The Borders Abbeys Way : The abbeys of Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders

Guidebook to the Borders Abbeys Way, a 68 mile circuit in the Scottish Borders, taking in 4 of Britain's grandest ruined medieval abbeys. Beginning and ending in Tweedbank, the route, which is described over 6 stages, is as rich in history as it is in pastoral charm. Relatively flat, it is suitable for people with a moderate level of fitness.

Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Scottish Borders on the Borders Abbeys Way, a 109km (68-mile) circular long-distance walking route linking the great abbey towns of Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh. Officially designated as one of Scotland’s Great Trails, this relatively easy, low-level route follows rivers, rolling countryside and forest tracks, and can be completed comfortably by reasonably fit walkers in under a week. This guidebook makes planning and walking the Borders Abbeys Way straightforward and rewarding, whether you’re new to long-distance walking or looking for a relaxed, culture-rich trail. With clear stage breakdowns, expert navigation guidance and practical advice throughout, it helps you explore one of Scotland’s easier long-distance trails, located just under an hour by train from Edinburgh. Detailed route descriptions for all 6 stages are provided alongside OS 1:50,000 mapping and downloadable GPX files to keep you on track as you explore the BordersA handy route summary table breaks each stage down with ascent information, daily distances (8 - 25km) and timings so that you can adapt this long-distance trail to suit your experience and fitnessAccommodation information is provided, mainly hotels and B&Bs with some campsites, including in key centres like Hawick, Selkirk, Newton St Boswells, Denholm, and Jedburgh Insight into the history of the Scottish Borders is included, bringing 12th-century medieval abbeys, border conflicts and landscapes to life as you walkWritten by Paul Boobyer, an experienced long-distance walker and former Scottish Borders Council Countryside Access Officer, providing local knowledge, route familiarity and on-the-ground expertise to every stage The Borders Abbeys Way is a week-long walking holiday through the turbulent and fascinating history of the Scottish Borders. With this guidebook, you’ll gain key navigational tools and a deeper understanding of the abbeys, towns and landscapes you pass through, turning this Great Trail into a rich cultural experience as well as a scenic one.