Walking in the Scottish Borders

The Borders is a land of contrasts - one of Europe's most beautiful unspoilt regions.  For the walker it offers space to breath fresh air.  There are hills, extensive mature forests, superb river valleys and interesting villages.

There are some lovely walks from the door - we can point you in the right direction to make you feel at home and get the most from your holiday quicker take one of our route maps and leave the car behind!!  The region has paths and tracks criss crossing it.  The walker will be invigorated by the tranquillity, freedom and fresh clean air with outstanding views whether just spending an hour or all day walking.

Walking in the Borders is good all year round.  Whether visiting in winter, spring, summer or autumn, the colours are ever changing.  Autumn and winter are surprisingly beautiful with clear sunny skies and a heavy frost or a bit of snow on the hill tops adding to the experience.

Combining spectacular views with abundant wildlife, it can be seen why walking is one of the most popular activity for visitors to the region.

The landscape is characterised by green rolling hills divided by beautiful river valleys the most famous being the Tweed.  Many fine walks follow the river - some directly at its side.

Some hills are surprisingly challenging and compiling a route over a number of hills and along ridges can be satisfying for the more experienced walker.
For the less experienced, graded routes and directions can be obtained from Tourist Information and some are available with directions in the house at Castlehill.

Walks led by Rangers take place throughout the year.  Check local tourist information for details - a small charge is made and normally follow a theme such as history or geology etc.  Most are suitable for children.

The Forestry Commission recognise that while many people do not come on a specific walking holiday, they do want to enjoy a walk or two, and  have therefore developed an extensive network of easily accessible short walks that often lead to interesting places such as a ruined abbey, tower, castle or scenic outcrop.