The Day After the Snow

The first Sunday, so its Spokes Ride day and the ride is going to Livingston Village. A short ride out given the westerly breeze. We take the canal path out as far as Baberton, then on to back roads to Heriot Watt university. The Long Dalmahoy Road is devoid of cyclists, despite being on NCN Route 75. This is straight in to the wind.

With the worst part over, there is a climb to Kirknewton, and then descent to East Calder and Mid Calder. I think I have lost one rider, but I am mistaken. A recount shows we are all here. From Mid Calder, we follow cycle paths, with a small diversion because some paths are being widened. It is also match day, people are making their way to Almondvale Stadium. We arrive at Livingston Village

After lunch, as we have a visitor from Cork, I decide to take a picturesque route back to Edinburgh. We head south, then west to Brucefield. Unfortunately the road I was planning to take at Brucefield has gone. A 180 turn is required. The alternative is a ride south to Skivo, and then west along a minor road. This means more cycling in to the wind than I really wanted.

We regroup at Harburn and I give everyone a wee breather. Extra photo added below of the group looking very cheery.

The B7008 carrys on west for a wee bit more before it slowly turns SE and the riding is much easier. We reach the A70, The Land Whang. There is a requirement for another breather before we head in to Edinburgh.

The riding is much easier, and it won't take long to get back in to Edinburgh. At Harperrig / Auchinoon we stop to take in the scenery. As you can see from above, most of the snow has gone from the Pentlands.The view above is of East Kip, West Kip and Scald Law, this time from the west.

After admiring the view, its down to Balerno, and a well earned post ride refreshment.