The best gravel rides around Earlston
3.5
(3)
77
riders
3
rides
Gravel biking around Earlston offers access to the varied landscapes of the Scottish Borders. The region features a mix of unpaved tracks, forest roads, and paths that traverse rolling hills and river valleys. While the Eildon Hills are prominent features, the area provides diverse terrain suitable for mixed-surface cycling. This network of trails connects historical sites with natural features, providing varied riding surfaces.
Best gravel bike trails around Earlston
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Black Bull Hotel &…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
5.0
(2)
46
riders
49.5km
03:28
720m
720m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
riders
62.2km
03:59
750m
750m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
riders
33.6km
01:57
230m
230m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(1)
3
riders
11.3km
00:54
210m
210m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
22.2km
01:26
280m
280m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
The two cairns of Twin Law(s) are located along the Southern Upland Way. On a clear day, they offer expansive views over the rolling hills of the Borders. One of the cairns has a single-person shelter from the wind, and a guest book is also located there.
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The abbey was a major building featuring a rare double-cruciform plan with two crossings and two towers. It became the burial site for royalty.
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Old railway line. Avoiding main road. Rideable on all bikes.
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Fallago Rig Wind Farm, located in the Lammermuir Hills, is typically closed to the public. However, during the annual Scottish Borders Doors Open Days, usually held in early September, the wind farm offers guided tours. These tours provide a unique opportunity to see the turbines up close, visit the control room, and learn about renewable energy operations. Advance booking is essential, and transportation is provided from nearby villages, as private vehicle access is not permitted. For the latest information on tour dates and booking details, check the official EDF Renewables UK website or local event listings. [1] https://www.edf-re.ie/news-and-views/doors-open-day-returns-to-fallago-rig-wind-farm-in-the-scottish-borders/
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Not actually a cycle bridge, your expected to dismount. But its fun if you don't.
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For Goethe, Walter Scott's books were "the best things ever written in the world." With his historical novels, such as the one about the knight Ivanhoe, the Scottish author, born 250 years ago, was one of the most famous authors of his time. Quote from Walter Scott: "I have read enough books to know that the most profound utterances come from the lips of poor and uneducated women and men. Things often come to light there that are perhaps more sublime and moving only in the Bible. Even the poet will only fulfill his true calling if he recognizes everything as vain and worthless that is not a true inner cultivation of the heart." (Text from https://www.deutschlandfunk.de/250-geburtstag-des-schriftstellers-wie-sir-walter-scott-den-100.html ) From the spot marked here as a highlight, passersby can only see it from a distance, but the property itself is of course also included in the koomot system, see => https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/4525502
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The tarmac cycle path following the river Tweed from Glentress makes Innerleithen super accessible which in turn provides you with free range to pedal the ‘old’ XC & DH trails, it also provides easy access to the current ‘trendy’ gravity orientated hot spot of Golfie, named so, as it’s situated above the golf course. First off the Old XC, (starts from the carpark over the bridge by the river) it was very sad to see the current trashed & sorry state of what appears to be the forgotten XC Trail, after having ridden it many times since the early eighties! The long climb at the start is currently cut short & diverted with no access up to the top from what I could see? The remainder of the trails are just trashed with the mighty Caddon Bank DH a shadow of its former self. Golfie is an easy pedal across the village with some great coffee stop opportunities enroute. One in particular Findra on the high st deserves a Big shout out, it’s stylish, MTB rider (muddy bum) friendly, sells fantastic coffee & food has uber cool curated music. Oh it also sells very cool artisan made clothing. There are others in the village which all look fab but Findra was the one we stopped at. The Findra staff ride mountain bikes, are super friendly & great for local riding knowledge 😉👍 Golfie is a short pedal through the village towards the Golf club & then a longish pedal up a Forest road with ‘natural’ trails spilling off the side of the hill in varying degrees of difficulty. Be prepared for full on gnar, chunder, roots, very steep drop offs & lots n lots of muddy gloop if the weather has not been kind. No manicured trails here! If you keep pedalling you’ll eventually reach the old reservoir where the views are magnificent & several trail go off in several directions. My advice, if it’s your first time riding Golfie try & take someone who’s ridden it before as some of the trails start off very benign but then transform like Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde! Wear body armour that allows you to pedal, but all the same wear body armour😜👍
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Cosy pub serving large range of Tempest Brewery beers and good food.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Earlston?
