North Berwick

This Wednesday’s ride is from Robin’s Nest to North Berwick. It is a fairly long ride for the time of year so please bring lights in case of failing light or poor weather.

Please meet at Robin’s Nest Pub, 393 Gilmerton Road, EH17 7PX in good time for a 10am start. We will head up Gilmerton Road and Drum Street to pass Dobbies and proceed through Dalkeith Country Park. Then we will ascend past Smeaton Farm, continue to Crossgatehall and on to Elphinstone for a W.C. stop at Tranent (11 miles).  Thereafter we take the busy A199 for 4 miles passing through McMerry and Gladsmuir  (there is a good cycle lane on most of it though it fizzles out in McMerry) before taking a left turn to Trabroun and Elvingston. After that the route continues on country roads until we join the B1377 at Spittal. At the Ballencrieff roundabout we turn toward Aberlady and pass West Fenton, Fenton Barns and Kingston en route to North Berwick for a picnic lunch in the Hope Rooms (29 miles - the hall is booked for 1pm).

After lunch we pass through Dirleton and Archerfield and turn left at Gullane to retrace our steps to Aberlady via West Fenton. Thereafter we take the coast road back to Musselburgh for a coffee stop at Luca (48miles). Some will disperse at this point, however the route continues back to Robin’s Nest via the Innocent Path, Peffermill and the Inch (54 miles).

Here is the route: https://www.strava.com/routes/22258942

This route is 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 and a picnic lunch. 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. 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 south-westerly, 12C 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 Wednesday.

Sandy