Eildon Hills

The Eildon Hills are three prominent hills to the south of Melrose in Scotland. The walk starts from the Nutwood Car Park, close to Melrose Abbey for which you can squeeze in a quick visit before or after your hill walk.

To start the walk, you need to head west from the car park through the Melrose Market Square, then turn left up the B6359.

Look out for a signpost on the left between houses indicating St Cuthbert's Way. Follow the path up some wooden steps following the signs with the logo of the three hills.

The path passes between fields and through gates as it climbs and turns right, offering beautiful views over Melrose and Galashiels.

Keep climbing the path until you reach the col between the two closest hills. Eildon Mid Hill, on the right is the tallest and the first to ascend.

Follow the path to the summit of Eildon Mid Hill, the views are stunning and you are rewarded with Eildon Mid Hill Trig Point and a Toposcope. Eildon Mid Hill is also a Sub2000 (Marilyn), if you are a Hill Bagger.

Once you have enjoyed a rest, it is time to head up your second hill of the day, Eildon Wester Hill to the South.

Start by retracing your steps, heading back down to the col, before turning right heading South West ready to begin your ascent up Eildon Wester Hill.

From the summit of Eildon Wester Hill, you can enjoy the views of the hill you have already conquered and study your final hill, Eildon Hill North.

Once again retrace you steps down to the col, before turning right and heading North East for your final ascent of the day Eildon Hill North.

Once you have enjoyed another rest and taken in the views, head straight over the back of the hill heading North East.

The views now change and Leaderfoot Viaduct comes into view. The path eventually meets a track, keep going until you reach a road and turn right.

Keep an eye out for the path on the left for the route back along the Border Abbeys Way, or keep going a short distance for a detour to the Rhymer's Stone.

Follow the Border Abbeys Way until you reach the A6091, turn right and head through the subway under the road and old railway.

Turn left and follow the path which drops down to the road at Newstead. Turn left, then immediately right onto a footpath. Follow this path back to Melrose Abbey and the car park.

The three peaks of Eildon Hills are what is left of an ancient volcano.

Follow the above route, or find on OS Maps. This route is just over 9km with 570m of ascent.