Thursday, 31 Oct 2024
Did you know that Scotland is home to ten of the 17 bat species living and breeding in the UK? …
Craik Forest is great for when you want to ‘get away from it all’. Nestling in the heart of the Southern Uplands, this large, remote woodland is home to red squirrels and many woodland birds.
Some of the trees here are over 100 years old, and the size and isolation of the forest makes it a great place for wildlife.
Open - easy graded only.
A short stroll along the peaceful Borthwick Water, through graceful larch. Perfect for a picnic.
Wide and firm track throughout, with occasional loose gravel. Gentle rises and one section of boardwalk.
Allow ¼ hours
Find out about the salmon that spawn in the burn, and the bats, owls and squirrels that live in the trees.
17 July 2024: trail closed due to fallen trees after storms Isha and Jocelyn. We will reopen access once it is safe to do so.
A wee daunder along the burn and through mature, moss-clad Norway spruce trees, a favourite habitat of the red squirrel.
Uneven gravel and earth paths. Some exposed tree roots and potentially muddy sections. Two short steep slopes and a pair of bridges.
Allow ½ hours
Fallen trees block the trail between point 2 and 3 and around point 4. An alternative red trail walk is signposted on the ground, please follow the red waymarkers clockwise starting at the carpark. From point 2 onwards follow the temporary signage that avoids the sections with fallen trees.
Walk through some of Craik’s oldest trees and along the lovely Aithouse Burn. Great views over the forest.
Uneven grass and earth paths with some muddy sections. Some steep slopes. Includes a bridge and section of boardwalk.
Allow 1 hour
There's opportunities to spot red squirrels and woodland birds, so bring your binoculars.
You’ll find public toilets and places to eat in Hawick.
There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.
From Hawick, follow the A7 towards Carlisle. At Martins Bridge turn onto the B711, signposted for Roberton. After about 3 ¼ miles, just beyond the school in Roberton, turn left and follow the unclassified single track road for about 6 ½ miles to the car park. Craik Forest is well signposted.
TD9 7PS is the nearest postcode.
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