The best walks and hikes around Parish Of Stow
4.6
(134)
1,511
hikers
87
hikes
Hikes and walking trails in Stow are set within the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders. The landscape is primarily defined by the Gala Water valley, which provides a scenic setting for many routes. The area's terrain includes gentle riverside paths, ascents into the surrounding hills, and access to historical sites, offering a variety of walking experiences.
Best hiking trails around Parish Of Stow
- The most popular hiking route is the Chester Hill and Lauder Burn loop from Lauder — Roxburghshire, a 3.0 mile (4.8 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to complete. This is an easy route with gentle elevation changes.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Buckholme Tower and Ladhope Moor loop from Heatheryett — Roxburghshire, a moderate 7.3 mile (11.7 km) path. The route involves more significant climbing and offers wider views across the moorland.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Abbotsford & Gala Hill loop from Galashiels, a 7.7 mile (12.5 km) trail leading through the Gala Water valley, often completed in about 3 hours 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Parish Of Stow is defined by rolling hills, riverside paths along the Gala Water, and moorland tracks. The network of trails provides options for different ability levels, from short, easy walks to more demanding hikes.
- The routes in Parish Of Stow are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 100 reviews. More than 1,400 hikers have used komoot to explore Parish Of Stow's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
4.79km
01:20
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
11.7km
03:21
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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5.0
(1)
5
hikers
12.5km
03:39
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
22.3km
07:00
870m
870m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
25.1km
06:59
470m
470m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
The gardens are described as outdoor rooms within high walls. These include the South Court, Morris Garden, and Walled Garden. The estate is open to the public, offering visitors the chance to explore the historic house, gardens, and surrounding woodlands.
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Abbotsford House served as both a family home and a workspace for Sir Walter Scott, housing his study, library, and collections of artifacts. He designed the house in the Scots Baronial style and filled it with books and historical objects.
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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 writer, who was 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 deepest sayings come from the lips of poor and uneducated women and men. Things often come to light that are perhaps only found more sublime and moving in the Bible. Even the poet will only fulfill his true calling if he recognizes everything that is not a true inner education of the heart as vain and worthless." (Text from https://www.deutschlandfunk.de/250-geburtstag-des-schriftstellers-wie-sir-walter-scott-den-100.html )
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An absolute highlight. The house is worth a look. The weapons collection is worth seeing. The garden is lovingly laid out and very well maintained.
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At just under 980 feet (300 metres), this cairn provides great views over Galashiels and Balmoral. Lower than some of the more famous hiking spots, it makes for a great hike that can be completed in a couple of hours. The Galashiels/Tweedbank area is a haven for hiking in Scotland, with multiple great peaks in one area. Galashiels is easily accessible by train so it's a fantastic place to start a hike up the New Cairn.
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Chester Hill, just outside the town of Lauder, is on the Souther Upland Way long-distance trail. There is a cairn on top (cairns are always good to rest your backpack against), and the spot offer wonderful views over Lauderdale.
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Fabulous views from up here; one of the most amazing views from a hill in the Scottish Borders - panoramic splendour anywhere you look! If you are wondering why there are three cairns here, these were put in the 1500s to mark the meeting of the estate lands belonging to the lairds of Selkirk, Philliphaugh and Yair.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around the Parish of Stow?
The landscape is characterized by the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders and the scenic Gala Water valley. You'll find a mix of gentle riverside paths, peaceful moorland tracks, and ascents into the hills that offer expansive views of the surrounding countryside.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly walks in the area?
Yes, there are plenty of options for beginners or those looking for a gentle stroll. The area offers over 25 easy routes. A great example is the Chester Hill and Lauder Burn loop, which is a relatively short and flat walk with lovely views.
I'm looking for a more challenging, long-distance hike. What's available?
For experienced hikers, the region offers several demanding routes. The Three Brethren loop from Galashiels is a great choice, featuring significant elevation gain and rewarding you with stunning panoramic views from the iconic cairns.
Are the walking trails around Stow suitable for dogs?
Many trails in the Parish of Stow are suitable for hiking with a dog. The paths along the Gala Water and through the surrounding hills offer great open spaces. However, you will be walking through farmland with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead and under control at all times.
Can I find any circular walks starting from or near Stow?
Yes, circular routes are very common in the area, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. The Buckholme Tower and Ladhope Moor loop is a popular moderate circular walk that takes you across varied terrain.
Are there any historical or archaeological sites to see on the walks?
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. Many trails pass by significant landmarks. For instance, you can find routes that lead to the ruins of Bow Castle Broch, an ancient stone tower, or St Mary's Well, a restored holy well. The Thirlestane Castle & Dabshead Hill loop also offers a fantastic combination of history and hiking.
How do other hikers rate the trails around the Parish of Stow?
The hiking routes in this region are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful scenery of the Gala Water valley and the mix of gentle and challenging terrain available.
Is it possible to get to the trailheads using public transport?
Yes, the village of Stow has a station on the Borders Railway line, which provides a direct link from Edinburgh. This makes it a convenient base for accessing many local walks without a car. Nearby towns like Galashiels also have good transport connections.
Where can I find parking for the walks?
The village of Stow has on-street parking and a small car park near the train station which can be used as a starting point for many local hikes. For routes starting in nearby towns like Lauder or Galashiels, you will find designated public car parks.
Are there any walks that connect Stow with other nearby towns?
Yes, there are paths connecting the towns and villages in the region. A popular route for those looking for a valley walk is the Abbotsford & Gala Hill loop from Galashiels, which explores the area between Stow and Galashiels, including the historic Abbotsford House.
How many hiking routes are available in total around the Parish of Stow?
There are over 90 designated hiking routes to explore around the Parish of Stow. These range from about 25 easy walks perfect for families to over 50 moderate trails and a selection of difficult hikes for those seeking a challenge.
Most popular attractions around Parish Of Stow
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