This section being by far the roughest and bumpiest of the day. We left the estate and made our way into South Queensferry. Skirting the town, we were soon at Dalmeny village. From there, the path beside the B924 and A90 led us back to Cramond Brig, where we did pause on the bridge. Back to Craigleith by the same route we had taken out. Here the leader declared the ride over.

Shame about the couple of brief showers and not getting to see any trains, but thanks to Neil for leading such a successful ride that was clearly enjoyed by all. Thanks to Mike for back marking.

Leader: Neil

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

July Extra this coming Saturday

 We've got the third of this year's Extra rides coming up on Saturday (27th). Neil will be leading us on what looks like a very pleasant route through West Lothian countryside and coastal paths. Our lunch stop will be at the historic railway station at Bo'ness. I can't promise that we'll see any steam trains, but you never know.

Compared to our usual "Second Saturday" runs, this ride will be long - about 38 miles for the round trip - with an earlier start, a later finish, a somewhat faster pace and fewer stops. Please keep all that in mind when deciding if your fitness level will be right for this ride.

Most of the route will follow quiet roads and off-road paths, including about four miles on the canal towpath and a similar distance along the coastal path through Blackness and the Hopetoun Estate. There will be a few hills, but none of them particularly difficult. We will be on reasonably good surfaces most of the time, with only a couple of short rough sections.

Lunch

The railway station at Bo'ness has a friendly cafe that serves a good range of snacks and light meals. You can either eat inside the cafe or at the picnic tables outside. Of course, you also have the option of bringing your own food for a picnic lunch. Alternatively, you could pick up a sandwich at either the Tesco or the Lidl, both of which are close by.

Time and place

Please note that the ride will start at 10:00, which is half an hour earlier than usual. We'll set out from our alternative meeting point at the Craigleith path junction - see here if you need directions. The ride will end back at Craigleith towards the end of the afternoon.

As always, the ride is free and open to all, with no advance booking.

Looking ahead

For August, we again have two rides planned: our standard run on the 10th and another Extra on the 31st. In both cases I'll post he usual details here in good time.

Summer ride in the Pentlands

Those present on today's ride will recognise the irony of the blog post title. Drizzle, light rain, dry but damp and misty - we had the lot on our ride to Harelaw Reservoir. Everything except warmth or sunshine. Early in the ride, one rider said, "if it gets no worse than this, I can put up with it". Granted, it could have been a lot worse, but it is July. Given the weather, it was a pleasant surprise to see 21 riders gather at the start, including several new faces.

It was cool and drizzly as we left the Meadows and made our way to Roseburn Park. A sign at the top of Leamington Terrace told us the road was closed, but threading our way past the sign, we found it wasn't. What we did find was that the road surface was as shockingly bad as ever. We can only hope they are going to resurface it. By the time we reached Roseburn Park, we had encountered no less than three sets of temporary traffic lights. Delays were minimal, and the whole group managed to get through each set. Through the back streets of Balgreen, through Carrick Knowe and Broomhouse and we were negotiating our way through the Gyle centre car park. Via Edinburgh Park, the subway and Gogar Station Road we arrived at Heriot Watt University where we had a comfort stop. Ian passed round delicious homemade cake which would sustain us on the climbs that lie ahead. We left Heriot Watt by the back entrance, through Curriehill and the quiet back streets of Currie to cross Lanark Road West and join the Water of Leith path. In Balerno, we took a slightly different route from our usual one. This one involved the same overall ascent but was spread over a somewhat longer distance, so we  avoided the worst of the gradients. From the number 44 bus terminus, we took a quiet cut through to re-join our usual route at Malleny Mills, and onwards to Harelaw Reservoir. Thanks to the unseasonal weather, the verges on the road to the car park were devoid of cars, and the car park itself was far from full.

