Go faster!
Want to pick up the pace a little? After all, trails are made for running as well as walking! Here are three beautifully varied routes to get you started.
Cademuir hill forts and the Tweed, Peebles
Starting and finishing in the centre of Peebles, this beautiful run heads up along the John Buchan Way past the remains of an Iron Age settlement on Cademuir Hill before doubling back and returning to the town alongside a delightful riverside path.
12.5km round trip | Ascent: 243m | Route details
Soonhope to Lee Pen, Peebles to Innerleithen
A real challenge this one. A linear route through Glentress Forest to an exhilarating ridge, with a steep pull on the Peebles side and a very welcome descent at the Innerleithen end. It’s well worth the effort though with stunning views over wave after wave of hills from the main ridgeline.
14.5km one way | Ascent: 590m | Route details
Cardrona Forest
Choose from a variety of tracks and woodland trails in a tranquil forest known for its abundant bird life, the ruins of Cardrona Tower (built in the 1500s) and the site of an Iron Age fort at Castle Knowe. For a real taste of this peaceful place, we recommend Pike’s Knowe trail (5.7km), which heads deep into the forest. You might even spot a red squirrel or two!
Various route lengths | Route details
Further information
Almost all of the hikes suggested on these pages also make for great off-road runs. But for more ideas, see our dedicated trail running page plus details of the various trail running events that take place throughout the year.