Outdoor Activities
Popular Activities
Newcastleton and the surrounding countryside offer an amazing selection of outdoor activities which you can get involved in. If you are feeling active and enjoy fresh air, try one of the many local walking trails or hire a bike to explore the surrounding countryside and forest trails. Families with children are fortunate to have Rock UK just across the river from the village, offering a range of exciting activities.
There are a variety of cycle routes in the Scottish Borders to suit all abilities. The closest of these is the 7 Stanes mountain biking centre in Newcastleton Forest (easily accessible from Staffin) which attracts riders of all abilities from across the UK and beyond. The Blue Route (9.7km) is a fun track for all the family while the Red Route (23.4km) is classified as difficult and should only be tackled by experienced riders. There is also a skills area of 0.4km, useful for practicing. Choose the Bike tab on the following website https://forestryandland.gov.scot/visit/newcastleton/ to view map trails and up-to-date access information.
There are many other cycling routes in the Scottish Borders following roads connecting places of interest. For example, the 4 Abbeys Route (classified as hard) is a 90km long circular route linking the four Border abbeys of Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh https://scotlandstartshere.com/tour-type/cycling/.
There are many local walks around the village in the scenic Liddesdale Valley. These range in distance from 0.5km to 9km. Maps and details of 11 local walks can be found on https://www.visitnewcastleton.com/things-to-do-in-newcastleton/walking-and-hiking/.
There are also three popular walks close to the 7 Stanes biking trails in Newcastleton Forest. You can drive up the hill behind the village (crossing the Liddel River at the south end of the village) to a car park and picnic site. There are three colour-coded trails to follow, ranging from easy (0.5km) to strenuous (4.7km).
For those seeking walks further afield in the Scottish Borders please consult https://www.scotborders.gov.uk/info/20032/parks_and_outdoors/632/walking/ .
Newcastleton is a great base for the keen angler with salmon and both sea and brown trout fishing possible in certain sections (beats) of the Liddel and Border Esk rivers. Permits are required, which can be bought on arrival in the village. More information on the fishing seasons, beats available, and where permits may be purchased can be found at https://bordereskfishing.co.uk/ .
Newcastleton golf course (one of the oldest clubs in Scotland) is located on the ‘Holm Hill’ overlooking the village. It is a challenging nine-hole course with panoramic views of the Liddesdale Valley and the surrounding open hill land and forests. Green fees are paid locally at either the Copshaw Kitchen or the Grapes Hotel. Because of its isolation this course will almost certainly involve no queueing for tee time! https://www.visitnewcastleton.com/things-to-do-in-newcastleton/golf/
Rock UK
This outdoor children’s activity centre is located at Whitaugh Park, a short walk, cycle or drive across the river from the village. There are numerous activities to choose from here: swimming in the heated indoor pool, abseiling, archery, high ropes, orienteering and zip wires, to name a few. Off-site activities involve travelling to a location where it is possible to try caving, climbing, kayaking and gorge walking. Every child is fully supervised, creating a safe, fun and adventurous experience. Family adventure days (yes, the adults can join in too!) are available throughout the year as either half (2 activities) or full days (4 activities). More information at https://rockuk.org/centres/whithaugh-park/ .
Go Ape
The nearest Go Ape centres to Newcastleton are Whinlatter (near Keswick in the Lake District) or Glentress Forest near Peebles. All centres include zip lining and high ropes, with some including other activities, such as segways, nets adventure and even axe-throwing. https://goape.co.uk/
Mabie Farm Park
This fun farm park is located beneath Mabie Forest, not far from Dumfries. Families can see and learn about many farm animals (including some rare breeds) as well as participate in numerous indoor and outdoor activities. It is a great day out for the whole family. https://mabiefarmpark.co.uk/