Lanark to Biggar - unguided Community Ride

THIS IS A COMMUNITY RIDE - IT IS NOT GUIDED OR INSURED BY BRITISH CYCLING

This is a steady ride aimed at those who are comfortable on a bike, but want to cycle a bit further or want the security of riding in a group. We will cycle in a group at the speed of the slowest rider: no-one will be left behind. The average speed is expected to be 10 - 12 mph.

We leave the historic market town of Lanark on the cycle path passing the scenic Lanark Loch and racecourse before crossing the Clyde at Hyndford Bridge (built in 1773 by Alexander Stevens) and heading left to Pettinain. We are then on quiet, back roads and head over to Thankerton.

We then cross the Boat Bridge and climb over Cormiston Hill for the first time before arriving in Biggar. There is a good selection of cafes for us to refuel before we head home.

The return trip climbs back over Cormiston Hill before crossing the Boat Bridge again and heading back to Covington. We pass a memorial to Rev, Donald Cargill, a 17th century Scottish Presbyterian and Covenanter and a memorial to Robert Burns. Both men are believed to have stayed at Covington Mains Farm.

We then head back to Hyndford Bridge to cross the Clyde again before climbing back up to Lanark.

Please note that the vast majority of this route is on cycle paths and quiet roads, but the 0.5 mile stretch back to Hyndford Bridge is on a busier A-road.