Highlight • MTB Park
Mountain biking
5.0
(27)
Running
5.0
(1)
Priesthope Hill is a prominent summit in the Moorfoot Hills, located in the Scottish Borders, Scotland, near the well-known mountain biking hub of Innerleithen. Standing at an elevation of 549 meters (1801 feet), it serves as a crucial part of the extensive mountain biking network within the Tweed Valley, connecting to renowned areas like Innerleithen and Caberston Forest, often referred to as "the Golfie." While not a traditional mountain bike park with dedicated infrastructure, Priesthope Hill is celebrated for its…
Tips
February 10, 2020
Mountain biking
October 2, 2021
Mountain biking
April 24, 2023
Running
Nearby routes
Best routes near Priesthope Hill
11
riders
16.9km
01:59
770m
770m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
27.4km
02:57
1,060m
1,050m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(3)
1,066
riders
16.0km
01:41
500m
500m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 540 m
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Max wind speed: 28.0 km/h
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While the wider Tweed Valley network offers trails for all abilities, Priesthope Hill itself is primarily known for its challenging and physically demanding routes. The highlight data indicates it can be family_friendly, but this likely refers to the broader area or specific, less technical paths. For true beginners or families with young children, it's advisable to seek out dedicated green or blue graded trails within the Innerleithen 7stanes centre before venturing onto Priesthope Hill's more advanced terrain.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Priesthope Hill. However, as this is an active farming and grazing area, especially across the open moors, it is crucial to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, to protect livestock and ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
There isn't a dedicated car park specifically for Priesthope Hill itself, as it's part of a larger trail network. Most visitors park in or around Innerleithen, which serves as the main access point for the Tweed Valley trails. From Innerleithen, you can cycle or walk to access routes leading up to Priesthope Hill. Public transport to Innerleithen is available via bus services connecting from larger towns like Peebles or Galashiels.
No, there are no specific permits or fees required to access the trails on Priesthope Hill. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code grants responsible access to most land and inland water. However, if you plan to use uplift services for the wider Innerleithen area, those will incur a charge.
The duration of your ride or hike can vary significantly depending on your chosen route and fitness level. A direct ascent and descent of Priesthope Hill might take a couple of hours. However, many cyclists and trail runners opt for longer 'big country rides' that incorporate Priesthope Hill into extensive loops across the Moorfoot Hills, connecting to areas like Kirnie Law, Glede Knowe, or even descending towards Walkerburn. These longer routes can easily take 4-6 hours or more, offering a full day's adventure.
Priesthope Hill can be accessed in winter, but conditions can be challenging. The exposed nature of the moors means it can be very windy, and trails can become wet, muddy, icy, or even snow-covered. Visibility can also be poor. While some experienced riders and hikers enjoy the winter challenge, extra caution, appropriate winter gear, and good navigation skills are essential. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
While the wider Innerleithen and Tweed Valley trail network can get busy, Priesthope Hill itself offers a more remote feel compared to the dedicated trail centres. It's less likely to feel overly crowded, even on weekends, due to the physically demanding nature of its routes and the expansive terrain. However, you will encounter other mountain bikers, trail runners, and hikers, particularly on popular access routes from Innerleithen.
Absolutely! The summit of Priesthope Hill itself offers spectacular panoramic views across the Moorfoot Hills and the Tweed Valley. Visitors consistently highlight the 'killer views' from the top. Other scenic spots include the expansive moors towards Glede Knowe and Windlestraw Law, and the unique, deserted concrete reservoir at Kirnie Law to the south, which also provides great vistas.
The nearby town of Innerleithen is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a good selection of amenities. You'll find various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options ranging from guesthouses to hotels. It's an ideal base for exploring Priesthope Hill and the wider Tweed Valley network.
Priesthope Hill is known for its 'big country rides' featuring significant climbs and thrilling singletrack descents. From the summit, you have a choice of heading west into steep, technical wooded trails, exploring the moors north towards Glede Knowe, or venturing south to Kirnie Law. One notable challenging route involves a large horseshoe loop over several high hills, including Scawd Law, before descending into Walkerburn via the 'Feed the Pony' singletrack. This area is best suited for experienced and fitter riders seeking technical features like roots, rocks, and steep sections.
Yes, Priesthope Hill is an excellent destination for trail running and hiking. The challenging ascents and expansive moorland offer a rewarding experience for those seeking a physically demanding outing with stunning views. Many trail runners use the hill to create great loops across the moors or to descend back into the valley. Be prepared for varied terrain and potentially exposed conditions.