The 4 Abbey's Cycling Tour Borders of Scotland

A three centre self-guided circular cycle tour of the 4 Abbeys route in the Borders of Scotland. Includes; 4 nights bed and breakfast in en-suite (wherever possible) guesthouse accommodation, 3 days cycling with luggage transfers, tour details and phone app navigation. Hire of a 21 speed all-terrain bicycle is also included.
This 55 mile circular cycle route of the Scottish Borders passes through some of the key historical sites of this region. This is a well signposted route using mainly quiet minor roads and cycle lanes, allowing you to enjoy the wonderful views of the countryside surrounding the rivers Tweed and Teviot. You will have many opportunities to visit the castles, abbeys and fortified buildings that indicate this area’s turbulent history. Starting and finishing in the market town of Kelso home to its own abbey and the impressive Floors Castle, the route follows the river Teviot to Jedburgh where there is another abbey and castle. Then the route heads back to the river Tweed at Melrose where (you guessed it) there is another abbey where the heart of Robert the Bruce is buried. Finishing with a nice easy day cycling back to Kelso you can visit any of the attractions you missed on day one.

ARRIVAL DAY: Kelso. Your 1st and final nights’ accommodation is in the market town of Kelso with its many tourist attractions, including an abbey and Floors Castle. Situated on the banks of the River Tweed and the world famous ‘Junction Pool’, it is regarded as having the best salmon fishing in Europe. There are many places to eat in the town centre from fish and chip shops and traditional pubs to luxury restaurants. Overnight: Kelso, Scotland.

DAY ONE: Kelso to Jedburgh. Distance approx. 20 miles (33 km). After breakfast you will begin the ride out of Kelso on this well signposted route that is littered with historical buildings. Set at a nice easy pace it gives you plenty of time to take in the sites as you ride through the beautiful Borderland countryside. About half way is Teviot Water Gardens and Smokery where there is a café, ideal for lunch before continuing on to Jedburgh. There is an abbey and castle here too and plenty of choices for your evening meal. Overnight: Jedburgh, Scotland.

DAY TWO: Jedburgh to Melrose. Distance approx. 19 miles (30 km). A beautiful section today takes you along wooded country lanes and up to the highest point of the route at 252 meters, providing fantastic views over the area. Quite remote on the second half of today’s ride there is the opportunity for refreshments at Harestanes Visitor Centre or take a packed lunch with you and have a picnic. At Melrose there is of course another abbey and Abbotsford House, former home of Sir Walter Scott. Overnight: Melrose, Scotland.