A new twist on a familiar route

Today saw us head out to Craigie Farm. It's one of our regular rides, but there was a new twist on the route which had many riders commenting on how unfamiliar it was to them. The weather turned out to be better than expected with several riders removing layers even before we set off. It stayed dry all day and was pleasantly warm, without being too hot - ideal cycling weather. A turn out of fourteen riders was acceptable rather than good; but August is often a strange month with riders on holiday or attending the Festival. In amongst the regular faces, it was good to see at least one new rider. There was an ironic moment when a driver that had been driving dangerously decided to tell us how we should have been cycling.

Following her briefing, Alison led us away from our meeting point. Perhaps it can be blamed on the large crowds (thanks to the Festival) milling around, but there was a moment of confusion when the group turned left at the Middle Meadow Walk crossroads rather than going straight across. Fortunately, we soon got sorted out and were heading to Roseburn Park by the familiar route via Bruntsfield Links, Leamington Bridge and across the Western Approach Road. We then joined Edinburgh Council Quiet Route 9 through Saughtonhall, Carrick Knowe and Broomhouse. After crossing Meadowplace Road we rode through Gyle Park to arrive at the very busy Glasgow Road. Unable to all get across in one go, we regrouped on the other side and headed through quiet back streets and past Craigmount High School to join Craigs Road. Having crossed Maybury Road, we made our way through the new housing development and onwards to Turnhouse. On this section, Julie (one of our regular riders who couldn't make today's ride) stood at her front gate and waved to us as we rode by. Near to Lennie Mains, Alison led us down a gravel track searching for Craigiehall Temple. We found some houses, but not the temple. At least there was a nice horse in the field. Back to the road for a short distance, before turning off through the woods to the delightful Grotto Bridge where we paused to admire the waterfalls and rapids of the River Almond. From there we made our way through the former Craigiehall Army HQ. The route we used to take is fenced off, but an alternative one led us through the estate to emerge beside the A90. The path beside the road took us to the Burnshot Bridge where we joined the road to Kirkliston. It sometimes seems as if each time we use this stretch of road the experience is more unpleasant than the time before. That was certainly the case today. Riding two vehicles behind the rest of the group, the writer was able to see clearly what was unfolding. It wasn't safe for the van to get past, but the driver of the car behind kept crossing the white line looking as if he was about to embark on a suicide pass. They did this numerous times and could be heard shouting. They then deliberately slowed down and the writer ended up alongside. In a breath-taking moment of hypocrisy, he then proceeded to share his opinion on how the group should have been riding to avoid inconveniencing him. Oh, the irony of it! The road then straightened out and he and the van were gone. We turned right and climbed the short steep hill to Craigie Farm and our lunch stop. Most of us had a picnic lunch. Feedback from some of those that used the café was not positive, even those wanting a take-away drink. 

Straight after lunch we had the pleasure of a lovely descent. The writer stopped at the bottom to take photos of the riders coming down. Having got some photos, he thought, "there's quite a gap. I wonder if there has been a hold-up on the hill?" After waiting a few minutes, the realisation dawned that everyone had come down and he was waiting in vain. Whoops! So, back on the bike and he headed off in pursuit of the group, catching them on the climb up to Burnshot Bridge. Following the obligatory pause at Old Cramond Brig, we took the familiar route back via Barnton and Silverknowes to Craigleith; the only difference being at the end of Barnton Avenue we turned right and then left through Tesco's car park and took the path through to join the Blackhall Path further down. From Craigleith we took the usual route back to The Meadows via the Roseburn Path, the zig-zags, Fountainhall and the Leamington Bridge. We were in for a shock at the Leamington Bridge. Having been there for what seems like an eternity, the temporary traffic lights on Lower Gilmore Place have finally gone. A short distance from there, after a six year refurbishment, the King's Theatre looked resplendent in front of us as we waited for the traffic lights to change. Back amongst the crowds at The Meadows Alison declared the ride officially over.

Thanks to Alison for leading us to an old favourite with a couple of twists to the route to keep it interesting. A most enjoyable ride which was appreciated by all. Thanks to Alan for back marking.

Leader: Alison

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

Drizzly visit to an old favourite

Today's ride saw us head through the drizzle to that winter favourite of the group, Craigie's Farm. The drizzle had stopped by the time we headed back after lunch, but it had turned cooler. On the homeward stretch, two riders were unfortunate to suffer punctures.

