The best cycling routes around Borders Forest Park
4.7
(59)
2,874
riders
56
rides
Touring cycling around Borders Forest Park offers a diverse landscape of rolling hillsides, tranquil valleys, and deep green forests. The region is characterized by significant elevation changes and features rivers like the Tweed, providing varied terrain for cyclists. This area, including parts of Tweed Valley Forest Park and Newcastleton Forest, presents a network of routes suitable for different cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Borders Forest Park
- The most popular touring cycling route is Final Flowing Descent – Switchback…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
39
riders
10.1km
00:56
160m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
53.1km
03:55
510m
510m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure through England's largest forest with the Kielder Castle loop. This difficult 33.0 miles (53.1 km) route will have you gaining 1669 feet (509…
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5.0
(2)
5
riders
44.2km
03:01
700m
710m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
69.9km
04:38
680m
680m
Cycle the challenging 43.4-mile Kirklinton and Longtown loop from Newcastleton, featuring mixed terrain and 2231 feet of elevation gain.
65.5km
04:40
1,040m
1,040m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
St. Cuthbert’s Church in Kirklinton is a characterful village church in north Cumbria, built in 1845 on the site of an older medieval church. The building is constructed of red sandstone with a three-story west tower, featuring battlements, pointed-arch windows, and a 12th-century Norman chancel arch. Inside, you'll find a mix of medieval elements and Victorian details: a vaulted oak roof, stained-glass windows with heraldic motifs from the Dacre-Appleby family, and an Art Nouveau oil lamp set from the Keswick School of Industrial Art. The church also contains funerary monuments from the 17th and 18th centuries, including three aedicules for members of the Appleby family.
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Located just north of Newcastleton in the Scottish Borders, Old Castleton Cemetery bears witness to centuries of local history. Situated on a hill along the B6357, this cemetery offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It contains over 670 memorials, many of which have been photographed and recorded on Find a Grave. The site also contains three Commonwealth war graves from the Second World War, further enhancing its historical significance. The site is popular with genealogical researchers and walkers who want to explore Liddesdale's heritage.
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Kielder Castle is a charming 18th-century hunting lodge in Northumberland, built in 1775 for the Duke of Northumberland. Today, it serves as a vibrant visitor center and the starting point for numerous walking and cycling routes, including the famous Lakeside Way. Although the castle is currently undergoing renovations, the information center remains open and the surrounding facilities are accessible. It's an ideal base for exploring England's largest forest. It houses the Kielder Visitor Center and the Cafe at the Castle.
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The Kershope Burn is a quiet stream that forms the border between England and Scotland for its entire length. It rises as Clark's Sike in the marshy Hobb's Flow in Kielder Forest, flows past Kershopehead farm, and empties into Liddel Water at Kershopefoot. The burn is a natural boundary, used for centuries as a divide between kingdoms.
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Part of whithaugh park activity centre
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Saint NICHOLAS, Bishop of Myra, to whom this church is dedicated, is – alongside Saint Martin, Bishop of Tours in France – one of the most popular saints of all. His memorial day in the calendar of saints, December 6th, is probably known to almost every child. On the eve of this day, children used to put their shoes or boots – which had of course been carefully polished – in front of the door so that Saint Nicholas could fill them with gifts during the night. In more agricultural areas, it was also customary for children to put out a small gift of food for the donkey, Saint Nicholas's mount (according to another tradition, it was a white horse).
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Borders Forest Park?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes available in Borders Forest Park, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes vary in length and difficulty, catering to different preferences and skill levels.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes in Borders Forest Park?
The routes in Borders Forest Park range from easy to difficult. You'll find 7 easy routes, 22 moderate routes, and 29 difficult routes. This variety ensures that both beginners and experienced touring cyclists can find suitable challenges.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Borders Forest Park?
The touring cycling routes in Borders Forest Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil valleys to deep green forests, and the well-maintained paths that offer both scenic beauty and engaging rides.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Borders Forest Park offers several demanding routes. One such route is the Langholm and Bentpath loop from Newcastleton, a difficult 40.7-mile (65.5 km) path with significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding experience through varied countryside.
Can I find family-friendly touring cycling routes in Borders Forest Park?
While many routes feature significant elevation changes, there are options suitable for families. The region offers varied trails, including some within the Tweed Valley Forest Park, that can be enjoyed by different cycling levels. For an easier option, consider exploring one of the 7 easy routes available, which typically feature less demanding terrain.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Borders Forest Park?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Borders Forest Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Kirklinton and Longtown loop from Newcastleton, a 43.4-mile (69.9 km) route that takes you through diverse landscapes and returns to your starting point.
What kind of landscapes and natural features can I expect to see while cycling in Borders Forest Park?
Cyclists in Borders Forest Park will experience a rich tapestry of landscapes, including rolling hillsides, tranquil valleys, and deep green forests. The region is characterized by rivers like the Tweed and serene lochs such as St Mary's Loch. You can also find stunning viewpoints like Descent through Borders Forest Park, offering panoramic vistas.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the Scottish Borders is rich in history. While cycling, you can explore historic abbeys like Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso, and Jedburgh, or visit sites such as Abbotsford House, the former home of Sir Walter Scott. Near Newcastleton, you can also find the Scotland–England Border, a significant historical marker.
What are some notable attractions or points of interest near the cycling routes?
Beyond the routes themselves, you can explore several attractions. The Newcastleton Trails offer additional cycling opportunities. Nature lovers can visit Kershope Burn, a scenic river, or the Welcome to England Bridge and Picnic Area for a break.
Is public transport available to access cycling routes in Borders Forest Park?
Public transport options exist to reach various towns within the Scottish Borders, which can serve as starting points for cycling routes. For specific information on public transport to areas like Glentress Forest Park or Newcastleton bike trails, it's advisable to check local bus and train schedules.
Are there facilities for cyclists, such as bike repair stations, in the region?
Yes, the Scottish Borders Council actively supports cycling. You can find numerous bike repair stations in various towns across the region, including Kelso, Peebles, Galashiels, and Melrose, providing convenience for touring cyclists.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Borders Forest Park?
The Scottish Borders offers a rewarding experience for touring cyclists throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer allows for longer daylight hours. However, the region's weather can be changeable, so it's always wise to be prepared for various conditions.
Most popular routes around Borders Forest Park
Most popular attractions around Borders Forest Park
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