Scottish Borders, a region steeped in history and natural beauty, offers an array of delightful dog walks that can invigorate both dogs and their owners. With sprawling landscapes that narrate tales of the past, meandering riverbanks, and quaint villages, the walks here become miniature adventures, each leading to unique discoveries. Here lies a curated list of ten dog walks to consider, each a distinct pathway adorned with its own charm. Get ready to leash up your furry friend and embark on an odyssey through this enchanting landscape.
1. Peebles to Cardrona
Address: River Tweed Path, Peebles, EH45 8AF
Contact: Peebles Community Council, 01721 726 270
Website: Peebles Community Council
This leisurely walk along the River Tweed emerges as a gentle ribbon threading through verdant hills. The path, packed with sweeping views, is a haven for canines to frolic freely while you relish the soothing symphony of water flowing over smooth stones and the intermittent rustle of leaves above.
2. Traquair House
Address: Traquair, Innerleithen, EH44 6PW
Contact: 01721 730 392
Website: Traquair House
Step into a world of enchantment at Traquair House, reputedly Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited house. Here, dog walks lead you through stately gardens and picturesque woodlands, reminiscent of a bygone era. The winding pathways invite exploration, offering ample opportunities for your dog to discover intriguing scents and sights amidst noble yews and historic architecture.
3. Bowhill House and Country Estate
Address: Bowhill, Selkirk, TD7 5ET
Contact: 01750 222 950
Website: Bowhill House
Explore the vast estate of Bowhill, where dog-friendly trails beckon amid sprawling grounds and enchanting woodlands. The estate’s trails promise a captivating experience, leading you and your companion through an avian paradise, with soaring trees and vibrant blooms acting as your backdrop. Each step taken here feels like a page from an epic tale, waiting for your footfalls to bring it to life.
4. The Eildons
Address: Melrose, TD6 9DA
Contact: 01896 823 899
Website: Melrose Community Council
Ascend the Eildons, a trio of hills that rises majestically above Melrose. This invigorating hike, a tad more challenging, rewards you with panoramic views stretching over the Scottish Borders. The rugged terrain invites adventure, and your dog will revel in the thrill of exploration among the heather and natural rock formations, as if they are uncovering ancient secrets hidden beneath the earth.
5. Hawick River Walk
Address: Teviot Park, Hawick, TD9 9EA
Contact: 01450 377 500
Website: Hawick Community Website
Stroll along the serene banks of the River Teviot, where the gentle flow of water harmonizes with the whispers of the surrounding flora. This flat, easy route provides a perfect setting for leisurely walks. You and your dog can bask in the tranquillity of nature while ducks paddle by, and the occasional heron plays guardian over the watery depths—an idyllic tableau for all to enjoy.
6. Yair Forest
Address: Yair Forest, EH38 4NA
Contact: 01896 831 436
Website: Forestry and Land Scotland
In the dark, murmuring groves of Yair Forest, majestic conifers stand sentinel over the winding trails. This enchanting woodland walk is a sensory feast for your dog, with rustling leaves and tantalising scents beckoning their curiosity. Spot your shadow as you tread softly on the forest floor carpeted with a verdant tapestry, unveiling nature’s artistry at every turn.
7. St Abb’s Head
Address: St Abb’s, Eyemouth, TD14 5QJ
Contact: 018907 71674
Website: National Trust for Scotland
St Abb’s Head offers dramatic coastal scenery that leaves an indelible mark on the heart. As you traverse the clifftops with your canine companion, expect breathtaking views that unfold like an artist’s canvas adorned with wildflowers, craggy cliffs, and endless sea vistas. It is a dogwalk where every gust of wind brings a hearty reminder of nature’s raw beauty.
8. Kelso Circular Walk
Address: Kelso, TD5 7PL
Contact: 01573 226 634
Website: Kelso Community Website
Meander through Kelso, a town where history intertwines with picturesque landscapes. This circular walk allows dogs to trot along the banks of the Tweed and Teviot rivers. Amidst centuries-old architecture, feel the pulse of the past resonating through cobbled streets while your dog indulges in the sights and sounds—a walk rich in culture and aromatic trails of history.
9. Dryburgh Abbey
Address: St Boswells, TD6 0RZ
Contact: 01835 822 634
Website: English Heritage
Dryburgh Abbey, a hauntingly beautiful ruin, sets the scene for captivating walks. Stroll alongside the remains of this 12th-century structure amidst lush grounds and serene surroundings. The echoes of the past mingle with the chirping of birds, creating an atmosphere steeped in nostalgia, inviting introspection while your dog explores the remnants of history.
10. Rhymer’s Stone Path
Address: Near Earlston, TD4 6BJ
Contact: 01896 850 301
Website: Borders Forest Trust
Finally, discover the poetic allure of the Rhymer’s Stone Path, a trail steeped in both myth and beauty. As you walk this picturesque route, let your imagination wander to the tales of the legendary Rhymer entwined within the very fabric of the landscape. It’s an idyllic setting for both dogs and humans to immerse themselves in the folklore of the Borders, making every step resonate with enchantment.
Each of these walks encapsulates the spirit of the Scottish Borders, revealing landscapes that are as varied as they are breathtaking. Whether wandering along a river or exploring historical ruins, you and your dog will forge memories meant to last a lifetime. So, arm yourselves with a lead and an adventurous spirit, and let the dog walks of the Scottish Borders become a cherished chapter in your journey together.
