Hownam to Belford via Seefew: green road return from Greenhill

A return walk across the Scottish Cheviots, from the Kale Water valley at Hownam to Belford on Bowmont via the ruined cottage at Seefew. The route is about 13.2 km. Allow 4 hours 30 minutes for the climbs, gates, rough footing and stops. It follows minor public roads and the established green road between the two valleys.

Start on the roadside verge immediately southwest of Greenhill House, also called Greenhill Lodge. Space is limited and this is not a formal car park. Park fully clear of the carriageway, bridge, lodge driveway and farm entrances. Check the signs and ground on arrival, and do not obstruct a passing place. There are no public toilets or refreshments on the route.

Walk north along the minor road to Hownam, watching for vehicles on the single-track sections. In the village take the eastward track onto The Street. Pass the gate beside the house and climb the main grassy and stony drove track past Horseshoe Wood. Stay on the established track below Hownam Rings rather than climbing onto the hillfort.

At the signed junction, take the Belford branch instead of continuing south along The Street towards the border ridge. The green road descends to the upper Hownam Burn, then climbs through a gate and passes the remains of Seefew cottage. Continue along the main track through the gates and descend into the Bowmont valley. At the junction with the surfaced road by Belford farm, turn back and retrace the entire route to Greenhill. Keep to the through track and leave farmyards and private drives alone.

Expect sustained slopes, grassy wheel tracks, puddles, mud and loose or rounded stones, especially on the eastern descent. The burn is crossed on the track at ground level; assess the water and footing before crossing, and turn back if it is deep or fast flowing. Choose settled weather and avoid the route after heavy rain. Carry a map, suitable boots and hill-walking clothing, as mist can obscure junctions and phone reception is patchy. Keep dogs on a lead around livestock, close gates and obey temporary land-management notices.

Route references: Scottish Borders Council adopted core path plan, Area 53; Scotland Starts Here, Calroust, the Castles and The Street, for the Belford branch; Scottish Mountain Rescue, Favourite Walk by Bill Glennie, 3 April 2024, for Greenhill verge parking; and the April 2023 Hownam to Belford traverse by Cycling in Midlothian for track conditions. Sources checked in October 2026.