A group of 8 members of Biggar Ramblers took to the Moffat hills recently Starting from Talla

Linnfoots the group walked beside the Gameshope Burn once described as the burn of a hundred

waterfalls. After 2 miles the waterside walk changed into a hill ascent to the summit of Molls

Cleauch Dod. The original plan to walk onto Lochcraig Head overlooking Loch Skeen changed when the conditions worsened near the summit. The walk leader decided it would not be worthwhile continuing and all agreed to cut the walk short. The route was then to contour Molls Cleuch Dod northwards at 700 metres height and cross the saddle between Molls Cleuch Dod and Carlavin Hill descend=ng to Talla Water. Once Talla Water was reached a break was called for lunch. Refreshed but still wet the descent on the road led the group back to Talla Linnfoots. www.biggarramblers.org

Ten members of the Biggar Ramblers travelled up the Ayr valley to Kames on 29th October to complete a circular 6 mile walk up Cairn Table. Although we left the car park in the dry the rain soon began to fall, lightly at first. The ground conditions were already very wet and muddy following recent downfalls, but we continued up the steady incline taking a quick coffee at the point called ‘the Steel’. Continuing we ascended to the top against the brisk winds, taking brief shelter against the towering Cairn, a memorial to those who gave their lives in WW1 from the Muirkirk area. Heading down the south west slope of the hill was tricky due to the rocky and slippery path. Taking a quick stop for lunch in a sheltered hollow, the rain continued to fall, but we managed to negotiate the hazardous conditions safely down to the more sheltered tracks used by miners over the last two centuries. Passing the cairn to the road builder John ‘Tar’ McAdam, we returned to the start point, wet and windswept, but satisfied that we had completed a significant challenge. Notwithstanding the inclement weather we had enjoyed great views over the Ayr Valley and the former industrial archeological landscape of Muirkirk and the surrounding area.

 

 

Nineteen Ramblers from Biggar enjoyed a 5-smile walk at Stobo on Sunday October 16th.  The walk started at Stobo Village Hall and followed part of the John Buchan Way as far as a derelict cottage at the foot of Harrow Hope.  This provided an ideal spot for a coffee break and a photo opportunity. Some Roe Deer were seen nearby. The walk continued on a good track towards Stobo Castle, stopping only for lunch at an attractive little reservoir on Weston Burn.  The weather was perfect for walking with pleasant sunshine and only a few light clouds. www.biggarramblers.org

 Biggar Ramblers recently walked part of the Water of Leith. The walkers left the visitor centre in the Slateford area of Edinburgh and headed for Leith. Points of interest along the way included Saughton Rose Gardens where the party had a look round the lovely gardens and a coffee stop in the glasshouse. Murrayfield Rugby Ground was next and Roseburn Park where there was a very interesting mural to celebrate the Armoury's function built at the outset of WW2 for air raid protection. Then they walked on to Dean Village with the very impressive red brick building of Well Court and clock tower commissioned in the 1880's by J R Finlay, the then Proprietor of the Scotsman Newspaper. Next they passed Dean Bridge, St George's Well and St Bernard's Well, Stockbridge and the Colonies where the walkers stopped for a lunch break and then on to Canonmills and The Shore in Leith to complete this part of the Water of Leith. A varied and interesting walk of 7.5 miles on a pleasant autumn day. Well earned refreshments were had at the end of walk before the bus journey back to the cars in Lanark Road. www.biggarramblers.org

 A group of  7 Biggar Ramblers took part in their recent walk from Lamington cemetery to the Lower and Upper Cowgill reservoirs. After crossing the busy main road, they took the path up through the woods and fields into the quiet valley at the side of Lamington hill. Near a farm house the path turns sharply to the right, and there is a gradual incline up to Lower Cowgill reservoir, and further on to the Upper reservoir where they had a well deserved lunch break in the shelter of the woods.. A variety of fungi were spotted in the woodlands and the trees were showing their autumnal foliage. The return was mostly by the same route with a slight deviation towards the last mile back to Lamington. www.biggarramblers. org  

 Biggar Ramblers annual weekend away saw them visit the beautiful Yorkshire town of Whitby, also known as the “dinosaur coast” due to the many fossils found there. The town is beautifully situated and has several interesting museums. On Thursday 29th Sept. they started with a guided walking tour of Whitby beginning at the top of the 199 steps.The guide thoroughly entertained them with stories of history and folklore. The following day they headed to the delightful fishing village of Staithes situated in a deep coastal creek by the Roxby Beck for a circular walk following the Cleveland Way along the cliff edge as far as Port Mulgrave before returning to Staithes. Next day there was a choice of 3 walks in the Robin Hood’s Bay area, 11 miles, 6 miles and 2.6 miles. On Sunday 2nd October the Ramblers sadly said goodbye to Whitby and returned home. The abiding memory will be beautiful scenery, steep hills and many many steps! www.biggarramblers.org

