The best walks and hikes around Hawick

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. The landscape of rolling hills and river valleys means most trails are designed as loops, starting and ending in convenient locations. You can find everything from short, family-friendly circuits to more demanding all-day treks that bring you back to your starting point.

For an easy and engaging walk with the family, consider the route through The Horse Statue and Waverley Walk. It's a gentle 7 km trail that explores the popular Wilton Lodge Park. The park itself is a local favourite, offering tree-lined paths along the River Teviot and plenty of space for kids to enjoy.

Most trails around Hawick are great for walking with a dog, especially through the open hills and forests. However, you will be crossing farmland with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. A good option is the Help Hill Path loop, which offers wide tracks and expansive views where your dog can explore safely under your control.

Absolutely. There are plenty of shorter options for a quick outing. The area has over 20 easy-rated hikes, many of which are under 5 miles. A great example is a walk within Wilton Lodge Park, which has numerous well-maintained paths perfect for a gentle stroll. You can also find short but rewarding climbs like the one at Miller's Knowes Recreation Ground, which offers fantastic views over the town.

Hawick is a great base for tackling longer trails. The 52-mile Romans and Reivers Route, suitable for walkers and cyclists, actually finishes in the town. You can also easily access sections of the 68-mile Borders Abbeys Way. For a truly challenging day out, the Shielswood Loch and Drinkstone Hill loop is a demanding 22.5 km hike that requires good fitness.

You'll find a wide variety of trails to choose from, with over 50 curated hiking routes available on komoot. These range from 24 easy walks perfect for a relaxed afternoon to 25 moderate routes for those seeking more of a challenge, and even a couple of difficult trails for experienced hikers.

Yes, you can hike to Wolfcleuch Waterfall in Craik Forest. While it's a beautiful spot, be aware that local walkers note the path isn't always clearly signposted, so having a map or GPS is recommended. The effort is rewarded with a visit to a lovely, quiet waterfall.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning views over the rolling Border hills, the tranquility of the river paths along the Teviot, and the mix of well-marked trails and more adventurous routes.

Yes, the region offers some strenuous routes. For a tough but rewarding hike with significant elevation gain, consider the Vertish Hill loop. It's an 8.7 km trail that provides a good fitness challenge with excellent views as a payoff. For an even longer day, you can explore the remote Cheviot Hills, which offer rugged terrain and a true sense of wilderness.

The local council maintains a series of designated trails. For detailed leaflets and maps of the 13 official 'Paths around Hawick', which range from 2 to 8 miles, you can check the council's website. More information is available at scotborders.gov.uk.

Definitely. The landscape is dotted with scenic lochs. A great option for this is the Alton Loch and Leahead Loch loop. This moderate 17.8 km hike takes you through the countryside with beautiful views over the water, offering a peaceful and scenic experience.