Gifford

Gifford is the destination for this Sunday’s ride where we will have either a picnic, or a cafe lunch at the Lantern Rouge. The ride will finish at the Robin’s Nest having had a coffee stop at Dobbies  - 40 miles in total.

Please meet at the Robin’s Nest Pub, 393 Gilmerton Road, EH17 7PX at 9.50am for a 10am start. We will head up Gilmerton Road to Drum Street and continue on to Dalkeith where we will have a W.C. stop (5 miles). We will leave Dalkeith on the A6106 but shortly turn right to climb up to through Whitehill to Edgehead and then on to Ford and Pathhead. 

Having taken the B6367 from Pathhead we take country roads to briefly join the B6371 and then turn left, pass the Glenkinchie Distillery roadend and make our way to Gifford via West and East Saltoun. Most of the climbing is before lunch.

I have booked a table at the Lantern Rouge cafe but they can only take a booking for 9. If there is an overspill, soup and sandwiches etc. can be had at the Goblin Ha’ or the Tweeddale Arms. Some may choose to bring a picnic (the Lantern Rouge do take away coffees). There are public toilets in Gifford.

After lunch we retrace our steps for a few miles before turning right down towards Bolton and Samuelston The route then takes us to Crossgatehall on country roads via Pencaitland, New Winton and Elphinstone. After the traffic lights at Crossgatehall we take the  B6414 to Dalkeith, continue to the Eskbank roundabout and make for Dobbies for a coffee stop - 37 miles.

Here is the route: https://www.strava.com/routes/21691867

This route is all on surfaced roads. Be aware that short sections of the ride are along busy roads with fast traffic. Bring suitable clothing for the predicted weather, 2 spare inner tubes, pump and basic repair kit, snacks and drinks to keep you going. Please do not forget to check before you start out that your bike is roadworthy. Always ride safely and in line with the Highway Code. In addition please be aware of and ride in accordance with the group safe riding guidelines at

https://www.cyclinguk.org/group/page/guidelines-safe-riding

On main or busy roads we must maintain sizeable gaps between groups of 6 or so cyclists and ensure the groups behind know which turning we are taking with the last person in each group stopping and signposting if appropriate.

The group will always do their best to help anyone in mechanical difficulty. However, you are ultimately responsible for looking after yourself and getting yourself home. Please carry emergency contact details both on your person (card in wallet/purse, ICE on mobile) and in your bike bag. I will also compile an attendance sheet. Please take a note of my number in case you get separated form the group: 07786 457 742.

The forecast is for a light southeasterly, 16C, sunny spells and showers.

This ride is for members of UK Cycling. If you are not a member you are welcome on this ride although you will be expected to join after being on a maximum of 3 UK Cycling rides.

Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday.

Sandy