Based in the Scottish Borders, Eildon Ramblers is a friendlywalking group for people of all ages. We offer year-round walks to suit avariety of tastes.
This walk was postponed recently due to adverse weather. It is comparable to the recent walks over Ruberslaw and the Eildons, as there are steep paths and some walking in open country. Birkscairn Hill is higher, but rounded and heathery, and the ascent will be less demanding, at a manageable pace.
We meet at the car park behind Traquair Parish Church, at Kirkhouse, about a mile down the B709 from Traquair village, and car share to the Glen Gatehouse, where parking is very limited.
We walk generally westward from the gatehouse on an undulating track to reach a path which tales us southward by a stiff but manageable ascent over Birks Hill and Birkscairn Hill. We skirt the eastern flank of Stake Law before dropping down to our lunch stop at the remote cottage at Glenshiel Banks (the Far Shepherd).
From the cottage, we take a path which leads to the Burn Plantation, where we pass through a delightful ravine with waterfalls to Loch Eddy, and thence along the trackway by the Quair Water to the gatehouse, passing the Tennant Memorial. There are ample coffee options at the end of the walk in Innerleithen.
Sunday in May could be very warm or cold and wet. Boots and waterproof clothing are essential. Poles and adequate food and water are recommended. Watch the weather forecast, and bring a spare fleece or sun screen!
Circular walk, grade B+, moderate. Hiking boots and poles are recommended.
Walk leader: Murray
Estimated duration: 4 - 4.5 hours
Eildon Ramblers members. Please contact the walk leader per the directions in the Secretary’s email.
Members of other Ramblers groups & potential new members are welcome to apply to join this walk. Please contact walks@eildonramblers.org.uk leaving your name and mobile phone no. The walk leader will contact you.
Registration deadline. You should register with the Walk Leader (a) no later than 5pm on the Thursday prior to a Saturday walk, or (b) no later than 5pm on the Friday prior to a Sunday walk.
Covid-19. Please read the Covid-19 advice on our website, and observe the recommended precautions.
Start. Kirkhouse Cemetery car park, about 1 mile south of Traquair village on the B709, for car sharing to The Glen.