Although it was cool and the hills were shrouded in mist, we managed to eat our picnic lunches in the dry. But no sooner had we set off on the homeward leg, the heavy drizzle returned and it turned cooler still. The rough path down towards Clubbiedean was treacherous in places. In the interests of self-preservation, we walked a few short sections. There followed some most welcome surfaced tracks, then more rough stretches. At the bottom of one steep descent was a wooden bridge. It was soaking wet and riding on it was akin to soap on marble. Fortunately, everyone got safely across, but the writer did have a wee heart-in-the-mouth moment. Back on smooth tarmac, all was going well until we met a large SUV heading up towards us. As it took up most of the width of the road, one-by-one we had to squeeze past on the grass verge. All the times we've been down that track over the years, yet no one ever recalled having met a vehicle coming up. The remainder of the descent into Bonaly passed without incident. As did our ride back via Redford, Greenbank and Morningside. At the Meadows, the leader declared the ride officially over.

Thanks to Mike for leading and Alan for back marking. The trip to Harelaw is always enjoyable, but the weather didn't help today. Let's hope for some proper summer weather by the time of our next ride.

Leader: Mike

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

July ride this coming Saturday

 

This is a reminder of our next ride, which will take place this coming Saturday. We'll be heading out to a familiar destination: the Harlaw Reservoir at the edge of the Pentlands. I can promise you a particularly scenic route with pleasant countryside and nice views.

The total distance will be about 24 miles. Inevitably, there will be a fair amount of climbing, especially in the morning (not for nothing are they called the Pentland Hills). However, we will be taking a slightly different route from the usual one. This will involve the same overall ascent but it will be spread over a somewhat longer distance, so we will be avoiding the worst of the gradients.

And we'll be rewarded with some nice downhills in the afternoon. But the afternoon will also see a couple of very rough paths. On previous visits some of us have had to dismount and push on these rough bits; fortunately, they are fairly short.

Lunch arrangements

There are no shops, cafés or other catering outlets anywhere near the reservoir, so it is essential for everyone to bring food and drink for their lunch. Happily the reservoir provides several nice spots for picnics.

Since more than half our mileage will be in the morning, lunch will be a little on the late side. You may wish to bring an extra snack to ward of the hunger pangs on the outward leg.

There are portable (chemical) toilets at the reservoir. We will also stop for a toilet break about half way through the morning.

Time and place

This is the same as always. We'll set out at 10:30 from the north end of Middle Meadow Walk. As you know, there is no advance booking for our rides, so just turn up if you decide to join us.

Please be sure to bring a picnic even if the weather is bad, as we have an alternative spot in mind where we can eat our lunch under cover if necessary.

Looking ahead

Our next Extra ride has been fixed for 27 July. I'll post the usual details here nearer the time. In the meantime, happy pedalling.

A Fife favourite

Today's second Extra ride of the year saw us cross the Forth and follow the Fife Coastal Path to Silversands Bay at Aberdour. The weather forecast suggested we could be in for wall-to-wall sunshine. In the end, we had a mixture of sunny spells and some bright, but overcast skies. There was a bit of a breeze, but that and a pleasant temperature made it ideal for cycling. The weather clearly helped us muster seventeen riders at the Craigleith starting point. With the briefing over we headed off on what for many in the group is their favourite ride. We took the familiar route to Cramond Brig where we had the obligatory pause. The path alongside the A90, through Dalmeny village, quiet residential streets of South Queensferry, past the new houses and we were at the Forth Bridge Visitor Centre for a comfort stop. From there we headed across the old Forth Road Bridge into Fife. No matter how many times we've cycled across the bridge, it remains a magical experience. Today, there was a bit of a breeze, it was pleasantly warm and the waters of the Forth were a lovely blue and quite calm. One rider had never ridden across the bridge before, so was able to experience that magic for the first time. Having crossed the bridge, we had to endure the least enjoyable part of the ride - an uphill slog along the main road to get into the centre of Inverkeithing. Leaving the town behind, we headed for the Fife Coastal Path. A mixture of tracks with stunning views across the Forth, and paths through fancy housing estates took us past St David's Harbour, Downing Point and Donibristle Bay on the edge of Dalgety Bay. How the leader found his way through the maze of paths remains a mystery. But he did and we were soon passing the impressive ruins of St Brigget's Kirk. Just prior to St Colm House, the leader's view was obscured by a rider getting too close and he missed the turning for the underpass. As a result, we ended up at the oil terminal gates, and had to retrace our steps. Through the underpass, we were back on course. Turning slightly inland, we followed minor roads and tracks past fields and a golf course to emerge in the village of  Aberdour. Another mile, and we were at Silver Sands for our lunch stop at the lovely Sands Café.

