Starting from Melrose, this route takes us on an invigorating climb over the iconic Eildon Hills, whose triple peaks are one of the most beloved landmarks in the Scottish Borders. As we pause at the top to catch our breath, there are panoramic views in every direction, including Melrose, the Moorfoot, and Lammermuir Hills to the north, and the mighty Cheviot range to the south.  

After descending to the village of Bowden, nestled in the lee of the Eildons, the route winds its way through gentle farmland and woodland to Newtown St Boswells. From  here we will make our way to Dryburgh Abbey. Which will be our resting place for the night.

This morning we will be able to spend some quiet time at the Abbey before making our way to St. Boswells. A nice short walk for today. 

This section is lovely. We will walk through forests of flowers, past churches, and a bubbling river with swans and fly fisherman. A nice stretch. We will stop at a beautiful Garden Center just outside of town. Enjoy a break here and then transfer to our resting place.

After breakfast, we will transfer back to our starting point. We will begin by crossing the Monteviot Suspension Bridge, which is located just below the beautiful Monteviot House. Our journey will then continue along the banks of the River Teviot until we reach Jedfoot, where we will rejoin Dere Street.  

The route will then take us through some woodland areas, which in the spring are dotted with beautiful bluebells. We will then head southeast on farm paths and tracks, passing through some rich agricultural land until we reach Cessford. 

Cessford Castle, which was once the stronghold of the Kers, lies directly on our route and is a fantastic place to explore some of the rich history of the Borders.  Finally, we will arrive at the village of Morebattle.

Crossing a footbridge over the Kale river, we can embark on a day's walk through beautiful fields and stiles. The trail offers stunning views back over Morebattle, which is surrounded by the Eildon Hills. 

Along the way, we will encounter one of the steepest climbs of the entire walk, leading up to the top of Wideopen Hill, where we can enjoy more breathtaking views towards Yetholm and its loch. 

The descent into the valley of Bowmont Water will bring us to the charming village of Kirk Yetholm, with its picturesque thatched cottages that are a reminder of its origins as a farm township. Moreover, Kirk Yetholm is also home to the north end of the Pennine Way, which starts in Edale, Derbyshire, and stretches over a distance of 270 miles, which is our resting place for the night.

Starting off refreshed the next day, the upcoming part of St. Cuthbert's Way coincides with the final stretch of the Pennine Way. As we climb up from Halterburn around Green Humbleton (287m) - the first of many hillforts along St. Cuthbert's Way - we will soon arrive at the national border between Scotland and England. Once we reach the border, we will cross into Northumberland National Park, one of Britain's best-kept secrets.  

St. Cuthbert's Way descends via Elsdonburn to Hethpool, at the head of the College valley and home of the Collingwood Oaks. From there, we will continue through woodland and a good track along the Cheviot foothills, heading towards Yeavering Bell (361m), Northumberland's largest Iron Age fort. A lovely path takes us through the heather over Gains Law down to the small market town of Wooler. Here, we can find shops, accommodations, food and drink, and everything we need.

Today is your day to explore and enjoy this spiritual and beautiful island.

Today we depart the Holy Island and make our way back to Edinburgh by bus and train.