 Biggar Ramblers met in the lovely, busy town of Pebbles in the Scottish Borders with the river Tweed flowing through its centre. The group of six walkers made their way past the hundred-year-old Oak Tree on the roundabout in the town to pick up the waymarked route of the John Buchan Way, named after John Buchan (1875-1940), a writer and diplomat who had associations with the area. One of his most famous books was the 39 Steps.The trail took the ramblers from Pebbles to Broughton and is in two distinct sections. The first section took them to Stobo, this being the halfway point at just over 7miles. The path headed out onto the hillside. The weather had turned warm and sunny and gave them cracking views back over the town of Peebles and beyond. Once reaching Cademuir Hill where once there were Iron Age Fortes the route gradually contoured gently around the hillside on a quiet and attractive path leading to a road in Manor Valley. Following the markers the group crossed the bridge into Stobo.and gradually built up height. Once through the evergreen wooded area they got their first views of the Broughton Heights. These hills are an impressive circuit of high undulating tops which proves to be so popular with walker’s and visitors alike. Also, this place has a profound sense of remoteness even though the village of Broughton is just a few miles over the brow of the hill. The ramblers had an enjoyable day out with pleasant weather for walking. www.biggarramblers.org

 

 On Thursday 1st Sepember,a large group of sixteen Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a short, but challenging climb up Bizzyberry Hill in Biggar. The walk took place at the unusual time of 5.30 in the evening and involved walking up the recently improved public footpath including a steep final ascent, completing a short loop around the summit area and descending by the same path. It was a lovely evening and they were treated to some spectacular views of the countryside around Biggar. A 'par helion' was spotted, where duplicate images of the sun were projected on adjacent clouds. After completing the walk, and having worked up an appetite, the group attended a “bring-a-dish” buffet supper in Biggar and enjoyed a lively social evening. www.biggarramblers.org

The Ramblers walk on 28th August was from Clyde Valley Park, heading along the Clyde Walkway and turning up through a field to Nemphlar. After walking through the village, the walkers followed the road back to Crossford to partake of coffees and lunches at the Clyde Valley Park cafeteria.  Spectacular views of the surrounding countryside were enjoyed and they passed an orchard with lots of Victoria plums and apples, ripe for picking. 16 Ramblers took part on this five mile walk  where the sun never stopped shining. www.biggarramblers.org 

Ten Biggar Ramblers had a strenuous but scenically rewarding outing on Saturday 20th August just south of Broughton village.  They ascended Pykestane hill from the hamlet of Drumelzeir.  The special features of the 11 mile walk were the very pleasant lead-in along Drumelzeir Burn, the 3 mile ascent along well defined tracks all the way to the summit of Pykestane Hill and lovely views of the river Tweed during the descent.  www.biggarramblers.org

 

 

On Wednesday 17 August a party of 11 Biggar Ramblers left from the Lower Green in

West Linton in lovely sunshine and headed up Medwyn Road. The first stop

was at the Golf Course at the site of the early bronze age flat Kists which were

exposed in 1993 by the waters of West Water Reservoir. The walkers then

continued up the road alongside the Golf Course with superb views of Mendick

Hill. West Water Reservoir was the next stop and then down to the Baddinsgill

Road. The next part of the walk took everyone through Lynedale and down the

Loan and back to the Lower Green. A leisurely walk on a sunny day which was enjoyed by all. www.biggarramblers.org

After meeting at Leadhills School Car Park at 10am a small group of Biggar Ramblers made their 

their way to the other end of the village where they took a rough grass path up to the

Game Keepers stony track along Hunts Law, this being the track they would

follow throughout the walk that day. They were grateful for this, because as the walkers

continued up the hill the group became immersed in a windy wet mist shutting out any

views of heather covered hills and valleys. The mist cleared now and again but only for a

brief time giving the walkers a glance into the surrounding areas before it was back to following

the track in the mist, it is at times like this that all ramblers are grateful for such good tracks. After lunch and in brighter weather conditions it was on to Priest Pool, passing Sill’s Hill, negotiating the

Ford with no real problems. They then traversed around the side of Snar Law passing a

derelict Shepherds cottage in the lower valley beneath Sowen Dod to follow the track up the

last ascent to the other end of Hunts Law, where they returned on their outward grassy path to the

village of Leadhills. www.biggarramblers.org 

Biggar Ramblers host Clydesdale to Solway Area Gathering

 

Last Saturday Biggar Ramblers hosted the Clydesdale to Solway Area Gathering. Forty five members of the Biggar, Clyde Valley, and Dumfries and District groups came together to share walking experiences on a choice of 3 walks showcasing the lovely countryside around Biggar. 

