Harestanes Peniel Heugh and Waterloo Monument

Start at the public Harestanes car park, reached from the signed turning off the A68 near Ancrum. Use the main parking area beside the courtyard, rather than the separate Woodside garden-centre parking. This walk follows the established Peniel Heugh paths, with a loop through the lower grounds on the return.

Head north on the woodland path past the former cricket pavilion. Continue along the Marble Burn, cross the B6400 carefully and follow the St Cuthbert's Way approach uphill. At the upper junction, turn east through Monument Wood. Meet the minor road, follow it briefly south and take the signed track climbing towards Peniel Heugh. Keep on the main track and then the grassy path to the Waterloo Monument. The column and open hilltop are the main destination, with broad views over the surrounding Borders countryside in clear weather. This route visits the ground around the monument; it does not include access inside the tower.

Retrace the hill path and woodland link. At the lower track junction, head south towards Woodside instead of returning along the burn. Cross the B6400 at the marked path crossing, follow the lower burn past the pond and descend the short flight of steps. Continue southwest on the estate footpath, then turn back into Harestanes to finish at the same car park.

Allow about two and a half hours. The woodland tracks are established, but dirt paths, grassy slopes, roots and steps can be muddy or slippery. The summit is exposed, so carry a waterproof and choose a clear-weather day for the views. Take care at both road crossings and on the brief minor-road section. Keep dogs close around livestock and leave gates as found. There are public toilets and independent businesses at Harestanes. Out-there Artisan currently opens Thursday to Monday, 10am to 4pm, with Tuesday and Wednesday closed; check before relying on refreshments. Council route mapping, current local access notices and facilities information were checked on 3 October 2026.