I really don't need to tell you about the green cross country code,  about keeping gates shut to stop big raging bulls from chasing you and keeping dogs on leads so they don't steal campers sausages, never touching electric fences to see if they're switched on, and maybe not hiking up the boggy hills in a pair of cowboy boots with holes in their soles, as you've learned all that the hard way already, right?  Hmm, just me then . . . 

Walking in Rulewater offers some tranquil escapism, beautiful scenery and the chance to spot some rare wildlife - watch out for those red squirrels!  I say this as they genuinely used to throw chewed up pine cones at my head when I would walk through a particular wood a many moons ago.

I've found a website which offers some circular routes in Rulewater - notably the Denholm to Bedrule walk and the Bonchester Hill walk.  I've listed a few useful walking guides below.  There are lots of little rural roads that offer you the opportunity for even more circular routes, if you're staying a while and getting set to explore, I'd recommend the Personalised OS map for total confidence in your routes.  

Why do I not just offer you some good apps on your mobile, or offer some postcodes for your in built Sat Nav I hear you ask? (TD9 8TS will get you to Denholm) Because here in Rulewater, we have limited mobile phone coverage.  Pubs and cafes will offer a free wi-fi service, but if you're out in the hills, a map is going to be the most reliable option.  And isn't that just a lovely thing if you are genuinely trying to get away from it all for a while?  

​This little book is small and light weight, so can fit into a coat pocket or the front of a rucksack easily, and isn't too heavy if you want to pack it into a suitcase for a flight home.
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It gives a small introductory history of the place you are walking. and features a walking route round Ruberslaw as well as some of my other favourite places like the Three Brethren, the Peniel Heugh, and Hermitage Castle.

It is for sale in some of the local shops, but you can get it online by clicking the link below:

​The Borders Abbeys way walks take you through part of the Rulewater valley.  

This book is rucksack friendly, waterproof with information on the history, wildlife and places to rest for food and drink.

A good companion if you are incorporating your visit to Rulewater as part of the bigger Abbeys Way route.

It is for sale in some local shops, but you can get it online by clicking the link below:
Personalise your own OS Map
For a really detailed map of the area, I'd recommend getting an Ordnance Survey Explorer Map.  

The Rule valley spans two of their paper maps, so I'd suggest getting a Custom Made Map. 

Perfect for planning walking holidays as the maps show rights of way, landscape features and places of interest,


You can create your own wording and image on the front cover, for that personal touch.

click here for more info.