Your Scottish adventure begins as you arrive in the charming town of Moffat, nestled in the heart of the Southern Uplands. Transport will be arranged to collect you from Lockerbie station, which is easily accessible by train from both London and Edinburgh. If you’re driving, you’re welcome to meet us directly at the accommodation.
To make the most of your trip, we recommend arriving in the morning or afternoon, giving you time to settle in before the evening welcome drinks. This is a great opportunity to meet your fellow adventurers and go over the plans for the week’s hiking. If you’re arriving a day early, we can suggest excellent accommodation options to ensure a relaxed start to your journey.
For the duration of the trip, Moffat will be your base. This means you won’t have to carry all your belongings from place to place, and after each day of hiking, you’ll return to the comfort of a warm shower and a cosy bed. Get ready for an unforgettable week exploring one of Scotland’s most scenic hiking destinations.
Distance – 5.1 Miles, Elevation – 502m, Time – 4.5 Hours
The adventure truly begins with a spectacular hike to Grey Mare’s Tail, one of Scotland’s most striking waterfalls. Cascading from a height of 60 metres, this dramatic natural landmark is set within the rugged Moffat Hills, offering breathtaking views and a true sense of wilderness.
Starting from the trailhead near Moffat, the route follows a steady ascent through heather-covered slopes and rocky paths, gradually revealing the full grandeur of the waterfall as it plunges into the valley below. The surrounding landscape is vast and untamed, with rolling hills stretching as far as the eye can see.
Continuing past the falls, the trail leads to Loch Skeen, a remote glacial lake nestled high in the hills. The effort to reach it is well worth it—this tranquil body of water, framed by steep cliffs and open moorland, feels like a hidden treasure in the Scottish wilderness.
Along the way, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including red deer grazing on the hillsides and golden eagles soaring overhead. After taking in the incredible views and the peaceful atmosphere of Loch Skeen, the return route follows the same path back down, offering fresh perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
This hike is a fantastic introduction to the beauty of the Southern Uplands, setting the stage for more adventures to come.
Distance – 11.6 Miles, Elevation – 976m, Time – 6 Hours
Today’s hike takes you to the Devil’s Beef Tub, one of the most striking natural features of the Moffat Hills. This deep, amphitheatre-like hollow, surrounded by steep slopes, is steeped in history and offers spectacular panoramic views of the Southern Uplands.
The trail begins near Moffat, following a gentle ascent through open moorland and heather-clad hills. As you climb higher, the landscape opens up, revealing sweeping views of the rolling countryside and the dramatic contours of the hills. The sense of space and remoteness here is truly breathtaking.
Reaching the viewpoint overlooking the Devil’s Beef Tub, you’ll see why this natural landmark has captured imaginations for centuries. Historically, it was used as a hiding place for stolen cattle by the notorious Border Reivers, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the hike. From the ridge, the sight of the vast, bowl-shaped valley below is both impressive and humbling.
After taking time to appreciate the scenery and learn more about the site’s fascinating past, the return journey follows a scenic route back down towards Moffat. This moderate but rewarding hike is perfect for those looking to experience Scotland’s rugged beauty and rich history in one unforgettable day.
Distance – 6.1 Miles, Elevation – 315m, Time – 3.5 Hours
Today’s adventure takes you beyond Moffat as we head into Northumberland National Park for a stunning circular hike through the Simonside Hills. This scenic route blends rugged natural beauty with fascinating glimpses of history, offering spectacular views across the vast landscapes of northern England.
The trail begins in Rothbury, a picturesque village known for its historic charm and riverside setting. From here, the path climbs gently through ancient woodlands, where gnarled trees and moss-covered rocks create an almost mythical atmosphere. As you gain elevation, the heather-covered slopes of the Simonside Hills unfold, revealing expansive panoramas of the Cheviot Hills in the distance.
Along the route, history is woven into the landscape. Remnants of Iron Age hillforts and medieval settlements dot the hills, offering a fascinating insight into Northumberland’s rich past. Standing at the summit, the views stretch across the rolling moorlands, deep valleys, and even as far as the North Sea on a clear day.
This circular hike offers a perfect mix of tranquil countryside, dramatic hillscapes, and cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable experience. After completing the loop, we return to Rothbury before heading back to Moffat, rounding off another incredible day in the great outdoors.
After several days of hiking through the rugged beauty of the Southern Uplands, today is your chance to slow down, explore Moffat at your own pace, or set off on another gentle walk through the surrounding countryside.
