Our destination is Linlithgow, where we will have a picnic by the loch.  https://www.strava.com/routes/18658162

Remember to bring your lunch – and a mat as there’s only one bench – the ride leader and back marker obviously get first dibs!

Meet at 9.50 for 10am departure at Slateford Road opposite the viaduct and the Water of Leith visitor centre.  

It’s a clockwise route along well known paths – so some interesting, counterintuitive elements have been added!  

It’s therefore critical that someone waits at every junction to make sure the next person sees where to go.

We will take the canal as far as Wester Hailes then we will head up Baberton Road to Heriot Watt for toilet stop.  First pitfall is an early exit from the canal – make sure the person behind sees where you leave.

Then to Kirknewton with Pitfall Two is an early right just after the rail crossing – Oak Cottages - it’s a steep hill so again, make sure the person behind sees where you turn.

We cut through Almondell Country Park , Muirend, Kilpunt and across the A89 and up to Niddry.

We will go via Faucheldean to descend into Linlithgow, where we can have our picnic beside the Loch. 22 miles.

After lunch it’s down to Blackness and a lovely new path - along the shore to Abercorn.  Pitfall Three is a right turn and not the usual left in Hopetoun House.

We then head back via the Dundas Estate to the Burnshot Road and to Cramond where the ride finishes.  38 miles.

The weather is not too bad – not too cold or windy but an increasing chance of rain as the week has progressed - https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2644444

If the weather is too bad we’ll go to the Star and Garter Hotel beside the railway station.

The Rules

At any turns, make sure the person behind sees you.  I.e. if you are the last one in a group, don't leave a junction until you are sure the following group has seen which way we are going.

Take note of my phone number 07977 540202 in case you get separated.

Please ensure your bike is roadworthy, and that you carry 2 spare inner tubes and tools.

Please ride in groups of around 4-6, depending on our total numbers, with adequate gaps between to allow traffic to safely slot in after overtaking.  

In accordance with good riding practice you should carry emergency contact details both on your person (card in wallet/purse, ICE on mobile) and in your bike bag.

While experienced group members will always give assistance and advice to other riders ultimately you are responsible for yourself and making your own way home.  Hopefully no-one would be left in a situation of not knowing how to get home.

An attendance sheet will be completed on the morning.  The ride is primarily for Cycling UK members.  However non-members are welcome to attend, but would be expected to join Cycling UK after 3 rides.

I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.

Bye for now,

Gordon

From - Gordon Robertson