Note the new starting point! We'll meet at the grass beside the Rowing Club to save having to use the Dock Park crossing

Taking in Holywood, Duncow and Dalswinton this route takes us on a tour of the villages north of Dumfries - and usually some lovely scenery (if the weather permits). There's plenty of good cycling to be done on these roads and Auldgirth, with both a cafe and a pub, makes a good stopping point in normal times. These aren't normal times so we'll be bringing our own lunch and having a socially-distanced picnic at the Old Bridge.

This route crosses the A76 in a couple of places, but there will be no need to ride on it at any point - we'll stick to quiet single track roads as much as possible. You can see the full route on Map My Ride, including elevations, although we'll probably reverse the route as we did last year. As with all our rides, we don't mind taking it slowly and having many stops along the way to admire the view. We positively enjoy taking our time on these excursions so don't worry about holding anyone up.

Our winter rides are largely social jaunts of 20-25 miles, all conducted at the speed of chat. They're suitable for anyone who wants to get out on the bike in company in the darker days of autumn and winter, without wanting to break any speed records. Like all our rides, this uses quiet roads and cycle paths, but it may be a bit more of a challenge for kids unless you're confident they can go the distance and manage the climbs.

Be COVID safe!

To comply with Scottish government guidance our rides will be a little different. Sadly, no refreshments can be provided and there will be no cafe stop. Please bring your own food if you want lunch and bear in mind that we'll be eating outdoors so dress warmly enough or bring an extra layer or two for when you're off the bike.

We will divide rides into smaller groups and each group will depart once the maximum group size is reached.

• Please provide up to date contact details to the ride leader - we will only keep these for Test & Protect purposes, for 21 days after the event.
• Only travel to the ride with members of your own household.
• Pack hand sanitiser, tissues, water bottle, snacks or any other kit you might need.
• We may not be able to assist you with bike maintenance so please bring what you need to get yourself home in the case of a mechanical.
• Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds before leaving the house and after you return.
• If you or anyone in your household has coronavirus symptoms, or if you have been asked to self-isolate, please do not attend.
• On the ride, avoid spitting, clearing your nose or touching your face and catch your coughs and sneezes.
• Maintain a 2m distance from others in the group unless you are in the same household.
• Once the ride is over, any socialising or cafe stops must be within Scottish government guidance and be with no more than one other household/six people.

To help us plan numbers please let us know if you cannot attend once you have booked.