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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.

Seasons

This multi-day walk can be done at any time of year, although between early spring and the end of autumn you will have more hours of daylight.

Centres

Melrose, Newtown St Boswells, Kelso, Jedburgh, Denholm, Hawick and Selkirk.

Difficulty

Low level and easy walking on the first three stages. The following three stages involve some inclines, but none that are demanding for people with a moderate level of fitness. Most of the route is off-road, but there are some stretches along quiet, minor roads.

Must See

A circuit incorporating four of Scotland's most impressive ruined medieval abbeys. Follow in the monks' footsteps on riverside paths, forest tracks and open hills where great views abound. This route traverses part of the Tweed Valley before heading up to rolling hills. The variety of terrain will delight any walker.
ISBN
9781852849801
Availability
Published
Published
22 Feb 2019
Edition
First
Pages
96
Size
17.20 x 11.60 x .60cm
Weight
110g
Overview

The Borders Abbeys Way links four of Britain's grandest ruined medieval abbeys in the central Scottish Borders. The route is a well waymarked, 68-mile (109km) circuit and is one of Scotland's Great Trails.

The route which begins and ends in Tweedbank, is described clockwise over 6 stages averaging 11.3 miles per day. Relatively flat, it is suitable for people with a moderate level of fitness. The Way can be walked at any time of year and can be reached within an hour by train from the centre of Edinburgh.

This guidebook provides a comprehensive description of the route, which passes through the towns of Melrose, Kelso, Jedburgh, Hawick and Selkirk and the villages of Denholm and Newton St Boswells. In addition to clear route description and OS 1:50,000 mapping extracts, the guidebook also includes information about the history of the Borders abbeys, the ever-intriguing Borders reivers, and the region's geology and agriculture. Invaluable practical information relating to accommodation, transport, mapping and public access is also included.

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By Paul Boobyer

Paul Boobyer’s zest for walking and curiosity of foreign cultures led him to undertake long-distance walks in Britain, Nepal, New Zealand, Canada and Chile. He also spent time in Mongolia, where he stayed with nomadic herders and discovered how painful a traditional wooden saddle can be to the uninitiated. Returning to Scotland, Paul built mountain footpaths in the Scottish Highlands. Later, he managed footpaths whilst working as a Countryside Access Officer at Scottish Borders Council, and led guided walks during the annual Borders Walking Festival.

Paul now lives in Andalucía in Spain and often walks in the Sierra Morena hills near his home, enjoying the abundant birdlife and trying to spot European lynx.

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