Borders Jaunt

Yesterday was a lovely sunny day so what better than a run to the Borders on my FJ.

On my trips to this region I often take this back road near Carmichael.

Here is a fine masonry arch bridge over the River Tweed north of Selkirk. It opened in 1831 and the writer Sir Walter Scott laid the foundation stone. It is thought that he influenced the design with the heraldic shields and the contrasting stone in the arch. It has been replaced by a new bridge but was refurbished last year as part of a cycling route. So well done Borders Council.

The view from the bridge

Another impressive arch bridge - the Leaderfoot Viaduct. This carried the Berwickshire Railway (now closed) over the Tweed east of Melrose.

The market cross in Swinton. Post Reformation these crosses weren't crosses. 
(Note that the church in the background has lost its steeple)

There is something odd here. The village green is marked out as a football (soccer) pitch with goalposts but the cross occupies the centre spot!

At Etal I find a poster for the upcoming re-enactment of the Battle of Carham. This battle established the Scottish border. I'm in England now and they're commemorating a Scottish victory? - how magnanimous.

Riding the back roads

Denholm. Another village green, another sports field (rugby) This time the monument is not on the pitch. It commemorates John Leyden, orientalist.

Also in Denholm is this quirky house. Called "The Text House" is has panels with the following:

TAK TENT IN TIME ~ ERE TIME BE TINT

ALL WAS OTHERS ~ ALL WILL BE OTHERS 

Although the house only dates to 1910 the language is arcane. It seems to mean "time is short" and "others lived here before you and will after you".

In the Teviot hills. I always stop at this spot. My brother may shudder at this picture 
(see here)

A favourite back road of mine.

Talla reservoir