 

Using the Elphinstone Hotel as a base each group left by minibus for the start points.  Five walkers did the most challenging walk, climbing up Culter Fell into the cloud followed by a cross country ramble back to Biggar, a distance of 10 miles.  The second group of 14 set off to Stobo and walked 7 miles of the John Buchan Way to Broughton. This undulating walk through four valleys follows the old drove roads that are still used on the Rideouts from Biggar, Peebles and West Linton to meet at Stobo Hopehead. The third group of 16 walked 6 miles starting from Quothquan with a short climb up Quothquan Law, followed by a woodland and hillside walk across Biggar Common and back to Biggar. 

 

On return, the walkers enjoyed relaxing in various ways: with icecreams, cups of tea, or visiting the Glasgow Boys exhibition in the Museum. The day ended with a hot buffet at the Elphinstone and an interesting talk by Iain Brydon from the Search and Rescue Dogs Association Scotland. It is humbling to learn how much time and skill it takes a volunteer to train a dog through several stages. Once qualified to search for a missing person, a dog and handler are checked each year. Importantly if someone goes missing on the hills, it is the police, not the ambulance service, who will call out the Mountain Rescue. The audience was very appreciative and a donation of £225 has been made to SARDA.  The Ramblers dispersed around 7.30pm after sharing an enjoyable and interesting day of good exercise, good company, and good food.

 

 On Thursday 14^th July, a small group of four Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a seven mile circular walk in the lovely countyside around Peebles. We left from Kingsmeadows Car Park, and after walking through some suburban streets, set out along the open countryside of the John Buchan Way towards Broughton. As the path climbed upwards on Cademuir Hill we detoured to reach the summit, site of an old Iron Age hill fort, where we enjoyed spectacular views of the Tweed and Manor valleys, and beyond. After a coffee break, we retraced the path to rejoin the JBW and followed it down into the Valley, where we walked onto the Cademuir Forest plantation. We walked on pleasant forestry trails through the plantation, and back into Peebles, where we had tea and cake in a local café before driving back to Biggar.

 

 Biggar Ramblers had a splendid day for a recent 4.5 mile walk from Broughton Place up the ridge and along to Hammerhead, taking in Trahenna Hill as well.  The walkers made the steep climb to the ridge and half way along towards Hammerhead, they headed off over the fence to Trahenna Hill (549m). There they enjoyed views to Dawyck, to Drumelzier, to Glenholm and down the Tweed Valley towards Worm Hill. They returned to the ridge by a slightly different route through a convenient wooden gate on hooks and continued along the steep valley end to Hammerhead’s cairn (513m). On the way they passed another group of walkers who had come up from the opposite direction and were enjoying a sunny rest in the quarry near the summit. After enjoying the breeze at the top Biggar Ramblers set off to make the sharp descent and joined the John Buchan way back to the walkers’ car park.  Although this is a relatively short walk it gives stunning views of the area and is highly recommended.

 

Eight members of the Biggar Ramblers travelled out to the beautiful Bowhill
Estate near Selkirk to undertake the 'Duchess's Drive' walk following tracks
through woodland and over moorland to the north west of Bowhill House.
Climbing through the maturing woodland they began to get glimpses of the
Ettrick Valley and the restored Aikwood Tower through the trees. The group swept
around Fastheugh Hill and passed a line of traditional stone grouse butts.
Rising to the crown of the hill they enjoyed panoramic views of the Moffat
Hills, the Eildon Hills towards Melrose and across the Yarrow valley. Lunch
was taken on the peak of Newark Hill, sheltering from the blustery winds
behind its substantial cairn. A quick descent took the walkers along a track through
Black Andrew wood, much of which had been devastated by last autumn's
storms. Emerging onto a tarmac road they headed back to the start point but
not without passing the significant structure of the Newark Tower, built
originally as a hunting lodge nearly 600 years ago. The courtyard at Bowhill
House boasts an excellent tea room, where the ramblers took welcome
refreshment after their 7 mile hike.www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 

On Wednesday 15 th June eight members of Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a seven mile circular walk around the spectacular hill hollow of The Devil’s Beeftub north of Moffat.

 They started from a forestry track by the A701 and walked along a path, which is the start of the Annandale Way, over 3 hilltops offering great views south as far as the Lake District. On reaching a large cairn they turned down the valley of Tweed Hope through a native Scottish woodland planted around 12 years ago by the Borders Forest Trust. The group had a pleasant lunch stop by a sheltered stream and continued down into the valley. At the foot of the hills they enjoyed views of sheer sided hills that make up the Devil’s Beef Tub before following farm tracks back up the hillside and back to the starting point. It was a sunny afternoon and a fairly strenuous uphill walk to complete the circuit, a tiring end to a great walk. www.biggarramblers.org.uk 

 On 11^th June Biggar Ramblers explored a series of recently opened routes with interpretation boards by the Logan Burn and around Worm Hill. They followed tracks to an iron age fort and visited the ruins of a 16^th Century Bastle house or fortified farmhouse, built to keep livestock safe against Border Reivers. It is believed that the homestead was occupied until the 18^th Century when it was abandoned during the clearances. At this site another interpretation board drew their attention to signs of the Talla Reservoir Pipeline route which took water to Edinburgh at the beginning of the 20^th Century.  

