Borders Abbeys Way
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 103 kms | 4 days | 300 metres | Landranger Nos 73, 74, 79 & 80 |
Description
This is a circular walk passing all of the four great Border Abbeys of Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh. The route passes close to the site of the first Border Abbey established near Selkirk which was quickly abandoned in the 12th century in preference of Kelso.
This walk splits naturally into 5 sections each with its own unique character and scenery which ranges from wide open views over the hills of the Ettrick, Yarrow and Cheviots to pastoral landscapes of the Tweed and Teviot valleys. Start and stop each section in one of the attractive and historic Border Towns and enjoy quiet, uncluttered rural paths as they head over hill, moor and farmland and alongside rivers and lochs. The walk is split into the following sections:
- Melrose to Kelso 18miles/28km
- Kelso to Jedburgh 12miles/19km
- Jedburgh to Hawick 13miles/20km
- Hawick to Selkirk 12miles/12km
- Selkirk to Melrose 10miles/16km
This fully waymarked route is suitable for walkers of all abilities, and it opens up the beauty of the Border landscape and presents much of this areas history and heritage.
Additional Info
When walking the Boarders Abbeys Way you will find yourself steeped in history. Kelso Abbey, founded in 1128 by David I, was the setting of the speedily arranged crowning of the nine year old King James III in 1460.
When reaching Jedburgh, the 'Castle' is a must see. The Castle was moved between the Scots and English and formed part of the Treaty of the Falaise agreement. This was the treaty to established security for the ransom of William the Lion in 1174. The castle was however destroyed under the command of the Scottish Parliament in 1409. In 1832 a jail was built on the site and is still today known as the Castle where it is now an interesting museum.
For more information on the wonderful history of the area visit the web links below.