Lunch over, we left Silversands Bay behind and began our journey home. We retraced the outward route from the morning, and were once again able to marvel at the views across the Forth. No missing of the underpass this time, and once again, the paths through the houses saw the leader seem like he was a local. Leaving the delightful coastal path behind, soon we were through Inverkeithing and heading back across the Forth Road Bridge. Another comfort stop at the visitor centre, and we were soon leaving South Queensferry behind. A pause at Cramond Brig, and a short while later we were at Craigleith where the leader declared the ride over.

Thanks to Alan for leading us out to that old favourite, and to Neil for back marking. Everyone had enjoyed themselves, the cycling and scenery had been great and the weather had been kind to us.

Leader: Alan

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

Second Extra of 2024 this coming Saturday

We've got the second of this year's Extra rides coming up on Saturday (22nd).

For this ride, we'll be heading to one of our more popular destinations: the Silver Sands beach at Aberdour. This is a delightful spot, with a lovely beach and fine views over the Firth of Forth. The route promises to be a very pleasant one, particularly the section along the Fife Coastal Path. But be warned that this will include several fairly rough stretches which might be muddy. The total distance will be about 35 miles, including a few moderate hills.

As you will know by now, these Extra rides are longer than our usual runs, with a faster pace and fewer stops, although we still aim for a sociable atmosphere. If you find that you can easily manage our usual 20-mile runs, Saturday's ride would be a good choice. But if you sometimes struggle to keep up on our usual runs, you might prefer to give this one a miss.

Lunch

For this ride, you can either bring a picnic lunch or visit the Sands café which is right on the beach. This offers a range of sandwiches and other snacks, but it can get very busy, especially on a nice day. If you want to avoid a long wait for lunch, I suggest you go for the picnic option. There are plenty of places to sit on the beach, and there are also toilets there. (And we'll have comfort stops on both the outward and return legs.)

Time and place

The ride will start at 10:30 from our alternative meeting point at the Craigleith path junction - see here if you need directions. The ride will finish back at Craigleith mid- to late-afternoon.

As always, there is no need to let us know in advance whether or not you plan to come along. Just turn up if you have a mind to.

And, as always, please remember to bring a spare inner tube plus whatever tools (if any) would be needed to remove your wheel in the event of a puncture.

Whether or not we see you on Saturday, our next 20-mile run will be on 13 July. And we've scheduled 27 July for this year's third Extra. I'll post details of both those rides in good time.

A bike swap on the way to Dalkeith

On today's ride to Dalkeith, one rider was unlucky to have a serious bike issue that looked set to end their ride almost before it had begun. But they managed to limp home, swap bikes and caught us up before we got to Musselburgh. It was cooler and windier than of late as the fifteen riders mustered for today's ride. Once again, Alan ensured that no one was in doubt that riders were in the right place, thanks to the 20 Milers 20th anniversary banner. The leader gave the customary briefing, adding a superb line to discourage anyone from overtaking the leader: "please don't overtake me as I'm likely to blindly follow you and we'll probably get lost". After that, we headed off towards Holyrood Park.

