Ladyurd Horseshoe

 A group of 8 walkers from Biggar Ramblers braved extremely blustery weather to walk the 4 mile 'Ladyurd Horseshoe'. The walk started with a gradual ascent until it turned sharply just under Wether Law, where there was just enough shelter for a coffee break. Thanks to the strong wind, visibility was good and there were great views here right across to the Pentlands. The walk now continued down the other side of the valley, joining the outgoing path just before reaching the car park. Soup and paninis were then enjoyed at the Big Red Barn.

Cramond to South Queensferry

 A group of 9 walkers from Biggar Ramblers enjoyed an interesting and scenic 8 mile walk from the pretty village of Cramond, along the stunning southern shoreline of the Forth estuary towards the imposing Forth rail bridge at South Queensferry.  The weather was kind to us with great visibility, affording detailed views of the Fife shoreline all the way.

 

 

Innerleithen/Walkerburn via Priesthope and Pirn Law.

 On a rather dreich October Thursday morning, six members of Biggar Ramblers set off from Innerleithen following the path along the Tweed towards Walkerburn. With all the recent rain, the river was flowing fast, but that wasn't putting the fishermen off, seen up to their waists in the water, together with a heron hoping for a meal. After reaching Walkerburn, the group crossed the main road and climbed up beside the Walker Burn, first across fields, and then into the forest. By now it had started raining, so the trees provided a welcome dry spot for a coffee break. The route then carried on up towards Priesthope where, after a sharp left turn, it followed a main forest track heading back towards Innerleithen. On reaching an open turning area, a narrow path was taken leading down towards the Leithen Water. Along the way here, fine views of Innerleithen and the Tweed Valley opened up. The Leithen Water was reached by the ancient Cuddy Bridge, built in 1701 with funds from a vacant ministry in the area. It was then a short walk back to the car park where, despite being soaked through, it was agreed that it had been a good walk.

 

Mendick Hill, 22nd October

 

On a lovely sunny morning the Ramblers set out from the Golf Club to walk up Mendick Hill. The party walked along the track to the Old Roman Bridge and on to the Roman Road passing South Slipperfield. The views of the surrounding hills and countryside along this drove road were majestic. The walkers then turned right just passed Hardgatehead Cottage and with Mendick in front of them made their way to the top of the hill. There is a short but steepish climb to get to the top. The party were again rewarded with magnificent views as far as Berwick Law and the Bass Rock and of course Tinto. On either side of Mendick Hill is Ingraston Hill and Little Mendick Hill. The walkers then made their way carefully down the hill and enjoyed lunch in the sunshine before heading back along the Roman Road to the Golf Club where everyone enjoyed a well earned refreshment.

Cloich Forest Loop October 11th

 

A Biggar Ramblers walk early in October was the Cloich Forest Loop. Six walkers started from

Eddleston. The route took them through the Barony Castle woods and out onto the Old Post Road at Swiss Cabin Cottage. Then it was north to a coffee stop in the wood, sheltered from the winds gusting 30 mph. At Shiplaw the route took them west to enter the Cloich Forest although enter was not the correct word as the route clung to the outside of the forest most of the way. With the remote cottage of Courhope in sight the group entered the forest properly to follow a pleasant path to Stewarton. Again on the Old Post Road they turned north crossing open fields to reach the woods at the Fairydean Burn. Coming through the woods and then entering the Barony Castle grounds again the group spent time visiting the Polish Map of Scotland before returning to the start point in Eddleston. Please see www.biggarramblers.org.uk for more information.

Pentlands Walk

 On a very windy 28th September, 5 members of Biggar Ramblers set out on the classic Pentlands Walk from Flotterstone to Nine Mile Burn. Cars were parked at Nine Mile Burn and the bus was taken to Flotterstone for the start of the walk. There was first a steady climb up to Turnhouse Hill, followed by an easier section to the foot of Carnethy Hill, where luckily, a sheltered spot was found for a coffee break.There was then another climb up to Carnethy Hill, from where wonderful views opened up as far as North Berwick to the East and the Forth Bridges and Fife to the North. There was then a descent to The Grain Burn and the Old Kirk Road which used to be used by worshippers going to church. Lunch was now taken as this proved to be another area sheltered from the strong wind. The walk then continued with three more good climbs up Scald Law, East Kip and West Kip.The final part of the walk was over Cap Law, passing the ancient Font Stone, arriving back at the parked cars at Nine Mile Burn. With five peaks, this was a challenging walk, but despite the strong winds which even made standing on the summits difficult, was both rewarding and enjoyable.

Hardrig Head Circular

 Four members of Biggar Ramblers set off from Lamington to climb up the Easkgill Rig to reach Hardrig Head to stand alongside the many wind turbines that make up the Clyde Wind Farm. Strong and gusty winds with intermittent showers made scaling the 556 metre high hill top even more challenging but rewarding. Indistinct paths and moorland Heather made conditions underfoot quite tricky with a lot of standing water after recent heavy rains. Standing next to these giant fans on stilts is impressive, even more so as they whir and carve their huge fan blades through the air. Clear views of the Pentlands and the rolling hills of Dumfries and Galloway were augmented by the appearance of full and clear rainbows across the sky. The route down Bent Rig and passed the Baitlaws estate was more straightforward and sheltered. A downpour along the home stretch ensured we were suitably drenched for the journey home to Biggar. The group were pleased to get back to the startpoint, satisfied in the knowledge they had enjoyed a testing ramble covering over 7.5 miles in challenging weather conditions .

