Kirkpatrick C2C – Challenge Stage 4

Take on the 59 miles on the Challenge approach to the Kirkpatrick C2C with the fourth stage of the route.

This section largely follows the River Tweed from Selkirk to Melrose, Kelso and past Coldstream, crossing the river back and forth before leaving it behind at Paxton and descending towards Eyemouth.

Setting off from Selkirk, the final stretch of the route sees cyclists follow along the River Tweed for much of the day, firstly to Melrose. The picturesque market town is perhaps best known for its ruined abbey and as the home of Rugby Sevens. Why not explore another part of the rich local history at Trimontium Museum: It tells the story of the Romans in Scotland. From Melrose, it is a short ride to cross the River Tweed at Dryburgh and past the atmospheric Borders abey of the same name. Continuing on to Kelso, take some time to stop at the many shops and cafes around Kelso Square in the town’s centre, or a visit to Floors Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the country. The route then takes you past Coldstream, close to the border with England, the location hinting at the many historic conflicts the town has seen. Further along, the route dips into England before recrossing into Scotland over the Union Chain Bridge. Spanning the River Tweed between Fishwick in Scotland and Horncliffe in England, it was the longest wrought iron suspension bridge in the world upon its opening in 1820 – a revolutionary achievement. Stop at the nearby neo-Palladian mansion of Paxton House before a short, final stretch towards the coast to reach Eyemouth and its harbour. Celebrate your arrival in one of the local eateries – fresh seafood is on the menu at many of them. Alternatively, explore the town, which was a centre for smuggling in the 18th century.