Hiking with kids
As many parents know all too well, walking with young children can be a hit and miss experience, but we reckon these walks have plenty of interest to keep spirits up and smiles on faces!
Barony Castle circuit, Eddleston
A waymarked circuit from the lovely village of Eddleston that takes in a castle, the remarkable Great Polish Map of Scotland, gorgeous tree-lined paths and open fields with views over to the Moorfoot Hills.
5km round trip | Ascent: 101m | Route details
Neidpath Castle circuit, Peebles
This classic Peebles circuit packs in a huge amount of interest as it heads upstream along the banks of the Tweed from the centre of town. Gorgeous woodland, an imposing castle, tempting swim spots, ancient bridges and panoramic views are all part of the mix.
6.25km round trip | Ascent: 89m | Route details
Glen Trail, Glentress
Glentress Forest is about much more than just bikes. One of a range of waymarked walks, the Glen Trail passes the Glentress ponds – look out for brass rubbings of birds and forest animals along the way – before exploring the Glentress Burn as it meanders through stands of giant Douglas Fir. And if you hear a strange sound in the air above you, don’t worry, that’s just zip-liners hurtling over the ponds on the Go Ape Treetop Adventure course!
3.3km round trip | Ascent: 50m | Route details
Pirn Hill Fort Trail, Innerleithen
A (mostly) easy stroll through Pirn Wood to the site of an Iron Age fort now adorned with stone sculptured panels that tell the story of Innerleithen and the surrounding landscape. Short and sweet.
2.5km round trip | Ascent: 79m | Route details
Leithen Water circuit, Innerleithen
Also starting with a stroll through Pirn Wood, this gentle woodland walk follows the Leithen Water to the golf course just outside town and returns via a fish ladder (and swim spot!) that marks the start of a hidden riverside path.
4.5km round trip | Ascent: 66m | Route details
Lee Pen adventure, Innerleithen
A real challenge for little legs – it’s a popular rite of passage for local kids! – this climb to one of the highest summits around rewards with stunning views, a logbook in which to record your efforts and sometimes even sweeties in a box at the top!
5.25km out and back | Ascent: 343m | Route details
Glenkinnon Community Woodland, nr Clovenfords
A short route through an ancient woodland of ash, alder and oak managed by Borders Forest Trust. Includes an interpretive biodiversity trail that points out the many species of plants and animals that can be encountered through the seasons.
2km round trip | Ascent: 60m | Route details
Further information
For many more walks locally – both long and short – we recommend 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. The walking pages of Scotland Starts Here are another useful resource.