Forest bathing at Harestanes

Harestanes Countryside Visitor Centre sits on the Monteviot estate near Ancrum, a few miles north of Jedburgh. Woodland paths lead out from the centre under old beeches and birches, and on towards Folly Loch and the wooded hill of Peniel Heugh. The wider network links to St Cuthbert's Way and the old Roman road of Dere Street, so you can make a short stroll or a full day of it.

The woodland walk closest to the centre is about a mile long, on woodland paths and level, hard-surfaced paths with gentle gradients and only a few rough patches, which makes it a good easy-access choice. For a longer outing, the red route heads north past the Marble Burn, and a path climbs through the woods to the top of Peniel Heugh. Parking is free, and the centre has a café, an accessible toilet, a wildlife garden and a large play park, so head out along the paths for quieter ground. Stout shoes or trainers are enough on most routes.