4.5
(410)
3,400
hikers
232
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Maxton And Mertoun traverse a landscape characterized by the meandering River Tweed, gentle hills, and extensive woodlands. The region offers a mix of open farmland and scenic riverbanks, providing varied terrain for outdoor exploration. Many routes follow the River Tweed, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, offering opportunities for wildlife observation. The area's topography makes it suitable for easy walks, with modest elevation changes across its trails.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.3
(3)
14
hikers
7.33km
01:59
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(3)
17
hikers
6.73km
01:46
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(6)
9
hikers
5.09km
01:21
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
9
hikers
6.73km
01:51
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Here it goes up and down, over hill and dale, tree roots, rhubarb, some simple bathing spots, stairs, bridges... Good footwear is necessary, then it's fun
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The Orchard Gate, built by the Earl of Buchanan around 1811 – the Middle Ages were long gone! It's essentially a folly... a building without a purpose, simply the entrance to the orchard. The Earl dedicated it to his beloved parents – so says the Latin inscription.
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Quite a pretty bridge for cars. No footpath! You have to walk on the road here! Steep steps lead up from the river.
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The statue is located on the Bemersyde Estate and can be accessed via a pleasant woodland walk from a free car park off the road.
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this exists irl and it did not collapse when we cycled over it. it made an interesting and exciting noise as we rode across
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the legend of Thomas the Rhymer is a very twee story and perfect introduction to the Story of Scotland and his influence on Scottish literature (Sir Walter Scott) and History
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From Leaderfoot Bridge, you can enjoy impressive views of the Drygrange Viaduct, which took two years to complete. Finished in 1865, it was part of the Berwickshire Railway connecting St Boswells and Renton. Although the line closed in 1948, Historic Scotland now maintains the viaduct. Together with Leaderfoot Bridge, the two structures create a striking and memorable sight.
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Maxton and Mertoun offer a wide selection of easy hiking trails. You'll find over 110 routes specifically categorized as easy, providing plenty of options for gentle walks through the Scottish Borders.
The easy hikes in Maxton and Mertoun traverse a diverse landscape featuring the meandering River Tweed, gentle hills, and extensive woodlands. You'll experience a mix of open farmland and scenic riverbanks, with modest elevation changes, making for pleasant and accessible outdoor exploration.
The easy trails in Maxton and Mertoun are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from nearly 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil riverside paths, the well-maintained routes through woodlands, and the historical points of interest along the way.
Yes, several easy hikes pass by significant historical landmarks. For instance, the Old Melrose Summerhouse and Old Melrose Tea Rooms loop from Peasehill leads through woodlands and past the historic Old Melrose Summerhouse. Another route, the Drygrange Viaduct – Leaderfoot Viaduct loop from Newstead, offers views of impressive historic viaducts over the River Tweed. You can also explore routes near Dryburgh Abbey, a significant ruin, or the Mertoun Estate with its historic house and dovecot.
While the easy trails generally feature gentle terrain, many offer picturesque views, particularly along the River Tweed. For more expansive panoramic views, the nearby Eildon Mid Hill Summit offers rewarding vistas, though reaching it involves a more challenging ascent than typical easy routes.
Yes, you can find natural features like waterfalls nearby. The Stichill Linn Waterfall is a notable natural monument in the vicinity that can be incorporated into a longer walk or visited separately.
Absolutely. The River Tweed is a central feature of the area, and many easy hiking routes follow its course. The Crystal Well Pump House – Mertoun Bridge loop from St Boswells is a great example, offering pleasant riverside paths near the Mertoun Estate. These routes provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the tranquil waters.
Yes, the easy hiking trails are generally very suitable for families. With their modest elevation changes and well-defined paths, many routes offer a pleasant experience for all ages. The varied landscapes of woodlands and riverbanks provide engaging scenery for children.
Most easy trails in Maxton and Mertoun are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion. However, please be mindful that some routes may pass through farmland where livestock are present, so keeping dogs on a lead is often required. Always follow local signage and keep your dog under control.
Yes, many of the easy hiking options in Maxton and Mertoun are circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. Examples include the Dryburgh Abbey Ruins – Temple of the Muses loop from Dryburgh and the Temple of the Muses – Dryburgh Suspension Bridge loop from Dryburgh.
Maxton and Mertoun offer enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, and even winter can be beautiful with crisp air and potential for frosty landscapes, especially along the River Tweed. Always check weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments near some of the easy trails. The Old Melrose Summerhouse and Old Melrose Tea Rooms loop from Peasehill, for example, passes by the Old Melrose Tea Rooms, offering a convenient stop. Several villages in the area also have local pubs and cafes.


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