Given the heavy drizzle at the start, a turnout of fourteen riders was good for February. The leader's briefing was very thorough. After mentioning that there would be three busy roads to cross, he then proceeded to [seemingly] reel off the names of every road we would be on. If nothing else, it gave the group confidence that the leader knew exactly where he was going. This was borne out later with an unexpected detour to avoid the rugby crowds at Murrayfield on the way back to town.

Leaving the Meadows behind, familiar paths and roads led us to Roseburn Park via Bruntsfield Links, Leamington Bridge and Telfer subway. Crowds were building up in the area prior to the Scotland v France rugby match. The writer couldn't help but smile as we passed one of those stands at the roadside selling Scotland merchandise; the seller having a distinctly English accent. Past Murrayfield Stadium, across Balgreen Road and we were soon skirting Carrick Knowe golf course. Through the quiet backstreets of Carrick Knowe, the obligatory pause at the dovecot in Dovecot Road, through Gyle Park and we were beside the busy Glasgow Road. With everyone safely across, we passed Craigmount School and went down Craigs Road to cross the busy Maybury Road. We were now on the continuation of Craigs Road. With all the new houses that have sprung up there, the place is unrecognisable to those remembering it as open fields. On better, but busier roads we made our way to Cammo Park via West Craigs. Leaving the road behind, a very muddy path led downhill to the Grotto Bridge, where we paused as Ian handed out lovely homemade cake that was greatly appreciated. Through the eerily deserted Craigiehall army housing estate, the path beside the A90 and we were on the road to Kirkliston. Up the hill to Craigie's Farm, which always helps to build up an appetite and we were at our lunch stop. Some of the group headed to the café, whilst the remainder headed to the undercover picnic tables. It's usually busy as the pick-your-own area, but is not used at this time of year so was a great picnic area.

With everyone suitably replenished, we sped down Craigie Hill, and were soon on the path beside the A90 on our way to Cramond Brig. Following the obligatory pause on the bridge, we headed through Barnton and Silverknowes. On Silverknowes Drive a rider at the back of the group suffered a puncture. Although the group never leaves a rider in difficulty, they were insistent that they were happy to walk home - so the backmarker and writer headed off to Craigleith to re-join the group. We expected to take the familiar route back to town, but the leader had other ideas. To avoid the rugby crowds, he led us on a detour missing out Murrayfield. We left the Roseburn Path and took West Coates to Haymarket Terrace. There we had to contend with heavy traffic and crossing of tram tracks. All safely across, along Dalry Road, up Dalry Place, across the West Approach Road and we were soon back at Leamington Bridge. Having declared the ride officially over, we realised that one of the riders had a puncture. With the drizzle returning and watched over by a swan on the canal, many hands made light work to fix the puncture and get the rider back on the road.

Thanks to Alan for leading us on an interesting route and to Yaz for back marking. Everyone seemed to enjoy the ride, despite the weather. 

Leader: Alan

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn 

Gogarburn and the case of the missing keys

Today's ride had a new leader, new destination, the largest turnout for several years, the best weather so far this year and some drama thrown in for good measure. The weather clearly helped, but a turnout of 32 riders was impressive. From those that remembered the days when large numbers of riders were the norm, there was even talk of having to split into two groups to keep the ride manageable. Fortunately, that wasn't necessary on this occasion. An interesting and unusual route through the west of the city led us to our lunch stop at Gogarburn Golf Club near the airport.

Beneath blue skies and with warm sunshine, we left The Meadows and headed to the Russell Road zig-zags via the Leamington Bridge, Fountain Park and the Telfer Subway. At the Craigleith junction we headed towards Barnton and on to Cramond Brig where we had the obligatory stop. Turning left to take the subway under the A90, we were soon riding through the eerie abandoned housing estate once used for the military and their families at Craigiehall. After a stop at Grotto Bridge when Iain went round the group with homemade cakes, we continued through the woods before joining the road that took us to the Edinburgh Airport perimeter. Heading towards Maybury, a rider towards the back of the group suffered a puncture. Fortunately, Alan was on hand to assist. But when it was realised that the tyre was tubeless, he declared it, "game over!" Philip kindly agreed to accompany the unfortunate rider. The tyre was pumped up, fingers were crossed and the two abandoned the ride and headed off in search of a taxi or bike shop. The delay meant that half a dozen riders were now a considerable distance behind the rest of the group who were unaware of what had happened, and had continued on towards the lunch stop. From Maybury the group continued alongside the A8, crossed the bridge beside the Royal Bank of Scotland HQ and arrived at the Gogarburn Golf Club to find the rest of the group already tucking into lunch.