Peebles Circular

 Six members of Biggar Ramblers met recently in Peebles. After meeting at Ninians Haugh car park the group crossed the Tweed as they walked toward the old Parish Church where a bell practice had the church bells ringing to Amazing Grace and Loch Lomond. The walkers followed the well worn path keeping the river to their left, passing the ruins of Neidpath Castle before breaking for lunch near Lyne Station. After crossing the river again, they walked through Crow wood and Barns Garden wood, turning to walk by the riverside once more. They crossed the Manor bridge to retrace their steps briefly, before crossing the Tweed again to walk through the Victorian train tunnel, a very atmospheric 3/4 mile dark passage way. Finally the walkers again followed the riverbank back to the starting point. The 9 mile walk took just under 4 hours, including breaks.

 

Bizzyberry walk and seat sponsorship

On 7th September in lovely evening sunshine, a group of Biggar Ramblers climbed half way up Bizzyberry Hill to the view point where there is an information board and seat. The ramblers now sponsor this seat, and so to recognise this there was a brief celebration and a brass plaque was fitted, with the appropriate words inscribed 'Enjoy your walk'.

Afterwards the group returned to Biggar to a member's house where they enjoyed a lovely 'bring a dish' supper.

Dumfies House Estate

 A group of 10 from Biggar Ramblers visited Dumfries House Estate on August 30th.  This was to enjoy a gentle 4-mile walk around the grounds. The weather was perfect for such a visit.  Despite it being nearly September, the Rothesay Garden was full of colour and the displays of Hydrangeas were particularly impressive as was a crab apple tree heavily laden with fruit.  The group moved on to cross the Adam Bridge into the Arboretum which has developed hugely over recent years. The Walled Garden and greenhouses were a blaze of colour and interest and the Education Garden had many fruit trees and tempting vegetables.  The group went on further,  past Home Farm and up to The  Temple where the views were terrific.  The walk ended naturally at the Cafe where everyone enjoyed cups of tea and nibbles. A very fine day out. To learn more and for future walk details see www.biggarramblers.org

 

From Cardrona to Peebles via Kirkhope Law

 On Saturday 26 th August 5 Biggar ramblers were joined by 3 from Tweeddale, and with a
guest leader, set off on an 11 mile walk from Cardrona to Peebles via Kirkhope Law.
The walk started along the old railway line before turning off into the Cardrona Forest. After
a long ascent through the forest open moors were reached, offering spectacular views. The
walk progressed along the open moor, going round Birks Hill before picking up an old drove
road past the top of Kirkhope Law (537m) and down to Peebles through the Gypsie Glen.
Luckly the forecast showers failed to materialise, and with sunny intervals and excellent
visibility it was possible to see the top of the Tweed valley in one direction and beyond
Glensax in the other, all the way to the Pentlands – amazing scenery!
A long and invigorating walk, enjoyed by all.

Forth and Clyde canal and Antonine wall

 

A  group of Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a walk along the banks of the beautiful Forth & Clyde canal where we encountered two heron fishing,  before climbing up along Croy hill to view the earth works which are part of the Roman Antonine wall.  The ramble was a circular walk of 6.5 miles.  The route takes you through two Roman fort sites and gives great views of the Campsie hills to the north.

If you are interested in joining us on a ramble please check out our website biggarramblers.org.uk for details of how to get in touch with our team.

Drum Maw and the Cloich Hills from Newlands

 On Sunday 13th August 2023 a small group of five Biggar Ramblers braved the danger of thundery rain, and completed a lovely circular walk in the Cloich Hills near Romanno Bridge. We parked at Newlands Church and followed a farm track up into the hillside, where we walked a grass track along the side of Whiteside Hill with great views of the Lyne Valley. From there we followed the Flemington Burn, and then through Romanno Hope and a steep climb up to the summit of Drum Maw. The day turned out bright and breezy, and walking along the ridge to White Knowe we had fantastic views of West Linton and the Pentlands to the North, and The Broughton Heights and Southern Uplands to the South. The last part of the walk involved visiting the site of an Iron Age fort where we enjoyed lunch before walking round the hill and back to our start point. The walk

proved a revelation with good paths and beautiful views from start to finish.

Minch Moor via the Cheese Well

 Twelve members of the Biggar Ramblers met at the Traquair Village Hall car park to climb to the top of
Minch Moor via the Cheese Well. The climb is straightforward on good woodland tracks up a steady
gradient for over 2 miles. As the woods cleared the views over the Tweed valley opened up. A helpfully
located bench indicated that this would be a good place for a refreshment stop. A hillside crop of large
ovals cut into the heather and undergrowth added an item of interest. Before reaching the trigpoint on
top of Minch Moor the group passed the Cheese Well by a trickling Burn. It is a local tradition to leave
small pieces of cheese here for the fairies to ensure a safe journey. So not to offend the fairies the group
did leave a small amount of cheese in the burn. The summit afforded great 360 degree views over to
Hundleshope Heights range to the west and the Eildon Hills to the east. Taking different tracks
downwards through the purple heather, small sprigs of white heather were spied as well as many other
examples of interesting flora growing wild along the route. Returning to the valley floor via Camp Shiel
and the Fingland Burn to the main road it was just a short walk back to the start point. In near perfect
walking conditions the 6.5 mile circular route was a satisfying achievement for the ramblers, safe in the knowledge we had left the fairies happy too!

