The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Innerleithen And District
4.4
(375)
3,899
hikers
35
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Innerleithen And District traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, meandering rivers, and expansive woodlands within the Tweed Valley. The region features prominent hills such as Lee Pen and Pirn Hill, offering engaging ascents and panoramic views. The River Tweed and Leithen Water provide picturesque riverside paths, while forests like Cardrona Forest and Caberston Forest contribute to varied terrain. This area offers a network of well-maintained trails suitable for a range of abilities.
Best family…
Last updated: October 10, 2026
4.0
(4)
14
hikers
7.78km
02:30
310m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(9)
74
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
114
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
31
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
20
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Innerleithen And District
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Tips from the Community
This excursion from the Southern Upland Way and the Cross Borders Drove Road is well worth the effort. On a clear day, you can see the hills surrounding the Tweed and Yarrow valleys. It's a special feeling, standing in a place where travelers, shepherds, and (Roman) armies passed through centuries ago.
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The tarmac cycle path following the river Tweed from Glentress makes Innerleithen super accessible which in turn provides you with free range to pedal the ‘old’ XC & DH trails, it also provides easy access to the current ‘trendy’ gravity orientated hot spot of Golfie, named so, as it’s situated above the golf course. First off the Old XC, (starts from the carpark over the bridge by the river) it was very sad to see the current trashed & sorry state of what appears to be the forgotten XC Trail, after having ridden it many times since the early eighties! The long climb at the start is currently cut short & diverted with no access up to the top from what I could see? The remainder of the trails are just trashed with the mighty Caddon Bank DH a shadow of its former self. Golfie is an easy pedal across the village with some great coffee stop opportunities enroute. One in particular Findra on the high st deserves a Big shout out, it’s stylish, MTB rider (muddy bum) friendly, sells fantastic coffee & food has uber cool curated music. Oh it also sells very cool artisan made clothing. There are others in the village which all look fab but Findra was the one we stopped at. The Findra staff ride mountain bikes, are super friendly & great for local riding knowledge 😉👍 Golfie is a short pedal through the village towards the Golf club & then a longish pedal up a Forest road with ‘natural’ trails spilling off the side of the hill in varying degrees of difficulty. Be prepared for full on gnar, chunder, roots, very steep drop offs & lots n lots of muddy gloop if the weather has not been kind. No manicured trails here! If you keep pedalling you’ll eventually reach the old reservoir where the views are magnificent & several trail go off in several directions. My advice, if it’s your first time riding Golfie try & take someone who’s ridden it before as some of the trails start off very benign but then transform like Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde! Wear body armour that allows you to pedal, but all the same wear body armour😜👍
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From this viewpoint near Minch Moor summit, you are afforded wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, you can see the rolling hills and valleys of the Scottish Borders region, with the Tweed Valley stretching out before you. You may also spot towns and villages such as Peebles and Innerleithen nestled among the greenery.
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Traquair House is the oldest continually inhabited house in Scotland. It proudly states on a sign outside that it has been visited by 27 Scottish kings and queens since it was built in 1107. It's a magnificent building with equally magnificent gardens. You can access the house from the road here, but do keep in mind it is only open to the public seasonally, between March and October. You can find information on prices and daily opening times here https://www.traquair.co.uk/visitor-information/
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The clouds were very low when approaching Innerleithen early morning. The hill tops can not be seen. It is a nice sight to see
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Innerleithen And District?
Innerleithen And District offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hikes. Our guide features over 35 routes, with nearly 20 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.
Are there any easy trails suitable for toddlers or very young children?
Yes, many of the trails are gentle and suitable for younger children. Routes like the Tall Trees in Cardrona Forest – Castle Knowe Iron Age Fort loop from Cardrona are rated as easy, offering manageable distances and relatively flat terrain through beautiful woodlands, perfect for little legs.
Are there any circular family walks in the area?
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. The Kirnie Law loop, for example, offers a rewarding circular journey with varied scenery.
What kind of views can we expect on these family hikes?
The region is renowned for its picturesque landscapes. You can expect stunning panoramic views of the rolling hills, including Lee Pen and Caerlee Hill, and the meandering River Tweed. Many trails wind through expansive woodlands like Cardrona Forest, offering tranquil forest vistas and glimpses of local wildlife.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Most trails in Innerleithen And District are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog on a lead, especially when passing through farmland or areas with livestock. Remember to clean up after your pet to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
What historical sites or natural landmarks can we see on these routes?
The area is rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore sites like the ancient Castle Knowe Iron Age Fort, which is part of the Tall Trees in Cardrona Forest loop. Other highlights include various castle ruins such as Newark Castle Ruins and scenic viewpoints like Summit Cairn, Minch Moor, offering glimpses into the region's past and breathtaking scenery.
Are there any trails that follow rivers or go through woodlands?
Yes, the River Tweed and Leithen Water are central to the area's charm, with many paths running alongside them. You'll also find numerous trails winding through beautiful forests like Cardrona Forest and Caberston Forest. The Tweed Valley Railway Path offers a lovely riverside experience.
Where can we find parking for these family hikes?
Parking is generally available at trailheads and in the towns of Innerleithen and Cardrona. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages on komoot. For general information on paths around Innerleithen, you might find additional details on the Scottish Borders Council website.
Can we reach these trails using public transport?
Innerleithen is served by local bus routes, making some trailheads accessible via public transport. Planning your route on komoot will often provide details on public transport options to help you reach the starting point of your chosen hike.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Innerleithen And District?
The Scottish Borders are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and stunning colours, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, many lower-level and forest trails are accessible, offering a different kind of beauty, though appropriate gear is essential.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Innerleithen And District?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil riverside paths to engaging hill ascents, and the well-maintained trails that cater to all abilities. The sense of peace within the expansive woodlands and the rewarding views from the hilltops are frequently highlighted.
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