Gordon Community Woodland

Walking Route

Gordon Community Woodland

Walking

An interesting short circular from Melrose to Newstead along the ancient Priorswalk and passed the Rhymer’s Stone.

You follow in the footsteps of the monks along Priorswalk before heading through the old settlement of Newstead, believed to be the oldest inhabited village in Scotland. You can also stop for a moment at the Rhymer’s Stone; Thomas Rhymer was spirited away by the fairies according to folklore.

Further information:
Paths around Melrose
Downloads:
pathsaroundmelrose2016-PDF-final.pdf Melrose_1.gpx
height
Distance:
3mi / 5km
trending_flat
Total climb:
295ft / 90m
trending_flat
Total descent:
295ft / 90m
Towns along route:
Melrose, Newstead
Difficulty:
Easy
Difficulty notes:
Minor roads and mostly good paths, although some stretches can be muddy. Often flat, but with one moderate climb. Boots or walking shoes are recommended.
Our best efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of data, however the data and geographic information contained along route lines and on maps should be used for informational purposes only.

What you'll see

Image of Melrose

Melrose

Towns & Villages

The trail starts in Melrose beside the magical Eildon Hills.

Image of An interesting short circular from Melrose to Newstead along the ancient Priorswalk and passed the Rhymer’s Stone. You follow in the footsteps of the monks along Priorswalk before heading through the old settlement of Newstead, believed to be the oldest inhabited village in Scotland. You can also stop for a moment at the Rhymer’s Stone; Thomas Rhymer was spirited away by the fairies according to folklore.

Newstead

Towns & Villages

Newstead is a village approximately 1 mile east of Melrose. It is thought to be the oldest continually-inhabited settlement in Scotland.