Melrose and the Eildon Hills

 On Saturday 5 th August a group of 9 Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a day in the Borders visiting lovely Melrose and climbing the spectacular Eildon Hills. We parked opposite the 12 th Century Abbey and quickly picked up the St Cuthbert’s Way footpath up a steep path towards the Eildons. At a col between the hills we branched onto a steep path up Mid Hill the highest of the three peaks, and struggled to the summit in a heavy rain shower. We then descended back to the col and took a much gentler path up North Hill where we could enjoy fantastic panoramic views over Melrose and the Tweed Valley, before descending down a good path. 

The latter part of the walk was easier, but very interesting, visiting the “Rhymer’s Stone”, the Victorian Leaderfoot Viaduct, and the site of the Roman fort at Trimontium, which housed a Roman garrison of 1000 in the first century AD. We walked back into Melrose on the ancient Prior’s Walk path, and finished our day with  well-earned tea and

scones in an outdoor café in Melrose High Street.

White Meldon

 

On 27^th July, Biggar Ramblers tackled another hill with magnificent views, this time in the Meldons. Many folk will know this single track road from the A72 over the hills to Eddleston as the diversion when there is an accident on the A703, or as a lovely area for camping, equipped with picnic tables, interpretation boards about the history of the area, and a toilet block (unfortunately closed for some years, due to vandalism).  Starting from one of the picnic areas, the group set off across a small footbridge and over a fence to begin the climb, soon picking up a quod bike track. The ascent is steep, giving ample opportunity to stop to admire the views. The weather was damp but warm, so the gentle breeze at the top at the trig point (427m) was welcome. The 360^o views were good, although somewhat limited by the low cloud. After coffee the group set off on the descent down the northerly shoulder, before bearing slightly north west to cross the site of hut circles. At this point the going is tough, through thick heather. After crossing a lateral quod bike track, the way became slightly easier towards the road. After crossing into the wooded area of Hopehead, the group followed the track behind the trees parallel to the road until reaching an interesting bronze age burial mound, where the interpretation board shows how the circular mound would have looked. The circle is quite extensive and it is possible to see one or two excavated depressions where the bodies were laid, curled up in foetal position. Emerging from the trees, the group had lunch beside a stream, enjoying a fine array of wild flowers, before heading back to the cars. This was a short but interesting walk, suggesting a longer mileage in this area next time we visit.

Carmichael Estate

 

After a drizzly start a group of six from Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a fine day walking the 7½ mile circular route around the Carmichael Estate. We began and finished at the Heritage and Visitor Centre having stopped for coffee and lunch breaks en route. 

The Clan Carmichael is one of Scotland's oldest clans and the Estate has been their patch since the 14th Century having played a prominent role in Scottish, British and European  history.                                                                                                                                             

Cauldstane Slap

 12 Ramblers set out on Wednesday, 19 July to walk to the Cauldstane Slap. The party started off from Baddinsgill passing Baddinsgill Reservoir on their right and headed along the Cross Border Drove Road which was used to move cattle from the Falkirk area into the Borders and England. A wooden bridge was crossed over a small river - Water of Leith whose source is at Colzium Springs. Onwards to the Cauldstane Slap with West Cairn and East Cairn hills on either side. The walkers then went a little further to enjoy views of Harperrig Reservoir and beyond. The walk was just over 6 miles. The weather was very kind with lovely views of the surrounding hills all the way.

Schiehallion and Birks of Aberfeldy

 On Wednesday 12th July, a group of eight Biggar Ramblers tested ourselves by climbing the majestic
Schiehallion, (Fairy Hill of the Caledonians), a “Munro” almost 1100 metres high. We started the
walk from the Braes of Fosse car park about 10 miles north of Aberfeldy. There is a good path which
started off on a gentle incline before becoming steeper as we moved up the hillside. The extra effort
was rewarded with fantastic views over Loch Rannoch, Loch Tummel and up to the Cairngorms. We
then had to walk along a ridge covered in boulders before reaching the rocky summit. After a well-
earned lunch break we descended by the same path before returning to Aberfeldy for a pleasant
social evening and overnight stay. On the Thursday we also enjoyed a lovely walk, “The Birks of
Aberfeldy”, a waterside walk through birch woodlands with many beautiful bridges and waterfalls before driving home, proud and satisfied.

Glen Sherup Walk

 On Sunday 2nd July, a group of Biggar Ramblers set out for Glen Sherup in the Ochil Hills for a 9 mile walk around Loch Sherup and the Sherup Glen.
The walk started (and finished) at the Forestry Commission car park on the Muckhart to Gleneagles road. After a climb above Glensherup Reservoir along a forest track, the walk took a steeper climb through a forest ride, emerging into the open where, despite occasional heavy showers, magnificent views opened up to the south and east, from the Lomond Hills down to the Forth and Grangemouth. There was then a steady climb to Innerdownie, the first of three Donalds on this walk. The walk then continued over Whitewisp Hill and Tarmangie Hill, the other two Donalds. At this point a whole new vista to the northwest opened up with views right across to the Highland edge. The route now crossed the top of the valley and returned down the other side of the glen, passing by Scad Hill, and finally just before Ben Shee turned down to the bottom of the valley, along the side of the reservoir before crossing the dam and arriving back at the car park.
Most of the area covered by this walk is managed by the Woodland Trust, and it was good to see a new native woodland being established in the area around Ben Shee.

