The best cycling routes around Hawick
4.5
(70)
2,202
riders
38
rides
Touring cycling around Hawick offers diverse landscapes within the Scottish Borders, characterized by rolling hills and riverside roads. The region features the quiet folds of the Southern Uplands, providing expansive views and tranquil rides. The Teviot River is a prominent natural feature, with routes following its course. For more challenging terrain, areas like Eskdalemuir Forest present significant elevation gains and panoramic vistas.
Best touring cycling routes around Hawick
- The most popular touring cycling route is Robertson Cycle Route, a 16.8 miles (27.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 46 minutes to complete. This moderate route features historical sites and scenic lochs.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Denholm Cycle Route, a moderate 19.0 miles (30.6 km) path. This route offers scenic river views and some challenging ascents through the countryside.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Eskdalemuir Forest loop from Hawick, a 45.5 miles (73.2 km) trail leading through challenging forest terrain with significant elevation, often completed in about 5 hours 50 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Hawick is defined by rolling hills, riverside roads, and dense forest sections. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate rides to difficult loops with substantial climbing.
- The routes in Hawick are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 19 reviews. More than 600 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Hawick's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5.0
(2)
18
riders
27.0km
01:46
360m
360m
Embark on the Robertson Cycle Route, a moderate touring cycling adventure through the scenic Scottish Borders. This route guides you through green, rolling landscapes, offering pleasant views, especially from the Wilton Lodge Park Community Garden. You will cover 16.8 miles (27.0 km) with a total elevation gain of 1178 feet (359 metres), making for a good workout that typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route conveniently starts and ends in Hawick. You can find various parking options within the town before you begin your ride. Always remember to check local conditions, such as weather and any potential route changes, before heading out to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the trail.
As you cycle, you will pass by the tranquil Branxholme Easter Loch, a peaceful spot perfect for a brief pause. The route also features the significant Return From Hornshole 1514 Sculpture, which adds a layer of historical context to your journey through this charming region. These landmarks offer unique points of interest, enriching your touring cycling experience beyond just the physical challenge.
4.5
(2)
13
riders
75.1km
04:39
780m
780m
Get ready for a demanding touring bicycle adventure on the Ettrickbridge and Selkirk loop from Hawick. This difficult 46.7-mile (75.1 km) route takes you through the picturesque Scottish Borders, featuring significant elevation changes with 2547 feet (776 metres) of climbing. You can expect to spend around 4 hours and 38 minutes on this challenging ride, traversing rolling hills, quiet riverside roads, and dense forest sections. As you follow the course of the Ettrick Water, you'll encounter steep climbs, like the ascent towards Witchie Knowe, and enjoy tranquil rides through the Ettrick and Yarrow Valleys. On clear days, views can stretch to the snow-covered Cheviot Hills, offering expansive vistas of the Southern Uplands.
This hard bike ride requires very good fitness, so make sure you are well-prepared for the significant climbing involved. While much of the route is on paved surfaces, be ready for some unpaved sections that add to the challenge. The area is known for its relatively traffic-free roads, which allows for a more immersive experience in the Scottish Borders countryside. You can find refreshment stops in villages such as Ettrickbridge, perfect for a break during your journey. Plan your start time to make the most of the daylight, especially given the estimated duration.
The Ettrickbridge and Selkirk loop is part of a wider network of cycling routes around Hawick, but this one is definitely for those seeking a difficult challenge. What makes this loop particularly notable is its combination of natural beauty and historical elements. Along similar routes in the area, you can encounter historical sites like Kirkhope Tower, Newark Castle, and the Bowhill Country Estate. This trail offers a unique way to experience the quiet folds of the Southern Uplands and its rich heritage.
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6
riders
43.1km
02:15
580m
580m
This difficult 26.8-mile touring cycling route from Hawick offers 1888 feet of climbing through the scenic Scottish Borders.
4.0
(1)
2
riders
30.6km
01:59
390m
390m
This moderate 19.0-mile touring cycling route in the Scottish Borders offers scenic river views and challenging ascents near Hawick.
73.2km
05:50
1,160m
1,160m
Challenging 45.5-mile touring cycling loop from Hawick through Eskdalemuir Forest, featuring 3791 feet of elevation gain and scenic views.
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Tips from the Community
Eskdalemuir Forest, nestled between Craik Forest to the north-east and Castle O'er Forest to the south, boasts an extensive network of superb forest trails with compact gravel. Within Eskdalemuir Forest, there's even a bothy (Greenskyes) equipped with its own composting toilet. This forest features a blend of coniferous and broadleaf trees set against a backdrop of undulating hills and scenic views.
