Best mountain peaks around Hawick are found in the Scottish Borders, offering a diverse landscape of hills and historical sites. The region features distinctive peaks such as Rubers Law and the Maiden Paps, providing varied terrain for exploration. These hills are often rich in history, with archaeological remains and ancient landmarks. Visitors can experience a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage across the area's elevated points.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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The climb itself is breathtaking and largely pathless.
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This hill (323m), with a cairn, overlooks the village of Bonchester Bridge; it is also the site of a fort, so of archeological interest. Stunning views of the area from up here: you will see the summits of Rubers Law and Black Law, but I am sure the Eildon Hills will draw your keen eyes first!
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It was terrific walking here: with the hills gently rolling in front of you and the unobstructed views of the grassy slopes in front of you, and the hill of Woo Law to the south of here. Very peaceful and has the feeling of remoteness, even though you are not that far from Hawick.
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This lovely hill (424m), south of Denholm, has a hill fort and was a Roman signal station. Fantastic, far-reaching views in all directions. The black toposcope placed on top of the triangulation pillar here identifies many of the hills / landmarks visible from up here.
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This is the point where the Cross Borders Drove Road meets the track through Hartwoodmyers Forest, which is the way of both the Border Abbeys Way and the Buccleuch County Ride, as well as the Great North Trail and the Reiver Raid. Therefore you could say a rather popular junction! It also marks the summit of quite a substantial hill on these routes, so you'll be glad to reach this small plateau before enjoying the descent down the other side, no matter which direction you're approaching from.
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Black Law stands at 1,109 feet (338 metres), and can be found to the south west of Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders. By hill naming classification it is a Hump or Tump, which are terms used to name summits between 300 and 399 metres. Despite being next to a Landfill site, the climb is a beautiful one over grazed grassland, and is a feature on the Borders Abbeys Way hiking trail.
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Rubers Law is highly significant, featuring an Iron Age hill fort and evidence of a Roman signal station. Roman dressed sandstone blocks and a hoard of Roman bronze vessels have been found on its slopes. Another historical site is Bonchester Hill Cairn, which has a cairn and the remains of a fort.
Rubers Law provides expansive and wonderful views across the Scottish Borders, including the Eildon Hills, the Cheviot, and the Lammermuir Hills. From Bonchester Hill Cairn, you can also enjoy stunning views of Rubers Law and the Eildon Hills. Vertish Hill offers good views over Hawick and the surrounding area.
Yes, the Maiden Paps are a pair of twin hills located south of Hawick, instantly recognizable by their distinctive breast-like shape. The taller peak reaches 510 meters, making them a prominent landmark in the relatively flat surrounding terrain. You can learn more about them on Wikipedia.
The area around Hawick offers a variety of outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the Borders Abbeys Way: Hawick Loop or the Vertish Hill loop. Mountain biking trails include the Vertish Hill Loop and the Shankend Viaduct loop. Cycling options range from the Robertson Cycle Route to the Bonchester Bridge and Denholm loop. Find more details on hiking, MTB trails, and cycling routes around Hawick.
Yes, Vertish Hill offers a more accessible hillwalking experience directly from Hawick, with a waymarked circular walk that includes Williestruther Loch. This provides a good option for families looking for a less strenuous outing with scenic views.
Beyond the peaks themselves, you can encounter diverse natural features. Rubers Law is ideal for nature walks, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. The walk over Vertish Hill includes a visit to Williestruther Loch. Mavinsglen Forest Walks Junction is a forest highlight where several long-distance routes converge, offering a substantial hill summit and forested landscapes.
The difficulty varies. Peaks like Rubers Law and Rubers Law Summit and Trig Point are generally considered intermediate. The climb to Bonchester Hill Cairn is described as breathtaking and largely pathless, suggesting a moderate to challenging experience. Vertish Hill offers more accessible, waymarked routes suitable for easier walks.
Yes, Black Law Summit is a feature on the Borders Abbeys Way hiking trail. Additionally, Mavinsglen Forest Walks Junction marks the summit of a substantial hill where several long-distance routes, including the Border Abbeys Way and the Great North Trail, converge.
Woo Law offers a very peaceful experience with a feeling of remoteness, despite not being far from Hawick. Visitors enjoy the gently rolling hills and unobstructed views of the grassy slopes, making it a great spot for quiet contemplation and scenic walks.
While specific seasonal advice isn't provided, the tranquil atmosphere of peaks like Rubers Law makes them ideal for nature walks, picnics, and wildlife spotting during milder weather. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant conditions for hillwalking in the Scottish Borders, with vibrant landscapes and fewer extreme weather challenges than winter.
Yes, Vertish Hill is home to the Hawick Golf Club, which features an 18-hole course redesigned by James Braid, offering magnificent views and fresh air alongside recreational opportunities. The Maiden Paps are also in proximity to historical sites such as Shankend and the ancient Hermitage Castle.


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