Chapel Hill

The walk up Chapel Hill delivers one of those views that makes you understand why people rave about the Borders. It's a proper climb from Hawick - nothing mountaineering, but steep enough to feel earned - and you'll find yourself stood atop a bald hilltop with the landscape rolling away in all directions.

What you get up there is mainly space and air. There's a worn stone cross marking the summit, and on clear days you can see for miles across moorland and farmland. It's less "look at the view" and more "stand here and breathe". The hill itself is mostly moorland - rough grass, the occasional stone cairn, the kind of place where the weather matters more than most attractions.

This suits walkers absolutely. Bring proper boots and check conditions before you head out. Families with younger kids might find the climb frustrating rather than fun, though determined teenagers would manage fine. History types will appreciate the cross, though there's not much interpretation on site - you're here for the landscape, not the story.

Allow an hour there and back if you're a steady walker. It's free and open whenever you fancy it. The real value is coupling it with a stay in the area - Stouslie Snugs Luxury Farm Glamping sits just 4.9 miles away, giving you a proper base for exploring the Borders. The hill works best as part of a walking day rather than a standalone stop, but if you're in Hawick anyway, it's absolutely worth the detour.