4.4
(144)
1,088
hikers
54
hikes
Hiking around Gordon And Westruther offers diverse landscapes within the Scottish Borders, characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and historical landmarks. The region encompasses the lower slopes of the Lammermuir Hills, providing moderate elevation changes and open views. Key natural features include the Watch Water Reservoir, the Eden Water, and the prominent River Tweed, which define many of the area's trails. Distinctive hills like Duns Law and the wider Eildon Hills also contribute to the varied terrain.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
3.0
(2)
11
hikers
10.8km
03:00
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
12.5km
03:21
140m
140m
Hike the 7.8-mile Smailholm Tower and Lady Hill loop in Roxburghshire, a moderate route with historical landmarks and panoramic views.

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17.8km
04:48
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
18.5km
05:07
330m
330m
Hike the difficult 11.5-mile Earlston and Southern Upland Way Circular, gaining 1071 feet with diverse scenery and challenging terrain.
18
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The two cairns of Twin Law(s) are located along the Southern Upland Way. On a clear day, they offer expansive views over the rolling hills of the Borders. One of the cairns has a single-person shelter from the wind, and a guest book is also located there.
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Hume Castle is a historic fortress located near the village of Hume. Built in the 13th century by the influential Home family, it served as a strategic defensive stronghold in a turbulent border region between Scotland and England. Today you can explore its ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
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The first church on this site existed already in the 10th century, but has been rebuilt on many occasions since. The church graveyard has some very interesting stones, but perhaps the most beautiful of all is the flower carpet of Allium paradoxum (when in bloom) in the churchyard. Stunning!
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An easy hill to climb up to (223m), with great views of the surrounding countryside - nice, far-reaching views, and a tree on the summit to rest and appreciate life for throwing these lovely moments for you to enjoy.
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Although the first castle was here already in the 13th century, the present Hume Castle was erected in 1794 by the Earl of Marchmont - as a folly. There are terrific views of the surrounding countryside from the castle - worth getting up there.
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This is a very beautiful path along the south bank of Eden Water within the Newton Don Estate. Very green and incredibly peaceful, and much much better than at the Southbank Centre in London, if you ask me!
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A very impressive, 40ft tall waterfall on Eden Water. Tucked away in a way, as you would expect this kind of thing in the Highlands, not necessarily in the gentler, less dramatic area such as the Borders, but there it is!
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Really enchanting views from this spot on the Earlston Circular Path on the Carolside Estate. Gorgeous views of Black Hill and Blinkbonny Hill. Beautiful, green, and at the right time in the autumn, you get an Impressionist leaves colour attack!
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There are over 50 hiking routes in the Gordon And Westruther area, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include easy riverside paths, moderate hill climbs, and some more challenging long-distance options.
The trails in Gordon And Westruther are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 130 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the varied terrain, from rolling hills to tranquil river valleys, and the blend of natural beauty with historical landmarks like Smailholm Tower.
Yes, the region offers many family-friendly routes. There are 25 easy trails, perfect for all ages. A great option is the Eden Water Riverside Path – Stichill Linn Waterfall loop from Stichill, which is relatively flat and features the picturesque Stichill Linn Waterfall.
Absolutely! The Eden Water Riverside Path – Stichill Linn Waterfall loop from Stichill takes you directly to the impressive 40ft Stichill Linn Waterfall, a surprising natural gem in the Borders.
The region is rich in history. You can hike to the well-preserved 15th-century Smailholm Tower on the Smailholm Tower and Lady Hill loop from Smailholm. Another option is the Hume Castle and Sweethope Hill loop from Stichill, which includes the historic Hume Castle. Duns Law, an ancient Iron Age hill fort, also offers a historical element to walks near Duns.
Yes, many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Twin Law loop from Watch Water Reservoir — Lammermuir Hills is a popular circular trail offering scenic views.
Yes, the Scottish Borders region, including areas around Gordon and Westruther, integrates into larger trail networks. The Earlston and Southern Upland Way Circular incorporates a section of the Southern Upland Way, Scotland's second-longest coast-to-coast footpath, ideal for those looking for longer adventures.
Hikers can enjoy diverse natural features. The Lammermuir Hills offer rolling landscapes and open views, while river valleys like the Eden Water provide tranquil riverside paths. Notable bodies of water include the Watch Water Reservoir and Hen Poo Lake. The prominent River Tweed is also a significant natural landmark in the wider region.
Many trails offer panoramic views, especially from higher elevations in the Lammermuir Hills. The Twin Law loop from Watch Water Reservoir provides excellent vistas across the Lammermuir Hills. Additionally, the Eildon Hills, though slightly further afield, are known for their panoramic views from their distinctive trio of peaks.
The Scottish Borders offer enjoyable hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and summer bring wildflowers and longer daylight hours, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Always check local weather forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly, especially in the hills.
While Gordon and Westruther are smaller villages, the wider Scottish Borders region has various amenities. It's advisable to check specific village offerings or plan your route to pass through larger towns like Duns or Melrose for cafes, pubs, and accommodation.
The terrain varies from gentle, flat riverside paths to more undulating routes through rolling hills. You'll find a good mix of difficulty levels: 25 easy trails, 27 moderate, and 5 difficult. Most trails are well-managed and largely off-road, suitable for walkers of different abilities.


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