Just after we'd left St Leonard's Street, at the back of the pack, one of the stalwarts of the group had their bike skid to a halt when the back wheel locked up. Despite being able to dislodge the jammed chain, it was clear the ride was over for the rider - or so we thought. The group pushed on having agreed the back marker would catch us up, which they did further along the Innocent Railway. Pressing on towards Musselburgh station, the writer got a shock when the rider we thought had gone home, appeared beside him on a different bike. Having limped home on their first bike, they had swapped over to another bike and raced off to catch us up. The things folk will do to avoid missing a 20 Milers ride! With a full complement again, we headed down to the Grove. Today, this section of path was clear and dry. But two weeks ago [on the recce] those present had to endure mud, standing water and floods. The leader took us on a less familiar route through Whitecraig to join the path towards Dalkeith. After an easy run on the path, we found ourselves in quite heavy traffic in the centre of Dalkeith before arriving at King's Park. Here we enjoyed our picnic lunches in the sun.

We rode through the park and took an unfamiliar path to emerge on Abbey Road. Through the new houses and we were at the kissing gate. Without hesitation, Alan took on the duty of gatekeeper to ensure everyone got through the gate easily. He even stayed at his post to help through a couple of riders that weren't part of our group. Through delightful woodland and parks, we were soon back at the main road into Dalkeith where we had been in the morning. Following a short stretch on the main road, we entered Dalkeith Country Park. Through the park, a short stretch of busy road [made worse by temporary traffic lights], and we were back on the Grove. From Musselburgh station we retraced our outward route back to the Meadows. The only difference being that this time we went through the Innocent Tunnel. The leader declared the ride officially over, and received thanks from the group for an enjoyable ride.

Thanks to Alison for leading, Yaz for back marking, and Alan for his gate keeper duties.

Leader: Alison

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

Two rides for June

We can look forward to two rides this month: our standard monthly run this coming Saturday, and the second Extra of the season two weeks later.

Saturday 8 June

For this week's ride, Alison will be leading us to Dalkeith. It will be a bit longer than our usual "second Saturday" outings - probably about 24 miles - but there should be no particular difficulties. We will be mainly on well-surfaced paths and quiet roads and there will be no killer hills. However, there will be a couple of short stretches  through the centre of Dalkeith that might be busy with traffic.

For our lunch stop, we'll head to the King's Park, which is an especially nice spot for picnicking. For those who prefer to eat indoors, there is a cafe in the Morrisons supermarket across the street (and also toilets). The cafe serves a range of snacks and light meals, or you can pick up a sandwich and take-away drink there to take to the park.

As always, the above information should be regarded as provisional. We will definitely meet at the usual time and place (10:30 at the north end of Middle Meadow Walk), but we might vary the route and destination according to conditions on the day (especially in the light of any damage to bike paths following the heavy rains last month).

Saturday 22 June

For our second Extra of 2024, Alan will be leading us over the Forth to Fife. This should be a particularly scenic run. I'll post full details, including the meeting point and the lunch arrangements, nearer the time. For now, note the date.

There's no need to reply to this post. If you plan to attend either or both of the above events, I'll look forward to seeing you there.

Somewhere new beneath blue skies

For the opening Extra ride of the year, we headed deep into Midlothian to somewhere we had never visited before. Accompanied by blue skies, warm sunshine and a gentle breeze we made our way to Vogrie Country Park. A most impressive 20 riders mustered at the Fisherrow Harbour start point. That number for a normal 20 Milers would be good, but for an Extra it was very impressive. If not the highest ever turnout for an Extra, it must have been close. As ever, the weather must have played a part, but the lure of a new route and destination would have also swelled the ranks.

With the customary briefing over, we left the harbour and gathering mist behind to thread through an unfamiliar [to most] maze of Musselburgh residential streets to arrive at the town's railway station. A whizz down the new path, under a couple of bridges, over the roundabout and we were on the Grove heading towards Cowpits and Whitecraig. There we joined the path towards Dalkeith High School. We turned off the path and made our way up the hill past Smeaton Shaw Farm to the B6414. A number of the riders expected us to turn left; but no - it was right then next left to head towards Cousland. On this section, one rider began to have problems with slipping gears. Given the climbing that lie ahead, they made the decision to turn round and head home to get their bike fixed. It was a shame they would miss a delightful ride, but it was the right decision. Leaving that road, we climbed up the A6124 and took the bridge over the A68 trunk road. Over the bridge, a deft left followed by a quick right saw us on a lovely quiet country road with great views across the Midlothian countryside. The leader made it look easy, but that wasn't the case on the recce a couple of weeks earlier. Two wrong slots and a few minor detours had resulted. But that's why we do recces. On approaching the T-junction, the leader informed those around him that a left turn onto the main road would be followed by a stiff little climb. Hopefully the message got passed down the line. Onwards through Edgehead, down a lovely descent, a right turn onto the B6372 and we were on the final run towards Vogrie Country Park and our lunch stop. Into the park, a short ride down a narrow road and we were at Vogrie House. Riders split between the picnic tables and the Tree Top Café.

