Caerlee and the River Tweed

Although a short circular this route includes a steep climb up through St Ronan’s Wood, managed by the Woodland Trust. The route affords excellent views and a pleasant return along the River Tweed.

The River Tweed rises in the Lowther Hills and flows for 100 miles before emptying into the sea at Berwick-upon-Tweed. It is Scotland’s 4th largest river.

1. Leave the Hall Street Car Park, Victoria Park, and turn right onto St Ronan’s Terrace. After 50 metres turn left into St Ronan’s Terrace. At the next junction turn right and go through the gate into St Ronan’s Wood. Follow the path uphill for approximately 600m.

2. At a bend in the track, with the mast over to your left, go through the kissing gate in front of you. Follow the well defined path along the field edge and onto the cut through between two plantations. After 1km turn left down the track which leads onto the main road. Cross over (take care and watch for traffic) and take the track down to the river bank.

3. Once at the river turn left and you are heading back to town. Follow this route by the river for 2km until you reach Traquair Road. Look out for dippers and heron on the water and in spring and early summer enjoy the abundance of wild flowers including stitchwort, forget-me-not and cranesbill.

4. Turn left when you reach the road and this will take you back to the High Street. Cross over the main road and return to your start point.