Cycle tour in Scotland: The Scottish Borders

You will travel to England namely Berwick-upon-Tweed for your bike tour along the Scottish boarder. It is the northernmost town in England, situated on a peninsula at the mouth of the River Tweed which for a span of about 30 km forms the border between England and Scotland. 
The town’s status as a border settlement has profoundly influenced its history. Over the centuries, it has witnessed numerous significant historical events during the Anglo-Scottish border wars. The well-preserved fortifications from the Elizabethan period stand  testament to its strategic importance.

Today you have the chance to visit the Holy Island – cycle along the coast and cross the causeway at low tide. The Lindisfarne monastery has stood here since the 7th century. The Viking raid in 793 famously marks the dawn of the Viking Age in Britain. If you have the energy, continue south to Bamburgh, home to a majestic castle. Alternatively, you can head back to Berwick-upon-Tweed via the hinterland, soaking in the stunning coastal views along the way.

Today you will leave Berwick-upon-Tweed behind cycling upstream along the River Tweed along the English-Scottish boarder. You continue inland, passing the stately manor houses of Paxton House and Manderston House, both of which are open for visits. Continuing along peaceful country lanes, you’ll reach the market town of Kelso. Renowned for its Georgian architecture and charming French-style market square, Kelso is one of the most picturesque towns in the region. While there, explore the ruins of Kelso Abbey and visit Floors Castle, located just outside the town.

Today’s tour takes you to Jedburgh, a charming town that developed around an Augustinian monastery, with its church built by a bishop from Lindisfarne. In the 12th century, King David I constructed a castle here, and the impressive ruins of Jedburgh Abbey and Jedburgh Castle still dominate the town’s skyline. After a leisurely lunch break, you’ll cycle back to Kelso. As you’ve now reached the foothills of the Cheviot Hills, expect a few gentle climbs along the way.

Today’s stage is a shorter one, allowing you to take your time and enjoy the journey. The River Tweed meanders through the lush landscape, guiding you towards your destination. Along the way, you’ll come across the ruins of Dryburgh Abbey, nestled in a bend of the river. The abbey was burned down several times throughout its history, with the final destruction occurring in 1544. In Melrose Abbey, the heart of Scottish King Robert the Bruce is believed to be buried.

A few kilometres after Melrose, you’ll reach the historic Abbotsford House, built in the 19th century for the renowned writer Sir Walter Scott on the south bank of the River Tweed. From there, cycle through the rolling hills to Clovenfords, and continue on to the village of Stow of Wedale. Here, you’ll find a charming packhorse bridge dating back to the 1650s, spanning the River Gala Water. After exploring this picturesque village, it’s time to head back to Melrose.

After breakfast, your cycle tour in Scotland concludes, and you begin your departure.