 

Leaving the relative shelter of the homestead, the group braved the strong winds and headed off up the East Grain valley to Macfumart Head on the slopes of Worm Hill. The track follows part of the old drove road from Tweedsmuir to Biggar and took the walkers up to the saddle between Blakehope Head and Worm Hill. Indeed it was tempting to continue the exploration in the Biggar direction, but perhaps in more clement weather as the sun was banished by sporadic sharp showers that came on with strong gusts of wind. From this high saddle, they turned back along a track down the shoulder of the hill back to the start. At this point, re-reading the interpretation board was useful to confirm the various historical points.

 

The Tweedsmuir community has worked together with landowners and Biggar Archaeological Society to apply for funds from Scottish Borders Council and Windfarms to develop these routes. The verdict of the walkers was that this was very worthwhile and made an already outstanding area of great scenery even more interesting by providing clues of its historical past. And it’s not far from The Wee Crook. Take a look when you get the chance. www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 On Wednesday during Lanark lanimer week, Biggar Ramblers headed to Linlithgow for a 9 mile walk along the Union canal. Starting from Linlithgow train station they walked on the very flat tow path, passing families of swans and ducks on the water. The canal was built in 1822, closed in 1965 and reopened in 2001 as part of the Millenium Link. The group walked over the Avon Aqueduct with great views over the valley, then had a lovely coffee n cake stop at a canal side cafe. Fully refreshed they proceeded on the tow path and through the Falkirk tunnel, a Victorian cobbled orifice of 630 meters, which has been well maintained with lighting and handrails. The walkers returned to Linlithgow by train from Falkirk High Station. www.biggarramblers.org.uk.

 The recent hill walk of Biggar Ramblers was to visit all 4 Striding Arches at Cairnhead near Moniaive.  The Striding Arches, built by outdoor artist Andy Goldsworthy, each consist of 31 red sandstone blocks weighing 27 tons, standing at 4 meters high and spanning across seven meters.  They represent Scots emigrating to other parts of the world over the last 200 years.

 

The walk started in the middle of Dalwhat Glen and after a mile the Byre Arch was reached.  This is the only arch accessible by vehicle.  After a look around the Byre, noting the inscriptions and display about Cairnhead the group headed off to the forest track to ascend Benbrack and the 2^nd arch.  However this was not to be as Storm Arwen had decimated part of the forest and the route to Benbrack was blocked by fallen trees.  The alternative was to return to the main vehicle track and ascend through the forest and reach the planned route.  A visit to the Benbrack Arch was sacrificed.

 

Once on the route again the next arch was at the top of Colt Hill.  From here the views were primarily north towards the hills of East Ayrshire.  Turning south the group set off for the final arch but again the route was blocked by fallen trees and a detour had to be made into the forest and use the main track.  From here there was a steady ascent back onto Green Hill to re-join the route to the 4^th and final arch on Bail Hill.  This is the only viewpoint where the location of all arches can be seen.

 

From Bail Hill, there was only ½ mile to reach the start but it was a straight descent of 900 feet through a very boggy forest firebreak which had numerous frogs scampering for cover as the group descended.  The walk was just under 10 miles but 1 mile of this was to backtrack after meeting the Storm Arwen damage. www.biggarramblers.org

Biggar Ramblers did a circular 7 mile walk on Sunday 8^th May to climb Penvalla Hill. This is not a high summit – 547metres – but as with many hills in the Stobo area, there are 360^o views of Tinto, Culter Fell and more.  Starting from Stobo Village Hall, the 14 walkers followed the track past Home Farm to join the John Buchan Way as far as the ridge between Hammer Knowe and Hammer Rig where they struck off north up Mid Hill and then Penvalla, with short stretches of steep climb.

 

The weather was grand and the group enjoyed the views opening up along the valley. The skylarks were in full song and so was a cuckoo from a stand of Scots Pine to the right of the JB Way. The walkers enjoyed lunch on the top, just off the summit to avoid the wind. The circular route meant descending via Huskie Rig, with a steep ‘off piste’ stretch over moss, heather and grass back to the path on the western side of Harrow Hope. They then crossed the valley via deer paths to join the track along the eastern side of the valley, just below the stone sheep fold. Along that path, wet in places from hill run off, they saw large numbers of primroses and surprised a couple of sun-bathing lizards. After reaching the ruined shepherd’s cottage by the ford, they rejoined the stone track back to the car park. Altogether an enjoyable energising walk in our lovely countryside! www.biggarramblers.org.uk 