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Wilton Lodge Walled Garden is part of Wilton Lodge Park, a picturesque public park. It’s known for its scenic beauty, featuring well-maintained gardens, woodlands, and the meandering River Teviot. The park offers, ornamental gardens, walking trails, and a café. Additionally, Wilton Lodge Park hosts events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its vibrant community atmosphere.
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Branxholme Easter Loch is located on a quiet road just outside Hawick. It offers a peaceful escape for and is a great spot for birdwatching.
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This beautiful scenic road south of Hawick is a stretch of open tarmac running past the peaks of Peat Law and White Hill. It’s a great segment of road cycling and you won’t encounter much (if any) traffic.
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The Battle of Hornshole Statue in Hawick commemorates a historic skirmish that took place in 1514. This small-scale clash occurred when English raiders attempted to steal the town's flag, an act which the local youth valiantly resisted. The statue depicts a young lad defiantly holding the captured English flag. This event is celebrated annually in Hawick with the Common Riding festival, highlighting the town's strong sense of identity and community spirit.
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Leyden's Monument, crafted from Swinton sandstone with polished red Aberdeen granite columns, is an example of decorated gothic spire design. Adorned with inscribed plaques, sculpted figures, and trefoil-headed arches, it stands as a tribute to John Leyden and his descendant John Lamb Leyden.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Hawick?
There are over 40 touring cycling routes around Hawick, offering a wide range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 19 reviews.
Are there any easy or family-friendly touring cycling routes near Hawick?
While many routes offer moderate to difficult challenges, the Hawick Active Travel Network project is enhancing local infrastructure with wider paths, making some areas more accessible. For a moderate option that features historical sites and scenic lochs, consider the Robertson Cycle Route.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Hawick?
The terrain around Hawick is diverse, characterized by the stunning Scottish Borders scenery. You'll encounter rolling hills, tranquil riverside roads along the Teviot River, and quiet folds of the Southern Uplands. For those seeking more rugged terrain, areas like Eskdalemuir Forest offer challenging loops with significant elevation gains and panoramic vistas.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, Hawick offers several challenging routes. For instance, the Ettrickbridge and Selkirk loop from Hawick is a difficult 46.7-mile route with substantial elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Bonchester Bridge and Denholm loop from Hawick, which covers 26.8 miles with considerable climbing.
What natural features or viewpoints can I see along the cycling routes?
Hawick's routes showcase the natural beauty of the Scottish Borders. You can enjoy scenic river views along the Teviot River, especially on routes like the Denholm Cycle Route. Other notable natural features include Alemoor Loch, which provides a peaceful escape, and panoramic views from higher points like Rubers Law Summit and Trig Point.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to explore while cycling?
Yes, the area around Hawick is rich in history. You might pass by the impressive Shankend Viaduct, a significant historical bridge. Additionally, the The Haining Country Estate offers a beautiful setting to explore, and the Bonchester Hill Cairn provides a glimpse into ancient history.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Hawick?
The Scottish Borders offer beautiful cycling experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide stunning scenery with changing foliage, while summer offers longer daylight hours. However, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always advisable to check forecasts and dress in layers, especially in spring and autumn.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available?
Many of the touring cycling routes around Hawick are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the challenging Eskdalemuir Forest loop from Hawick is a 45.5-mile circular trail through dense forest terrain.
Is Hawick well-equipped for cyclists, including parking and amenities?
Hawick is actively enhancing its cycling infrastructure through the Hawick Active Travel Network project, which aims to improve spaces for cycling. While specific parking for cyclists at trailheads isn't detailed, the town itself offers amenities. For refreshments, you'll find cafes and pubs in Hawick and surrounding villages, providing convenient stops during your ride.
Can I use public transport to access cycling routes in Hawick?
Hawick is a town in the Scottish Borders, and while local bus services connect it to other towns in the region, specific public transport options directly to remote trailheads for cycling routes may be limited. It's best to plan your route starting from Hawick itself or a well-connected village.
Are the touring cycling routes in Hawick suitable for dogs?
While many outdoor areas in Scotland are dog-friendly, specific touring cycling routes may vary in their suitability for dogs, especially if they involve busy roads or areas with livestock. If cycling with a dog, it's recommended to choose quieter routes, keep dogs on a lead where necessary, and ensure they are comfortable with the distance and terrain.
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