Following the Firth inland for several hundred yards we turned South and started the first climb, not steep or too long. We found the first of the main roads we needed to follow and headed out in good spirits. The traffic was light to start and fairly well behaved. The dreaded roundabout was in fact well behaved, with six roads in and a small diameter all vehicles had to slow right down making it easy to negotiate on bicycles. It was slightly later, at a normal four road roundabout that we had problems judging as cars came in at higher speeds. The traffic levels also increased and less clearance was given to us as everyone had their own agenda.
By the time we made Dalkieth we took a break. stopping in the town centre we had coffee and reviewed the situation. The traffic had brought us close to a psychological edge. We had to regroup our thoughts and decide whether to continue in the face of what we were experiencing. We hummed and erred till we girded our loins and decided to press on.
Along the main A6094 road we turned right in the direction of Rosewell, following the pavement, when we came across a break in the hedge as the pavement ended. There was a track running behind the hedge in the general direction we were headed. stopping to ask some walkers they informed us it was part of a new track that would get us to Penicuik off road, then we just had to turn left and follow the next road to Peebles. Checking the map showed no sign of this track but we figured it would probably do us good to get away from the traffic.
What we found was a delight, an old railway track from decades ago brought back to life for non motorised use. Just follow the track, going slightly downhill most of the way. Under a few bridges and within 10 or so miles we would get to our next waypoint.
The old rail trackbed, now a motor free pathway.
As we progressed, feeling good we chanced upon an old rail station platform. At some time someone had placed a picnic bench on the platform for whatever reason and we took advantage for a lunch break.
The old rail platform.
Lunch break at the station.
We had a meal of chicken breast, crackers, cheeses and bit and pieces while having a good look around. The piece that really got Richard's admiration was just opposite the platform, not really hidden but there for those who look. Half covered by nature was a construction of concrete that bore the mane of the original station. Marked in white stone, this would have been cared for by the station master and his workmen, in the late 19th early 20th century with pride. Feeling with finger tips the old stone gave up it's secret. This was 'Rosslyn Castle'.
Hidden in plain sight 'ROSSLYN CASTLE'.
We continued down the track as it clung to the hillside of the Esk valley. Almost a free ride as we had to pedal little on the gentle incline, allowing more time to look around and take photos.
looking over the valley from the track.
The longest of the tunnels is about 500 feet long. ~Guesstimate.
When we got to Penicuik the route doesn't really take you into town but as we had already eaten we decided to continue to Peebles in the Scottish boarders. Well we had an almost free ride into town, now we were going to have to pay for it. it may not have been a 1 in 5 hill but it went on forever. Down the gears we went, slowly but surely until we ran out and then had to get off and push for what seemed forever. Even with no headwind we were paying by climbing back out of the valley.
The climb out of Penicuik (yes, that is the road still climbing in front of the tree line)
We finally reached a more level part and remounted the bikes to join the road to Peebles. We found a small trailer in a layby selling tea and stopped for a break. While chatting to the lady serving we were impressed by the price of meals on offer, many of which were good value.
'Carol's Snacks. Located on the A703, South of Leadburn.
The next part of the journey followed the road down along the Eddiston Water, although not all downhill it would have been a great run were it not for some of the motorists. many of the larger trucks would give us a toot to let us know they were passing and give wide clearance, but some smaller vehicles cut in close, too close on occasions unsettling Lorraine.
Finally we approached the town of Peebles, saw the camp sign but decided to continue further. it was a blessing in disguise for the next site was within walking distance of the town centre and a great site to stay. We booked into Crossburn for the night, set up camp and walked into town for supplies. What we found is a wonderful town so decided to stay for an extra day to explore.
camping at Crossburn
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