Tours
We run two types of tour, a four night and three day tour, or a three night and two day tour.
On each tour daily we run a long (circa 20/25km), a medium (circa 10km) and a shorter route (2km-5km). These can be chosen on the day dependent on how you are feeling and what walk you would like to do. Below we show an example of the longer tours, the shorter tours are usually anchored around some of these stages.
Four nights & three days
(Sunday-Thursday)
Sunday afternoon collection from Berwick Station and arrival to the Black Bull in Duns, or if you have transport travel directly to the Black Bull for check-in after 3pm. Enjoy a relaxing evening before heading off on the first walk on Monday.
Day 1. Typically the long walk will be from Thirlstaine Castle, Lauder to Longformacus as stage 11 of the southern upland way. The distance is 24.25km and will take approximately 7-9 hours.
Enjoy the tranquility and nature as you cross open moorland, with sheep and curlews for company.
Day 2. If the long walk is selected this will be stage 12 of the southern upland way, approximately 6-8 hours and is 29km crossing the final route of the Southern Upland Way to Cockburnspath on the Berwickshire coast.
Day 3. The long walk will be stages 1&2 of the Berwickshire Coastal path from Cockburnspath to St Abbs totaling 23km which will be approximately 7-8 hours of walking. Mid way you can take a detour to Fast Castle if you have the energy!
Thursday. Check out and departure after breakfast. Transport provided to Berwick Upon Tweed at a set time for each tour.
Three nights & two days
(Thursday-Sunday)
Thursday afternoon collection from Berwick Station and arrival to the Black Bull in Duns, or if you have transport travel directly to the Black Bull for check-in after 3pm. Enjoy a relaxing evening before heading off on the first walk on Friday morning.
Day 1. Typically the long walk will be from Thirlstaine Castle, Lauder to Longformacus as stage 11 of the southern upland way. The distance is 24.25km and will take approximately 7-9 hours.
Enjoy the tranquility and nature as you cross open moorland, with sheep and curlews for company.
Day 2. If the long walk is selected this will be stage 12 of the southern upland way, approximately 6-8 hours and is 29km crossing the final route of the Southern Upland Way to Cockburnspath on the Berwickshire coast.
Sunday. Check out and departure after breakfast. Transport provided to Berwick Upon Tweed at a set time for each tour.
What do I need to bring?
If walking, bring suitable equipment to walk in hot, cold and wet conditions (we are in Scotland!) - so solid boots, a waterpoof coat, trousers, hat etc. Bring a rucksack so all of this can be carried if not being used.
For runners bring anything you would take for a hill race (rucksack, waterproof top and bottom, whistle, compass)
Do I need prior experience?
Not necessarily. However you need to be able to walk over potentially challenging ground conditions and fit enough to walk the distances you choose.
Is there an age limit?
No; however the minimum age for our tours unless being accompanied by an adult is 18.
How do I get to the walks and back to the accommodation?
We will arrange these transfers.
What I change my mind on the route?
Thats fine, you can choose a route each day that is short, medium or longer.
You can see how you are feeling on the day!
Where are we staying?
The Black Bull in Duns is a historic coaching inn, we base the tours from here.
The rooms are extremely comfortable and the food is excellent.
What is included on the price?
Collection and drop off from Berwick Upon Tweed at 1 pre-agreed time for each tour (see individual tour details for this time).
All transfers to and from the walks.
All guidance on suggested routes.
Accommodation on a Bed and Breakfast rate at the Black Bull.
What is not included in the price
Everything else you might need for sustenance whilst staying at the Black Bull!
- Packed lunch can be provided £10.00 per person per day
- Dinner
These extras are paid directly to the accommodation provider at check out.