Moffat is a charming historic town with a welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind. Take a leisurely stroll through its quaint streets, browse the independent shops, or visit the Moffat Museum to learn more about the town’s fascinating past. If you’re in the mood for some extra relaxation, the town’s famous mineral waters have long been known for their therapeutic qualities.
For those still craving adventure, there are plenty of shorter hikes to enjoy. Gentle trails along the River Annan or through the rolling hills offer beautiful views without the intensity of previous days. Alternatively, the surrounding countryside is perfect for a scenic cycle or a quiet afternoon taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the Scottish Lowlands.
Whether you choose to rest, explore, or stretch your legs on another trail, today is all about making the most of your time in Moffat before the final days of the trip.
Distance – 7.9 Miles, Elevation – 822m, Time – 5.5 Hours
Today’s challenge takes you through the Pentland Hills Regional Park where you’ll find lots of highland cows chilling out. This exhilarating hike through offers incredible views, diverse landscapes, and a real sense of remoteness.
The trail begins in the peaceful village of Swanston, following a path from the golf course before emerging onto open moorland.
As you reach the summit of , the effort is well rewarded with uninterrupted 360-degree views, stretching as far as Edinburgh and the hills around. This is a place to pause, take in the vast expanse of wilderness, and appreciate the wild beauty of Scotland’s lesser-travelled lowlands.
Distance – 9.8 Miles, Elevation – 1342m, Time – 6 Hours
For the final challenge of the trip, today’s hike takes you to the summit of Ben Nevis, standing at 1,345 metres as the highest peak in the UK. This is an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, offering a true sense of adventure and achievement.
Starting from Fort William, the trail begins with a steady ascent through lush greenery, gradually revealing sweeping views of the surrounding glens and lochs. As the path climbs higher, the terrain shifts from grassy slopes to rocky switchbacks, adding to the challenge but also the excitement of the journey.
Along the way, you’ll pass cascading streams, rugged cliffs, and scattered patches of wildflowers, with the chance to spot native wildlife such as red deer and ptarmigans. As you near the summit, the landscape becomes more exposed, often wrapped in mist that adds to the dramatic atmosphere.
Reaching the top is a moment to savour. On a clear day, the views stretch across the Highlands, with distant peaks, shimmering lochs, and endless rolling landscapes creating an unforgettable panorama. The ruins of an old observatory stand as a reminder of Ben Nevis’s history, adding to the sense of awe that comes with standing on the highest point in the UK.
The descent follows the same route back down, allowing time to take in the changing scenery and reflect on the week’s incredible adventures. This hike is a true highlight of the trip, offering both a physical challenge and a deep connection to the rugged beauty of Scotland’s Highlands.
After an unforgettable week exploring Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, it’s time to pack your bags and begin your journey home or onwards to your next adventure. Transport will be arranged to take you back to the airport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free departure.
If you’re extending your stay in Scotland, there’s so much more to discover. From the historic streets of Edinburgh to the dramatic Isle of Skye or the remote beauty of the Outer Hebrides, Scotland has endless opportunities for adventure. We’d be happy to share recommendations to help you make the most of your time.
As you leave the rugged peaks and rolling hills behind, you’ll take with you lasting memories of incredible hikes, stunning landscapes, and the unique magic of Scotland’s wild places. Until next time!
Please note: Airfares and most meals are not included in the trip price. This gives you the flexibility to choose your preferred flights and enjoy local dining experiences at your own pace.
We always think a local touch is best. You’ll be staying at Moffat Independent Hostel in the village. Even though it’s a hostel by name, it’s much fancier than that.
Copyright 2025 – Trailmates Adventures Website – Privacy Policy – Terms & Conditions
Secure your place with a deposit of 30%. Final payment is due 30 days before departure. You can also pay in full immediately if you wish.
If your circumstances change and you can no longer make it, you can transfer your deposit to another trip up until 10 days before departure.
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a room. Any supplemental costs will be shown on the next screen.
Arriving
Mon 22 Sep 2025Leaving
Mon 29 Sep 2025Secure your place with a deposit of 30%. Final payment is due 30 days before departure. You can also pay in full immediately if you wish.
If your circumstances change and you can no longer make it, you can transfer your deposit to another trip up until 10 days before departure.
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a room. Any supplemental costs will be shown on the next screen.
The organisation was seamless, and the guides were fantastic—knowledgeable, supportive, and great company on the trails. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Huge thanks to Trailmates for making it so memorable!