November's ride - Sat 12th

A provisional route has been planned taking in some interesting bike routes in the south of the city and into Midlothian. Normal time / place / details - see the Frequently Asked Questions for details.

Long ride to Almondell (30th October)

Sixteen intrepid cyclists turned up on a beautiful morning for the re-run of the ride that was originally planned for 20th August. The route took us westward from the Water of Leith Visitor Centre up Lanark Road. We turned off just after Redhall Garden for the canal where we stayed for a few miles, then exited at Hermiston House Road to cross the busy A71 and head through the Heriot Watt campus.

From there we took Long Dalmahoy Road, turned off at Gowanhill Farm Road and headed for the railway crossing. With everyone across the railway safely (we managed to avoid a Virgin Voyager) we proceeded up the steep hill (some veterans even managed the whole hill without stopping). At the top we had a break to admire the fabulous view and take on refreshments before heading for Lanark Road West – another busy road.

Once safely across we headed down to the Water of Leith towards Balerno and on to Cockburnhill Road. It may have been the effect of the time change but several riders were experiencing hunger pangs by this time (12 noon).No lunch yet I’m afraid.

A strong headwind challenged us for a couple of miles on the A70. It was all worth it though when we turned right into Leyden Road and a fabulous long descent to Kirknewton and Almondell, where we split into two groups. Eight of us opted to picnic at the visitor centre while the remaining eight headed for hot food at the nearby garden centre.

After lunch we headed past the TA Centre to the canal. We turned off at “Junction 16” to face the headwind for half a mile, then a tailwind through Ratho, with a small hill en route. It was here that four riders decided to give in to the lure of the canal, while the remaining 12 went on by way of yet another (small) hill to Hermiston Village, Edinburgh Park, Corstorphine and Murrayfield.

The total distance was somewhere between 30 and 35 miles. Well done everyone, and thanks to the back markers, to Jim for plotting the route (see below), and everyone else for a great day out.

Leader and report: Jenny Meek


View 2011-10-30 09:26 30-milers in a larger map

8th October ride to Prestonpans

For today's ride, we were promised "three historic houses, some superb views, and a historic pub for lunch". We got the houses and the pub. The views were no doubt there too - somewhere behind the curtain of rain that accompanied us all day.

To my surprise, 17 riders turned up, which was impressive, given the poor weather. Our leader, Chris, conducted us through Newington and Holyrood Park, and then to our first test of the day: the long climb up Queen's Drive (the "behind Arthur's Seat" road). We cycled almost to the summit, before slipping through a gate into Paisley Terrace and the nice swoop down Meadowfield Drive to Duddingston.

Our first stop gave us a chance to view Duddingston House, built in the 1760s for the Earl of Abercorn, and now housing offices and a conference centre.

We then went on to Bingham, where we joined NCN 1 as far as Brunstane Station and the Brunstane Burn path, which has been partly paved since our last visit. This was followed by a muddy stretch to Newhailes House. This fine 18th Century building was home to the Dalrymple family for nearly three centuries. It was acquired by the National Trust for Scotland in 1997.

From Newhailes, we took a path alongside the railway line to Musselburgh Station, and then back on NCN 1 to the River Esk. After a short stretch on main roads, we faced the real work of the day: Falside Hill. This killer hill, which seems longer and steeper every time I do it, took us to the 15th-Century Falside Castle and what would have been superb views if the weather had been better. Never mind. We all enjoyed the excellent freewheel down to our lunch stop at the Gothenburgh in Prestonpans.

By now, we were so wet and cold that even the hardy picnickers amongst us (of which I am one) decided to forego our usual al fresco meal in favour of the warm hostelry. The staff, who were friendly and welcoming, gave us a private dining room, which was fortunate because it had plenty of space for us to hang up our wet clothing. Unfortunately, when we set out to leave, we found that the aforementioned clothing was still as wet as ever. What can be worse then having to put on a soaking cycling jacket, gloves and helmet after a warm, comforting meal?

For the return journey, we followed the coast path into Musselburgh. This route includes a welcome new stretch of bike path that avoid the churned-up track used by lorries serving the ash lagoons. This part of the ride was interrupted by a puncture break - the only one of the day. Fortunately, the rider in question was well-equipped with tools and a spare tube, so the problem was quickly dealt with.

At Musselburgh, we decided to retrace our earlier route along the Brunstane Burn, and then onto the Innocent Railway for home. We split up at East Parkside, 25 miles from the start point, at the end of what turned out to be a very enjoyable ride (but perhaps not as enjoyable as the warming drinks, hot baths and dry clothing that were waiting at home).


Leader: Chris Pearson
Report by: Mike Lewis

Upcoming rides

Sunday 25th September : EasyCycle Short Ride
A short informal ride of about 12 miles, which will be taken at a gentle pace. These rides are especially suitable for less experienced adult riders and those who haven't cycled for a while (16- and 17-year olds are also welcome if accompanied by a responsible adult, but no under-16s please). Today's route will take in Stockbridge, Dean Village and Inverleith, with a couple of short sight-seeing stops along the way. The route will mainly be on bike paths and quiet roads, and will include just one or two moderate hills. There will be a café stop at lunchtime, or bring a picnic if you prefer. The ride should end about 3 pm. Meet: 10.30, outside the Coffee Angel, Brandon Terrace, Canonmills. Cost and booking: Free. No need to book; just turn up. Further information: Logan Strang (0131 346 7786, GLS@seonamara.demon.co.uk).

