The Eildons: exploring an explosive past

Thursday 17^th September: Meet at 2:00 pm 

Walk summary: The Eildons' three distinct peaks look suspiciously like the remains of a volcano. Their prominence in the landscape a way-marker for St Cuthbert's Way and visible for many miles across the Borders. Unsurprisingly the view from their tops is spectacular and a perfect place to consider the way in which the Borders have been constructed geologically as well as historically in the way in which this beautiful landscape has been inhabited.

 The volcanic origins of the Eildons are not quite what they seem at first sight, and this walk will explore its layers of igneous activity and subsequent erosion which have created this iconic landscape.  We will also consider the relationship of the Eildons to other important landmarks visible from North Hill. This opens up a story lasting hundreds of millions of years which gives a wider understanding of the Borders not just as a political border but as a physical union of two continents.

Any walk in the Eildons cannot escape the obvious and fascinating history of its human occupation. For this reason, I have chosen North Hill as the peak that we will climb so that we can touch on the relationship between the Britons and Romans and how long it lasted. As ever the connection between the geology of a place and its habitation is really strong. This connection extends into the very fabric of the town of Melrose, a fact which will be explained and celebrated on the walk.  

Do I need to book? This event has to be booked in advance. The walks are “pay-what-you-feel”. I respectfully suggest £15 for this half day event. If this is not affordable for you – pay less – no questions asked. Equally, if you are able to pay more, this will help me to ensure the walks are sustainable. As before, family members under 16 are very welcome and can come for free.  The walk will be limited to 20 people. To book a place on this walk please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your name and telephone number and I will send you bank details for Northumbrian Earth. Once you have made the payment I will confirm your place. If you aren't able to come on the walk for whatever reason please let me know, send me your bank details and I will refund the cost of the walk. Refunds will only be given if you get in touch prior to the walk.

Where do we meet? We meet in the triangular area opposite the Museum and Library between the High Street and Abbey Street. Grid reference NT547339. What3Words: ///relations.farmer.eggplants

How long is the walk? This is a moderately strenuous walk of approximately 8 km involving a climb onto North Hill. Strong boots are recommended and some may find walking poles helpful. 

What else do I need to know? Full details will be sent out on email to everyone who books.