Bowmont Hill

The walk up Bowmont Hill isn't particularly long, but it's steep enough that you'll feel it in your legs before you reach the summit. From Coldstream, it's a straightforward drive into the Southern Uplands, and the hill itself sits in that transitional zone where the Borders start to get serious about elevation. On a clear day the views across the rolling borderlands are genuinely impressive - you can see right across to the Cheviots if the weather's playing ball. The path is well-trodden and manageable for reasonably fit walkers, though don't expect anything fancy in terms of waymarking or facilities.

This works best for walkers who want a proper hill day without committing to a full Munro expedition. You're looking at a couple of hours round trip depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top. Families with older kids will manage fine, though younger ones might find the climb tedious. It's the kind of walk that rewards an early start - catch the sunrise from up there and you'll have earned your breakfast.

If you're staying at Coldstream Holiday Park, it's close enough for a morning's outing without eating into a full day. Pair it with exploring the Borders' quieter corners - the nearby towns have proper character, and the hill itself is a genuine pull for anyone who likes getting above the landscape without the crowds. Free to visit, of course. Go when the wind isn't howling through the pass, which frankly narrows your options in winter.