Soonhope, Glentress & Venlaw Circular (Peebles)
Distance: 7.9 miles (12.7 km) with approx. 1,187 ft (362 m) of ascent
Grade: Moderate (B)
Start time: Meet 09:30 for a 09:45 start
Estimated finish: 13:30
A pleasant circular walk from Kingsmeadows Car Park in Peebles, combining openviews, forest tracks and attractive woodland.
We begin by crossing the Gytes playing field to reach the main road, then head up through Soonhope Glen on good, steady tracks. The route continues onto the upper forest road around Glentress, where we’ll pause for a coffee break and take in the surrounding scenery.
The track then climbs gently before we descend on a scenic woodland path past the Shieldgreen Centre. A further steady ascent on forest tracks brings us to a viewpoint between Whitfold Hill and Malingsland Hill, where we’ll stop for lunch and enjoy the views.
After lunch, we loop back towards Peebles around Venlaw Hill. The final section takes us through the town via Northgate and School Brae, returning to Kingsmeadows Car Park.
The walk is on good tracks and paths throughout, though some sections may be muddy after rain. There are no stiles and no particularly steep climbs, but a reasonable level of fitness is required due to the distance and overall ascent.
Please note:
• Sturdy footwear recommended
• Waterproofs advisable depending on the weather
• Please bring drinks, a snack for the coffee stop, and a packed lunch