Old Newlands Church, Near Romannobridge.

A shortish afternoon ride today to get the cycling legs back in action. The weather is much better today, and it feels quite warm despite lack of sunshine. Not much wind either. The ride over to West Linton from Penicuik is great. I don't think I've don't it that fast this year.

From West Linton I head through Bogsbank to Romannobridge. I will follow the Lyne Valley before heading home over the Meldons. I stop just where the B road crosses the Lyne to take this interesting picture. I am south of Romannobridge. The ruin is the old Newlands Church and some horses being tended to in the adjoining field.

It feels quite bright as I carry on southwards to the A72, where I turn east to the Meldons road. I have to let a big timber lorry out first. the road climbs up, and there are not many people. This area is popular with campers, but I think the Scottish Summer is putting people off. Over the top for a nice descent to Eddleston. I forego coffee at the Pine Trees, and take the Fala Toll road to Gladhouse. A nice climb, with a couple of switchbacks initially. Once at the top, there is a nice flattish (depending on which way the wind is blowing) moor road. 

Rather than follow the Gladhouse road, I carry on to the Top Gear road, and head back home through Mount Lothian, and the nice long descent through Loanstone to Auchendinny. The Auchendinny Brae is a challenge at the end of the ride, always good to keep some energy in reserve for this.

As I take the Seafield Moor Road, there's a bit of blue sky. Summer? :-)