The best walks and hikes in Eildon And Leaderfoot

Yes, the area offers several circular routes with views of the Leaderfoot Viaduct. While many trails start from Melrose or Dryburgh, you can create loops that follow the River Tweed, providing excellent perspectives of the viaduct. A good option is the Dryburgh Suspension Bridge – Dryburgh Abbey Ruins loop from Dryburgh, which takes you along the river with opportunities to see the historic structure.

Most hikes start from towns like Melrose or Newtown St Boswells, which have public car parks. For walks beginning in Melrose, there are several pay-and-display and free parking areas near the town centre and Melrose Abbey. If you're starting near the Leaderfoot Viaduct itself, parking is more limited, often consisting of small lay-bys, so arriving early is recommended.

While the main ascents of the Eildon Hills are steep and can be challenging for young children, there are family-friendly options in the region. Consider a gentler riverside walk like the Old Melrose Summerhouse and Old Melrose Tea Rooms loop from Peasehill — Roxburghshire. This easier trail follows the River Tweed and is relatively flat, making it a great choice for a family outing.

Dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Eildon and Leaderfoot, but they should be kept under control, especially near livestock. The paths can cross fields with sheep, so it's important to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Many local pubs in Melrose and the surrounding villages are dog-friendly, allowing you to relax after your walk.

The climb up the Eildon Hills is considered moderately difficult due to its steep sections. A popular route like the Eildon Hill North – Market Square, Melrose loop from Melrose involves a significant ascent. While the paths are well-defined, they require a good level of fitness. The reward is panoramic views from the top. For comparison, the climb is often considered more sustained and steeper than the main path up Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh.

The town of Melrose is the main gateway to the Eildon Hills and is well-served by bus routes connecting it to Galashiels and other towns in the Scottish Borders. The Borders Railway provides a direct train service from Edinburgh to Tweedbank, which is a short bus ride or a pleasant walk from Melrose. Many trails start directly from the town, making it easy to explore without a car.

The region is rich in history. Many walks start or pass by the magnificent ruins of Melrose Abbey. The Eildon Hills themselves are historic, with Eildon Hill North being the site of a massive Bronze Age hillfort. You can also see the iconic Leaderfoot Viaduct, a masterpiece of Victorian engineering, and follow parts of St Cuthbert's Way, an ancient pilgrimage route.

St Cuthbert's Way is a 100 km (62-mile) long-distance walking route that runs from Melrose to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. The trail's official starting point is Melrose Abbey, and its initial stage involves a memorable climb over the Eildon Hills, offering some of the best views of the entire route. You can walk this first section as a day hike to experience a part of this famous pilgrimage.

Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are highly recommended. The paths up the Eildon Hills are steep, uneven, and can be rocky in places. Trails along the riverbanks and through woodlands can become very muddy, especially after rain. Proper footwear will ensure better comfort and safety.

Absolutely. One of the most famous viewpoints in Scotland, Scott's View, is located nearby. It offers a stunning panorama of the River Tweed valley and the Eildon Hills, a vista beloved by Sir Walter Scott. Additionally, walking along the banks of the River Tweed provides beautiful, low-level views of the Leaderfoot Viaduct and the surrounding landscape.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the Eildon summits and the beautiful mix of riverside paths and hill climbs. The well-preserved historical sites like Melrose Abbey and the Leaderfoot Viaduct are also consistently mentioned as highlights.