The best walks and hikes around Bowden Village

Yes, the area offers several easier options suitable for families. For a shorter but rewarding climb with great views, consider the Eildon Mid Hill Summit – Eildon Hill North loop from Dingleton. It's a manageable 3.7-mile (6 km) route that still gives you the fantastic experience of the Eildon Hills.

The landscape is rich with natural and historical sights. Key attractions include:

The Eildon Hills: A trio of iconic volcanic peaks offering panoramic views. Eildon Hill North was also the site of a massive Iron Age hillfort.

The River Tweed: Many trails follow the banks of this famous river, providing serene and picturesque walking.

Melrose Abbey: The stunning ruins of this 12th-century abbey are a highlight of the region and can be incorporated into longer walks.

Yes, you can start several circular hikes right from the village. A great example is the Eildon Hill North – Eildon Mid Hill Summit loop from Bowden. This trail takes you from the village up into the heart of the Eildon Hills and back, covering some of the best scenery in the area.

Eildon Mid Hill is the highest of the three peaks at 422 meters. The climb is considered a moderate challenge with some steep sections, but it is achievable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. The effort is rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views across the Scottish Borders.

Dogs are generally welcome on the trails. However, the routes often cross farmland with livestock, particularly sheep. It is essential to keep your dog on a lead and under close control in these areas to ensure the safety of the animals and your pet.

For hikes beginning in Bowden Village, on-street parking is typically available. Please park considerately, respecting local residents and ensuring access is not blocked. For routes starting in nearby towns like Melrose or Newtown St Boswells, you will find designated car parks.

Yes, the renowned St Cuthbert's Way, a 62.5-mile (100 km) trail from Melrose to Lindisfarne, passes very close to Bowden. You can walk sections of this historic route, which often include paths along the River Tweed and ascents into the Eildon Hills.

The trails in this area are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from the Eildon Hills and the variety of walks, from challenging hill climbs to peaceful riverside paths.

There is a wide variety of options to explore, with over 200 hiking routes mapped around Bowden Village on komoot. These range from easy strolls to challenging all-day hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every ability level.

Absolutely. For a route that combines beautiful scenery with local history, try the Melrose Abbey – Market Square, Melrose loop from Newtown St Boswells. This walk takes you through the historic town of Melrose and past its magnificent abbey ruins.

The terrain is varied. Expect well-defined paths through farmland and woodland, grassy tracks on the hills, and some rocky, uneven sections on the ascents to the Eildon summits. Some riverside paths can be muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended.