A tricky circular hike from Clovenfords with stunning 360° views
Distance – 14.5 km/9 miles.
Grade – difficult
Time – 4 – 5 hours.
Terrain – open hill, tracks, paths, road
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Todays hike was a circuit of Neidpath Hill and Yair from Clovenfords. It is in part a truly off-piste hiking route, which takes full advantage of Scottish “Right to Roam” legislation (note: as long as these rights are exercised responsibly).
Starting at the Clovenfords Hotel we headed down the Green Path towards Caddonfoot, but quickly took a left fork onto the side of Meigle Hill. Reaching the woodland near to the top of Meigle, we went through a gate, and then very soon another, we then followed a wall around the hill whilst trying to maintain our altitude. This is not a marked path and is difficult, so navigation skills are required.
Eventually we saw two stone cairns, at the second we stopped to chat to fellow hikers. An enjoyable break.
It was a tricky navigation to the Fairnilee-Gala path, with some difficult descents, especially in todays snow. We passed through a gate in the wall and kept left to maintain our altitude. After a kilometer or so we hit the Southern Upland Way and headed down to the Tweed at Yair Bridge.
After crossing Yair Bridge already fatigued (the 3 Brethren was not an option!), we headed through the Yair estate to Ashiestiel and back to Clovenfords.
A well deserved libation at the Hotel was not possible due to the Covid lockdown. Straight home for a beer.
