The best gravel rides around Galashiels
4.0
(3)
96
riders
7
rides
Gravel biking around Galashiels features routes that traverse the Scottish Borders, characterized by river valleys such as the Tweed and Ettrick, alongside rolling hills and historical landmarks. The terrain offers a mix of challenging climbs and more moderate paths, suitable for various skill levels. This region provides a diverse landscape for gravel cyclists, from open country to wooded sections.
Best gravel bike trails around Galashiels
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Tweed Valley Near Innerleithen – Old Peel Road…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
5.0
(1)
43
riders
49.5km
03:28
720m
720m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
43.8km
03:00
520m
520m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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16
riders
63.2km
04:00
740m
740m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
23.3km
01:48
420m
420m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
31.3km
02:00
400m
400m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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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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Can fly along this car free section as long as you keep an eye on the surface. Beautiful old bridges at either end.
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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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Connecting the 7 staines. You can bike from Walkerburn, Innerleithen and Glentress on this path.
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On a nice day you can see through the Valley.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long are the gravel bike routes around Galashiels?
The gravel bike routes in the Galashiels area vary in length. You'll find options ranging from moderate trails like the Torwoodlee Tower Ruins loop from Caddonfoot, which is about 14.5 miles (23.3 km), to more challenging, longer rides such as the Tweed Valley Near Innerleithen – Old Peel Road loop from Tweedbank, covering approximately 39.3 miles (63.2 km).
Are there easy gravel bike trails near Galashiels for beginners?
While many routes in Galashiels are rated moderate to difficult, the region's diverse landscape offers paths suitable for various skill levels. For those looking for a less strenuous ride, consider exploring sections of the river valleys, which tend to have flatter, more accessible gravel paths. The guide features 4 moderate routes that could be a good starting point for beginners.
What about more challenging gravel bike routes in the Galashiels area?
For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, Galashiels offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gain. An example is the Black Bull Hotel & Restaurant – Twin Law Cairns loop from Lauder, a 30.7 miles (49.5 km) path that includes substantial climbs and passes by historical cairns. Another demanding option is the Old Tweed Bridge – River Ettrick loop from Clovenfords.
Can I find loop gravel rides around Galashiels?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Galashiels are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Torwoodlee Tower Ruins loop from Caddonfoot and the Elibank Craig Road – River Tweed loop from Caddonfoot. These circular routes are convenient for exploring the varied terrain of the Scottish Borders.
What kind of attractions can I see along the gravel bike trails near Galashiels?
The gravel bike trails in the Galashiels area often pass by historical landmarks and scenic natural features. You might encounter sites like the The Haining Country Estate, or enjoy views of lochs such as Faldonside Loch and Lindean Loch. The routes also offer glimpses of the rolling hills, including the Eildon Hills, with summits like Eildon Hill North.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Galashiels?
The gravel bike trails around Galashiels are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. Over 90 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the region, often praising the diverse landscape that combines river valleys, rolling hills, and historical sites, offering a good mix of challenging climbs and moderate paths.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Galashiels?
The Scottish Borders, including Galashiels, offers enjoyable gravel biking 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 gravel bike trails in Galashiels that pass by cafes or places to eat?
While specific cafes directly on every trail are not listed, many routes start or pass near towns and villages in the Scottish Borders, such as Lauder or Caddonfoot, where you can find local amenities. Planning your route to include a stop in one of these communities is a great way to refuel and experience local hospitality.
How can I access the gravel trails around Galashiels using public transport?
Galashiels is well-connected by public transport, particularly via the Borders Railway, which offers services to Edinburgh. Many trailheads are accessible from Galashiels town centre, which is served by local bus routes. Check local bus schedules and railway information for the most up-to-date travel options to reach your desired starting point.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking trailheads in Galashiels?
Parking is generally available in and around the towns and villages that serve as starting points for many gravel bike routes in the Galashiels area. For example, you can often find parking in Lauder, Tweedbank, or Caddonfoot. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and fees, especially in smaller communities.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting while gravel biking in Galashiels?
Yes, the diverse landscape of the Scottish Borders, with its river valleys, woodlands, and open hills, provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for local bird species, deer, and other native animals, especially in quieter sections of the trails away from populated areas. Early mornings or late afternoons often offer the best chances.
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