Monday

Holidays are a break from routine. So I was woken at 7:30 by Fletch who was keen to be out. So I was up and out 
No hardship here. Such beautiful surroundings. A sweeping lawn down  to the River Nith , surrounded by giant redwood and ancient oaks .. etc. A quiet stroll along the river in such a peaceful environment  ! This has to be one of the best hotel environments ever.
Back to the room to let Fletch snooze while M and me  down for breakfast. 
The Covid rules in Scotland mean we have to wear a mask indoors unless we are sat down.. a slight annoyance but good that precautions are well set in place. 
The staff are lovely here and very cheerful and attentive. I feel for them having to wear masks all day long. 
Because of the Covid restrictions we had to pre order breakfast. This actually was much more efficient than the usual method, so no complaints. 

Set off to Drumlanrigg Castle.  ( seen in Outlander season 2) but the plan was to walk along the woodland paths surrounding it. .. which we did. Weve walked this area a few times before, although not for a few years. 
One good thing about this area is, unlike the Lake District it is not busy . So peaceful and unspoilt.
The collage shows an installation by the artist Andy Goldsworthy.  The arch has been there for a number of years. 
Top 2 photos on the collage show:
The hotel Friars Carse, The view from our room.
A few blips as regards my mental peace. After yesterdays tyre pressure light. We set off this morning.. no light but as I left the car park I hit a rock with my back wheel!! Agh no scream. A close escape and no obvious damage but of course the tyre pressure light went on!
Glad to say it went off after several miles !