The golf club did us proud. A really good lunch stop. With lunch over, we were beginning to get ourselves ready to depart when the main drama of the day occurred. A rider had lost their keys. On the bunch was the key to unlock their bike which was fastened to another. Collectively we all searched high and low for the keys without success. Someone suggested we all checked pockets and bags in case they had been picked up by mistake - still nothing. Time was getting on. The hapless rider made a phone call and was going to have to wait for someone to arrive with a spare key. The rest of the group was just about to leave when a rider rather sheepishly said, "are these the keys?" retrieving them from their bag. Fortunately they were. The group gave a sigh of relief and we were soon on our way home. We headed towards Gogarbank Farm, turning off onto a track past Kellerstain. We had a long wait for the traffic lights at a bridge over the railway. It was then that we realised that half a dozen riders at the back were missing. We cut through by the chicken farm to emerge at Edinburgh Park. Despite waiting and sending a rider back to investigate, there was no sign of the others. As Alan was one of those missing, we knew if there was a mechanical issue or they had to make their own way back, they were in capable hands. As a result, we reluctantly pressed on without them. It turned out that the second puncture of the day explained their delay. We made our way back to The Meadows via Sighthill, Broomhouse, Murrayfield, Russell Road and the route we had taken out in the morning. Back at The Meadows, the leader declared [to the depleted field] that the ride was officially over.

Thanks to Graham for leading such a drama-filled ride. A baptism of fire for his first as leader. Also, thanks to him for an interesting route and arranging the great lunch stop. Thanks also to Alan for back marking and dealing with the two punctures.

Leader: Graham (Thompson)

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

An old favourite

Today's ride saw us head out to that old favourite, Craigie's Farm. In recent years it's become a regular season opener. We've experienced a variety of weather over the years; everything from an unexpectedly dry and mild day to freezing cold and wet. In 2020, four brave souls set out in torrential rain, but abandoned the ride just beyond Cramond. Last September, on only our second ride after Covid restrictions, we had a pleasant autumnal day. But today we were blessed with good weather - dry, sunny spells and the temperature rose as the day progressed. Given the weather, a turn-out of 25 riders was lower than expected. But it was good to see some new faces mixed in with the regulars.

Following the customary briefing, we mounted up and rolled away. We had barely left the Meadows when the backmarker and another rider stopped to help someone with a mechanical issue. It turned out that rider (although they had ridden with us before) was not part of today's ride. After ensuring the rider could sort their problem, the two of them set off to catch the main group. The usual route via the Leamington Bridge and Telfer Subway took us to Murieston Crescent. As a result of a football match at Tynecastle there was a strong police presence in the area. At the temporary one-way section, we all got off and wheeled our bikes along the pavement. We were surprised to see cars beside us driving the wrong way down the one-way section; and were even more surprised to see the police officers turn a blind eye to it. We remounted and rode to Murrayfield via Russell Road. Round Carrick Knowe golf course, along Traquair Park East, through the quiet back streets of Corstorphine, through The Gyle Park and we were at the busy Glasgow Road. With everyone safely over the crossing, North Gyle Terrace took us to another busy road to cross - Maybury Road. It took a few minutes before everyone was safely across and riding along the much quieter Turnhouse Road. In the West Craigs area there is a large housing development being built. This meant we had to negotiate a long stretch of road controlled by temporary traffic lights. Despite all of us getting through on green, the lights were green for the other traffic before we had time to get through. Quiet roads and a track through the woods at Cammo saw us arrive for a brief stop at the Grotto Bridge over the River Almond. We rode through the rather eerie and deserted army housing estate at Craigiehall. The cycle path beside the busy A90, along the road from Burnshot Bridge and we were soon turning right for the steep climb up to Craigie's Farm and our lunch stop. The majority sat outside in the warm sunshine for lunch. Some with food bought from the cafe, others with their picnics.

Leaving the farm behind, we sped down the steep hill and were soon on the cycle path beside the A90 heading back towards Edinburgh. The tried and tested route took us back to the Meadows via Cramond Brig, Barnton, Silverknowes, Craigleith, the Roseburn Path, Russell Road, the Telfer Subway and the Leamington Bridge. The leader then declared the ride over.

