Gavinton and Fogo

This is a linear route 4 1/2 miles in length so you will be covering double that distance if you walk back to Duns.

Gavinton is an example of a development by an improving landlord; he created the settlement in 1760. Fogo village has created a short circular walk over the Blackadder Water for your enjoyment.

1. From Duns Market Square head along North Street and continue along Langtongate. At the end of this street turn left on to Langtongate. Stay on Langtongate for 0.85km taking the left turn up to Gavinton after Berwickshire High School.

2. Follow this road for 1.4km up to a junction. (If the ford is unable to be crossed on foot return along the road for a short distance and take the path over the footbridges.) Turn right to follow a road lined on one side by a mature woodland. Continue into the settlement of Gavinton. Gavinton is an early example of development by an improving landlord. In 1760, David Gavin, laird of Langton Estate, laid out a new settlement where his tenants could develop their cottage industries (principally weaving). Although this sounds forward looking, it is worth noting that his tenants had little choice but to move as he demolished the original hamlet of Langton which was visible from the windows of Langton House.

3. At the end of the village turn left to follow the minor road to Fogo. You will pass the Butter Well on the left hand side. Country folklore tells us that there were dangers associated with May Day like a malicious neighbour practising witchcraft to stop the butter from coming. To prevent this from happening, one ritual was to take the first water out of the neighbour’s well on this day. The well may also have been used as a place to leave a good luck offering of butter to the fairies when they passed. Continue along the road to Fogo for 3km.

4. Turn left down a lane. The lane is a haven for butterflies on warm sunny days. This will lead you to the river and over a timber bridge. The community have created wildlife interpretation boards and picnic spots to enhance your visit. You will pass Fogo Parish Church which is considered an architectural treasure retaining much of the character of the 17th century, despite later additions.

5. To return to Gavinton and Duns turn right when you reach the road. Then take first right to continue over Fogo Bridge and to retrace your steps along the road to Gavinton.