Wednesday 27 September 2017

Saturday 7th October. Ratho Climbing Centre & Union Canal




A casual ride using a mix of the Livingston path network, NCN 75, quiet country road and surfaced cycle track. Smooth narrow tyres may find some of it a bit bumpy. 

We will meet at the cafe at Howden Park Centre, Livingston from just after 10 and leave at 1030am and go along the Loan Path through Ladywell turning east onto the Harrysmuir Path to Pumpherston. A short section along Drumshoreland Road and onto the Uphall to East Calder track and across the Almondell Viaduct above the park to East Calder then along the road to Clifton Road to and minor road to path beside Clifton Hall Road to the EICA, worlds biggest indoor climbing centre for a refreshment stop, bring something to eat or buy at the cafe. It can be busy and there can be a queue.

We will take a track from the car park, downhill to Wilkies Basin onto the surfaced mud free Union Canal tow path (NCN754) and across Lins Mill Aqueduct to Muirend, by quiet road to and go along route 75 of Sustrans National Cycle Network, through Almondell Country Park. Look out for the Kingfisher that flies between the two weirs at the east end of the park, returning to the HPC.
  • The distance is about 15 miles. You can also drop off at any part of the route and cycle as far as you feel comfortable with. 
  • There is no need to wear special cycle clothing something comfy. We don't ask you to wear a helmet, it is not a lawful requirement, it is a matter of personal choice.
  • Bring waterproof jacket & trousers, snacks and bottle of water, small tool kit for your bike, spare inner-tube, ensure the valve is the same as the existing one.
  • Check your bike is safe to ride. Recommend checking it over the day before the ride, checking brakes work, the chain is lubricated and the tyres set to the correct pressure, it makes cycling easier. The recommended pressure can be found on the side of the tyre, typically 35-85 PSI or 3-6 Bar.
 If the weather influences your decision not to come that is OK, we may see you another time.

To let us know how many to expect add some details to our Contact Us form. It does not commit you to attending. Or just turn up on the day.

October News

Next Ride Saturday 4th November