Lunch over, we regrouped and made our way back to the park entrance. A steady stream of traffic meant that we didn't all get out together. At the cross roads the first part of the group turned right and waited for the others to join us. It seemed like a longish wait before the others appeared. Apparently, they had been waiting for a gap in the traffic when two cars had a minor coming together. The damage was minimal, no one was hurt and none of our riders were involved; but it did result in a slight delay. With the group back together, we headed towards Pathhead. A glorious downhill run into the village of Ford was enjoyed by all. But the village lies at the bottom of a valley, and a substantial climb back up to Pathhead followed. At least we had time to get our breath back waiting to cross the busy A68 in the village. Lovely quiet country roads led us towards Cousland. A couple more steep hills, and we were in the village. The leader promised that it was now downhill all the way back to Musselburgh. Few believed him, but it was the case. We headed downhill away from Cousland, turned left at Crossgatehall and were soon whizzing down past Smeaton Shaw Farm. This time, we stayed on the road to enjoy our last glorious downhill blast of the ride. A short stretch on the busy A6094, a left as we entered Whitecraig, and we were back on the Grove. At the footbridge over the River Esk, the leader declared the ride officially over. It appeared that everyone had enjoyed the ride, the destination and the weather judging by the round of applause the leader received. Last, but by no means least, thanks to Neil for back marking.

Leader: Glenn

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

Our first Extra of 2024 this coming Saturday

 We've got the first of this summer's Extra rides coming up on Saturday (18th).

One of the challenges of organising our 20-Milers runs is coming up with fresh ideas for interesting routes - not an easy task after twenty years. But for this week's ride, Glenn has done just that. He has devised a delightful route through the Midlothian countryside, mainly following a series of quiet rural roads.

Please keep in mind that our Extra rides are longer than our usual 20-mile runs, with a somewhat faster pace and fewer stops. You won't need to be super fit to join these rides, but if you haven't cycled for a while, or if you feel that you are below your normal fitness level, you may prefer to give this one a miss, and to stick with our usual "second Saturday" outings instead.

Saturday's ride will be about 28 to 30 miles. The route will be hilly, but at least we will be away from traffic and on firm surfaces most of the way.

Lunch stop

Our lunch stop will be somewhere that we have not visited before as a group: Vogrie Country Park. There is a friendly cafe there that serves a good selection of sandwiches, toasties, baked potatoes and an all-day breakfast. There are also plenty of picnic tables for those of us who prefer to bring a packed lunch.

Time and place

The ride will start at Fisherrow Harbour in Musselburgh. See here if you need directions. Please aim to get there in time for a punctual 10:30 departure. Note that Fisherrow is about seven miles from central Edinburgh, so depending on where you set out from, your total mileage could be nearer 40 than 30.

The ride will end back at Fisherrow mid- to late-afternoon.

What if the weather's bad?

The ride will go ahead whatever the weather. We won't let drizzly rain or a stiff breeze put us off. But if conditions are particularly bad, we reserve the right to alter the route and destination accordingly. But the meeting time and place will still be as stated above.

Finally, please remember to bring a spare inner tube plus whatever tools might be needed (if any) to remove your wheel in the event of a puncture.

I hope to see you on Saturday, or, failing that, on a future ride. Our next "second Saturday" run will be on 8 June. And we'll have another Extra in June, details of which will be posted here in due course.

