Sunday September 17th

Flotterstone, Allermuir Hill and Castlelaw Hill

We were in Edinburgh, cat-sitting, and took advantage of the proximity of the Pentlands for a familiar walk. Fortunately, this time the café at the Flotterstone car park was open... but, unfortunately, not as we arrived as the proprietors were just opening up and preparing their Romanian barbecue. It gave us something to look forward to on our return, though! 

We set off through the woods and up alongside the Glencorse Reservoir before making our way up to the track contouring around Castlelaw Hill, hearing the occasional shot from the firing ranges below.

Above the Glencorse Reservoir

We were below the cloud base at that time, but could see much of the familiar Pentland chain to the north.

Turnhouse Hill with its head in the clouds

Contouring around, we reached the col between Fala Knowe and Allermuir Hill, where we had a quick break and refreshments, watching an assortment of runners coming and going.

On the way up to the col between Fala Knowe and Allermuir Hill

As we'd never been up Allermuir Hill, and being happy to extend the walk a little, we made the ascent and were very happy that we had, as there was an excellent view of Edinburgh to be had at the top.

Viewpoint at the top of Allermuir Hill

From Allermuir Hill, we went back down to the col, over Fala Knowe and up to the top of Castlelaw Hill. We descended, much to the interest of a gaggle of sheep, and had our lunch at the ancient fort.

Three curious sheep

Finally, we returned to the car park where we enjoyed a drink, but didn't take advantage of the Romanian Barbecue.

Just over four hours, 6.7 miles,450m ascent.


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