We will use some of the paths around Oakbank that the council have resurfaced and upgraded over the winter. Less mud.
A casual social ride of 17 miles visiting places of local interest, Dedridge Pond, Bankton Park, Murieston Trail, Linhouse circuit, Oakbank, & Almondell and a bit of Local History on the home of oil. Using 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 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. Anyone from the south side of Livingston can meet us by path on the west side of Livingston Cricket Club. Probably shortly after 11, just let us know.
ROUTE : Take the Livingston path network to Dedridge Pond, a hairpin path to Bankton Mains Park, passing Livingston Cricket Club, along Murieston Trail, crossing to path at Linhouse Circuit to Oakbank bing and the site of OAKBANK OIL WORKS, next to
one of West Lothians many lost villages, OAKBANK,
Down to East Calder passing the former
Calder Hall Estate a Greek - revival mansion built around 1820, the lodge houses are still occupied.
Continue on through quiet streets in East Calder and Calderwood and along part of the Union Canal feeder into Almondell Country Park with time for ice cream 🍦.
Return via
Roman Camps and part of the
East Calder to Uphall Station Path, formerly a railway serving Pumpherston Oil Works. A farm road back to Craigshill and Almond Park, Livingston stopping stopping at Howden rock ramp, the UKs largest rock ramp, returning 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. - 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.
- Bring a friend, if you have one!
- 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 users are welcome.
- 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.
If we cancel the ride a notice will be posted at the top of the page the previous evening.
Next ride Saturday 3rd May
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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.