Here comes the sun

We had a most popular addition to today's ride that had been absent for quite a few months - that old favourite, the sun. On the warmest and sunniest ride in ages, we headed to that dependable go-to place, South Queensferry. We usually find ourselves there at least once a year. It's a good route out and back, with several options to stop it being repetitive, and the town itself is lovely with all the amenities we need.

We had a reasonable turn out of eighteen riders. Given the weather, we might have expected more; but it was good to see several new faces. Later, one rider admitted they had never ridden through the Telfer subway before. That's difficult to comprehend for those of us who have ridden it dozens of times over the years. With the briefing over, the leader headed off with the group following. A familiar route took us to the Roseburn path via Bruntsfield Links, Leamington Bridge, the canal and the Telfer subway. Given the glorious warm weather, it was no surprise to find the Roseburn path busy with walkers, dogs and fellow cyclists. We even passed a cat tucking into its freshly caught kill. Via the Craigleith junction, Silverknowes and Barnton, we were soon rolling to a customary halt at Cramond Brig where Iain passed around his delicious homemade cake. Cake stop over, we followed the paths beside the A90 and the B924, before pausing at the Chapel Gate entrance to the Dalmeny estate. Up into Dalmeny village, through the housing estate and we arrived at the viewing platform for the three bridges. It's always an impressive view; but with the sun shining down from a clear blue sky, and the Firth of Forth glistening a beautiful shade of blue, it was stunning. One very satisfying thing about our rides is being able to take people to places they have never been before, and seeing the look on their faces. A quick whizz downhill, and we were soon at the top of the steps to the beach in South Queensferry's High Street for our lunch stop. Most of us ate our picnic lunches sitting on the steps with a great view of the Forth Rail Bridge, whilst a few headed off to buy food in the bustling High Street.

Lunch over, we made our way through the town to Hawes Pier. Just beyond there, a road on the left took us onto the path that would take us through the Dalmeny estate. The estate grounds are lovely at any time of the year, but with the great weather and new spring growth, they were exceptionally beautiful. The paths were rough and bumpy in places with a few climbs to stretch the legs, but at least they were dry. Soon we were back making our customary stop at Cramond Brig. From there, we retraced our outward route back to town. The area around Russell Road was busy with football fans on their way to the match. Back at the Meadows, the leader declared the ride over. Everyone had clearly enjoyed the ride as evidenced by the round of applause for the leader.

Thanks to Yaz for leading, Alison for back marking, and the weather for reminding us how great it is cycling in such conditions.

Leader: Yaz

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

Two rides for May - plus lots more

We are planning two rides this month: our standard "second Saturday" run this coming weekend, and the first of this year's Extra rides a week later. Here are the details.

Saturday 11 May

For this week's outing, we will be heading to South Queensferry, under Yaz's expert leadership. For the outward leg we will be following the familiar NCN1 route. This has a couple of moderate hills but no other difficulties. We will be returning via the scenic Dalmeny Estate, where some of the paths are fairly rough, but not too difficult. The total distance will be about 22 miles.

Unfortunately, two of the popular cafes in Queensferry have now closed. There are still a couple of places where we can get a snack or a light lunch, but the choice will be limited. So you might want to consider bringing a packed lunch, which can be eaten on the benches overlooking the harbour and bridges. Public toilets are available nearby.

The meeting time and place are the same as always: 10:30, at the north end of Middle Meadow Walk. The ride is free, and you don't need to tell us in advance whether or not you plan to attend.

Saturday 18 May

This will be our first Extra of the summer. I'll post full details here a bit nearer the time. For now, note the date.

As you probably know, our Extra rides are longer than our standard 20-mile runs. They are typically 30 to 35 miles, and go at a somewhat faster pace with fewer stops. You might want to keep that in mind when deciding whether to join this ride

Lots more activities for cyclists

20-Milers apart, other local cycling groups are planning rides for the coming weeks and months, ranging from family-friendly half-day events to serious rides for the super-fit - not to mention a 100-mile overnight run to coincide with the summer solstice. Most of these rides are free and open to all.

