Xmas Eve Cycle to Chatelherault
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If you're at a loose end on Xmas Eve or just want to escape the last minute rush, why not join us for a short festive cycle along the Clyde?
Our route will follow the Clyde Cycleway (NCN routes 75 and 74) along the river for a lunch stop at Chatelherault Country Park, home to the Duke of Hamilton's hunting lodge, built in the 18th century.
Our return route will take us through Larkhall and along minor country roads between Hamilton and East Kilbride.
Distance will be around 35 miles. As it starts to get dark before about 4pm, bring lights just in case!
What to bring
Extra food and dry clothing
Make sure you bring plenty of snack foods. We will try to stop where possible for food though. With the unpredictable Scottish weather, it is recommended you bring a jacket to keep you dry.
Apart from your bike, food and drink, remember the following:
Spare inner tube and tyre levers
Also any special tools that your bike needs.
Eye protection
Impact from a bee, grit or even a fly at speed is extremely unpleasant, sunglasses may do if not made of glass and not too shaded.
Clothing
Choose suitable clothes and footwear for the weather forecast and time of year. You will be exercising so lightweight layered clothing is best. Shorts are best even in rain, as they allow free movement of your legs. Jeans are useless if it rains but tracksuit bottoms need to be not too baggy or they may snag in the chain and cause an accident. You'll need trainers or similar with grippy soles for standard pedals.
Cyclist's helmet
Outdoorlads policy asks you to wear a helmet on events.
Cycling water bottle
If you don't have one, you will only be able to drink when we stop and may get dehydrated.
Food & drink
We plan to have a short lunch stop at the cafe in Chatelherault Country Park, and a further stop for some festive nibbles towards the end of the cycle. However it would be a good idea to carry some spare food and water to keep you going during the ride.