The best walks and hikes around Floors, Makerstoun, Nenthorn And Smailholm

The region offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with nearly 170 routes available on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, ensuring options for all fitness levels.

Hikers can expect a diverse landscape featuring rolling agricultural land, tranquil riverside paths along the River Tweed and Eden Water, and extensive woodlands. Many paths also traverse working farms, offering varied scenery and glimpses into rural life.

Yes, the area provides many routes suitable for families. With 83 easy trails available, you can find gentle walks through woodlands or along riverbanks. For example, the grounds of Floors Castle offer wonderful woodland and riverside walks that are great for families.

Many trails in Floors, Makerstoun, Nenthorn, and Smailholm are dog-friendly. However, as many paths cross working farmland, it's essential to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock, and to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Always check specific route details for any restrictions.

The region is rich in history. You can explore the impressive 15th-century Smailholm Tower, which offers wide views over the countryside. The Smailholm Tower and Lady Hill loop from Smailholm is a great way to experience this. Other notable sites include the grand Floors Castle and its extensive grounds, and the Waterloo Monument on Peniel Heugh, which provides beautiful panoramic views.

Yes, the area boasts the picturesque Stichill Linn waterfall. You can discover it on the Stichill Linn loop from Mill Haugh — Roxburghshire, a moderate trail that leads through woods and along the Eden Water.

Many routes in the region are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Smailholm Tower and Lady Hill loop from Smailholm, offering panoramic views. Another is the Borders Abbeys Way: Roxburgh and Kelso Loop, which follows a section of the long-distance path.

While much of the area features rolling hills, there are routes that offer more significant elevation. The Eildon Hills, for instance, provide rewarding experiences with climbs to summits like Eildon Mid Hill Summit, offering extensive views. For a longer, more difficult option, consider the Makerstoun Kirk and Floors Castle loop from Kelso.

The hiking trails in Floors, Makerstoun, Nenthorn, and Smailholm are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 340 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the historical sites along the way, and the stunning views, particularly from elevated points like the Eildon Hills.

Absolutely. Besides Smailholm Tower and Floors Castle, you can explore routes that take you near other historical sites. The Hume Castle and Sweethope Hill loop from Stichill offers views of Hume Castle. Additionally, the wider region includes sites like Melrose Abbey, a short distance from the Eildon Hills, adding to the historical allure.

For breathtaking panoramic views, consider hiking to the Eildon Mid Hill Summit, which overlooks the surrounding countryside and towards Melrose. The battlements of Smailholm Tower also provide excellent vistas, as does the Waterloo Monument on Peniel Heugh.