Nine members of the Biggar Ramblers undertook the 7 mile loop up to the ‘Three Brethren’ cairns from Yarrowford, near Selkirk. In sunshine and blustery conditions the trig point at 1500 ft was reached in a little over 2 hours. The breeze had cleared any haze and glorious views were enjoyed of the Eildon hills, down onto Clovenfords to the north and far along the Yarrow valley to the south west. The group managed to consume their lunch just before an unwelcome shower dampened proceedings. Fortunately it was short lived and the expansive views were restored as the walkers made their way along the old Drovers road which forms part of the Southern Upland Way. At the end of the walk the group retired to the Waterwheel cafe at Philiphaugh for a well earned cup of tea. www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 

 At the end of April six members of Biggar Ramblers set out to climb Scotland’s most southerly Munro, Ben Lomond.  From Rowardennan they started up the Ptarmigan path and shortly after clearing the wood the sound of a cuckoo could be clearly heard.  But it was further up the path the interest of the walkers was drawn to the Luss hulls across the loch.  Then there was the first sighting of The Cobbler above Arrochar.  And further on the Arrochar Alps, the hills of Beinn Narnain, Beinn Ime and Ben Vane came into view.  On reaching Ptarmigan the hills opened even more to reveal Ben Vorlich and the Tyndrum Hills and the first of the Crianlarich Hills.

 

At this point the group were ready to make the final ascent up to the summit but had lunch first.  The last 500 feet was their most challenging but once the summit was reached they felt the views after the ascent were well worth it.  The weather was dry and clear giving views into the Highlands to the north.  The walk leader was able to name several of the hills and was delighted to be able to point out Ben Nevis to the group.  After the customary group photographs the walkers descended the now named Ben Lomond Hill Route but previously known as the Tourist Route.  After the walk one of the group said, “it was a good to be alive day”. www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 Biggar Ramblers did a circular 7 mile walk on Sunday 8^thMay to climb Penvalla Hill. This is not a high summit – 547metres – but as with many hills in the Stobo area, there 360^o views of Tinto, Culter Fell and so on.  Starting from Stobo Village Hall, the 14 walkers followed the track past Home Farm to join the John Buchan Way as far as the ridge between Hammer Knowe and Hammer Rig where they struck off north up Mid Hill and then Penvalla, with short stretches of steep climb. 

 

The weather was grand and the group enjoyed the views opening up along the valley. The skylarks were in full song and so was a cuckoo from a stand of Scots Pine to the right of the JB Way. The walkers enjoyed lunch on the top, just off the summit to avoid the wind. The circular route meant descending via Huskie Rig, with a steep ‘off piste’ stretch over moss, heather and grass back to the path on the western side of Harrow Hope. They then crossed the valley via deer paths to join the track along the eastern side of the valley, just below the stone sheep fold. Along that path, wet in places from hill run off, they saw large numbers of primroses and surprised a couple of sun-bathing lizards. After reaching the ruined shepherd’s cottage by the ford, they rejoined the stone track back to the car park. Altogether an enjoyable energising walk in our lovely countryside!

Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a lovely walk from Cramond Village to South Queensferry recently passing many points of interest including Cramond Island and the dragons teeth, Eagle Rock, Dalmeny House with the statue of King Tom overlooking the shore, Barnbougle Castle, Hound Point Terminal, Hawes Pier. having walked beneath the magnificent Forth Rail Bridge, the group had a great view of the Forth Road bridge and the Queensferry Crossing, seeing all 3 bridges together was indeed something special. As well as Cramond Island with the Isle of May in the distance, the walkers could see the islands of Inchkeith, Inchmickery and Inchcolm with Inch Garvie beneath the Rail Bridge. This was an interesting walk of around 8 miles. On reaching South Queensferry a well earned refreshment and cake was had by all before heading for the bus back to Cramond Brig to complete the remainder of the walk to Cramond. www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 

 At the beginning of April a small group of Biggar Ramblers had an interesting experience when they took part in an evening walk in Lanark. The group visited St Kentegrens church and walked through the ancient arch, dating back to the days of William Wallace. After walking through the graveyard they proceeded down the Beeches, cutting left before New Lanark towards Bonnington power station. By this time the darkness had descended, and they donned their head torches for the climb up to Corra Linn viewpoint. The group then walked alongside the Clyde to New Lanark, with its beautifully illuminated buildings and then on towards Lanark high street where St Nicholas church was also beautifully illuminated. All agreed doing this walk in the dark made it a completely different experience. www.biggarramblers.org 

On 26^th March eight Biggar Ramblers tackled Broadlaw, a Corbett that is the highest summit in the Scottish Borders at 840 metres. The sunny weather promised a good day out and passing Talla Reservoir en route to the starting point at the Megget they were treated to a stunning reflection of the sheer side of Muckle Knowe in the calm water. From the Megget Stone, which is already at an altitude of 452 metres, the Ramblers enjoyed a gentle breeze as they climbed the steepish sections up to Cairn Law and the views opened out.

