Things to Do in Upper Tweeddale

Upper Tweeddale is a National Scenic Area in the Scottish Borders, covering 49 square miles (12,770 hectares) around the upper reaches of the River Tweed. It is designated for its exceptional scenery, characterized by rounded hills, narrow valleys, and expansive moorlands. The area provides diverse terrain for various outdoor activities.

Upper Tweeddale offers a range of outdoor activities including Hiking, Mountain Biking, Touring Cycling, Road Cycling, Gravel Biking, and Jogging. Komoot features 66 routes in the area, with an average rating of 4.41 stars from more than 1,900 ratings. More than 38,000 visitors have explored the region.

Upper Tweeddale offers varied hiking terrain, from challenging ascents on high tops like Broad Law to classic hill walking in the Broughton Heights. The John Buchan Way is a notable 13.7-mile (22 km) walking route between Broughton and Peebles. For more options, consult the Hiking in Upper Tweeddale guide.

Yes, Upper Tweeddale provides options for less strenuous walks. The landscape includes green, pastoral valleys and riverside paths suitable for easier excursions. Specific routes and tips can be found in the Easy hikes in Upper Tweeddale and Family-friendly hikes in Upper Tweeddale guides.

The wider Tweed Valley, which includes Upper Tweeddale, is known for its mountain biking. While specific award-winning trails like Glentress and Innerleithen are nearby, the NSA itself offers diverse terrain for MTB. Explore routes in the MTB Trails in Upper Tweeddale guide.

Road cycling in Upper Tweeddale features varied terrain, from pastoral valleys to open hills with dramatic moorland climbs. Routes cater to different abilities, including some of the highest hills in the Borders. Detailed routes are available in the Road Cycling Routes in Upper Tweeddale guide.

Upper Tweeddale offers routes for both touring and gravel cycling, utilizing its varied landscapes and well-maintained surfaces. The Tweed Valley Railway Path provides a traffic-free 6-mile (10 km) option. For more information, see the Cycling in Upper Tweeddale and Gravel biking in Upper Tweeddale guides.

The River Tweed is a central feature, winding through the landscape and designated as a Special Area of Conservation. The area also includes the Borders' highest hills, such as Broad Law, and the Tweedsmuir Hills, which form a significant mountain plateau. These features contribute to panoramic views and diverse ecosystems.

Upper Tweeddale features numerous remains of ancient occupation and historical structures. Notable sites include the hill fort at Dreva Craig, Barns Tower, and castles at Stobo, Neidpath, and Tinnis. Dawyck Botanic Garden, a 65-acre designed landscape, is also within the area.

Yes, komoot offers several guides for Upper Tweeddale to help plan activities. These include guides for Hiking, MTB Trails, Cycling, and Gravel biking. There are also guides for specific interests like easy or family-friendly routes.

The official website for Upper Tweeddale is uppertweeddale.org.uk. For general inquiries about National Scenic Areas, NatureScot (formerly Scottish Natural Heritage) oversees their management. Regional tourism sites like Go Tweed Valley and Destination Tweed also provide information.

For direct inquiries, the phone number for Upper Tweeddale is +44 1968 660 221. For broader information regarding National Scenic Areas, NatureScot's general switchboard can be reached at 01463 725000.