Out & About Autumn 2021

LOCAL VIEW

The Scottish Borders are a must for cyclists writes JONATHAN HOPSON

A s we head into autumn, I am returning to a favourite topic – extolling the many and varied virtues of the Scottish Borders. Duns is 10 miles north of the border between England and Scotland and is a thriving small market town. Duns Castle is a popular local attraction and was originally built in 1320 by Robert the Bruce’s nephew, the Earl of Moray. It has been home to the Hay family since 1696. There are numerous enjoyable walks throughout the estate, including a circuitous one around the delightfully-named Hen Poo lake. One of the best ways to get out and about in the Borders is by bike. The scenery to the north west of Duns is particularly picturesque, with a number of small lochs and reservoirs dotted among the hills. It was reassuring to note that posting a ride on the popular cycling app Strava during August, elicited a number of positive comments from fellow Berkshire cyclists along the lines of “really

Duns Castle

Ladykirk has historically been one of the most prolific beats on the Lower Tweed. During our recent visit, despite the low water level, one of our party managed to catch – and subsequently return to the river – a silvery 15lb salmon. Another member of the fishing party at Ladykirk was able to benefit the local wildlife by successfully rescuing a fledgling house martin from the river. To find out more about the Scottish Borders visit www.visitscotland.com/

Hen Poo Lake

love the area north west of Duns” and “It’s very special … whatever the weather!” Although plentiful sunshine is not a common feature of Scottish weather, a noticeable benefit to cycling in the Borders is a marked lack of traffic, particularly on B roads. Taking the B6355 road from Gifford, carefully dodging around the sheep in the road and avoiding coveys

of low-flying grouse on the moorland, the road gently descends to the impressive Whiteadder Reservoir (pronounced ‘Whit-add- er’) in the Lammermuir Hills. The recent protracted spell of mild weather had also attracted a few hardy types who could be seen swimming in the clear water. A few miles from Duns,

River Tweed at Ladykirk

Whiteadder reservoir

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O&A AUTUMN 2021