Walking, Cycling, Birdwatching things to do
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St Abbs Head
Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/Property/St-Abbs-Head-National-Nature-Reserve/
Telephone: 01890 771443
Formed by a series of volcanic eruptions, the craggy landscape of St Abb’s Head on the Berwickshire coast is a National Nature Reserve famous for its clamouring seabirds, rugged coastline, rich grasslands and crystal-clear waters.
A veritable ‘seabird city’, St Abb’s Head is a year-round haven for birdwatchers, walkers and wildlife lovers.
The dramatic cliffs provide spectacular vantage points from which to watch thousands of nesting seabirds, including guillemots, kittiwakes and razorbills.
Among the rugged cliffs and offshore rock stacks, some of which stand 90 metres tall, you may feel suspended in serene isolation, but in fact this wilderness is just four miles away from the A1.
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Ford and Etal Estate
Website: http://www.ford-and-etal.co.uk/
Telephone: 01890 820338
Centred on the two villages of Ford & Etal which lie in the valley of the River Till, between the Scottish Border and the Cheviot Hills and just a few miles inland from Holy Island and Bamburghe.
Explore the corn mill, walk the Flodden battlefield, viewing the stunning pre-Raphaelite paintings in Ford, riding on the steam railway, enjoying home baking in one of the tearooms, or explorie the more hidden corners of this estate.
There are many heritage sites to explore, from Duddo Standing Stones to Ford Moss Colliery and art lovers should not miss a trip to the pre-Raphaelite murals at the Lady Waterford Hall.
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Farne Islands
Website: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/farne-islands
Telephone: 0344 800 1895
Rocky islands, habitat for seals and many species of seabird. The Farne Islands are possibly the most exciting seabird colony in England with unrivalled views of 23 species, including around 37,000 pairs of puffin. It is also home to a large grey seal colony, with more than 1,000 pups born every autumn.
Historically, the islands have strong links with Celtic Christianity and St Cuthbert, who lived here in the 7th Century. There's also a medieval pele tower and Victorian lighthouse here, plus a visitor centre and easy access boardwalk. Many of the islands hide underwater at high tide. Visitors pass lots of these inaccessible islets on boat trips - a short journey to a different world!
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The John Buchan Way
Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/the-john-buchan-way-p1421431
Telephone: N/A
The John Buchan Way starts from Bank House in Peebles and Broughton. Along this 13 mile route, you can follow the tracks through the countryside, taking in the breathtaking scenery and surrounding views.
The route was named after John Buchan who was a well known literary figure and diplomat (1875-1940).
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Glentress Forest
Website: https://you-well.co.uk/glentress-forest/
Telephone: +44 (0300) 067 6900
Glentress is the 7stanes flagship trail centre offering a range of trails to suits everyone from beginners to pros. Glentress Peel cafe offers top quality local produce and our bike shop offers friendly, expert advice on bike hire, sales and repairs.
For alternative Cycle routes see http://cyclescottishborders.com/
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Scott's View
Website: https://www.aboutbritain.com/SouthernScotland.htm
Telephone: +44 1835 823344
Scott's View is a viewpoint in the Scottish Borders, overlooking the valley of the River Tweed, which is reputed to be one of the favourite views of Sir Walter Scott and can be accessed by car from the B6404 on the road from St Boswells to Kelso and then turning off towards Dryburgh Abbey.
You will be able to come to the viewpoint from Melrose and St Boswells to admire the stunning view of the River Tweed and Eildon Hills. The hills serve as a reminder of the volcanic activity that once took place in the area. The lookout was known to be one of Sir Walter Scott's favourite places to come and reflect.
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The Hirsel
Website: http://www.dandaestates.co.uk/visitor-facilities/hirsel-visitor-facilities.php
Telephone: 01555 851536
The Homestead and the Hirsel Walks provide visitors to the Hirsel with a fascinating day out in the beautiful surrondings of Hirsel Estate Policies.
The Museum introduces visitors to what can be seen and heard as they explore the Estate and to provide some historical background.
There are a number of craft units at the Homestead, including a potter, glass worker, a textile worker, along with two excellent shops selling a variety of locally produced arts and crafts.
There are fascinating craftwork shops, a countryside museum, and a tea room serving delicious lunches and home baking in The Homestead close by. Enjoy the way marked walks throughout the Estate, especially around Dundock Wood – famous for its Rhododendrons and Azaleas, which are a blaze of colour and during the months of May and June.
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