Cross County Challenge - Day 5, Johnscleugh to the Scottish Borders

Information

East Lothian offers a rich network of paths and trails that enable walkers to explore its stunning landscapes — from dramatic coastline and peaceful rivers to the rolling Lammermuir hills. Among them is the famous John Muir Way, one of Scotland’s National Trails, which crosses the county from east to west and forms a highlight for many who wish to experience the area’s natural coastal beauty.

This year, the East Lothian Walking Festival is delighted to introduce a brand-new long-distance route devised by East Lothian Ramblers.

This trail crosses the county from its most northerly point to its most southerly, following a wonderful variety of paths along the way. The route offers five days of walking, each with its own character, distance, and degree of challenge — a perfect opportunity to appreciate the rich diversity of East Lothian’s landscape.

Please be sure to read the walk descriptions carefully before choosing which section(s) to complete. And for those who wish to take on the entire route, we will celebrate your accomplishment with a special certificate at the end of your adventure.

Day 5, Johnscleugh

Distance: 10 miles, ascent: 300 m

Day Five of the Cross-County Challenge takes us into the wilder country at the southern edge of East Lothian. Apart from a short section on tarmac, we will be walking on hill tracks and paths.

We begin in the Lammermuir Hills at Johnscleugh and from there, ascend to the trig point at the summit of Spartleton Hill (height 468m). We will take the time to catch our breath and enjoy the fantastic 360 degree views over huge areas of East Lothian and the Borders. We will then descend to the east side of the Whiteadder Reservoir before traversing the slopes of Priestlaw Hill.

Our route passes through the most southerly part of East Lothian, indeed we cross briefly into Scottish Borders region – a great opportunity to stop and record the moment (and achievement) with a photo or two.

Carrying on, there is a short downhill road section before we join a pleasant track to a bridge over the Faseny Water. This path takes us past Penshiel farm and the west edge of Whiteadder Water.

From there it’s just a short distance on another section of the Herring Road (see Day 4) and back to our transport that will return us to Haddington.

Our congratulations to all who have walked with us on the Cross-County Challenge. Whether you have completed one section or all five, we hope you enjoyed your walk, have some wonderful memories of your adventures and feel proud of your achievements.

What to bring
Boots and waterproofs are essential. Bring a snack for morning coffee break and a packed lunch, a hot drink and sufficient water to keep hydrated, at least 1 litre. Also a mat or plastic sheet to sit on. We will not be stopping at cafes en route.

More information
This walk is for fit, experienced walkers.

There are no toilets.

Up to four well-behaved dogs on leads are allowed.

Transport provided
Pick up at Corn Exchange, Haddington at 9 am and drop off at Johnscleugh (NT637658) at 9.30 am. Return journey pick up at Whiteadder Reservoir (NT643642) at 4.30 pm and drop off at Corn Exchange, Haddington.

With
East Lothian Ramblers. For more information, visit www.ramblers.org.uk
Grateful thanks to Community Windpower for their support of this event.