Thanks to Alan for leading us to a familiar place by a slightly different route, and thanks to Yaz for back marking. The weather was kind to us, we had a few new riders and everyone seemed to enjoy the ride. What more can we ask for?

Leader: Alan

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

How two became one

Every now and again something unexpected happens on one of our rides. Today was such a day. As would be expected, the first group set off first with today's leader at the helm. A few miles into the ride, the second group caught up when a puncture delayed them. The leader waved the group through and told them to carry on. As the day unfolded it became clear that this would be the order for the rest of the ride.

A light breeze and sunshine greeted the 37 riders that started today's ride. It was good to see quite a few new faces in amongst the familiar ones. It has been quite a while since we had such a large turn out. As a result, we split into two groups with the first group heading off ten minutes before the second. Via the familiar route taking in Bruntsfield Links, Leamington Bridge, the canal, Telfer subway and Gorgie Road, we arrived at the Russell Road zig-zags. Up them and we were on the Roseburn Path heading for Granton. The first group were delayed by a puncture near the Granton gasometer. The leader waved the others through and told them we would all meet up at lunch. From there we took Silverknowes prom to Cramond where we had a comfort and sweetie stop. On our way again, past Cramond Falls and up the stiff little climb that is School Brae to join Whitehouse Road. A right turn down Peggy's Mill Road before dropping down to join the River Almond Walkway. We made our customary stop at Cramond Brig before taking the off-road path beside the river. It was a bit rough and muddy in places, but everyone made it through without incident to Grotto Bridge. The run along Turnhouse Farm Road, beside the airport saw us battling into a strong headwind. The path beside Edinburgh Gateway station led us to the Gyle Shopping Centre car park. Once safely across that, we left the hustle and bustle of the Gyle behind to take Gogar Station Road to our lunch stop at Heriot Watt University. As ever, there was plenty of space for us in the cafeteria. The leader's group arrived some five riders short. They had missed a turning and had to retrace their steps. As a result, by the time they arrived, the first group were ready to leave.

Lunch over, we joined the canal and began heading back towards town. After a stretch beside the canal, we left it at Cutlins Road. Bankhead Drive, Broomhouse Drive and the path beside the tram line led us to the impressive old Jenner's Depository building. From there we took the Water of Leith path past Murrayfield and at the Russell Road zig zags the leader declared the ride officially over. Despite the mixing up of the groups, the puncture and the lost riders, the ride went well and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Thanks to Jenny for leading us on an interesting [some may even say dramatic] ride. Was good the way she mixed up the route. Quite a few sections were familiar, but the way they were threaded together made things seem quite different. Also good to have a decent bit of off road in the mix.



Leader: Jenny
Report: Glenn
Photos: Glenn
Map trace: David

An ice-free season opener

Today's ride saw us head out to that old favourite, Craigie's Farm. It is usually a safe bet, even when there is a lot of  ice elsewhere. That's often an important factor, as for the last few years the first 20 Milers ride of the year seems to have been associated with cold and icy condition. Not so for the season opener of 2019. We were blessed with weather that was reasonably mild, if a touch breezy at times. There was some very light drizzle as we set off after lunch, but it was barely noticeable and came to nothing.

A turnout of 27 riders was impressive given the time of year. Clearly the unseasonably good weather played a part. As ever,  it was good to see some new faces in amongst the regulars. The decision was made to have just one group. We rode away from the Meadows and via Bruntsfield Links, Whitehouse Loan and the quiet backstreets of Morningside arrived at the busy Morningside Road by the clock. It took a while to get the whole group safely across the juction and onto Belhaven Terrace. The group pulled over to let an ambulance pass on Balcarres Street. We left the road behind and made our way through the woods to Craiglockhart Pond. Up a few steps and we were on Lockharton Avenue. We then joined the busy Colinton Road before turning right into Craiglockhart Road North, helped by a considerate motorist that let the whole group across in front of them. A combination of quiet roads and paths and we were on the canal towpath. We had a tight squeeze when the group had to pass three cyclists going in the opposite direction on the Slateford Aqueduct. We stayed beside the canal for quite a distance and the group became quite stretched out. This was when the decision was made to split into two groups. Something must have gone awry as we ended up with one group of twenty and another of just seven. We finally left the canal at Gogar Station Road and made our way to the Royal Bank of Scotland HQ. Across the bridge over the A8 and we were soon speeding down the bridge onto the cycle path beside the busy road. Just before Maybury Junction, we turned left onto Turnhouse Road. We often go a reasonable way along that road before turning off on the right. This time we followed the road as far as we could to the air cargo depot for Edinburgh Airport. We headed up Lennie Muir, which gave us good views of planes coming in to land at the airport. We turned off Cammo Road and onto a muddy track through the woods to emerge at Grotto Bridge where cakes were passed round. Leaving the River Almond behind, we made our way through the Craigiehall army housing and onto the road towards our lunch stop at Craigie's Farm. Up the stiff little climb and we were there.

