Dry week.

Last week was largely dry in Cumbria and the Scottish Borders so we've been quite active outside. On Tuesday and Wednesday we managed a wee cycle when Susan got in from work. The sun was shining and it was even warm.

Sunny and warm evening riding.

Thursday was probably the warmest day of the week so Jeff and I took advantage and went climbing. We headed to Shepherds Crag in Borrowdale and managed 3 routes in the afternoon sunshine - Brown Slabs Direct, Brown Slabs Corner and Brown Slabs Wall.

Browns Slabs Direct.

Brown Slabs Corner.

Brown Slabs Wall.

Derwent Water and Skiddaw from the belay on Brown Slabs Wall.

On Brown Slabs Wall.

Taking in the view from the top of Brown Slabs, Shepherds Crag.

On Friday we headed up to Symington for a cycling weekend in the Scottish Borders. The weekend was much colder thanks to Arctic air but it remained largely dry and bright (some snow fell on Saturday night).

On Saturday we did a favourite route to Peebles and back following sections of the Tweed Cycle Route. Although it was cold there were signs of Spring everywhere with lambs in the fields and daffodils along the roadside. In Peebles we visited a favourite cafe - Coca Black - for superb cake and coffee.

On the Broughton Road.

The Broughton Heights.

Above the River Tweed - Spring in the air.

The Meldon Hills near Peebles.

A rough section of the Tweed Cycle Route.

Looking back to the Meldons.

A great warning sign.

In the Cademuir Valley.

My wee treat in the Cafe.

Heading home on a great Spring day.

Climbing up Dreva above the Tweed.

The final pull to Dreva summit.

Descending to Broughton.

The road to Biggar with Tinto beyond.

The roads were wet on Sunday morning after some overnight snow had melted. We left it a while before heading out to do a loop to Broughton. The weather improved and it was again great to take in the Border scenery as we rode the quiet country roads. This area is superb for cycling and on both days we saw many cyclists out enjoying it.

Heading out on Sunday.

The top of the first climb - I won!!!

Turning for Broughton.

The foot of the Dreva climb.

Climbing up Dreva on an improving day.

Susan way ahead on the final climb.

I won !!!!!

Defeated on the summit.

Great cycling in the Border countryside.