Day 17 Berwick to Dunbar

Didn't sleep so well last night, 2 snorers and a hot dorm despite the open window. Try to get ready for an 8.30 start but its 915 and then we see the cycle shop is open. This has been a cycle shop since 1936 apparently, the current owner has been here for 28 years. Great selection of bikes and spares.

We finally set off after 930 but we just cant get a momentum going. Its stop start, for the next 2 hours and we only have 10 miles under our belts. 

The views are great, the sun is out and the day is looking good. 

Uphill , downhill , too hot. , too cold , cannot seem to get comfy.  We soon find a border sign and get our pics done. 

Leaving Berwick on route 1 then 76 we are treated to lovely views to the Eildon  and Cheviot hills. A few climbs and some nice downhills. Its sunny too and the heat is building. 

We have the usual pork pie, banana and salted peanuts for a refuel if required. Coming through Ayton i get the impression of a friendly community here. We chat to one resident who is across all the local scandel. She is hosting the ladies bridge this pm and off to make a cake. We skirt Eyemouth and have a long slow hill to get up. Then its a long flat ride along the top aiming towards a windfarm we can see in the distance. 

At last we are treated to a fantastic downhill run. Must be 2 miles down to Pease bay and the small beach where we refuel. 

Its a bit cooler now and a steep climb back to the A1.. The route runs alongside the A1 and then the railway line, getting close to Torness power station. I have driven past here several times over the years but  only today noticed there are no cables or pylons around. 

We arrive in Dunbar and find a nice coffe shop. We discuss the options and after asking about campsites at North Berwick  we opt to stay here. There is a site at Belhaven Bay. We find it and check in. The receptionist tells us about the shop across the road and the pub a big further that does v good meals at a decent price. 

At 1855 we get to the shop just in time before it closes for b'fast items. We head to the pub and find a friendly crowd and yes we can get a meal - 2 courses, 6.95 or  3 for 7.95. Seems a bargain but maybe too good to be true? Well no, really good food at 1980's prices and i have my 2nd banana split in a row for only a pound! Check it -

We are about to leave for the site when we get invited to stay for the quiz night. Hmm ok. It turns out to be good fun and we meet Steve and Debbie who become half  of our team. We don 't win but have a laugh with the locals. The West Barns Inn is THE place around here. 

Walking back we are treated to a nice sunset to round off a great day. 

Today 36 miles.