Musselburgh Walk

 On Wednesday 28th a group of seven Biggar Ramblers completed an interesting walk of seven miles around the seaside town of Musselburgh. Having parked by the River Esk, near the centre of the town, we started by following the river upstream past old mill buildings and out into the countryside. Leaving the river path we walked up into the conservation village of Inveresk, where we visited the National Trust Garden at Inveresk Lodge and the old cemetery at St Michael’s Church with great views along the Firth of Forth to Edinburgh. We left Inveresk, rejoined the river path and walked back to Musselburgh town, where we lunched in parkland alongside the widening river and historic bridges over it. After lunch we followed the river to the estuary and walked along a seawall on land reclaimed from the sea, then inland through a well landscaped country park before returning to the town by Musselburgh Race Course, the oldest in Scotland. An interesting walk around an attractive historic town.

Turkey Hill Walk

 Biggar Ramblers headed up Turkey Hill and back down via Girdle Burn valley on 24th June. Starting from Snaip Bridge they followed the track that climbs steadily to Coulter mast. There’s been a lot of logging in this area over the last winter which means a ‘new’ valley is in now sight where some rather puny indigenous trees might have a chance to grow more strongly. The stretch of trees past the mast is also reduced, opening out to the fields where the track heads off more steeply up to the ridge. From this point there are good views over to Tinto, the Clyde, and the north-west. After a coffee break, the walkers continued along the ridge to the Turkey Hill Cairn (489m), through rough terrain for the final part of the ascent. From this height there are even better 360-degree views: extensive and definitely worth the effort!
The group returned down the track into the valley, finding the way severely eroded in one place and very overgrown in others! After a relaxing lunch, they continued their descent along the valley side to join the Birthwood road, where there’s a short walk back to the cars. The walking conditions were ideal, with a breeze, some cloud, some sun and a wee bit rain, affording a pleasant atmosphere for this midsummer walk! www.biggarramblers.org

Walk along St Abb’s Head Cliffs

 A group of nine from Biggar ramblers enjoyed the mid-June sunshine on a spectacularly scenic walk along the cliffs at St Abb’s .
We started and finished our ramble at Coldingham Bay, a secluded beach with excellent amenities.
St Abb's Head is one of Britain's more accessible seabird colonies (since it is based on the mainland) and is home to internationally important numbers of guillemots and nationally important numbers of kittiwakes and razorbills.
After a hot day marvelling at the nesting seabirds we all had a picnic lunch on the beach and took either a paddle or a swim in the bracing but beautiful sea.
If you want to know more about our walks you can find the current program and contact details on our website; www.biggarramblers.org.uk.

Raggengill Hill via Crawford Castle

 “Seven members of Biggar Ramblers undertook an 8 mile walk of two halves on Wednesday 7th June, starting from the village of Abington. In glorious sunshine, they crossed bridges over both the river Clyde and the west coast railway line and started the gentle ascent alongside the Raggengill Burn, rounding the back of Raggengill Hill before facing a panoramic hilltop view of wind farms to the east on the tops of Hawkwood Hill, Rome Hill and Mossy Dod. At this point the opportunity was taken for a well-earned coffee stop on a grassy bank looking up the Camps Water valley.
Traversing several fields with lots of sheep and their lambs, we managed to rescue a couple of lambs trapped behind fencing and reunite them with their respective mothers. Crossing Camps Water at Normangill the group headed west alongside the Camps reservoir road. High on the banks above the water the ramblers took their lunch whilst watching the antics of the Oyster Catchers and Wagtails on the plain.
Once in Crawford we walked past the ruins of the old castle and took in some of its history. Following the main railway line for the final couple of miles, we recrossed both the railway and Clyde River and returned to our start point four and a half hours after this delightful walk in the sunshine had begun.”

Broughtonknowe Wood Walk

 A group of nine Biggar Ramblers met for a short three mile walk round Broughtonknowe Wood. As it was a lovely sunny dry and warm day, they could take their time learning about the history of the wood and the wildlife in it. The wood was a sheep farm which was bought 30 years ago and planted with coniferous and deciduous trees. The conifers have been felled with care to form open spaces which allow light in so that an understorey can develop. Over the 30 years roe deer, badgers, grey squirrels and foxes have come to occupy the woodland. More recently red squirrels have been seen. There is an abundance of bird life which could be heard on the walk. In the spring every year there is an invasion of frogs and toads and the resulting swarms of tadpoles could be seen in one of the three ponds. The walk finished by visiting an old quarry at the far end of the wood. It is occupied in summer by Peter and his yurt where he runs courses making chairs out of the ash trees from the woodland using traditional methods. www.biggarramblers.org

Daer Valley Walk

 

