Melrose to St Boswell and Mainstreet Trading

We set off from Melrose, cycling up over the Bogle Burn along the closed road. In Eildon we will take a right turn and cycle quiet lanes before joining the road into Bowden Village, and from there on through and left onto the B3659. At the crossroads we go straight over and then take another left down the road towards Charlesfield and on to St Boswells. Here we will briefly join the A68 before turning right onto MainStreet and cycle up through the village to stop off at MainStreet Trading company cafe for refreshments.
After coffee we will set off along Caplaw Road and cross the Tweed at Mertoun bridge. Up the hill and then more climbing to head to Bermersyde and on to Scott’s View and then we drop down to Leaderfoot and finally follow the closed road back to Newstead and Melrose via Annay road. This route involves some steep climbs and because of this has been rated as Challenging, but we will take our time with pauses to regroup, catch our breath and to take photos. 18 miles with 1650 feet of climbing. Please make sure your bike is in good working order with tyres pumped, bring water and any snacks you may need, as well as a spare inner tube and any tools you may need for your bike. Those using an electric bike, please ensure it is sufficiently charged in readiness for the ride. Helmets are mandatory, and please dress appropriately for the weather. We will ride as a group, and wont leave anyone behind.
https://www.strava.com/routes/3239646138476100378