The Scottish Borders has a lot to offer when it comes to walks. From spectacular vantage points and dramatic coastlines to peaceful meandering rivers, there’s a walk to fit whatever mood you feel that day. 

Choosing a long walk is good for you. It gives you a sense of achievement and if you got the fitness app with your recent iPhone update, your little calorie-counting circle might even loop the loop.

But what if you’re running short on time, or you simply want to experience the great outdoors at a slower pace without needing to travel as far? Well, if you're in the Scottish Borders, I have you covered with five of my favourite short local walks. 

The Waterloo Monument near Ancrum

If you’ve driven anywhere near the St. Boswell’s or Jedburgh area, you’re sure to have spotted this magnificent tower on the horizon. Built in the early 19th century to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo, this 150-foot tower is even more impressive up close. There is a circular route starting from the nearby Harestanes visitor centre, however, if I’m just wanting a short walk to clear my lungs and enjoy a good view I’ll park up just off the road near the gated entrance to the woods leading to the Waterloo Monument. Enjoy the dappled light of the trees before breaking through the other side and following the hilly grassland path right to the summit and the foot of the monument. From this vantage point, take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Scottish Borders and across to the Cheviot Hills in Northumberland. Although you will find the tower locked, if you have a head for heights you can borrow the key from Lothian Estates and climb the many steps to the top.

St. Boswells to Dryburgh riverside walk

For a leisurely, tranquil walk, join the St. Cuthbert’s Way trail in the village of St. Boswells down towards the River Tweed. From here you can follow the path under the shaded light of the overhanging trees that runs right alongside the wide-flowing waters of the river, watching ducks sedately paddling by and hearing the occasional splash of a fish as it leaps from the cool dark waters. Crossing the vintage suspension bridge will land you on the opposite banks at Dryburgh where you will discover the Temple of The Muses or follow the road around to Dryburgh Abbey. Personally, I prefer to keep following the path along the river in the direction of Melrose and finding a quiet spot to sit and enjoy a picnic before heading back. 

Minto Hills near Denholm 

Although they may not be the tallest hills in the area, the twin domes of the Minto Hills do provide some superb views of the Borders while burning a fair few calories. You can either start in the village of Denholm for a few extra miles, or you’ll find a small pull-off on the road near the style. Enjoy views down to the village below and the surrounding countryside from the larger of the two hills. You may even come across a lovely piebald pony quietly grazing on the hillside as I did. 

St. Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve

One of the most dramatic landscapes in the Scottish Borders has to be the wild, rocky coastline by St. Abbs. Protected due to its importance as a breeding ground for a large number of seabirds, as well as being rich in plant species and home to a range of butterflies including the nationally rare Northern Brown Argus. A spectacular cliff-line walk runs along the edge of the reserve and up to the lighthouse, before following the winding road back to the carpark. During summer months you’re like to see the large nesting colonies on surrounding cliff stacks, while during the winter months, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to spot Grey Seal pups hauled up on the shores of the reserve, although it is extremely important to keep your distance if you do. 

Edin’s Hall Broch

This is one of those spot’s that unless you happen to notice the tiny brown tourist signpost while driving past you probably wouldn’t even know it was there. Tucked away in the valley between Preston and Abbey St. Bathans, Edin’s Hall Broch is one of the Scottish lowland’s very few Iron Age brochs, most of which are based up in the north. While the upper walls of the broch have long disappeared, the remaining stonework is a fascinating sight and spans far wider than most. The walk itself up to Edin’s Hall Broch is an idyllic one, with views of the Elba falls as you cross the narrow suspension bridge and the following the gorse-lined Whiteadder Water through lush green fields and up the hillside to the broch.