Merryhatton Garden Centre

This Sunday’s ride is an anti-clockwise loop in East Lothian stopping at Merryhatton Garden Centre for lunch - 43 miles in total.

Pease meet at Fisherrow Harbour Musselburgh at 9.50am for a 10am start. There are toilet facilities at Fisherrow.

We will follow the Esk path, proceed past Smeaton Farm, Crossgatehall and then on to Elphinstone. There will be WC stop in Tranent (10miles).

After Tranent we head towards Ormiston - avoiding the start of the B6355 which is currently closed - but rejoin it to pass through New Winton and on to Pencaitland. Country roads then take us through Samuelston; we skirt round the south side of Haddington passing Colstoun House then cycle north to cross the A1 at Abbey Toll. We will then take the B1347 to Merryhatton Garden Centre (25 miles) where I have booked a table. I will confirm the numbers on the day. 

After lunch the route takes us through Athelstaneford and then along the B1343. Having passed Hopetoun Monument we ascend Bangly Brae and then it’s downhill all the way to the level crossing at St. Germains. We will join the coast road at Cockenzie and at Prestonpans will take the John Muir Way along the seafront back to Musselburgh. 

Here is the route: https://www.strava.com/routes/21628709

This route is on surfaced roads except for 2 or 3 miles on the John Muir Way which is, however, suitable for all cycles.  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 moderate southwesterly, 15C, dry with sunny spells.

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