Saturday 8th October : 20-Milers

We have our usual ride this Saturday (8th October). Chris Pearson will be leading us on what looks like a splendid route, taking in three historic houses, some superb views, and a historic pub for lunch.

 

We'll be heading east by way of Holyrood Park, Duddingston House, the newly paved Brunstane Burn path and Newhailes House, then on past Musselburgh station and a climb up to Fala Castle. Although this is steep, it is not too long, and the views from the top are excellent. We'll then have a nice freewheel down into Prestonpans for lunch at the Gothenburgh. For those who prefer to bring their own food, there are some nice picnic spots overlooking the firth.

 

In the afternoon, we'll have a pleasant ride along the coastal path back into Musselburgh. Depending on the weather and how we feel, we'll then either head straight back along NCN 1, or take a more interesting route through Portobello, Figgate Park and Holyrood Park. The total distance will be 22 to 25 miles, depending on which of these options we take.

 

Meet: 10.30, at the north end of Middle Meadow Walk (junction of Lauriston Place) . Cost and booking: Free; just turn up. Further information: Mike Lewis (0131 343 2520) or Livia Dyckhoff (0131 554 0577), or email 20milers@gmail.com

10th September Ride to Red Moss

Today's ride was to one of our usual destinations - Balerno - but by a most unusual route. Instead of simply following the well-worn path along the canal to the Water of Leith, our leader, Logan, conducted us on an interesting itinerary on quiet roads and back doubles through the south and west of the city.

Sixteen of us set out from the Meadows on a grey morning in a light drizzle. After crossing Bruntsfield Links, we headed through Merchiston, Polwarth and Shandon, eventually joining Slateford Road. At Redhill Bank, Logan showed us a cunning cut-through to the Water of Leith path that avoided the climb up to the Hailes Gate footbridge.

By the time we reached the end of the path at Balerno High School, the rain had stopped and the sky was doing its best to turn blue - just in time for the real work of the day, which was the slow climb up Cockburnhill Road to Red Moss. That was followed by a superb freewheel past East Riggs and along Mansfield Road back down to Balerno. The Pentland Hills were looking their best along this part of the route.

After lunch in the Grey Horse, we made a half-hearted attempt to visit Malleny Gardens. But the afternoon was wearing away. Because of that - and the admission charge to the gardens - we contented ourselves with peering through the gate.

We then negotiated a section of the route which was completely new to most of the group (including myself). Running north east from Malleny House, this was a rough-ish track which eventually joined the Kirkgate in Currie - a very pleasant alternative to the usual route.

From Currie Church, we continued through Blinkbonny and Woodhall Road, and so into Colinton to view (and use) the excellent new public conveniences there.

The final leg took us along Colinton Road, then through Craighlockhart, Harrison Park and Merchiston - and so back to Bruntsfield and the Meadows. The total distance was 23 miles. Another excellent ride.

View 20milers to Red Moss Sept11 in a larger map

Leader: Logan Strang

Report by: Mike Lewis 

September's ride

Our ride this Saturday will be to the south west of the city, and will include a short visit to Malleney Gardens (famous for its 400 year-old yew trees) and the nature reserve at Red Moss. Most of the route will be on paths and quiet roads. There will be a steep climb up to Red Moss, but no other serious hills or difficulties. Logan will be leading us.

For our lunch break, we'll aim for Balerno, where food is available at the pub and the community café. Depending on our arrival time, it might also be possible to buy food for a picnic from the farmers' market (but not if we get delayed).

The arrangements

The arrangements are as constant as the northern star. We meet at the north end of Middle Meadow Walk, in time for a 10.30 departure. The ride is free and open to all, with no need to book.

We can't say for sure what time the ride will end. It's likely to be between 3.00 and 4.00 pm, but it might be a little earlier or later.

If you've not been on a 20milers ride before, why not have a look at these Frequently Asked Questions.

20th August Ride

This week's 20-Milers Extra ride was marred by an unfortunate accident.

Nineteen of us had set off from the Meadows to cycle to Almondell Country Park in West Lothian. We were approaching Balerno on the Lanark Road when one of the cyclists lost control of her bike, went head-first over the handlebars, and was knocked unconscious.

By good fortune, one of the group was a nurse with A&E experience. He was able to give the victim valuable first aid while we waiting for the ambulance. He then went with her to the Infirmary, and later told me that she was recovering well. She has some minor lacerations, but no broken bones or other lasting damage.

The most recent news is that she was kept in hospital overnight, but was due to be released today (Sunday).

After the ambulance had left, none of us felt like continuing with the ride, so by unanimous agreement we cycled into Balerno for an early lunch, and then drifted home.

This was the most serious accident that the group has had, and it left us all anxious and shocked. It's a great relief that the outcome wasn't as bad as we had feared at the time. I would add that the group reacted in a most commendable way: directing the traffic, taking contact details, arranging for the storage and transport of the bikes, etc. Jenny (who was leading the ride) sends her thanks to everyone for their patience and support.

Our next ride will be on 10th September. This will be our usual 20-mile format, the destination to be announced nearer the time.

Mike