A casual social ride of 18 miles exploring a mix of some of the 144 miles of the Livingston path network, Route 75 of Sustrans National Cycle Network, quiet country road and surfaced cycle track, and maybe a bit of Local History. Smooth narrow tyres may find some of it a bit bumpy.
We will be at the cafe at Howden Park Centre, Livingston from just after 10 and leave at 1030am.
Taking the Livingston Path Network 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, formerly a rail link to Pumpherston Oil Works crossing the Camps Viaduct high above Almondell Park to
East Calder then along the road or cycle on the new bit of cycle path and continue on the footway then north to Clifton Road and minor road to
path beside Clifton Hall Road to the EICA,
the 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.
Back out to the footpath by the road, 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 16 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 comfortable. We don't ask you to wear a helmet, it is not a lawful requirement, it is a matter of personal choice. If you do, make sure it is fitted properly or not by its "BEST BEFORE DATE" or there is no point.
- 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 by carrying out a M CHECK. 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. For other help, see Bike Maintenance Tips
- Some Essential Cycling Skills Videos to help boost your confidence and give you the necessary skills to negotiate on-road journeys.
To let us know how many to expect add some details to our Contact Us form. It does not commit you to attending.
Next Ride Saturday 5th October
