Using the Routes

In this section you'll find all sorts of useful information about practical aspects of using the South of Scotland Countryside Trails routes on foot or on horseback.  Just click on the relevant tab in the drop-down menu to the left. For more about planning your visit, click here.

On all of the South of Scotland Countryside Trails routes, as well as clear way marking, gates have been replaced so that they are easy to open and close, and drainage work has been undertaken to resolve identified problems. However, in keeping with the rural setting, the majority of these paths are unsurfaced.  Walkers are therefore recommended to wear stout footwear. There are no stiles on Tweed Trails paths, to improve accessibility for all ages and abilities, although varying gradient and uneven surface may restrict some users.

 

The other routes included on this website, such as the Hawick Circular Riding Route, have been developed by  other organisations and may not be waymarked to the same standard, or have such horse-friendly gates.  However, the fact that they are promoted as riding routes vouches for their suitability.

Remember that most of the forestry and farmland you will be passing through is a working environment.  Remember to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

• Respect the privacy, safety and livelihoods of those living or working in the countryside, and the needs of other people enjoying the outdoors.
• Look after the places and routes you visit and enjoy: take only memories, leave only footprints.
• Accept responsibility for your own actions.
• Keep dogs under close control at all times.

For more information visit www.outdooraccess-scotland.co.uk.

Please also remember to show respect for others who might want to use the same parking area, and pick up any dung.  It is always advisable to turn your trailer/box when you arrive in case the car park fills up while you are out riding.

Every effort has been made to make the SOSCT routes as enjoyable and easy to follow as possible, but there are still risks attached to walking, cycling or riding in the countryside, and you use the routes at your own risk.  Neither BHS nor the partners involved in SOSCT accept responsibility for the accuracy of route descriptions, nor for any accident or injury incurred by anyone following the routes described.