Gifford

The lunch destination for the ride on  Wednesday 11 September 2019 is Gifford

Start point : Robin's Nest Pub Gilmerton Road 

Meet at 9.50 for 10.00 start

Route (subject to change dependent on leader's whim and weather) - 56 miles 

 Dalkeith (Toilet stop), Mayfield, minor road by Cushat Wood towards B6372 (the road going by Vogrie) but cutting left before it along farmtrack by Blinkbonny towards Southside and on to metalled road to Edgehead Road (note the farmtrack although not metalled for about 2 miles has mostly a firm fairly smooth hardcore surface - those wishing to avoid this can take  B6372 meeting up at junction of Edgehead road and B6732)  ,Pathhead, Fala, Humbie, then skirting edge of Lammermuirs (Kidlaw etc) to Long Newton and Gifford (approx. 26 miles). Lunch at picnic benches in park where there are toilets. Alternatively there is the café 'Lanterne Rouge' for those that wish . There are also a couple of hotels and a co-op, so no shortage of victuals.

In the afternoon we will head for a tea stop in Tranent (43 miles) via  Morham, Coulston, Samuelston, Gladsmuir  from which if weather dry will head for Penston and path/ track for New Winton - this a bit bumpier than the morning track and if weather has been wet will avoid - there is an alternative along the now well surfaced cycle lane on the A199. From New Winton will head along to Ormiston Tranent road as the Pencaitland Tranent road is closed at moment for gas works.

From Tranent return to Edinburgh and Robin's Nest is by Fa'side, Innocent Railway Path, Craigmillar and Inch Park as on mapometer route, but may approach more directly via Millerhill or Niddrie and Little France. Those not returning to the Robin's Nest area 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/cycling/route_4958769.html

Weather for Wednesday is currently forecast as dry and bright, but with strong westerly winds (approx 20mph, gusting upper 30s ) so return journey will be tougher than outward. 

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.  You will need waterproofs, water, money for afternoon tea (and lunch if not picnicking), a bike lock.

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.

I hope to see you on Wednesday

Bill Krol

Mob 07936 941 956