The best walks and hikes around Wauchope Forest
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1,053
hikers
41
hikes
Hiking around Wauchope Forest offers a look into the quiet landscape of the Scottish Borders. The area is characterized by a mix of coniferous plantations and native broadleaf trees, with rolling hills and open moorland. Several streams, known locally as burns, wind through the terrain, shaping the environment for local plant and animal life.
Best hiking trails around Wauchope Forest
- The most popular hiking route is Wigg Plantation and Needs Law loop — Roxburghshire, a 11.0 mile (17.8 km)…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.0
(1)
2
hikers
17.8km
04:56
330m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
18.0km
04:59
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
hikers
7.03km
01:59
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
4
hikers
11.6km
03:15
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Pleasant views of the Catlee Burn to be had straight from the car park here, and the woodland, left to grow wilder here by The Forestry Commission, could allow some good picnic opportunities.
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Westshiels is a ruin: a remains of an old house here in Wauchope Forest. Outside, you will find what used to be a garden, still a beautiful carpet of now wild-growing flowers. It's a peaceful place to make a stop.
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This is a logging road track, but don't be put off - the views of the forested hills are nonetheless fantastic, and the footbridge over Hyndlee Burn is quite charming (and a great place to rest, too).
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Needs Law, at 444m, has, perhaps unusually, two cairns on it (Mag and the Bairns), and apparently there perhaps used to be even a third. Such cairns were used in the 19th century as reference points in foggy, misty conditions. You will additionally see a disused quarry here. Gorgeous views from up here too: you can easily see Peel Fell and Deadwater Fell from here (in non-foggy conditions, that is!)
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Wigg Plantation is a lovely and generally peaceful (though you might encounter an odd car) place to walk. The track is wide and firm underfoot, and the Wauchope Forest, within which you are, is a very green place to be. A bonus is a number of ponds you will pass, and the birdsong (though some willow warblers can be very noisy!)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in Wauchope Forest?
Yes, the forest has several easier options perfect for a family outing. For a shorter walk, consider the Catlee Burn – Stay the Night motorhome stopover loop from Wauchope. It's a gentle 2-mile (3.3 km) trail that follows the scenic Catlee Burn and is manageable for most fitness levels.
Can I bring my dog to Wauchope Forest?
Yes, Wauchope Forest is generally a great place for dog walking. The numerous trails offer plenty of space for your dog to explore. Please keep your dog under control, especially during bird nesting season and near any livestock on the moorland edges. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet.
Are there any long-distance hikes in the area?
Wauchope Forest is well-suited for longer hikes. For a challenging day out that requires good fitness, the Wigg Plantation and Needs Law loop is an excellent choice. This 11-mile (17.8 km) route takes you through varied forest landscapes and up to open ground with rewarding views.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?
The landscape is a mix of dense coniferous forests, native broadleaf trees, and open moorland with panoramic views of the Cheviot Hills. Several streams, like the Hyndlee Burn and Catlee Burn, wind through the area. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as red squirrels, roe deer, and birds like goshawks.
How many hiking trails are there in Wauchope Forest?
There are over 40 marked hiking routes to explore around Wauchope Forest. These range from short, easy strolls suitable for families to strenuous all-day hikes, offering something for every ability level.
Are there circular walking routes available?
Yes, many of the trails in Wauchope Forest are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. A great moderate circular option is the Westshiels and Hyndlee Burn loop from Wauchope Car Park, which offers a fantastic tour of the forest's interior.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, there are car parks available within Wauchope Forest, some of which also have picnic tables. The main Wauchope Car Park is a common starting point for several popular trails. There is also a 'Stay the Night' scheme for self-contained motorhomes in designated areas.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Wauchope Forest?
The routes in Wauchope Forest are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the tranquility of the forest, the well-maintained paths, and the beautiful panoramic views from the higher ground.
How does hiking in Wauchope Forest compare to Kielder Forest Park?
Wauchope Forest offers a quieter, more tranquil hiking experience compared to the vast and popular Kielder Forest Park next door. While Kielder is known for its large lake and observatory, Wauchope provides a more intimate woodland setting with a dense network of trails perfect for finding solitude.
Are there any pubs or cafes near Wauchope Forest for after a hike?
Wauchope Forest itself is quite remote and does not have any pubs or cafes. For refreshments, you will need to drive to the nearby towns. Hawick, to the north, is the closest town and offers a range of pubs, cafes, and restaurants.
What is a good introductory hike for someone new to the area?
A great way to get a feel for the forest is the Catlee Burn – Wigg Plantation loop from Wauchope. At around 4.4 miles (7 km), it's long enough to be satisfying but not overly strenuous, showcasing the lovely woodland and burn-side paths.
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