Borders Abbeys Way

The four abbeys of the Scottish Borders — Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh — are among the finest medieval ruins in Britain, built by the Norman church in the twelfth century and repeatedly sacked during the Border Wars between Scotland and England. The Borders Abbeys Way links all four in a circular route through the Tweed valley countryside.

For trail runners it is a one to two day challenge on easy terrain — riverside paths, estate tracks and well-used footpaths throughout. The terrain is the gentlest of any Scotland's Great Trail. What it lacks in mountain drama it makes up for in history and the pleasant, rolling landscape of the Borders.

The circuit can be started at any of the four abbeys. Melrose to Dryburgh (~10 km): The most atmospheric section, through the grounds of Dryburgh Estate. Dryburgh Abbey is one of the most beautiful ruin settings in Scotland.

Dryburgh to Kelso (~25 km): Through the Tweed valley farmland. Floors Castle near Kelso is the largest inhabited castle in Scotland.

Kelso to Jedburgh (~25 km): Through Roxburghshire countryside to the red sandstone ruins of Jedburgh Abbey.

Jedburgh to Melrose (~45 km): The longest section — over the Eildon Hills (the route's highest point) and back to Melrose.

Based in Melrose: Good services, accommodation, car parking. Bus from Edinburgh and Galashiels.

All four abbeys are managed by Historic Environment Scotland and have visitor facilities.

Best time: Year-round. The Borders is drier than the western Highlands.