Day 50 Thurs 3rd June

9 miles from Cairn Hills to West Clifton (West of Edinburgh)

We set off early from our wild camp and were well on our way down the well-trodden path before 8.30am.
The Thieves Road is a 7.5 mile track from West Linton that emerges on the A70 at Lite Vantage. The route gets its name from the thieves that used to lie in wait in the hills and waylay crofters as they took their cattle South from their Highland grazing to the markets in England.


From East Calder I followed a cycle track to the Almondell and Calderwood Country Park. What a pleasant surprise! I followed a winding path in glorious sunshine through the woods, pausing at the Visitor Centre to buy my usual "pot of tea for one" but at the very unusual price of 65p.


After crossing a suspension bridge the path follows a narrow canal feeder for a couple of miles right to the campsite. Lineater Caravan Park was an excellent site. A very friendly, helpful warden, good facilities (including free WiFi) yand only costs £5. Recommended.
Zoe and Chris arrived in the early afternoon and stayed for about four hours. All being well the next time I see them will be at John O'Goats in less than three weeks. Beginning to believe, despite my ankle still hurting.