A ride of 18 miles at a casual pace using a mix of some of the 144 miles of the Livingston path network, National Cycle Network route 754 & 75. canal towpath, quiet country road and surfaced cycle track. Smooth narrow tyres may find some of it a bit bumpy.
MEET : By 10:30, at the seats outside the café at Howden Park Centre, Livingston.
TRAIN : The nearest station is Livingston North.
ROUTE : Take 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 East Calder to Uphall Station Path, formerly a railway serving Pumpherston Oil Works. Joining the cycle path by the
A89 onto the Union Canal and NCN 754 on the Union Canal tow path through Broxburn, and minor road from Niddry Castle to Kirkliston.
Stopping at Kirkliston Leisure Centre for refreshments. There is no cafe, so bring something to eat and drink. We sit outside. There is a drinks machine and toilets
The return route will be along an off road cycle path from Kirkliston to Newbridge then cycle path by the A89 and crossing the road at the railway arches onto a scenic quiet minor road for Birdsmill and Muirend and back through Almondell Country Park, to HPC.
BEFORE THE RIDE : If needed, we can show you how to check your bike is safe to ride by carrying out the M CHECK, checking brakes work, the chain is lubricated and the tyres set to the correct pressure, look at use of gears all to make it less of an effort. Suggest what you may find useful to take on a ride.
- We are NOT a club. Rides are free and open to anyone interested in finding out more about active travel, bike use, and exploring local routes. No commitment to come regularly.
- There is no need to wear special cycle clothing, something comfortable, a waterproof jacket and trousers can be useful. We don't ask you to wear a helmet, it is not a lawful requirement, it is a matter of personal choice.
- You may want to bring snacks and, a bottle of water.
- Leccy E bikes are OK.
- Ride leaders, have first aid and bike mechanic training. We can deal with most bike problems that may arise on the ride.
- You may wish to drop off at any point or if we pass near to home.
- To ensure no one gets lost or left behind and for safety there will be a back marker.
- There may be road crossings, not controlled by traffic lights. At these be guided by ride leaders.
- Children need to bring a well behaved adult.
- If speed and distance are your thing this is not for you.
REGISTER : To reserve a place and to give us an idea of how many to expect add some details to our Contact Us form. It does not commit you to attending.
If the weather influences your decision not to come that is OK, we may see you another time.
Next Ride Saturday 5th October
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- Local News Page
- West Lothian Council - enquiries re new road & path developments – no closing date The Council has a webpage for enquiries and comments about new roads, footpaths, and cycle routes; and also a page of current projects and completed consultations.
- SPOKES Bulletin Summer 2024
- SPOKES Summer Competition. Cycling & Sustenance. Yes, bikes and food are inextricably linked in so many ways! We want to hear how you connect bikes with food and/or drink, in whatever way. You could win a great prize and some modest fame, and your ideas or experiences could help other people!