Thirteen members of Biggar Ramblers gathered in the car park at the Water meetings of the Daer and Potrail Waters at the head of the road to Daer Reservoir. This undulating low level 7.5 mile walk initially started along a now young forest track adjacent to Potrail Water and around Coom Rig, emerging onto the open moorland. After stopping for coffee at this point the route now followed the Southern Upland Way. At the head of the Daer valley a marker post and bench identified exactly the halfway point of this 214 mile coast to coast route and was the ideal spot to take in the views and enjoy a sandwich lunch. The weather had been warm and sunny thus far so an extended break was very welcome. This delightful walk continued along meandering farm and woodland tracks until it crossed the Daer Water with the Reservoir dam wall well in view. Now heading north away from the dam the group took the small tarmac road back to their cars. This was not a difficult walk but the unforecast heat from the constant sun for the duration of the trek ensured there were some very tired walkers at the end. But nobody was complaining. www.biggarramblers.org

A small group of six from Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a walk along the banks of the river Tweed between Peebles town centre and the Manor bridge.  There and back its a distance of 3.5 miles.  The group encountered a heron as well as some tree creepers and even heard the delightful warbling song of a Black Cap.  Spring is certainly in full flow with bird song and countless young and established trees bursting into leaf. If you are interested in joining us on a ramble please check out our website biggarramblers.org.uk for details of how to get in touch with our team.

Biggar Ramblers’ walk on 27^th April was from Broughton Place Walkers’ car park, a favourite starting point to explore this part of Tweeddale. This time the route took in Trahenna (549m), Grey Yade (537m) and Hog Knowe (427m). The group started with the steep climb up to the ridge and then followed the fence line until stopping for a coffee break at the point where the route branches off to Trahenna. Then, since Trahenna has a minimal cairn (being less visited than Hammerhead), each member of the group carried a stone out to Trahenna and added it to the pile.  They then took in the views along the three valleys of the Tweed, Holms Water, and Biggar Water. From Trahenna the group made use of a wooden fence crossing point to walk over to Grey Yade, followed by a steep descent to Hog Knowe for a lunch stop. This point gives views East towards the Stobo reservoir and Dead Wife’s grave. After lunch the group were pleased to head North towards Stobo Hopehead with the South Easterly wind at their backs. They gradually descended through rough going into the valley to join the John Buchan Way and followed the track to the North East of Hammerhead, over the shoulder and down into Broughton Hope. After nearly 7 miles of walking they were back at the cars, having enjoyed this lovely area of valleys, ridges and wonderful views. www.biggarramblers.org

 

19 ramblers set out on Thursday morning, 13 April from Medwyn Road in West Linton firstly walking through the picturesque hamlet of Lynedale. Just past Lynedale the walkers attention was drawn to where volunteers have planted quite a number of trees in the fields at the top end of the Loan known now as Roamers Wood. The party then headed through Stoneypath Farm and walked round the hill stopping for a coffee break and admiring the hills in the distance and majestic Mendick in the foreground. Near to Baddinsgill the walkers then came off the hill and headed to the river where a new bridge had been made over the river Lyne, the previous bridge being washed away with heavy rain a few months ago. Lunch was taken looking over to the track the party had just walked and then it was a road walk thereafter down Baddinsgill Road back to Medwyn Road and refreshments at the Golf Club. An enjoyable walk, the weather being very kind too. www.biggarramblers.org

Biggar ramblers ventured into new territory in Dumfries and Galloway on 5th April. From the picture perfect village of Tynron three hardy members set off in rain and immediately headed up the track past the beautiful now deconsecrated church. Very soon they were onto the open hill. Although the rain dissipated the cloud persisted and any low level views disappeared as height was gained on the steep slopes up to the summit of Auchengibbert Hill. A welcome coffee break was taken down from the peak in a sheltered gully before the trio headed east, sadly devoid of any view of the impressive Iron Age fort ahead of them (shown in the photo above). The thick cloud necessitated a combination of map and compass work and reference to I phone technology ensuring the defined path to the top plateau of the fort could be found. Lunch was enjoyed above the northern sheer slopes of the fort, sheltered from the southerly breeze. As if to order the cloud partially cleared to reveal the splendour of the Nith valley. The downhill return to the village hall car park along the contours of the lowland hills allowed the group to glance behind them and see the stepped layers of the fortress hill in all their glory. Even without the expansive views of a clearer day this challenging 4 mile climb in the finest of the Dumfriesshire dales gave the three ramblers a flavour of the footsteps of their Iron Age ancestors. www.biggarramblers.org

On Saturday 1st of April a group of 9 Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a relaxing walk around Camps Reservoir at Crawford.  This was a fairly easy 6 mile circuit with a wonderful backdrop of hills and water.  Although it was not a warm day, there was little or no wind which made the going very pleasant.  The group included one prospective new member and another who has only recently joined Biggar Ramblers.  There was plenty of activity amongst the bird population - Curlew, Oystercatcher and Lapwing were all in full cry while Pied and Grey Wagtails and numerous Ringed Plover were all spotted around the water’s edge and some Teal were swimming nearby.  This was an excellent day out in good company. Interestingly, a Water Board representative explained that there is now a major invasion of Crayfish in the reservoir and very few fish.  Also that the water level is a little lower than normal because of maintenance work. www.biggarramblers.org

