Easy does it
Low level but far from low key, here are five walks full of beauty, colour, history and interest.
Neidpath Castle circuit, Peebles
It may be low level, but this is one of the most varied and visually striking walks anywhere in the Tweed Valley – particularly when the autumn colours are in full blaze. Following the Tweed upstream from the centre of Peebles, this route heads through lovely Hay Lodge Park before passing the imposing Neidpath Castle and returning via gorgeous woodland. Active kids will love it, too.
6.25km round trip | Ascent: 89m| Route details
Venlaw & Soonhope, Peebles
A mostly easy route exploring a quiet valley that passes through native woodland before returning via a fascinating community of ‘huts’ – a gaggle of characterful cabins built in the post-war period for use by ex-servicemen and their families. There are great views of the landmark Peebles Hydro, too.
5.5km round trip | Ascent: 110m | Route details
Ponds Trail, Glentress Forest
A super-easy walk around the picturesque ponds at Glentress. Ideal for those with buggies or anyone who just wants a gentle stroll in beautiful surroundings. Can be extended by continuing on some of the other waymarked trails all around. Don’t forget to look up and watch as people whizz past on some seriously high zip-lines – part of the nearby Go Ape Treetop Adventure course!
1km round trip | Ascent: Easy access, negligible | Route details
Caerlee and the River Tweed, Innerleithen
A short circular that nonetheless includes a punchy climb through lovely St Ronan’s Wood before descending past Velvet Hall Alpacas and returning via the Tweed Valley Railway Path. An ideal introduction to the landscape around Innerleithen, with lots of enticing diversions (including St Ronan’s Wells garden and visitor centre).
5.5km round trip | Ascent: 110m | Route details
Traquair Estate circuit
This relatively new path links a previously unvisited part of the Traquair Estate before rising – following the Southern Upland Way for a stretch – to give magnificent views to Lee Pen and along the Tweed Valley. Also a popular running circuit for locals. To avoid a rather steep start, we recommend beginning at the gate opposite the Innerleithen mountain bike trail head and walking in an anti-clockwise direction. You can thank us later.
4.5km round trip | Ascent: 100m | Route details
Further information
For many more walks locally – both long and short – we recommend visiting Walkhighlands, an excellent online resource with downloadable route maps and detailed descriptions. Look out too for walk guidebooks from Moffat-based publisher Pocket Mountains, plus the ‘Paths around’ series of walking guidebooks produced by Scottish Borders Council. Finally, the walking pages of Scotland Starts Here are another useful resource.