Walks in the Scottish Borders

Explore some of the best walks in the Scottish Borders, from easy riverside strolls to longer countryside routes near Melrose, Gattonside, Kelso and Peebles. This guide is ideal for guests staying in our holiday cottages who want to enjoy the local scenery on foot.

Melrose Gattonside Kelso Peebles

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Icons: 🟢 Easy · 🟠 Moderate · 🔴 Strenuous
Conditions can change seasonally — in winter some routes are muddy and daylight is shorter. If you’re unsure, ask locally before heading out.

Melrose

Melrose Abbey & town loop

🟢 Easy · 30–60 mins

Start: Melrose town centre Parking: Town centre car parks / street parking Dogs: On lead in town

Gentle loop taking in the abbey area and town streets — ideal as a first “stretch the legs” walk.

Riverside Tweed stroll

🟢 Easy · 45–90 mins

Start: Melrose / Gattonside riverside access points Parking: Use town parking then walk to the river Dogs: Dog friendly

Flatter riverside walking. Great for relaxed strolls and morning/evening walks.

Gattonside Chain Bridge loop

🟢 Easy · 45–75 mins

Start: Chain Bridge (Gattonside) Parking: On-street in Gattonside (be considerate) Dogs: Dog friendly

Cross the historic Chain Bridge and enjoy easy riverside paths. Perfect for guests staying in Gattonside.

Eildon Hills (views route)

🔴 Strenuous · 2–3 hrs

Start: Melrose / nearby trail access Parking: Trail-side laybys / designated spots (seasonal busy) Dogs: Dog friendly (hillside terrain)

Classic Borders hike with superb views. Sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy and windy in bad weather.

Dingleton & countryside loop

🟠 Moderate · 1.5–2.5 hrs

Start: Edge of Melrose Parking: Town parking then out-and-back or loop Dogs: Dog friendly (watch livestock)

Quieter routes beyond town with open countryside. Great when you want a little space.

Gattonside

From the door: Chain Bridge to Melrose

🟢 Easy · 20–40 mins (one way, slow)

Start: Gattonside village Parking: No need — walk from the property Dogs: Dog friendly

The most useful “guest walk” — easy access into Melrose for cafés, shops and the abbey without driving.

Riverside Tweed wander

🟢 Easy · 45–90 mins

Start: Gattonside riverside Parking: Walk from the village Dogs: Dog friendly

Flat riverside path options. Ideal for morning dog walks and relaxed afternoon strolls.

Gattonside village & countryside lanes

🟠 Moderate · 1–2 hrs

Start: Gattonside Parking: Walk from the village Dogs: Dog friendly (watch for traffic / livestock)

A peaceful option away from the main roads. Best in daylight; take a torch in winter.

Kelso

Riverside Tweed & Teviot loop (Kelso)

🟢 Easy · 45–90 mins

Start: Kelso town centre Parking: Town centre car parks Dogs: Dog friendly

Lovely flat walking near the river confluence. Great “arrive and unwind” option.

Floors Castle grounds walk

🟢 Easy · 60–120 mins

Start: Floors Castle entrance area Parking: On-site parking (check opening times) Dogs: Varies by area (check rules)

Perfect for a gentle daytime walk with scenery and space. Combine with a café stop if open.

Roxburgh area walk (near Kelso)

🟠 Moderate · 1.5–2.5 hrs

Start: Short drive from Kelso Parking: Small parking areas / laybys (be respectful) Dogs: Dog friendly

Quieter routes for guests wanting countryside and views. Conditions can be muddy after rain.

Kelso to countryside lanes (out-and-back)

🟠 Moderate · 1–2 hrs

Start: Edge of Kelso Parking: Town parking then walk out Dogs: Dog friendly (watch livestock)

Good for “stretch a bit further” days. Keep to paths and close gates behind you.

Peebles

River Tweed path (Peebles)

🟢 Easy · 45–90 mins

Start: Peebles town centre Parking: Town centre parking Dogs: Dog friendly

Flat riverside walking that suits most guests. Ideal for families and relaxed afternoon strolls.

Hay Lodge Park loop

🟢 Easy · 30–60 mins

Start: Hay Lodge Park Parking: Nearby parking Dogs: Dog friendly

Great easy option with woodland feel — perfect for a quick walk without planning.

Cademuir Hill viewpoints

🟠 Moderate · 1.5–2.5 hrs

Start: Peebles edge / trail start Parking: Trail-side parking areas (busy on sunny days) Dogs: Dog friendly

Popular hill walk with rewarding views. Take a layer — exposed in wind.

Woodland trails (short hikes)

🟠 Moderate · 1–2 hrs

Start: Short drive from Peebles Parking: Forestry-style car parks Dogs: Dog friendly

Ideal on warmer days. Surfaces can be muddy in winter — waterproof footwear helps.