 

After passing between the two cairns, they continued following the fence as the route levelled out to some extent. After a fair stretch of walking on rough open moorland on the rounded top, the tip of a radio tower mast became visible over the horizon.  As the walkers came over the last rise, the trig point became visible, and, just beyond it, the radio tower, along with a white ‘UFO’ like structure. This ‘VOR beacon’ is the highest short-range radio navigation system for aircraft in the UK.

 

At this point the Ramblers were happy to find an old stone wall to provide improvised seating for lunch and a brief rest. They enjoyed the return route down as it offered the views that were behind on the way up: along the valley and over to Megget Reservoir and even a corner of St Mary’s Loch. A splendid 5 mile walk in spectacular countryside was enjoyed by all. www.biggarramblers.org.uk 

 Five members of Biggar Ramblers braved the elements to  climb Culter Fell on 30th March. A horizontal snow shower greeted them as they arrived at the start point, but cleared as they began the steep ascent up Fell Shin passed the line of shooting butts. As the climb levelled off they took time for a short coffee break in the biting wind. As the group headed towards the first cairn the wind gathered pace and brought with it a hailstorm which cut into their faces. Visibility reduced but the path remained clear ahead, though the snow had drifted in pockets making progress with the bracing side wind quite challenging. Reaching the trig point (748m) after a little over 2 hours it was no place to linger in the cold. Besides the panoramic views theyd hoped to enjoy were hidden in cloud, mist and the continuing hail blizzard.

The team followed the fence line downwards south over Moss Law. Very quickly the sun appeared and lit up the snow capped peaks spectacularly behind and ahead of them. Lunch was taken when they reached the land rover track in the continuing sunshine, which remained with them as they followed the track alongside Culter reservoir back to the start point along King’s Beck. Despite the sun the temperature kept at or below freezing throughout the walk, but they were all well equipped for the conditions. The ramblers much enjoyed this challenging seven and a half mile circuit despite the wintry conditions on the fell, which is the highest peak in Lanarkshire. www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 Three members of Biggar Ramblers set out from the Glenochar car park to walk the circular route of Lousie Wood Law and Dun Law south of Abington. The weather at the start was wet and this

continued for a good bit with the wind increasing during the ascent of Coupland Gair. The weather

eased but the party soon entered the low cloud and it wasn’t until nearly at the summit of Lousie

Wood Law that the weather cleared to give views. From Lousie Wood law the route was over Black hill and into the steep descent of Little Windgate Hass and at last some shelter from the wind. A suitable spot or lunch. Then the ascent out of Little Windgate Hass and into the increased wind gusting at an estimated 40mph to reach the 2 nd summit, Dun Law. Descending over Kneesend and reaching the base of Dobbin the group walked out to Glenochar Bastle and Fermtoun Trail. This was created 25 years ago and a good number of bridges, walkways and handrails were put in to assist visitors to see around the area. Unfortunately there has been no maintenance and care was taken at each location and such facilities were avoided to ensure a safe return to the start. www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 Biggar Ramblers walked a circular route on the familiar territory of the Carmichael Estate recently.They knew to expect mud, deer, and a short but stiff climb to great views from the Monument. But this time, before they did the stiff climb, this 4 mile walk took in the Mausoleum on Kirkhill at the site of the old church. As they made their way up to the stand of trees, they were greeted by a stunning array of snow drops and daffodils almost out. The Mausoleum among the trees and shrubs on top contains a number of graves with inscriptions showing the historical range of postings the Carmichael family held in the past. A perfect resting place with lovely views.

The route then heads off for the stiff climb up the east side of Carmichael Hill which gave the walkers a windy battering. After coffee in the lea of trees near the top, the gusty winds made heading out to the Monument a challenge, but an achievement! They took the relatively short descent down the south western side of the hill to the estate road and through the trees towards the ruins of Carmichael House. There are sawn logs lying around as the clear up from the storm winds continues and it’s always quite spooky following the path through the trees past the pets’ graves, up what would have been the ‘ha-ha’ on the original lawns. Passing the house completed the circle and the group made their way back to the visitor centre to enjoy a welcome lunch in the refurbished Bistro! see www.biggarramblers.org.ukfor more info.

Biggar Ramblers did something very different recently enjoying an evening walk for the first time as a group. Starting from Falkirk FC, they crossed into the Helix park walking through the landscaped park area and onto a boardwalk edged with reeds at the side of the wetland. They stopped at the colourful and reflective giant ring installation, then crossed the canal and onward into the woodlands. After a brief stop at the storytelling clearing, they walked on to the Love and Kisses sculpture where they learned a little of its history. The piece de resistance was the stunning Kelpies which were beautifully illuminated, again some historical background was given to the group before the walk ended back at Falkirk FC. A very interesting 6 mile walk. See www.biggarramblers.org.uk for more info.   . 