On top of all that, the Edinburgh Festival of Cycling gets under way at the end of the month. This has a crowded programme of talks, exhibitions, films, workshops and training sessions, all related to various aspects of cycling.

To find out more, keep an eye on my website (http://www.cycling-edinburgh.org.uk/). I've already posted details of many of the above rides and events, and will add more information as it becomes available. 

New banner's first outing

Today saw us head to the Heriot Watt University campus at Riccarton. Despite it being a familiar destination, the leader added a couple of interesting wiggles that were new to many. The sixteen riders that turned up were met with a large banner leaving them in no doubt that this was the 20 Milers group. Thanks to Alan for organising that in our 20th anniversary year, and carrying it for the duration of the ride in a tube strapped to the back of his bike. It was good to see a few new faces added to the mix. We had typical April weather: blue skies, gusty winds, sunshine and a couple of heavy showers. Fortunately, we were on our way back to town when the day's heaviest shower hit us.

With the leader's briefing over, we were off. Via Bruntsfield  Links, Whitehouse Loan, Cannan Lane, Woodburn Terrace and the new cycle route along Braidburn Terrace, we arrived at Braidburn Valley Park. In the park, what appeared to be a pony was paddling in the burn, much to our surprise. We'd seen it from the rear, but as we drew alongside we could see it was actually a large St Bernard dog. Through Colinton Mains Park, cycle paths led us to the housing estate beside Redford Barracks before emerging onto Redford Drive. A short downhill stretch and we turned into Redford Drive. The quiet back streets of Bonaly, Woodfield, Woodhall Road and we were negotiating a rather muddy path to join Blinkbonny Road. We crossed the busy Lanark Road West and threaded our way through the estate at Riccarton. Busy traffic on a steep climb resulted in many of the group missing a turn and having to retrace their steps. Back together, the group rode along Curriehill Road and entered the Heriot Watt campus via the back entrance. Whilst the majority opted to go into the main building for an indoor picnic lunch, a few went and sat beside the pond.

With lunch over, our shorter run back to town began. Having crossed Calder Road, we weaved through quiet country roads and along an unsurfaced path to emerge at Edinburgh Park. Alongside the tram tracks at Sighthill, before crossing them and heading past Murrayfield to Roseburn Park. From there, we took the well-known route back to Leamington Bridge where the leader declared the ride over.

Thanks to Neil for leading us on an interesting ride that was enjoyed by all. He even received a round of applause at the end. Thanks to Alan for back marking, arranging the banner, putting it up, taking it down and carrying it for the duration of the ride.

Leader: Neil

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

20-Milers April ride on Saturday

 We've got our April ride this coming Saturday (13th). I hope you'll be able to join us.

Under Neil's leadership, we'll be heading west, with a lunch stop at the Heriot Watt campus in Riccarton. We'll take a fairly familiar route, albeit with a couple of interesting wiggles that will be new to many of us. We'll head out via Braidburn Valley (using the new bike route along Braidburn Terrace), Bonaly and Curriehill, returning by way of Gogarbank and Edinburgh Park.

Inevitably there will be a few hills along the way, as well as a couple of rough stretches that will probably be muddy. But there should be no other serious difficulties. The total distance will be twenty miles, give or take.

Lunch arrangements

Please note that there is no catering of any kind at the campus, so be sure to bring a packed lunch. There is a nice loch-side spot where we can picnic, as well as space to eat indoors if the weather turns bad.

As always, we'll set out at 10:30 from our usual spot at the top of Middle Meadow Walk.

And as always, the above details should be regarded as provisional. The meeting time and place are fixed, but we always reserve the right to vary the itinerary if circumstances demand. That doesn't happen very often, but it's always a possibility.

Looking ahead

I hope to be able to post details of our first Extra of 2024 before long. (Any suggestions you may have for new routes or destinations will be gratefully received.)