On Thursday 23rd March a group of seven Biggar Ramblers enjoyed the 6.5 mile “Three Valleys Walk”. This circular walk covering the Mouse, Lee and Clyde valleys showcased some of the beautiful countryside around Lanark. From Wellgatehead Car Park they walked through the town centre and along Waterloo Road then down the old “Stey Brae” and across Mouse Water. they had a steep climb up the other side of the Mouse Valley before walking through Cartland village, After crossing the A73 the group then followed a steep woodland right-of-way down into the  peaceful and secluded Lee Valley. Another climb followed up into Nemphlar village and then a meandering descent on a right-of-way and quiet road down to the edge of Kirkfieldbank. Here the walkers stopped for lunch on the old Clydeholm Bridge before following the Clyde Walkway along the fast-flowing river before a final steep climb up through Castlebank Park and into Lanark. A lovely spring walk on a bright day. www.biggarramblers.org

Biggar Ramblers walk on Wednesday 15th Martch was an old favourite, along the Falls of Clyde at New Lanark. The group of eight walkers took a high path down to Corra Linn where the water falls were viewed. They then proceeded to the viewpoint beyond Bonnington Linn for a coffee stop whilst admiring the falls there, more spectacular after the recent rain. Afterwards the route back to New Lanark was along the board walkway close to the river. Lunch was eaten by the waterwheel at New Lanark. The weather had been fair. The company agreed that they are very fortunate to have such a beautiful World Heritage Site on their doorstep..www.biggarramblers.org

On Saturday 11 th March, a group of twelve Biggar ramblers enjoyed a 6 mile walk in the foothills

between Biggar and Coulter Fell. Starting outside Coulter village on the Birthwood Road they

followed a road alongside Coulter Water and up through Nisbet Farm. From there the group followed a farm track past Cow Castle, Whitehill and Mitchell Hill. After turning left at Mitchell Hill Farm they climbed up to the remains of an old Iron Age fort and then on along a ridge taking the tops of Mitchell Hill and Green Hill. It was a cold, but clear day and the walkers were able to find a sheltered slope to have lunch and take in the splendid views of the Pentlands and Southern Uplands. After a fairly steep descent they rejoined the main path and retraced their steps back to the starting point. www.bigarramblers.org

On the 2nd March sixteen members of Biggar Ramblers met just east of Carronbridge in Dumfries and Galloway for a new 5.5 mile walk on the Buccleuch estate, the centre piece of which was the ruined shell of Morton Castle. The sun was shining as we meandered up through the wood with views across the Nith valley looking south over Thornhill. As they emerged from the woods they caught first sight of Morton Castle, one 

of the few ‘Hall Houses’ built not simply for defence but as a dwelling or as a Hunting Lodge. The castle sits overlooking the man made Morton Loch on three sides. Although the castle is fenced off for safety reasons it remains an imposing structure. Coffee was taken with a view across the Loch before continuing the ramble on the path around the water giving views of the castle from all angles. Heading away from the castle and the Loch and passing the impressive Morton Mains farm buildings they took lunch on the edge of a stream facing north towards the golf ball transmitter on the Lowther hill peak. The sight of a Red Kite giving us all a magnificent flying display was certainly one highlight of the day. The final leg of the walk tookthem back into the woods following the tracks downhill and back to the redundant quarry where we had parked our cars. www.biggarramblers.org

Having not done this 8 mile route around Mendick Hill for a while, Biggar Ramblers decided to start from the southerly end. The group picked up a track along the route of the old railway line towards Garvald. Once through Garvald Farm the track is signposted to West Linton and following a right of way heads slightly up hill past Medwynbank and Ferniehaugh and onto the moor. The track passes several large Cairns to the left and a deep valley to the right called The Garral, where Covenanters gathered in the 18^th Century for worship. Reaching North Slipperfield Farm athey joined the track from West Water Reservoir towards the Golf Club and the knoll where there is a Bronze Age Cist Cemetery. On the return to Garvald, the route uses the old Coach Road from Edinburgh to Biggar, a right of way that largely follows the course of a Roman Road. After crossing the bridge over the West Water the group took a lunch break at the point where the track opens out to views across the valley to the Tweeddale Hills and Broughton Heights. The name Mendick may derive from ‘menyie’ a group of followers or troops and ‘dicht’ a blow or defeat. So it was perhaps the site of a defeat – but not on this occasion for the Ramblers. www.biggarramblers.org

Despite a rainy start a group of 14 Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a pleasant walk into the pentlands, from Carlops. There were good footpaths and farm tracks from the town up to the reservoir where the group enjoyed a coffee break on the bank beside the water. Then it was uphill with some lovely views over the North Esk Reservoir. The track then descended between Paties Hill and Spittal hill. The clouds cleared for lunch and the return leg back into Carlops. This ramble was approximately 5 miles and took around 3.5 hours. If you are interested in coming along to one of our walks please visit our website at https://biggarramblers.org.uk/

