The best cycling routes around Kirkhouse Forest
4.5
(52)
1,902
riders
56
rides
Touring cycling routes around Kirkhouse Forest traverse a landscape characterized by varied terrain, including both paved and unpaved surfaces. The region features elevated areas, such as those suggested by route names like "Hill of Marcus" and "Tappie Tower" in the broader context of Kirkhill Forest, which offer views. The forest environment provides a natural setting for cycling, with tracks suitable for different bike types. The area's routes often extend beyond the immediate forest, connecting to nearby towns and coastal areas.
…Last updated: September 1, 2026
37
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
68.4km
06:18
1,560m
1,560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
14
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
22
riders
74.2km
04:38
840m
840m
If you're looking for a challenging touring cycling adventure, the Innerleithen to Tweedbank loop via Abbotsford offers a difficult 46.1-mile (74.2 km) journey through the varied landscapes of the Scottish…
5.0
(3)
198
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
For Goethe, Walter Scott's books were "the best things ever written in the world." With his historical novels, such as the one about the knight Ivanhoe, the Scottish author, born 250 years ago, was one of the most famous authors of his time. Quote from Walter Scott: "I have read enough books to know that the most profound utterances come from the lips of poor and uneducated women and men. Things often come to light there that are perhaps more sublime and moving only in the Bible. Even the poet will only fulfill his true calling if he recognizes everything as vain and worthless that is not a true inner cultivation of the heart." (Text from https://www.deutschlandfunk.de/250-geburtstag-des-schriftstellers-wie-sir-walter-scott-den-100.html ) From the spot marked here as a highlight, passersby can only see it from a distance, but the property itself is of course also included in the koomot system, see => https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/4525502
0
0
The tarmac cycle path following the river Tweed from Glentress makes Innerleithen super accessible which in turn provides you with free range to pedal the ‘old’ XC & DH trails, it also provides easy access to the current ‘trendy’ gravity orientated hot spot of Golfie, named so, as it’s situated above the golf course. First off the Old XC, (starts from the carpark over the bridge by the river) it was very sad to see the current trashed & sorry state of what appears to be the forgotten XC Trail, after having ridden it many times since the early eighties! The long climb at the start is currently cut short & diverted with no access up to the top from what I could see? The remainder of the trails are just trashed with the mighty Caddon Bank DH a shadow of its former self. Golfie is an easy pedal across the village with some great coffee stop opportunities enroute. One in particular Findra on the high st deserves a Big shout out, it’s stylish, MTB rider (muddy bum) friendly, sells fantastic coffee & food has uber cool curated music. Oh it also sells very cool artisan made clothing. There are others in the village which all look fab but Findra was the one we stopped at. The Findra staff ride mountain bikes, are super friendly & great for local riding knowledge 😉👍 Golfie is a short pedal through the village towards the Golf club & then a longish pedal up a Forest road with ‘natural’ trails spilling off the side of the hill in varying degrees of difficulty. Be prepared for full on gnar, chunder, roots, very steep drop offs & lots n lots of muddy gloop if the weather has not been kind. No manicured trails here! If you keep pedalling you’ll eventually reach the old reservoir where the views are magnificent & several trail go off in several directions. My advice, if it’s your first time riding Golfie try & take someone who’s ridden it before as some of the trails start off very benign but then transform like Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde! Wear body armour that allows you to pedal, but all the same wear body armour😜👍
1
0
Connecting the 7 staines. You can bike from Walkerburn, Innerleithen and Glentress on this path.
0
0
Amazing view of the countryside.
0
0
A great spot to view the town below, have a break and take some pictures of the beautiful scottish countryside.
0
0
Beautiful views over the local town - great spot for a rest, pictures and to admire the landscape.
0
0
Some of the best gravel I've seen in the borders. Great fun downhill, might be a bit boring on the way up
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Kirkhouse Forest, and what are their difficulty levels?
Kirkhouse Forest offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 60 options to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 13 easy, 18 moderate, and 32 difficult trails, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Kirkhouse Forest?
The touring cycling routes around Kirkhouse Forest feature a diverse landscape with both paved and unpaved surfaces. You'll encounter varied terrain, including forest tracks and elevated sections that provide a dynamic riding experience. Some routes also connect to river valleys and nearby towns.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Kirkhouse Forest?
While the provided data indicates a majority of moderate to difficult routes, the region research suggests that many forest tracks are ideal for leisure cycling. For families, it's best to look for the 13 routes categorized as 'easy' within the area, which are likely to offer more gentle terrain suitable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on touring cycling routes in Kirkhouse Forest?
Generally, Scottish forests like Kirkhouse Forest are welcoming to dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors. While specific dog-friendly routes aren't listed, the quiet nature of cycling can make it an enjoyable activity to share with your canine companion on many of the forest tracks.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available in Kirkhouse Forest?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Kirkhouse Forest are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. For example, the difficult route, Riverside Path – Tweed Valley Railway Path loop from Traquair, is a popular circular option covering 33.4 miles (53.8 km).
What scenic viewpoints or natural features can I discover while cycling in Kirkhouse Forest?
Cycling through Kirkhouse Forest allows you to experience lush woodlands and varied natural beauty. The region research mentions elevated areas, such as those suggested by names like 'Hill of Marcus' and 'Tappie Tower,' which offer potential scenic views. You might also spot local wildlife due to the quiet nature of cycling.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, some routes are designed with refreshment stops in mind. For instance, the difficult No. 1 Peebles Road Café loop from Innerleithen directly incorporates a cafe into its name, suggesting convenient access to refreshments. The moderate No1 Peebles Road Café – Tweed Valley Railway Path loop from Innerleithen also offers a similar opportunity.
What is the typical distance and duration for touring cycling routes in Kirkhouse Forest?
The routes vary significantly in length and duration. For example, the difficult Stone Bridge with Gateposts – View of Innerleithen loop from Innerleithen is 15.6 miles (25.1 km) and takes about 2 hours 30 minutes, while the difficult Innerleithen to Tweedbank loop via Abbotsford spans 46.1 miles (74.2 km) and typically takes around 4 hours 38 minutes.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Kirkhouse Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 45 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes forest tracks and elevated sections, and the connections to river valleys, offering diverse and engaging rides.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Kirkhouse Forest?
While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, Scottish forests generally offer pleasant cycling conditions from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming flora, summer offers longer daylight hours, and autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Winter cycling is possible but may require more preparation for colder weather and potentially wet or icy conditions on unpaved tracks.
Are there any routes that connect to nearby towns or coastal areas?
Yes, some routes extend beyond the immediate forest environment. The region research indicates opportunities to combine forest cycling with visits to nearby towns and coastal areas, suggesting routes that link the natural forest setting with broader regional attractions.
Most popular routes around Kirkhouse Forest
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