Gravel biking around Earlston offers a diverse mix of terrain, characteristic of the Scottish Borders. You'll encounter unpaved tracks, forest roads, and paths that traverse rolling hills and river valleys. The region is known for its rugged beauty, with surfaces ranging from smooth, fast tracks to rougher, rockier sections, providing varied riding experiences.
Are there any challenging gravel routes for experienced riders near Earlston?
Yes, Earlston and the surrounding Scottish Borders offer several challenging routes. For instance, the Black Bull Hotel & Restaurant – Twin Law Cairns loop from Lauder is a difficult 49.5 km trail with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Tweed Valley Near Innerleithen – Old Peel Road loop from Tweedbank, which covers 63.2 km with over 730 meters of ascent.
Can I find moderate gravel bike trails suitable for a less intense ride?
Absolutely. There are moderate options available for those looking for a less strenuous ride. The Kelso Abbey – Roxburgh Viaduct loop from Kelso is a moderate 33.6 km path that follows scenic river sections and passes historical landmarks. Another moderate choice is the Redbridge Viaduct – Caulshield Loch loop from Melrose, a shorter 11.3 km trail through varied terrain.
Are there any historical sites or natural landmarks I can see along the gravel routes?
The Scottish Borders are rich in history and natural beauty. Many gravel routes pass by significant landmarks. You can cycle past the magnificent Melrose Abbey, visit Abbotsford House (Sir Walter Scott's former residence), or cross the picturesque Dryburgh Suspension Bridge. Natural features like the distinctive Eildon Hills offer breathtaking views, and you might even discover the Stichill Linn Waterfall.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Earlston?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Earlston, with an average score of 3.5 stars. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of the Scottish Borders, and the way routes connect historical sites with natural features, offering options for different ability levels.
Are there any routes that pass by castles or historical ruins?
Yes, the region is dotted with historical sites. Routes often incorporate landmarks such as Melrose Abbey and Abbotsford House. You can also find trails that lead near impressive structures like Floors Castle, the ruins of Roxburgh Castle, or Hume Castle, offering a glimpse into the area's rich past.
Are there any routes that feature waterfalls?
While not every route features a waterfall, the area does have natural monuments like the Stichill Linn Waterfall. You can explore routes that pass near this natural attraction for a refreshing stop.
Are there any routes that offer panoramic views?
Definitely. The prominent Eildon Hills, with peaks like Eildon Mid Hill Summit and Eildon Wester Hill, dominate the landscape and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Scottish Borders. Many routes in the area will provide glimpses or direct access to these stunning vistas.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Earlston?
The Scottish Borders offer great gravel biking opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions and shorter daylight hours.
Are there any routes that are particularly good for spotting wildlife?
The diverse landscapes of the Scottish Borders, including forests, river valleys, and rolling hills, provide habitats for various wildlife. While specific routes aren't designated for wildlife spotting, riding through quieter forest tracks and along riverbanks, such as those found on the Kelso Abbey – Roxburgh Viaduct loop from Kelso, increases your chances of encountering local fauna.
Are there any routes that are circular?
Many of the gravel bike trails around Earlston are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Black Bull Hotel & Restaurant – Twin Law Cairns loop from Lauder and the Kelso Abbey – Roxburgh Viaduct loop from Kelso, which are both circular routes.
Are there any routes that are particularly good for families?
While some routes are more challenging, the region does offer options that can be suitable for families, especially those with some cycling experience. Look for routes with less elevation gain and smoother sections. The Redbridge Viaduct – Caulshield Loch loop from Melrose, at 11.3 km and moderate difficulty, could be a good option for families seeking a shorter, scenic ride.
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