Five walks in the Scottish Borders with pubs at the end

Feel the need to stretch your legs?
The Eildon Hills path is a short but challenging walk for those with intermediate experienceThe Eildon Hills path is a short but challenging walk for those with intermediate experience
The Eildon Hills path is a short but challenging walk for those with intermediate experience

Treat yourself to some time in the great outdoors with a walk in the beautiful Scottish Borders - and then reward yourself with a cold pint and a meal afterwards.

Here are some suggested routes.

Melrose to Holy Island (St Cuthbert's Way)

In its entirety, St Cuthbert's Way is 62.5 miles long, stretching from Melrose to Holy Island, but you don't have to hike the full length of it to earn your pub lunch.

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The six mile walk from Fenwick to Holy Island is a gorgeous one, if you can time your journey to coincide with low tide, allowing you to cross over to the island. You'll follow historic paths and tracks towards the coast, passing Fenwick Granary and crossing the main east coast railway line and Beal Cast Burn along the way.

Once you reach Holy Island, you can fuel up again in the traditional Ship Inn's bar and lounge, where they serve light bites during the day, an a la carte menu in the evening, and CAMRA approved ales.

River Tweed and Lees circuit

Beginning in the car park of Home Park in Coldstream, this beautiful walk along the bank of the River Tweed is a straightforward route, although the ground can be quite muddy during or after wet weather. If you're lucky, you may spot salmon, herons, oystercatchers and cormorants on your journey.

Rest and relax afterwards in Coldstream's Besom Inn, where you can enjoy classic pub grub cooked to a high standard.

Hart Fell and Devil's Beef Tub

A more challenging hike, tackling Hart Fell and the nearby Devil's Beef Tub in Moffat will give you breathtaking views of the Cheviots in the east, the Lake District to the south and the mountains of Galloway to the southwest.

After this epic adventure, you'll want to recharge your batteries The Coachman Bar in Moffat. It's an old school local hangout, but friendly, serving a wide range of drinks and filling comfort food.

Kelso to Jedburgh (Borders Abbey Way)

The circular Borders Abbey Way stretches for 64.5 miles, incorporating the locations of the Borders' four ruined abbeys. Try the Kelso to Jedburgh stretch (12 miles) to really stretch your legs and enjoy the picturesque countryside.

Once in Jedburgh, visit The Belter's Bar for moreish hot dogs, burgers or steak sandwiches.

Eildon Hills path

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Intermediate walkers will enjoy the four mile circular walk on the Eildon Hills, just outside Melrose. Though there are some steep sections, the stunning views from the hills' summits offer views out to the Lammermuirs, Moorfoots and Upper Tweeddale Hills.

Reward your efforts with a meal and drinks at the Ship Inn in Melrose, just a five minute drive or 15 minute walk from the hills.