Thirteen Strollers, an unlucky number, met outside Greggs in Penicuik to go for a stroll round the Penicuik House Estate.
On a lovely hot day we set off to follow the path along the side of the
North Esk River to make our way past the fairy garden, to the ’Roman’ bridge
and on past the curling pond up to the house. As thirteen was an unlucky
number, one of the group decided they had to drop out and go home, with two of
the group volunteering to make sure they got home safely. Luckily they stayed
close by. Thankfully there were no lasting ill effects after the walk.
The house, which is just a shell due to a fire at the end of the 19th
century, is still an imposing building. The family had relocated to the stable
block which is now a hotel and wedding location. They are fairly impressive
stables with a church like spire as well as an observatory. From here we made
our way back past the large doocot, space for 1500 pigeons, and back through
the woods towards Penicuik. This followed a route recently taken by Clare
Balding for one of her radio 4 shows.
Our route was slightly blocked at the entrance to St James the Lesser
church by a large crane which had broken down. This involved some deep intakes
of breath and trying to avoid getting grease from the struts on hands and
clothing, not always successfully.
Thanks to Drew for arranging good weather and an exciting finish.