Following a pleasant lunch, the two groups headed down the steep hill towards the A90. The last three riders saw a car coming up the hill quite fast and decided to pull right off the road for safety. Despite the riders being well out of the way and causing no obstruction, there was a very expensive sounding "clang" as the approaching BMW made contact with the kerb. The car continued up the hill and the group continued down, along the road and joined the path beside the A90. We followed this familiar path back to Cramond Brig; for once, failing to stop on the bridge. Through Barnton and Davidson's Mains to join NCN 1 and on to Craigleith. From there, the Roseburn Path, Dalry, Fountainbridge and we were back at the Meadows and the ride was officially over.

Everyone seemed to enjoy the ride. There were no mishaps and the weather had been much kinder to us than we had the right to expect in mid-January. Thanks to Alan for leading such a good ride.

Leader: Alan
Report: Glenn
Photos: Glenn
Map trace: David

A Craigie Caper

When I woke up this morning the rain was pounding on the window panes. And the forecast promised more relentless rain throughout the morning. Pessimistically, I donned my waterproofs and set out for Middle Meadow Walk. But such are the uncertainties of Scottish weather. By the time I arrived, the downpour had turned into a light drizzle. An hour into the ride it had stopped, and by lunchtime we were sitting in the sun with the temperature in the twenties.

Despite the poor weather at the start, 22 people turned up for the ride – a very satisfactory number. There were several newcomers, including some graduates from Cycling for Softies and EasyCycle – all very welcome.

After the customary briefing, David, our leader for the day, took us down to the Leamington lift bridge and on to Roseburn Park and Murrayfield. We picked up Quiet Route 9 through Corstorphine and the Gyle, then took the lochside path through Edinburgh Park. After passing through a new underpass below the main Glasgow Road (see photo), we paused for our first break of the day at the gleaming new Edinburgh Gateway station. Our leader, who was fresh off the plane from a business trip to India, produced some interesting sweetmeats purchased in Bangalore. I'm not sure what they consisted of, but they were definitely edible.

The next section of the ride took us north along Cammo Way, into Cammo Country Park and across the delightful Grotto Bridge. This is a beautiful spot, with the fast-flowing Almond gushing through a deep tree-lined valley and not a building or road in sight.

By complete contrast, we then approached the busy Queensferry Road. This is the spot where, because of the closure of the Burnshot Bridge, cyclists (and pedestrians) are obliged to use a coned-off lane of the dual carriageway. On our last ride, despite a strict admonition from the leader to stay as close to the verge as possible, one of the party ventured onto the wrong side of the cones and, sheep-like, half the group followed, despite cars speeding past inches away and other cyclists coming towards them. Obviously, the authorities had taken note of this flagrant transgression. Today, the lane in question was guarded by a solid metal barrier keeping us cyclists well and truly where we belong.

Once safely off the dual carriageway, we quickly tackled the only serious climb of the day and were soon taking our ease on the sunny terrace of Craigie's Farm, where luncheon was served.

For the afternoon leg, we went down the far side of Craigie Hill and back across the Queensferry Road to join NCN 1. We pedalled about half a mile north, then through the Chapel Gate for a circuit of the Dalmeny Estate. We re-joined NCN 1 at Burnshot, then headed back to town via Cramond Brig and Barnton. By the time we passed Roseburn, people started to peel off, with the remnant of the group making it back to the Meadows with time to spare for a coffee. At 23 miles, it was a very satisfactory ride with some interesting new sections and plenty of variety – not to mention the satisfaction of confounding the weather forecast.

Leader and map trace: David
Report: Mike
Photos: Michael