The Eildons

You can see the Eildon Hills for miles and miles in the Borders - they crop up in views everywhere, sometimes when you least expect them. Geologically they are volcanic plugs, of which there are quite a number in the Lothians and Borders, all very distinctive.

This photo is taken from about eight miles away, near to the Three Brethren which are three large cairns at the top of a hill marking the point where three estates meet. The Eildons lie immediately to the south of Melrose, a pretty market town. Immediately to the east of Melrose there are the remains of a huge Roman fort named, appropriately enough, Trimontium.

Our route took us from Lindinny Wood near Yair Bridge up to the Three Brethren, down to Ashiestiel Bridge then along the River Tweed back to the start, about 9 miles altogether. It was a grand day for walking - sunny, bright and clear, and cool enough not to get too hot.