Beach campsites near Hawick with fishing

Sitting where the Slitrig meets the Teviot River, just over 80 kilometres south of Edinburgh and 64 kilometres north of Carlisle, this textile trading town represents the best of Scottish Border heritage. Nestled in the rolling countryside of the Southern Uplands, the town boasts striking parkland and riverside campsites, plus easy access to some of southern Scotland’s most inviting landscapes, including the Berwickshire Coast, Pentland Hills, and Grey Mare’s Tail.

Where to go

Around Hawick

There’s no need to travel far outside of Hawick in search of campsites and outdoor adventure. Riverside caravan parks, woodland retreats, and hilltop pitches can be found within 25 kilometres of town, while attractions such as the historic Wilton Lodge Park, Chisholme House, and Ale Water Valley provide plenty for hikers, bikers, and families to see and do.

Moffat Hills

Home to St. Mary’s Loch and the Grey Mare’s Tail nature reserve, this upland range is a destination for any outdoor adventurer. Walking, cycling, canoeing, and climbing are all popular pastimes in the region, while wildlife watchers can look out for resident ospreys, peregrine falcons, and wild goats. Lochside camps, caravan parks, and glampsites offer convenient alternatives to wild camping.

Edinburgh & the Pentland Hills

Combine capital sightseeing with wild exploration in the Pentland Hills, Edinburgh’s home hill range. A vast network of footpaths, bridleways, and cycle trails allow access to the regional park’s woodlands, reservoirs, and viewpoints, within 30 minutes’ drive of the city centre. Wild camping is possible but strictly controlled within the park, while several caravan parks and campsites stand on the outskirts.

Berwickshire Coast

Just over an hour’s drive east of Hawick, the Berwickshire Coast boasts unspoiled countryside and dramatic coastline, ideal for family adventures. Explore the region’s sandy beaches, nature reserves, and coastal paths on foot or by bike, or get an intimate glimpse of the North Sea surfing, snorkeling, or by boat. Accommodation options include seaside holiday parks and rural campsites.

Northumberland National Park

This sprawling national park just south of the Scottish-English border draws walkers, cyclists, and stargazers, thanks to its secluded nature and dark skies. Working farms and back-to-basics campsites provide plenty of bookable options, leaving travellers more time to explore attractions such as Hadrian’s Wall, the Cheviot Hills, and the park’s many off-road trails.

When to go

Scotland’s extreme weather can make it tricky to camp over winter, though adventurers after a glimpse of the region’s snowy peaks can arrive in early spring or late autumn to see the Southern Uplands under a blanket.

Know before you go

Scotland allows wild camping, though enforces a strict leave-no-trace policy. Wild camping is not permitted in England, including in Northumberland National Park.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code provides further information on wild camping, plus other outdoor activities.
Walk-ins aren’t always accepted, especially in summer, so always call ahead to check.