The best hikes from bus stations around Ettrick And Yarrow
4.5
(593)
6,253
hikers
9
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Ettrick And Yarrow offer access to the diverse landscapes of the Scottish Borders. The region features river valleys, lochs, woodlands, and hills. Hikers can explore the Ettrick Water and Yarrow Water valleys, alongside water bodies such as St Mary's Loch and the Loch of the Lowes. The terrain includes varied elevations, from gentle slopes to more challenging hills.
Best bus station hiking trails around Ettrick And Yarrow
- The most popular bus station hiking route is…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(9)
102
hikers
12.8km
03:45
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(4)
18
hikers
9.38km
02:49
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
3.23km
00:54
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
24.0km
06:56
600m
600m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Ettrick And Yarrow
Tips from the Community
In calm weather, the loch is a beautiful, mirror-like feature nestled between low hills. Swimming is potentially dangerous because the water level is regulated and cold undercurrents develop. On the shore is the basic but pleasant Tibbie Shiels Inn campsite. Across the road is a bikers' café where hikers are also welcome.
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Fantastic campsite with an impressive shower block! Very reasonable prices and friendly owners. Nice laid back feel. Contact the campsite directly to book.
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Newark Castle is a large ruined tower. It was first mentioned in 1423 and was packed back to the Crown in 1445 from the Earls of Douglas, and became one of only two royal castles in the Middle March. In 1645, after the Battle of Philiphaugh, one hundred prisoners were killed in the courtyard here, and Cromwell's troops occupied it in 1650. There's quite a lot of history here!
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A great walk away from the roads in Hartwoodmyres, a part of the much larger Ettrick Forest. This is a plantation, so there'll be some felling, but it is nonetheless a green walk, with great views of the hills (particularly the view of Bowhill from up here, which is impressive). In the middle of this walk, you'll find a picnic table on the side of the track if you want to rest.
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A picturesque bridge over Ettrick Water here with lovely river views. Note the very strong reinforcements on the banks, where you should be able to find a place to rest if you'd like to stop here.
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An extraordinary, picturesque, stunning, fabulous, scenic (you get the idea) descent from Helmburn Hill on this track down to the village of Ettrickbridge. Whatever troubles you have in your life, they will recede into the background with this in front of you! By the way, if you want to give yourself an additional romantic hills heart attack, Helmburn Hill is easily climbable from the track - it's right next to it.
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A good walk through the Big Wood straight from A7 towards Hartwoodburn. The views from the forest towards the north (Selkirk) are spectacular, and in the autumn, it can be colours gallore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station hiking trails are available in Ettrick And Yarrow?
There are nearly a dozen hiking routes in Ettrick And Yarrow that are easily accessible from bus stations, allowing you to explore the region without a car. These trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult.
Are there any easy bus-accessible hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Big Wood loop from Greenhill Farm. This route is just over 3 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on bus-accessible hikes in Ettrick And Yarrow?
The bus-accessible hikes in Ettrick And Yarrow offer a diverse range of landscapes, from serene river valleys and expansive woodlands to picturesque lochs and rolling hills. You can experience the tranquil beauty of the Scottish Borders, with routes often passing through areas rich in wildlife and historical significance.
Are there any circular walks starting from bus stops?
Many of the bus-accessible routes are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point. For example, the Fauldshope Bridge and Helmburn Hill loop from Ettrickbridge offers a challenging circular route through varied terrain. Another option is the St Mary's Loch – Loch of the Lowes loop from St Mary's Loch, which provides stunning lakeside views.
What do other hikers say about the bus station trails in Ettrick And Yarrow?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Ettrick And Yarrow, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere, the stunning natural beauty, and the convenience of accessing these trails via public transport.
Can I find any waterfalls or natural monuments along these routes?
Yes, the region is home to impressive natural features. While not directly on every bus-accessible route, you can explore highlights like the magnificent Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall, a dramatic cascade, or enjoy panoramic views from Eildon Mid Hill Summit. These are often accessible as detours or nearby attractions.
Are there any routes that offer views of the lochs?
Absolutely. The Loch of the Lowes – St Mary's Loch loop from St Mary's Loch is an excellent choice, providing beautiful vistas of both St Mary's Loch and the Loch of the Lowes. These lochs are prominent water bodies in the region, offering picturesque walking routes.
What is the best time of year to hike the bus-accessible trails in Ettrick And Yarrow?
Ettrick And Yarrow offers beautiful hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings vibrant greenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Autumn is particularly stunning with rich foliage colours, and even winter can be magical, though some trails may require more appropriate gear due to potential snow or ice. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Are there any longer, more challenging bus-accessible hikes?
For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, the Fauldshope Bridge and Helmburn Hill loop from Ettrickbridge is a challenging option, covering nearly 20 km with significant elevation gain. This route is classified as difficult and offers a rewarding experience for experienced hikers.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on these trails?
The diverse habitats of Ettrick And Yarrow support a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels in the woodlands and ospreys, especially near St Mary's Loch and the Ettrick Marshes. The region's remote nature also provides opportunities to spot other native birds and animals.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest along the bus station hiking routes?
Many walks in Ettrick And Yarrow pass through areas with rich historical and cultural significance. While specific bus-accessible routes may vary, the region is known for its connections to literary figures like James Hogg and Sir Walter Scott, and features ancient Bronze Age settlements, standing stones, and historic towers like Kirkhope Tower. Exploring these trails offers a glimpse into the past alongside stunning views.
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