Keeping near to home, Biggar Ramblers did a 6 mile circular walk on 16^th January out to Biggar Common. Starting from Burnbraes car park they headed up to Hillridge Farm and then followed the right of way over to Huntfield. Half way up the hill there’s a stile to climb and then the route heads over towards the plantation. It was a lovely sunny day and the views were splendid, opening out over to Black Mount, Broughton Heights, Cardon Hilll and Culter Fell. As they walked through these fields the walkers were very mindful of the livestock, especially since ewes are pregnant at this time of year. Once in the plantation, the route passed through the trees to a pond, coming back out to the open hill further west. Lunch was taken sitting on the edge of an old quarry, with views over to Tinto.  The walkers then went down the hill to the woods just north west of Langlees Farm and followed the road to Lindsaylands, back to Burnbraes via the Gas Works. This was a very enjoyable walk in weather totally unexpected for mid-January! www.biggarramblers.org.uk 

 On Wednesday 12th January 2022 twelve members of Biggar Ramblers gathered for a winter walk to explore the history of the closes in Lanark, many not having stopped before to read the information boards and enjoy the artwork. From the High Street the group then walked to New Lanark via Braxfield Road and The Beeches. A coffee break was enjoyed at the picnic benches in the village before taking the Clyde Valley Walkway to Castlebank Park and returning to the Town Centre. Contact www.biggarramblers.org 

 On Thursday 20th January a group of 10 members of Biggar Ramblers completed an undulating circular walk among the rounded hills above the Loch of the Lowes near Moffat. On a clear winter’s day with bright sunshine they started with a scenic drive to the start point past the Talla and Megget reservoirs. They walked from the car park near Tibbie Shiels Inn from where the group followed a section of the Southern Uplands Way along an old drove road which wound up the hillside past Earl’s Hill and into a sheltered valley. After a coffee stop near a burn and ruined shepherd’s cottage, they climbed up higher and along a grassy ridge on Pikestone Rig. Turning off the ridge, they descended on a winding path with spectacular views of the loch and surrounding hills.  lunch was by a pebble beach at the foot of the loch, before completing the walk by following the loch-side path back to the starting point. A great walk on a glorious day.Contact www.biggarramblers.org.uk

Biggar Ramblers first walk of 2022 was a 4mile ramble through

Motherwell’s Dalzell Estate and Barons Haugh RSPB nature reserve.

The ramble started from the icy carpark and wound through the historic

Dalzell Estate which has a fascinating history starting as a royal hunting

lodge in 843, owned by the Dalzell family until 1647 when it came into

the hands of the Hamilton family. The Estate then passed down through

successive generations of the Hamilton family until 1952 when the family

moved to Surrey. Later North Lanarkshire Council bought the estate and

in 1985 sold the house for just 1p! The walk took in several historical

features such as the Ha Ha (1724), curling pond, Japanese Garden,

arboretum, Lord Gavin’s Temple, and St Patrick’s Chapel.

The paths were very muddy, but the sun made an entrance and stayed

to help give good views as the walk went through a mix of parkland and

woodland perched on the banks of the River Clyde.

Continuing into the RSPB Baron’s Haugh which contains a variety of

habitats most notably wetland (the haughland), woodland, parkland and

riverside. Here several species of birds were spotted including tree

creeper, red wings and a peregrine falcon. The walk took in two of the

four hides situated around the haugh which gave spectacular views of a

variety of birds – grey wagtail, gadwall, moorhen, mute swan, goldeneye, greylag geese and grey heron. Everyone agreed a great way to start 2022. Contact www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 It is traditional for Biggar Ramblers that the last walk before Christmas is the mince pie walk. This year, on a fine sunny morning, 18 Ramblers did a circular walk from Manor Bridge, heading off along the old railway line. In parts the track was muddy and the old railway ballast made it rough underfoot, but after crossing Lyne Water and walking through Lyne Station they reached the picnic table. Here they enjoyed mince pies, Ecclefechan cakes and coffee, along with a seasonal rendition of ‘The Night Before Christmas’ from one of their number!

Much refreshed, they crossed the Tweed where the full river made it clear why there is no longer a ford at that point, though it is possible to trace the remains of a track leading up to Barns.  Once past the Tower, there were significant signs of storm damage to be seen among the trees along the Tweed Walk Way, though some of the replacement beech planting is coming on well.  On the river, quite a large family of ducks provided entertainment as they swam against the current and down with it by turns. All in all, a very pleasant morning walk in the sun. See www.biggarramblers.org.uk for more information.

