The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Yetholm Loch
4.6
(51)
505
hikers
13
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Yetholm Loch are set within the Scottish Borders, characterized by the Cheviot Hills, open hillsides, and woodlands. The area features Yetholm Loch, a crescent-shaped wildlife reserve with fen, willow carr, and deciduous woodland habitats. The Bowmont Water flows through the landscape, contributing to varied terrain with gravel banks and riverside paths. This region offers a mix of accessible loch-side paths and routes through the surrounding hills.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Yetholm Loch
- The…
Last updated: July 5, 2026
4.5
(2)
3
hikers
4.62km
01:13
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
71
hikers
17.0km
05:06
510m
510m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(3)
9
hikers
14.5km
04:03
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
7.83km
02:25
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
30.9km
08:42
620m
620m
Hike the difficult 19.2-mile Wideopen Hill and South Cote loop from Town Yetholm, offering panoramic views and a remote feel.
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Tips from the Community
The end of the Pennine Way on the England/Scotland border. The hotel has a pub which serves good food & drinks. Check out the pile of shoes outside left by walkers/runners who have completed the whole 268 mile route
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Option to stay in the road to avoid the river crossing
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It is a good safe place to park. I found some of the locals friendly and wanted to chat. Despite being a small village, there always seemed to be someone passing by within sight.
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I was tired towards the end of this trail, mainly because I have a bad flu bug and my eergy levels are not so good. Thankfully this last section had a firm enough surface to ride on, without it being a drag
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This elevated point has spectacular views in all directions. There are some park benches on the sides of the road at the beginning of this road
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The views of the Cheviot hills from the north within Scotland seems to give a more rugged appearance than from in Northumberland. I wasn't sure where these tracks would lead to, thankfully it is not as bad as it potentially looks
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Yetholm Loch?
There are over a dozen family-friendly hiking trails around Yetholm Loch, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. These routes are designed with manageable distances and gentle paths, perfect for families to enjoy the beautiful Scottish Borders landscape.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family-friendly hikes in this area?
The family-friendly trails around Yetholm Loch typically feature gentle paths, often alongside the loch or through woodlands. You'll find a mix of open hillsides and picturesque waterside paths. The area is characterized by the dramatic Cheviot Hills, but the family routes focus on more accessible terrain.
Are there any easy circular walks suitable for families?
Yes, for an easy circular walk, consider the Boathouse – Yetholm Loch loop from Town Yetholm. This gentle 4.6 km (2.9 mile) trail offers a lovely circuit around the loch and takes just over an hour to complete, making it ideal for families.
Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly trails?
Many trails around Yetholm Loch are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially around the wildlife reserve areas and near livestock. The loch is a significant wildlife sanctuary, so responsible pet ownership helps protect the local fauna.
What wildlife might we spot along the trails?
Yetholm Loch is a designated wildlife reserve, so keen observers might spot a variety of birds, including breeding and overwintering wildfowl. The Bowmont Water, which flows between the twin villages, is home to dippers, kingfishers, and seasonally, oystercatchers and sandpipers. You might even catch a glimpse of otters near the water.
Are there any interesting landmarks or points of interest for kids?
While the focus is on natural beauty, the twin villages of Town Yetholm and Kirk Yetholm offer a glimpse into local heritage, including connections to the Scottish Gypsy community. For a slightly longer family adventure, the Yetholm Village – Gypsy Palace, Kirk Yetholm loop from Town Yetholm connects these historic villages.
What is the best time of year to visit Yetholm Loch with family?
Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for family hikes, with wildflowers blooming along the Bowmont Water and active wildlife. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the deciduous woodlands. While winter walks are possible, be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
Are there any moderate family hikes that are a bit longer?
For families looking for a slightly longer, moderate hike, the Kirk of Yetholm Church – Yetholm Village loop from Town Yetholm is a good option. This 7.8 km (4.8 mile) route offers varied scenery and connects the charming villages.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails around Yetholm Loch?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.56 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful loch-side paths, the abundant wildlife, and the suitability of the trails for all ages, making it a wonderful destination for family outings.
Is there public transport available to reach the Yetholm Loch area?
Yetholm is accessible by public transport, with bus services connecting it to larger towns in the Scottish Borders. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance to plan your family's trip effectively.
Where can we park when visiting Yetholm Loch for a hike?
Parking is generally available in and around the villages of Town Yetholm and Kirk Yetholm, which serve as common starting points for many trails, including those around Yetholm Loch. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions.
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