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Borders Abbeys Way (sample walk)
Route type/direction
Circuit: can be started anywhere, but Melrose is now
close to the Borders Railway terminus at Tweedbank.
Previously it was more common to start at Jedburgh.
The route is usually walked clockwise, because many
people think this direction optimises the views.
Overview
The scenery includes some long sections beside the
Rivers Tweed and Teviot, as well as more rugged hilly
sections, and there are excellent chances of sighting
wildlife in these peaceful settings.
The challenge
The route is well waymarked, and generally well-suited
to inexperienced walkers. Although it can be walked
in fi ve days, the fi rst section (Melrose/Kelso) is long
(18 miles/29 km) and most people split it by going
slightly off -route to overnight at St Boswells (for a
six-day itinerary). The overall altitude gain is moderate
(1300m/4265ft) and most of the terrain is sound
18 Outdoor focus | winter 2018
The Borders Abbey Way page on Scotland’s Great Trails
A wonderful circuit through historic towns and villages
of the Scottish Borders, featuring the magnifi cent
ruined abbeys of Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and
Jedburgh, and passing Abbotsford House, the home of
Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832).
underfoot. But allow enough time to enjoy the ruined
abbeys and other side-trips.
Accommodation
The Way passes through attractive villages with
welcoming B&Bs, and most villages have a range of
accommodation choices including B&Bs and hotels.
However, some are closed out of season, most are busy
in season and advance booking is essential. For online
information and booking, try Scottish Borders page on
VisitScotland www.bit.ly/scottishborders-info or go
to one of the three iCentres on the route, at Jedburgh,
Hawick or Kelso.