Attractions and Places To See around Ettrick And Yarrow - Top 20

The region offers a variety of outdoor pursuits. You can enjoy cycling, walking, birdwatching, angling, and horse-riding. Specific highlights include mountain biking at Glentress Mountain Bike Centre, hiking to summits like Dun Rig Summit, and exploring the picturesque St Mary's Loch.

For families, Glentress Mountain Bike Centre is an excellent choice, offering graded routes for all abilities, bike hire, and a cafe. Additionally, Bowhill House & Grounds, located near Selkirk, features an adventure playground alongside its historic estate.

Yes, the area is rich in history. You can visit Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall, a dramatic natural monument. Other notable sites include the historic Tibbie Shiels Inn, Dryhope Tower, Yarrow Kirk, and Philiphaugh, which has a Salmon Viewing Centre and is associated with the Battle of Philiphaugh.

For hikers seeking views, consider climbing Eildon Mid Hill Summit, the highest of the Eildon Hills, offering expansive views. Other summits like Dun Rig Summit and White Coomb Summit also provide glorious vistas across the Southern Uplands. The 'Ettrick Horseshoe' hills, including Capel Fell and Ettrick Pen, are also popular for walking.

Absolutely. Glentress Mountain Bike Centre is a premier destination for mountain biking, offering extensive facilities, bike hire, washing stations, and graded routes suitable for all skill levels.

Yes, the Ettrick Marshes, part of a significant wetland restoration project, offer a unique opportunity to observe diverse plant life and wild nature from restored boardwalks. The tranquil lochs and rivers also attract various bird species.

Beyond the summits, you can explore the dramatic Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall, one of the UK's highest. The picturesque St Mary's Loch and Loch of the Lowes are central to the area's natural appeal, offering serene landscapes. The upper valleys also provide exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution.

The Ettrick Marshes have restored boardwalks, providing access to experience the unique wetland environment. While specific wheelchair-accessible trails are not extensively listed, this offers an option for easier access to nature.

The region has strong ties to Scottish literature. The historic Tibbie Shiels Inn was a frequent meeting place for James Hogg and Sir Walter Scott. You can also visit the James Hogg Exhibition in the village of Ettrick, the birthplace and home of the celebrated 'Ettrick Shepherd'.

The region is beautiful year-round. August is particularly scenic for hiking, as the heather is in bloom on hills like the Eildons. The upper valleys offer exceptional stargazing opportunities during clear nights, especially outside of summer. Spring and autumn provide pleasant conditions for walking and cycling.

Yes, the Southern Upland Way, a long-distance footpath, crosses the road near St Mary's Loch, offering opportunities for extended walks through the scenic landscape. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Ettrick And Yarrow guide.

Beyond mountain biking at Glentress, the area provides diverse cycling opportunities. You can find routes like the 'Loch of the Lowes – St Mary's Loch loop' or the 'River Ettrick – Melrose Abbey loop'. For more options, consult the Cycling around Ettrick And Yarrow guide.

Peebles is a delightful Scottish Borders town with a royal charter dating back to 1367. It offers independent shops and a traditional character, perfect for a stroll along the River Tweed. The village of Ettrick is also notable as the birthplace of James Hogg.