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Follow the upper Rede valley into Byrness on this woodland and village walk at the southern edge of the Cheviots. Start at the Forestry England visitor car park at Blakehopeburnhaugh. Walk north over the road bridge, then turn onto the signed Pennine Way beside the River Rede. The riverside path leads to the bridge opposite Border Forest Holiday Park. Cross here and follow the forest tracks past Raw, then take the footbridge into Byrness village.
Continue around the southern side of the village green and along South Greens, passing the village hall. The track beside the timber garages leads through the trees to St Francis Church. Its stained-glass window commemorates the people who died during the construction of Catcleugh Reservoir. Follow the bridleway around the churchyard and use the footbridge over the Rede, then return along the forest track and riverside Pennine Way to the car park.
Allow about two and a half hours. Gravel forest tracks alternate with narrower grass and woodland paths, and the riverside section can become boggy after rain. There are gentle rises, gates and footbridges. Wear footwear with good grip and follow any forestry work signs. The visitor car park is open dawn to dusk; the current all-day charge is £6.50. Toilets are seasonal, normally April to October. The route follows the full Byrness Village and St Francis Church walk published by Revitalising Redesdale.
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