The best hikes from bus stations around Earlston
4.6
(378)
3,074
hikers
7
hikes
Hiking around Earlston offers diverse landscapes within the Scottish Borders, characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and woodlands. The region is shaped by waterways like the Leader Water and Eden Water, providing riverside paths. Trails often feature moderate ascents to local viewpoints such as Black Hill, or lead through varied forest environments. The area also includes the iconic Eildon Hills, which offer expansive views and historical significance.
Best bus station hiking trails around Earlston
- The most popular bus station hiking…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
20.7km
05:39
320m
320m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
15
hikers
7.75km
02:13
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(4)
8
hikers
8.03km
02:20
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
9.18km
02:37
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
10.3km
02:52
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great view if the viaduct over the Tweed.
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Nice gardens in the town, honesty box for purchase of fruit and veg. Apples are good
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Really enchanting views from this spot on the Earlston Circular Path on the Carolside Estate. Gorgeous views of Black Hill and Blinkbonny Hill. Beautiful, green, and at the right time in the autumn, you get an Impressionist leaves colour attack!
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A very pleasant walk past these two lovely lochs. These have no names on OS Maps, so the name Byres Lochs is a tentative one after the settlement of Easter Housebyres just down the road from here. It's a lovely place to stop on the side of the track, too, and there are some trees to provide you with shade should you need it.
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Trimontium Roman Fort was discovered in what is now farmland at this site. There was the northernmost (in Britain) Roman amphitheatre here, still visible in as a grassy hollow. The site was discovered in the early 1900s by a local amateur archeologist James Curle. There is a good information board here as well as an observation tower, which, incidentally (or not so incidentally?), provides great views to the north of the Leaderfoot Viaduct.
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This is a very impressive place to be - there are three bridges here: you are standing on the Drygrange Old Bridge; to the west is the Leaderfoot Viaduct (or the Drygrange Viaduct), and to the east is the new Leaderfoot Bridge. The Drygrange Viaduct took two years to build. Completed in 1865, it was built for the Berwickshire Railway for the line between St Boswells and Renton. The line closed in 1948, and the Viaduct is now maintained by Historic Scotland. The combination of the two bridges is a very striking sight indeed.
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Truly superb views of Black Hill from the walk along Leader Water, rising surprisingly fast up to the east!
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Behold the awe-inspiring sight of the weathered ruins of Melrose Abbey. This impressive structure, founded by David I in 1136 for the esteemed Cistercian Order, stands as a testament to the early mastery of masonry. Sadly, in 1385, Richard II's army ravaged much of the abbey, but its remnants remain a captivating sight to behold. The abbey is open daily between 9:30am-5:30pm and charges a fee of £6.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible directly from bus stations in Earlston?
There are over 120 hiking trails around Earlston that you can start directly from a bus station. This makes it incredibly convenient to explore the Scottish Borders without needing a car.
What do hikers say about the bus station trails around Earlston?
The bus station trails around Earlston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 350 ratings. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and riverside paths along the Leader Water to the rewarding views from local viewpoints like Black Hill.
Are there any easy or family-friendly bus station hikes in Earlston?
Yes, Earlston offers plenty of easy and family-friendly options. More than 50 of the bus station accessible routes are rated as easy, providing gentle strolls through woodlands and along rivers. Many of these paths are suitable for families looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Can I find challenging hikes from Earlston's bus stations?
Absolutely. For those seeking a more demanding adventure, there are several difficult routes available. One notable option is the Melrose Abbey and Trimontium Roman Fort loop from Earlston, which covers over 20 kilometers and includes significant elevation gain, leading to historic sites and offering expansive views.
Are there any circular routes starting from bus stations in Earlston?
Yes, many of the bus station accessible trails around Earlston are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. A popular choice is the Black Hill Summit Trig Point loop from Earlston, which offers rewarding views after a moderate ascent and brings you back to the village.
What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see on these hikes?
The trails offer a variety of natural features. You can enjoy peaceful riverside walks along the Leader Water, explore diverse woodlands with Larch, Scots pine, and Douglas fir trees, and spot local wildlife. For panoramic views, consider routes that ascend to Eildon Hill North or Eildon Mid Hill Summit, which provide breathtaking vistas of the Scottish Borders.
Are there historical landmarks or attractions along the bus station hiking trails?
Yes, several routes incorporate historical landmarks. You can hike to the impressive Melrose Abbey and the site of the Trimontium Roman Fort. Another route passes the historic Leaderfoot Viaduct, an iconic structure over the River Tweed. In Earlston itself, the ruins of Rhymer's Tower add a historical touch to the village.
Are the bus station hikes around Earlston dog-friendly?
Many of the trails around Earlston are suitable for dogs, especially those that follow riverside paths or woodland tracks. However, always keep dogs under control, particularly when passing through farmland with livestock. It's advisable to check specific route details for any restrictions or requirements.
When is the best time of year to hike from Earlston's bus stations?
The Scottish Borders offer beautiful hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and active wildlife, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, and even winter can be rewarding with crisp air and unique scenery, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there places to eat or drink near the bus stations in Earlston?
Earlston village itself offers options for refreshments, including cafes and pubs where you can enjoy a meal or a drink before or after your hike. These establishments are conveniently located within walking distance of the main bus stops, making it easy to refuel.
Can I explore woodlands on a bus-accessible hike?
Yes, many trails lead through varied woodlands, offering a chance to experience the region's natural beauty. For example, the Carolsidehill Wood loop from Earlston provides a pleasant walk through forested areas, where you might spot various bird species like songbirds, great tits, and buzzards.
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