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Craik Forest
Craik Forest
Where we are
Craik Forest Notice
The lower car park, the white Burnside Trail, blue Spruce Trail and red Aithouse Burn Trail are closed due to windblown trees and tree felling operations, seven days a week.
There is parking available at the upper car park, for picnic visits and access to the wider forest network, including the Romans and Reivers route.
About
A stunning woodland landscape with tranquil trails
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.
Walking trails
Walking
Burnside Trail (closed)
A trail notice is in effect
Trail closed due to tree felling work. If visiting the wider forest, please follow all site safety signage and operator’s instructions.
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.
¼ miles / 0.36 km
Allow ¼ hours
More information
Find out about the salmon that spawn in the burn, and the bats, owls and squirrels that live in the trees.
Walking
Spruce Trail (closed)
A trail notice is in effect
Trail closed due to tree felling work. If visiting the wider forest, please follow all site safety signage and operator’s instructions.
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.
½ miles / 0.8 km
Allow ½ hours
Walking
Aithouse Burn Trail (closed)
A trail notice is in effect
Trail closed due to tree felling work. If visiting the wider forest, please follow all site safety signage and operator’s instructions.
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.
1 ¾ miles / 2.8 km
Allow 1 hour
More information
There's opportunities to spot red squirrels and woodland birds, so bring your binoculars.
Facilities and access
Find a bite to eat nearby
You’ll find public toilets and places to eat in Hawick.
Car parking information
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.
Getting here
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.
Using SatNav?
TD9 7PS is the nearest postcode.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?
Phone
0300 067 6900 (option 1)
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