Melrose to Mellerstain House and return via Smailholm and Leaderfoot

Route starting from outside Melrose Rugby Club,High St Melrose we follow the short route of the Doddie ride out to Leaderfoot. Taking the B6356 via Redpath up to Earlston.Taking a right in Earlston (A6105) until we take a right onto B6397 following this road until we take the turning signposted Mellerstain House. Cafe will be open from 11 where we will stop for coffee/tea and cake or lunch. After our refreshments we retrace our steps back to the B6397 taking the left turn to Smailholm. In Smailholm we take the right turn at the church and stay on this road all the way back to Leaderfoot and then back into Melrose where we take the one way system back to the car park near the Coop.

Mainly quiet country roads with some A and B roads. The route follows the short Doddie ride route with the short detour to Mellerstain. Some hills and one steep descent back down to Leaderfoot. Approx 1,500 ft of elevation.

We will pause to regroup,at the top of hills,to take photos and have a drink. Whenever advised by ride leader. Coffee stop and toilets at Mellerstain Courtyard cafe.

Helmets are mandatory. Please bring a spare inner tube and tools for your own bike. Plenty to drink and a snack if needed. Card for cafe.

We never leave anyone behind