Thursday, 25 April 2024
Many don’t realise that Scotland is home to a native apple species, the wild apple (Malus sylvestris). Due to hybridisation, and historically being seen as unimportant the nat...
Thornielee
Where we are
About
Stunning views and quirky history at a butterfly hotspot
Tweed Valley’s ancient and turbulent history has left many tales to tell. You can reflect on some of them at Thornielee or just enjoy a picnic or walk in pretty butterfly meadows. There are trails, wildlife, stunning views and quirky history to discover at this quiet site.
Walking trails
Walking
Meadow Trail
A gentle meander with plenty of places to sit. Spot the butterflies this forest is renowned for, or the anthills on the edge of the pines.
Largely firm gravel surface, with some loose stones. Some short moderate slopes and a few steeper ramps. Regular seats along route.
½ miles / 1.0 km
Allow ¼ hours
More information
Sit patiently for a while in summer and you'll meet some of the fascinating small inhabitants of Thornielee. The forest is renowned for its butterfly population, especially the south-facing grassy slopes below the car park, warmed by the sun. Look for Northern Brown Argus, a priority species for conservation that usually flies in June, and the pretty Small Copper, which can be seen in May and June.
Walking
Cairn Trail (diverted)
A trail notice is in effect
The trail is now open with a diversion. The top half of the trail is closed due to significant storm damage. Please follow diversion signage.
'A long climb to the top of Thornielee Forest is rewarded with magnificent views.
Rough earth and grass paths with exposed tree roots and several muddy sections. Long steep slopes for up to 500m.
2 ½ miles / 4.1 km
Allow 1½ hours
More information
Discover the Shepherd’s Cairns, impressive jumbles of stones that were once a burial place. Nobody knows whose body lay here, but the views over the Tweed Valley make it a wonderful resting place.
Activities
Trails in Thornielee
Thornielee offers something for everyone with quiet walking paths and testing mountain biking trails. Find out more about how we’re working to create ideal environments for walking, mountain biking and horse riding in the Tweed Valley Forest Park.
Facilities and access
The nearest public toilets are in Innerleithen or Galashiels.
Car parking information
There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.
Getting here
Thornielee forest is halfway between Innerleithen and Galashiels on the A72. Look for the car park on the north side of the road, ½ mile west of Thornylee village.
Using SatNav?
TD1 3LN is the nearest postcode.
Public transport
Buses between Galashiels and Innerleithen can stop at the forest on request. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?
Phone
0300 067 6900 (option 1)
Nearby forests
A riverside trail through protected, ancient woodland
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Thornielee': 1.68 miles
The best downhill and enduro mountain-biking in the area
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Thornielee': 2.62 miles
A forested climb to the site of an Iron Age hill fort
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Thornielee': 2.70 miles
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