The best walks and hikes in Upper Tweeddale

Yes, many trails in Upper Tweeddale are suitable for dogs. However, it's a region with active livestock farming and ground-nesting birds, so it's crucial to keep your dog under close control, especially during lambing season in the spring. The Hammer Head loop offers a varied walk through woodland and fields where you can enjoy the scenery with your canine companion.

For a gentler experience, consider exploring the trails within the Tweed Valley Forest Park or a walk around Dawyck Botanic Garden. The region has 5 easy-rated routes. A great option is a walk along the River Tweed near Peebles, which is relatively flat and offers lovely scenery without a strenuous climb.

Yes, the village of Broughton is an excellent base for a walk followed by refreshments. After tackling a hill walk in the Broughton Heights, you can visit the community-run Wee Crook Café or the Broughton Ales brewery. This makes for a perfect day out combining hiking with local hospitality.

While the region is defined more by its rolling hills and the River Tweed, you can find charming water features along its many burns (streams). The Stanhope Burn loop follows one such stream, offering the peaceful sound of running water as you hike through a mix of open country and forest.

Most trailheads, especially for the popular hill walks like those in the Broughton Heights, are best accessed by car. You'll find dedicated car parks at the start of many routes. For example, Glentress in the Tweed Valley Forest Park has a large parking area, though it can be busy. It's always a good idea to arrive early and have some coins for parking meters, just in case.

For a quintessential Borders hill walk, the Trahenna Hill & Broughton Heights loop is a fantastic choice. This route provides the open, expansive moorland and panoramic views that the area is famous for. It's a moderately challenging hike that rewards your effort with a true sense of the Upper Tweeddale landscape.

Yes, the John Buchan Way is a notable 14-mile linear route that runs from Broughton to Peebles. It allows you to walk in the footsteps of the famous author, passing through the scenic countryside that inspired his writing. The trail offers a great way to experience a significant portion of the National Scenic Area.

If you're looking for a serious challenge, the Dun Rig loop is the only difficult-rated hike in our collection. This demanding 22-mile (36 km) route involves significant elevation gain and requires a full day, good fitness, and navigational skills. It's a rewarding trek for experienced hillwalkers.

The hiking routes in Upper Tweeddale are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the hilltops, the peaceful riverside paths, and the variety of terrain from dense forests to open moorland.

In line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, wild camping is generally permitted in Upper Tweeddale. However, you must do so responsibly. This means camping away from roads and buildings, leaving no trace, and avoiding enclosed fields with crops or livestock. The expansive hills offer many suitable spots for a respectful overnight stay.

The Tweed Valley Forest Park, which includes the popular Glentress area, offers a wide network of trails. While it's famous for mountain biking, there are also numerous well-marked walking paths. These range from easy, family-friendly strolls to more strenuous climbs through the forest, often providing excellent views over the valley.