Top 5 Outdoor Activities at Peebles, Scotland

Peebles Outdoor Activities

Situated within the Scottish Borders, Peebles lies to the southwest of Glentress Forest. This area of Scotland is a gem for outdoor enthusiasts and is within easy reach of Edinburgh. When you arrive in Peebles there are numerous opportunities to take part in outdoor activities in the local area. These include mountain biking trails, great forest walks, wildlife watching, and much more.

It takes only just over one hour to drive from Edinburgh to Peebles by car or bus. From Peebles head along the A72 towards Innerleithen, where you can access Glentress Forest to the north.

Here are our top 5 adventure and outdoor activities at Peebles and Glentress Forest...

1. Mountain biking

Just outside Peebles in Glentress is one of the premier mountain biking destinations in the UK. The world renowned 7Staines mountain bike centre has trails for all skill levels, from green (beginner) to black (expert). The blue and red routes are popular, offering spectacular valley views. The black route, with its technical descents, is a thrilling challenge for more advanced mountain bike riders. 
 
Top tip: why not try mountain biking at Glentress Forest with Ridelines, your local mountain bike guide! 

2. Hiking and walking trails 

Hiking and walking trails From Peebles you can access well-marked hiking trails that wind through beautiful pine forests, open hilltops, and offer panoramic views of the Tweed Valley. The Tower Trail and Buzzard’s Nest trails are popular walking trails offering great views and varied terrain.

Top tip: bring a camera for the scenic viewpoints overlooking the hills and keep an eye out for local wildlife like red squirrels and roe deer.

3. TreeTop Adventure at Go Ape

For an adrenaline rush, the Go Ape course, at Peebles, Glentress Forest, allows you to zip through the trees, cross rope bridges, and tackle challenging obstacles high within the treetops of the forest canopy. The zip lines over the lush valley and forest are simply breathtaking offering a thrilling ride in the forest.

Top tip: this is family-friendly outdoor activity, though height and age restrictions apply. It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak season.

4. Wildlife spotting

Peebles and Glentress Forest is a fantastic spot for nature lovers to spend time outdoors. The diverse habitats here support a variety of wildlife. Look out for animals including red squirrels, otters and roe deer. Bird species include osprey, buzzards, waxwings and owls. Early morning or dusk are prime times to spot wildlife when they are more active.

Top tip: the Glentress Peel Visitor Centre at Peebles provides helpful information about the flora and fauna, so you can identify what you see when you are wildlife spotting. From here you can also spot wildlife on the Glentress Forest Ponds Trail.

Trail Running

Peebles and Glentress Forest boasts an extensive network of trails making it perfect for trail running, with routes suited to all abilities. Trail runners can enjoy forest paths, gentle inclines, and steep climbs, all while soaking in the beautiful scenery.  

Top tip: check the conditions before heading out, as some trails can be quite muddy after rain.

Accommodation at Peebles

Each of these outdoor activities makes Peebles and Glentress Forest an exciting destination for recreation, relaxation, and adventure. When you visit Peebles, stay a few days at Forest Holidays accommodation and spend more time enjoying nature. Each of our lodges has an outdoor hot tub so you will be able to relax and unwind with a good soak after a great day of adventures in beautiful countryside.