The best walks and hikes around Heiton And Roxburgh

Yes, circular walks are very common here. Many trails are designed as loops, often taking in highlights like the River Teviot and the impressive Roxburgh Viaduct. A great example of a moderate loop that follows a former railway line is the Old Railway Line – Roxburgh Viaduct loop from Kelso.

Many trails in the region are great for walking with dogs, especially those through open countryside and along riverbanks. A locally popular spot for dog walkers is The Presidents Route, which offers numerous paths through nature. As always, please be mindful of livestock in fields and keep your dog under control.

The region offers several gentle walks perfect for a family outing. Trails that follow old railway lines are often flat and accessible. For a shorter, rewarding walk, consider the Roxburgh Viaduct loop from Roxburgh, which is just over 5 km and provides fantastic views without too much effort.

Parking is available for many of the popular routes. For walks centered around the Roxburgh Viaduct, there is often a small car park near the viaduct itself. For trails starting in or near Kelso, you will find various parking options within the town. The Presidents Route hiking area also has a dedicated, though small, car park.

Yes, after a good walk you can find refreshments nearby. The town of Kelso has a variety of pubs and cafes. For a unique experience, The Hirsel Estate, a short drive away, has a highly-regarded cafe and artisan shops, making it a great stop after exploring the surrounding trails.

The area is rich in history. Many routes feature the ruins of Roxburgh Castle, once one of Scotland's most important strongholds. You can also see the magnificent Floors Castle, Scotland's largest inhabited castle, on longer hikes. A route that combines both river and history is the River Tweed at Kelso – Kelso Abbey loop from Maxwellheugh.

There are over 130 hiking routes to explore in the Heiton and Roxburgh area. The network includes everything from short, easy riverside strolls to challenging long-distance treks, with a good mix of easy and moderate trails to choose from.

The trails around Heiton and Roxburgh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful scenery along the River Teviot, the well-maintained paths on old railway lines, and the blend of nature and local history.

Yes, a section of the famous Borders Abbeys Way runs through the region, offering a chance to explore the area's historic abbeys as part of a multi-day walk. You can hike shorter sections of it to get a taste of this iconic long-distance trail.

Trail conditions are generally good and varied. You'll find a mix of grassy riverside paths, firm tracks along old railway lines, and woodland trails through places like Bowmont Forest. Some paths by the river can be muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended.

For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Makerstoun Kirk and Floors Castle loop from Kelso — Roxburghshire is a great option. At over 20 km, this strenuous route takes you through expansive, beautiful landscapes and requires a good level of fitness.

Accessing trailheads via public transport can be challenging as the area is quite rural. The main town of Kelso has bus services that connect to other towns in the Scottish Borders, which can be a starting point for several walks. However, for many routes, particularly those starting in more remote spots, a car is more convenient.