One of Biggar Ramblers winter walks recently was to visit the Great Polish Map of Scotland at

Eddleston. The group of 10 started near the Scots Pine café outside Eddleston and walked to the

Barony Castle Hotel where the map is. After crossing the ‘ravine’ the group viewed the map from

the platform and spent time learning about the history of the map, of Sergeant Jan Tomasik and his

friend General Stanisław Maczek. Leaving the map, the walkers went up through the woods to reach the old post road for a coffee break. Then it was northwards along the old route past Hare laws. Leaving the Old Post Road onto the farm road to Darnhall Mains the group were afforded a clear view of Dundreich, a hill climbed recently by the group. From the farm it was a short and easy route back to the start and the end of a short but interesting 4 mile walk. Contact www.biggarramblers.co.uk 

 Although the visibility was poor there were 8 of us on the walk on Wednesday. The views of the gorge and the castle were taken the week before on my recce with Phil when the view was clearer. Phil was on a plane to Australia when we walked this week. Five of us had lunch at the Tillietudlem Inn at the end of the walk. 

The rain was falling really heavily when seven ramblers met at Strathaven on 31 October. They were doing a four-mile circular walk leaving Strathaven and going by country lanes to Sandford. Fortunately, the rain had abated by the time they stopped for elevenses at Sandford. Being Hallow'een, one of the group members was suitably hatted and had brought a Hallow'een treat all There were lots of leaves afoot but still plenty left on the trees to give a spectacular show. The heavy rain showed the Spectacle E'e  falls at their finest. The river was swollen but it had not overflown and they were able to walk along the side of the Kype water until reaching the bridge just beyond where the Kype and Avon meet. From there it was a short walk up the field to climb a stile on to the pavement taking them back to Strathaven. Contact www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 

Despite heavy rain during the night and early morning 6 ramblers met at Dunsyre to walk to the Covenanter's grave. Before the walk started they heard about the drawing up of the National Covenant in 1638 which led to violent unrest for most of the 17th century, Dunsyre was a great covenanting area.

They started the walk near the cultivation terraces on the road to Easton Farm and followed the farm track crossing two very deep and fast flowing fords to the base of Black Law. Before climbing the hill they heard of a Covenanter fleeing from the Battle of Rullion Green near Penicuik in November of 1666. He was badly wounded but managed to make his way to the hills around Dunsyre. He was found by Adam Sanderson, a shepherd. Knowing he was dying the covenanter asked the shepherd to bury him in sight of the Ayrshire hills. Sanderson carried out the covenanter's wishes and erected a stone which is now in Blackmount Church. The present stone was erected in 1841.( More Village Trails by Rosemary Turpie)

Until now the weather had been very pleasant and they were rewarded with fantastic views but as they started climbing the hill the wind and rain set in. They had a brief visit to the stone

The spot is atmospheric in any weather but the moors and hills around them were very bleak in the wind and rain and made them appreciate the covenanters efforts and unfortunately they could not see the Ayrshire hills.

They headed back down the hill and found several grouse butts which gave welcome shelter while they had a brief lunch by which time the rain was passed. They returned to the cars by the same track and managed to finish the walk before the rain set in in earnest. A very enjoyable walk of about 8miles. Contact www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 Biggar Ramblers met on Saturday 23 rd October to walk 8 miles starting at the village of Wanlockhead..The weather throughout the day was misty over the tops of the hills with occasional rain showers and high winds. The group of eight walked on the Southern Upland Way past the mine workings in Meadowfoot before crossing the bridge over Wanlock Waters, then made their ascent up a steep rough, muddy grass path to the open flat moorlands above with its excellent views of the rolling country hills. The weather did not keep the occasional group of runners from making their way past the walkers along the rough and at times isolated path, which was once home to the Covenanters, with its forests and valleys and majestic hills of the SUW from St John’s Town of Dalry to Moffat. After stopping to cheer and clap the runners to encourage them on their way the ramblers continued along the path which eventually led them down to the ruins of Goghead farm before turning off from the main SUW path and onto the circular path which would take them back to the start of the walk. Here they had the chance to look for the Kists with their treasure hoard, a minted coin or token. The Kists are made to blend into the environment and can be found around a metre or so from the path, they are to be found in each of the thirteen sections of the SUW. Each of the walkers were delighted with a coin, and then went back onto the track to find somewhere sheltered out of the wind for lunch, after this it was back to the starting point on an undulating track. Contact www.biggarramblers.org.uk

 17 members of Biggar Ramblers walked seven miles of the John Buchan Way from Stobo to Broughton in October, a day that started as a delightfully bright Autumn morning. The special feature of this walk is that it passes through three valleys: Harrow Hope, Stobo Hope and Broughton Hope. At the top of the ridge between each one, there is a dramatic change of view into the next valley. There are gentle climbs and descents, unveiling wonderful countryside, without the challenge of scaling an individual peak. There’s a remarkable hexagonal sheepfold just below Hopehead Rig. The only drawback on this occasion was that the weather closed in as the morning wore on. The walkers were walking into stronger winds, especially between Hammerhead and Brooomyside. It must have been the windiest lunch spot this year, where the gusts whipped the coffee out of our cups! Nevertheless, they kept up a good pace and all returned well pleased with the walk. Contact www.biggarramblers.org.uk for more information.