The lunch destination for the ride on  Wednesday 27 November 2019 is Pathhead Hall

Start point : Charnwood Grill, Buckstone Terrace (A702)

Meet at 9.50 for 10.00 start

Route goes along well known roads - no offroad sections - and is subject to change dependent on leader's whim and weather -  approx 44 miles so a short ride to ensure we are back to city lights around lighting up time. I toyed with an offroad bit on recce last week - ended up pushing bike for about a kilometre along and up very muddy narrow farm track - so won't be doing that again. 

Morning : Loanhead (Toilet stop), Roslin Glen, Carrington, Braidwood, Gorebridge, Crichton, Burnside, Whitburgh Mains, Pathhead (approx 21 miles) lunch at Pathhead Hall

There are two steep hills, the second of which (towards Crichton) can be avoided. From Crichton depending on time can go direct to Pathhead or go as described above - note this involves a short section mostly on pavement for about 150 metres along very busy A68 - extreme care required. 

Afternoon : minor road towards Preston Hall, Preston Toll, House o Muir, Templehall, Pencaitland, New Winton (if road open (relevant section open last week but ongoing gas works), alternative route if not), Elphinstone, Dalkeith, tea at Dobbies (approx 39 miles). For many the ride will finish here as folk make their own way back to Edinburgh probably by Gilmerton Road. I will lead those who wish to return to the start point  going via  - Hyvot Bank, Captains Road and Frogston Road.

Those not returning to Fairmilehead will probably make own way once outskirts of Edinburgh reached, but please let leader or backmarker know if you peel off !

Provisional route link https://gb.mapometer.com/account/display/last_edited_des/1

Weather for Wednesday is currently forecast as dull with light rain and moderate north easterly winds with a temperature of about 8 C.

I will use the Groups emergency contact list (ICE) to make an attendance list of who is on the ride. If, as a member, you do not wish to have your details recorded on this list, please inform the ride leader, otherwise the assumption is that you are content for your mobile phone number and that of your ICE to be recorded on the list. The information will not be used for any other purpose”

If you are not on the list you will be asked to give these details on the day.

Riding in a group requires consideration for others in the group and the leader and back marker. Our riding guidelines are essential reading prior to coming out on the ride to ensure safety for yourself and the other riders.  http://www.ctclothiansandborders.uk/riding-guidelines

In particular please be aware of vehicles wishing to overtake and on all but the quietest roads ride in groups of 6 or so with a gap of approx. 50m to allow vehicles to overtake. Also at any junction where a turn is made can the group always check that the following group is aware of the turn.

Please make sure your bike is roadworthy, especially the brakes, and that you have 2 spare inner tubes and LIGHTS. 

You will need a packed lunch (there is very limited provision of food in Pathhead so packed lunch essential) - there should be tea available in hall - Bring  money for afternoon tea if wished and also 50p for hall if you have not already paid.

Remember you are riding at your own risk and whilst the group will always try to help out as best as possible, you are responsible for looking after yourself and getting yourself home.

This ride is primarily for Cycling UK members. However non-members are welcome, but would be expected to join Cycling UK if attending more than three rides.

I hope to see you on Wednesday

Bill Krol

Mob 07936 941 956