Ednam Hill

The walk up Ednam Hill from Coldstream takes about forty minutes if you're moving steadily, and the Scottish Borders reveal themselves properly once you crest the top. It's not a dramatic peak - nothing like the Cairngorms - but it's got real character, that rolling moorland sort of landscape that makes you understand why people get evangelical about the Borders. On a clear day you can see across to the Cheviot Hills, which is worth the leg work alone. The path is straightforward enough, no scrambling involved, which means families can manage it without drama. We went on a breezy afternoon in October and had the place entirely to ourselves, which felt slightly criminal given how decent the views are. You'll want two hours total including the summit sit-about and a proper look around. There's no café up there, so pack something to eat. It's the sort of walk that rewards you for minimal effort - no technical skill required, just steady legs and decent boots. Coldstream Holiday Park sits just down the road, making this an excellent pairing if you're spending a few days in the area. Do it early in the day if possible; the light's better and you'll avoid any afternoon cloud rolling in off the hills. Not Instagram-famous, which is precisely the point.