On Saturday 28 th January five members of Biggar Ramblers met in Innerleithen at the foot of Lee Pen, a 1200ft climb direct from the town. Although the walk started on a tarmac track, giving

access to the radio mast, this soon changed to a rugged well trodden path onto the heart of the hill. Although short in distance, the difficulty of the hill is deceptive as the ascent steepens consistently. Many opportunities were taken by the group to enjoy the landscape views over the Tweed valley overlooking Innerleithen and Traquair. A coffee stop ensured that sugar levels were restored for the final steep and craggy trek to the top. As the peak was within our grasp a view northwards was revealed over a dry stone wall looking over to Peebles with Tinto hill in the far distance. To the south the Eildon hills could clearly be seen with the Cheviots behind them. The weather had been kind with negligible wind and no rain. The real challenge of this climb was negotiating the stony and heather strewn descent to the lower slopes, which was conducted safely. The achievement of conquering this modest but challenging peak was celebrated with a fine lunch in a local café. The small group of ramblers enjoyed a great day out in the hills with the satisfaction of successfully conquering the peak known as Lee Pen. www.biggarramblers.org.uk

18 members of Biggar Ramblers met at the Big Red Barn on the A702/A721 junction on Thursday 9 th February for a short walk which started at the South Lanarkshire and Borders council boundary on the A721. The walk headed out on a good forestry track which gave lovely views over Dolphinton and the Pentlands beyond. At the end of the track there was a short downward section which led to the return leg of the walk. This was mainly along grassy paths, but parts were very rutted which tested everyone’s walking skills. Despite a forecast of showers, the walk was completed in dry weather and there were even some short sunny intervals. After the walk, the group returned to the Big Red Barn where a well deserved lunch was enjoyed by all. www.biggarramblers.org

Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a sunny wintry walk of just over 4 miles from the Logan Burn layby near Tweedsmuir. Last time they walked here it was to explore the historical routes on offer. This time, the walk route was round Worm Hill, with splendid views all the way. The route heads off up the East Grain valley to Macfumart Head on the slopes of Worm Hill. The track follows part of the old route from Tweedsmuir to Biggar with a steady climb to the saddle between Blakehope Head and Worm Hill, where the group enjoyed coffee looking south down the Tweed valley. Over the saddle, the group descended steeply to the trees above Mosfennan before joining a more level route round the base of Worm Hill. Here a fine spot was found for lunch looking east across the valley to Stanhope and Broadlaw. From there it was a short walk back to the start point, by which time the sun had faded and we had had the best of the day.

 www.biggarramblers.org

 

Biggar Ramblers first walk of 2023 was a five mile circular walk from Coulter on Sunday 15 th January. Thankfully there was a respite from the wind and rain, and it was a crisp sunny day. Six hardy walkers walked along the Chinese Burn and then up to the T.V. mast . The snow clad hills and in particular Tinto looked fantastic . The descent was by Unthank Farm and then past Nether Hangingshaw Farm where the walk was at a lower level. The last stretch of the walk into Coulter was impassible due to heavy flooding and knee high water. One of the walkers knew an alternative route and guided everyone back to Coulter. Throughout the walk there was visible evidence of the December floods. www.biggarramblers.org

During the very cold snap in December members of Biggar Ramblers had a walk through a real life winter wonderland. Starting from the watersports centre at Strathclyde park Motherwell, they crossed the footbridge and followed the path alongside and under the M74. they followed the Avon upstream to the old cobbled bridge and the up to Chatelerault where they enjoyed hot soup and coffee in the hunting lodge cafe. The return saw them zigzagging through the woods back to the old bridge. The combination of frost, snow and ice made for some stunning photographic vistas. www.biggarramblers.org  

 Traditionally the last walk of the year for the Biggar Ramblers is know as “The Mince Pie Walk”. On this occasion the walk was at Penicuik House. It was a beautiful day and they started the walk at Alderbank which is beside the South Kirk in Penicuik. They followed the track uphill and then along the ridge which gave them fantastic views of the Pentlands which were covered in snow and looking lovely in shades of pink. As they followed this track they saw the Penicuik Estate spread out below, the track then went downhill through some woods where the trees still had golden and rust coloured leaves and a rushing stream to the left.

At the bottom just before crossing the bridge they met some very friendly Highland cows who seemed to enjoy having their photo taken. Then it was uphill again passing the curling pond where only a few days earlier the walk leader had seen members of the Penicuik Curling Club preparing the ice for curling.

The Ramblers managed to find some seats in the sun overlooking the fields to enjoy some homemade mince pies.

They returned to the track through the Chinese Gate and down a slippery path which then returned to Penicuik.

Despite the path being a bit slippery in places they enjoyed the walk and wished each other a very Happy Christmas. www.biggarramblers.org

 On 1 st December 11 members of Biggar Ramblers headed up the A70 to walk the landscape of rich industrial archaeological history of the Muirkirk and Kames area. Starting along the River Ayr Way, initially on the old railway beds, the group then walked beside the remaining evidence of the canal. This preceded the railway carrying ore and coal from the local mines to the ironworks, built in 1787. On reaching the road to Auldhouseburn the ramblers had a big surprise, the sight of a parrot called ‘Blaze McCaw’ (search for him on facebook)

being taken for a walk by its owner. This beautifully coloured bird brightened up an otherwise grey day. The group proceeded passed the hillside farm poultry sheds before turning

along a track adjacent to the sprawl of old pit shafts and mounds of spoil. The second half of the walk passed the last remaining 3 miners’ cottages and the sad sight of the empty and decaying Kames Institute building. Walking up Furnace Road the ramblers were treading on the track which John ‘Tar’ MacAdam used for his road construction experiments. A large cairn commemorates his work on the site of the Tar Kilns established there in the early 19 th century. Down the hill the walkers took their lunch by Tibbie’s Brig, where Tibbie Pagan, a local poetess, had lived during that time. In 4 short miles much had been learned about the many different local mining industries which made Muirkirk such a prosperous, thriving community during the Victorian era. www.biggarramblers.org

