Southern Upland Way

About This Route

The Southern Upland Way runs from Portpatrick in Dumfries and Galloway in the west of Scotland to Cockburnspath in Scottish Borders in the east of Scotland. It is a coast to coast route through southern scotland and one of Scotland’s Great Trails. The route was designed as a remote walking experience so good planning is necessary if you are tackling the whole way; not all of the settlements that you reach have accommodation. Some sections are through remote hill country and offer more challenging days so you may find it easier to split the way into two trips lasting 6-8 days each.

Statistics

Distance
212 miles
Level
Long Distance
Level Details
Most long distance walkers tackle the Southern Upland Way by walking from west to east. By walking predominantly in a northeasterly direction the sun will be at your back lighting up the way ahead to your best advantage. The prevailing winds are from the south west so they too will be at your back. All the guide books describe the Way travelling from west to east.
Towns
Yarrow Valley, Yair, Traquair, Lauder, Galashiels, Melrose, Longformacus, Abbey St Bathans, Cockburnspath
Altitude Gain
6740m