Merryhatton Garden Centre

This Sunday’s ride is a 39 mile anticlockwise loop in East Lothian from Fisherrow Harbour Musselburgh to Merryhatton Garden Centre for a cafe lunch.

Please meet at Fisherrow Harbour at 9.50am for a 10am start.

We will ascend through Inveresk and after crossing the bridge over the A1 we will take the Cowpitts Road and make for the Whitecraig roundabout. Thereafter the we pass Smeaton Farm, continue through Crossgatehall then climb up to Elphinstone on the B6414. We will bypass Tranent, as the toilets are closed, by passing the Elphinstone Research Centre then continue through New Winton and Pencaitland on the B6355. A left turn will take us to Samuelston after which we skirt round the south of Haddington past Colstoun House. Continuing on country roads we cross the A1 at Abbey Toll and take the pavement cycleway for a few miles before turning left onto the B1347 to ascend to Merryhatton (25 miles). I have made a reservation there and will confirm the numbers on the morning. The latest Covid guidance will be adhered to regarding seating etc. at the cafe.

After lunch the route takes us through Athelstaneford, up Bangley Hill, and down through Setonhill to the level crossing at St. Germains.
Thereafter we follow the pavement cycle path, descend into Cockenzie and take the John Muir path from Prestonpans back to Musselburgh (39 miles). The route is all on tarmac surface apart from 2-3 manageable miles on the John Muir Way.

Here is the route: https://www.strava.com/routes/2737725077441177528

The forecast currently is for light winds, dry, light cloud and 14C.

TEXT me on 07786 457 742 if you are coming along. Please TEXT by Saturday evening to avoid overcapacity on the day. Limit is 15 riders. Also note the instructions below on Covid regulations. The Scottish Government has imposed a limit of 6 socialising but organised sports events can continue as was, which means when we are cycling 15 is fine but when we stop we need to be mindful of the latest regulations.

Please also read our riding guidelines https://www.cyclinguk.org/group/page/guidelines-safe-riding for your safety and the safety of others in the group. Please do not forget to check, before you start, out that your bike is roadworthy, especially the brakes. Always ride safely and in line with the Highway Code.

We will ride as usual in small groups of around 5 and please avoid bunching up at junctions. You should bring 2 spare inner tubes, basic tools, and a pump. Also, water and a bike lock.

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

You should already have emailed Janet at, ironside@blueyonder.co.uk to confirm you have read the Covid-19 regulations below otherwise you will not be allowed to ride.

Please note that by attending a ride:

You are self-certifying that you are well and not required to isolate or quarantine.
You agree to maintain social distancing when not cycling. Whilst we are not required by Scottish Cycling to socially distance when riding, we would encourage you to do so.
You agree not to share food or drink
You will carry a mask and hand sanitiser in case of untoward events, such as mechanicals or accidents.
You agree to follow NHS guidelines if you become unwell after the ride.
Please carry emergency contact details both on your person (card in wallet/purse, ICE on mobile) and in your bike bag.

Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday,

Sandy

07786 457 742