NT2007 : Ettrick Pen, east ridge

Ettrick Pen

692m Elevation
356m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NT2007 : Ettrick Pen, east ridge

Callum Black Photo source

Explore routes near Ettrick Pen

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Kielder Forest - 50 Rocks of Northumberland inspired

1.2 km ~4h Moderate

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Byrness to Echo Crags

6.9 km ~3h Easy

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Byrness Woodlands Circular

11.2 km ~3h 30m Moderate

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Windy Gyle Circular from Coquet Valley

14.8 km ~6h Hard

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Ettrick Valley Route

A scenic and relatively gentle ascent starting from the valley floor. The route winds through picturesque woodlands and open moorland.

8 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Glenquicken Start

Starting from Glenquicken Farm, this route takes you around a scenic loch before the final ascent up the slopes of Ettrick Pen.

9.5 km ~4 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Graham Simm Donald

Elevation

692m

2,270 ft

Prominence

356m

Coordinates

55.3562, -3.2635

NT199076

OS Map

79

Explorer: 330

At the Summit

The summit of Ettrick Pen features a large stone cairn, a trig point, and stunning panoramic views that make it a rewarding destination.

Terrain & Geology

Mainly grassy with rocky outcrops and a few boggy sections particularly after heavy rains.

Ettrick Pen is primarily composed of sedimentary rock, with the summit showcasing distinctive gritstone outcrops. The diverse geology contributes to the variety of flora and fauna found in the region.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the rolling hills of the Southern Uplands, as well as the distant peaks of the Scottish Borders. On a clear day, the mighty outline of the Cheviots can also be spotted.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ettrick' derives from the Brittonic word for a place of fascination, 'Eitrig' meaning 'water'. The 'Pen' part simply means 'hill' or 'peak'.

Historical Significance

The area is steeped in history associated with the Border Reivers and offers a glimpse into Scotland's rugged past.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the Ettrick Water Bridge, which can accommodate several vehicles, but spaces fill up quickly on weekends.

Public Transport

Limited public transport options; the nearest bus service is to Selkirk, approximately 15 miles away. Consider carpooling or a taxi for the last leg.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities at the summit, but Selkirk boasts several cafes and shops for provisions. Public toilets are available in Selkirk.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for changing weather conditions; it can turn on a dime. The terrain can be slippery when wet, so good footwear is a must.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Ettrick Pen?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Ettrick Pen through the maps

Are there other walkers around Ettrick Pen?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Ettrick Pen search or of course create your own walk for Ettrick Pen

Can I organise a walk to Ettrick Pen?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Ettrick Pen.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Ettrick Pen?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Ettrick Pen here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NT199076

View on OpenStreetMap

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