The best walks and hikes around Royal Burgh Of Selkirk And District

The Royal Burgh Of Selkirk And District offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from easy strolls to more demanding routes. You'll find paths through rolling hills, along river valleys like the Ettrick and Yarrow, around tranquil lochs such as St. Mary's Loch and Lindean Loch, and through open moorland and wooded areas. There are over 35 routes available, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, there are several easy and family-friendly options. The Cottage Wood and Haining Loch loop from Selkirk is an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) trail that takes you through woodlands and around Haining Loch, perfect for a relaxed outing. The Haining Estate itself offers atmospheric walks around its loch and woodlands. Additionally, the Selkirk Riverside provides gentle, flat walks along the Ettrick Water.

Many of the trails in the region are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate option is The Three Brethren loop from Three Brethren Carpark, which is 6.0 miles (9.6 km) and offers panoramic views. Another circular route is the Lindean Loch Nature Reserve and Gala Rig loop, which is a moderate 9.5-mile (9.6 km) path.

The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore the historic cairns along The Three Brethren loop, or discover local history on the Tibby Tamson burial grave and Harehead Hill loop. For broader views, Selkirk Hill offers paths with views towards the Eildons, including Eildon Hill North and Eildon Mid Hill Summit. The 'Ring O' The Toun' walk within Selkirk itself covers many of the town's historic sights.

Yes, Selkirk is well-positioned for long-distance hikers. It provides connections to the 68-mile Borders Abbeys Way and the 212-mile Southern Upland Way, with the latter passing through the scenic Yarrow Valley. These routes offer more ambitious challenges for experienced hikers.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from rolling hills and river valleys to tranquil lochs and ancient woodlands, as well as the splendid panoramic views, particularly from higher points like Linglee Hill and Fouldshiels Hill.

Many trails, such as those leading to the Three Brethren, have designated car parks like the Three Brethren Carpark. For walks closer to Selkirk town, parking is generally available within the town itself, providing access to routes like the Haining Estate walks or the 'Ring O' The Toun' trail. It's always advisable to check specific route details for parking information.

The diverse landscapes of the Royal Burgh Of Selkirk And District offer good opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Ettrick Water, a tributary of the River Tweed, is known for salmon, and you might even see them leaping during spawning season at the Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre. Mauldsheugh Wood is a community wildlife project, providing a natural oasis for various species. Lindean Loch Nature Reserve also supports diverse wildlife.

The Scottish Borders offer beautiful hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer provides longer daylight hours and generally milder weather. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant fall colours across the valleys and woodlands. Even winter offers crisp, clear days for hiking, though some higher or more exposed routes may require more preparation due to weather conditions.

Absolutely. The region is defined by its waterways. The Cottage Wood and Haining Loch loop takes you around Haining Loch. The Lindean Loch Nature Reserve loop also features a loch. The Ettrick Water flows through the area, offering numerous riverside paths, including gentle, flat walks along the Selkirk Riverside. St. Mary's Loch, the largest body of water in the south of Scotland, is also a tranquil spot for walks.

For additional information on local paths and walking guides around Selkirk, you can consult resources provided by the local council. For example, the Scottish Borders Council offers details on paths around Selkirk and a specific Selkirk walking guide.