3 May 2013: 25km. Started 08:15. Arrived 15;15 (at tea shop)
Initially I followed the river to Neidpath Castle, a popular walk for people with dogs. There was a tent pitched near the castle and I wondered if it was Tom, but as I discovered later he was already further north. One of the dog walkers tried to engage me in conversation, but then proceeded to tell me I hadn’t chosen a very good route to West Linton – not sure why as it seemed fairly direct and was mainly off road.
I left the river near the castle and climbed up past a golf course, fields and a wood. Sadly by the time I got to White Meldon, where there would have been a good view, it was raining.
I descended to a road and followed the Tweed Trail which was signposted to West Linton. However the path suddenly stopped. I tried to follow what was on the map but there was a broken bridge over a wide and deep drainage channel. It was tipping down with rain so I retreated to the road which I followed to West Linton.
I was delighted to see Mae’s Tea Room and Mae told me that Tom had been there in the morning having camped along part of the route I had just walked. I’m not surprised he has got ahead as I’ve had two short days. Of course as he carries a tent he can be much more flexible with overnights. Tom had told Mae to look out for me. Sadly I reflect that I am unlikely to see Tom again unless he has a day off or has a short day. I have a day off planned at Milngavie and some short days – plus going to Milngavie so I can do the entire West Highland Way is adding mileage. Mae is very friendly and the tea room is clearly a popular focal point for the local community as well as for visitors.
Refreshed by some food and drink I pulled on all my wet weather gear again to go and find my B+B. West Linton is a busy town with a pharmacy, Co-op, bank, bookshop, bistro, pub etc. I am booked to stay at a house in the new housing estate and struggled to find it, wandering past the turning in the pouring rain. When I eventually arrive, there is a helpful sign which looks very new. In fact the owner had erected it that very day! She was very pleased when I commented about how useful it was. It’s not at all expensive, so I am impressed to be in a large double room with an en suite bath.
Where's Kathryn? 