A large band of 18 Biggar Ramblers recently enjoyed a circular walk to Kitleyknowe and then a quiet footpath across to Rutherford castle, crossing the A702 and back to Carlops.  The weather was kind to the group and everyone enjoyed the great views and good company. www.biggarramblers.org 

 

In November a group of nine Biggar Ramblers enjoyed a varied 6 mile Autumn walk

around the picturesque town of Moffat. They started from the Ram statue in the high street, and

walked north out of the town past the site of a 300 room hydropathic hotel, destroyed by fire in

1921, and through community owned woodland by Gallows Hill. After walking along a section of

forestry track, the group turned off and climbed up and over Hind Hill, stopping at the summit to admire views of the Devil’s Beeftub and Annandale. They then followed waymarkers down the hillside to a track which led past Moffat Well, the source of the water that established Moffat as a Spa resort. The final section involved following a fast flowing burn back to Moffat and enjoying lunch in a local café before heading home. www.biggarramblers.org 

 A group of 7 walkers from Biggar Ramblers met in Peebles to walk the very popular route from

Peebles to Lyne Station and back. The original route was to be out on the north side and back on

the south and transiting the railway tunnel to return to Peebles. However due to heavy rain at the

start of the walk the leader decided to reverse the route and gain some shelter by going out through the tunnel. A good decision as the rain had eased somewhat when the group emerged back into daylight. The route continued to Manor Bridge and a coffee stop was taken under the arches on the south side. Then the walk continued past Barns House and Tower to come to the

pedestrian bridge at Lyne Station. A picnic bench here provided the ideal opportunity

for lunch. The return route was on the old railway track until the viaduct where the group descended to the riverside and continued past Neidpath castle to come into Hay Lodge Park to end the 8 mile walk. On the walk flocks of long-tailed tits were seen at 3 locations, after Manor Bridge, at Lyne Station river crossing and adjacent to Neidpath Castle. Also dippers were seen in the fast-flowing Tweed and a buzzard could be heard calling. www.bi

 Seven members of Biggar Ramblers set out on Thursday 10 th November from the Pentland Hills

Regional Park car park at Flotterstone, which, with strong winds forecast, was expected to be a truly bracing walk round Capelaw and Castlelaw Hills. On the way out to Glencorse Reservoir the group stopped to look at the old filter beds which used to provide filtered water for the paper mills in the Penicuik area. Halfway along the reservoir 5 members continued up the valley towards Bonaly Reservoir where the surrounding trees provided a welcome shelter from the wind for a coffee break. Continuing up and around Capelaw Hill the full force of the gusty wind made walking quite tricky, but with good visibility, a wonderful panorama opened up from Grangemouth, past the bridges, and round to Arthur’s Seat. The walk then continued round the back of Capelaw Hill and Castlelaw Hill, with a stop at Castlelaw to inspect the Earth House which was part of the ancient Hill Fort dating back to 500BC. From here it was a simple return back to the car park which provided a welcome shelter from the wind after a pleasant but windswept walk. www.biggarramblers.org

 Biggar Ramblers took on the weather as well as the walk on Wednesday 2 nd November. The

Douglas Estate circular is usually associated with lovely views across the Douglas Water, the lakes and the fields, interesting historical landmarks and gentle gradients. Indeed the group peacefully passed the memorial to James Gavin, Covenanter who lost his ears, the 16 th

Century working clock in the tower of St Brides Church donated by Mary Queen of Scots, and the Memorial to the exiled Polish Troops who carried out sterling defence work on the East Coast of Scotland from 1940. They were just passing the first lake in the estate and had the 1968 memorial to the Cameronian regiment disbandment in sight when the rain came on. They reached the ruined

tower of Castle Dangerous for a quick photo and a bit of shelter and then headed on across the red bridge up to the forrest. On the way there is a landscaped area in development that will offer a

sunken rhododendron garden and a newly planted orchard with walkways when it opens in the

spring of 2023. The next part of the walk along he ridge was relatively sheltered from both rain

and wind, which was by then strengthening. As the group came down through the trees they

stopped for lunch beside a fascinating fallen beech tree that had been colonised by fir trees, ferns,

bracket fungi and puff balls. Then the group bent into the strong wind and heavy rain to cross the

valley over the blue iron bridge and up to the monument to the raising of the Cameronian regiment

in 1688. Doulgas has a lot to offer the visitor. 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 they left the car park in dry weather the rain soon began to fall, lightly at first. The ground conditions were already very wet and muddy following recent downfalls, but they continued up the steady incline taking a quick coffee at the point called ‘the Steel’. The group then ascended to the top against 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, they managed to negotiate the hazardous conditions down to the more sheltered tracks used by miners over the last two centuries. Passing the cairn to the road builder John ‘Tar’ McAdam, the ramblers returned to the start point, wet and windswept, but satisfied that they had completed a significant challenge. Notwithstanding the inclement weather the group had enjoyed great views over the Ayr Valley and the former industrial archeological landscape of Muirkirk and surrounding area. www.biggarramblers.org