Broad Law: The Majestic Summit of the Scottish Borders
Broad Law, the highest peak in the Scottish Borders, offers sweeping views, rich wildlife, and a serene hiking experience amid Scotland’s Southern Uplands.
Broad Law rises to 840 meters as the highest peak in the Scottish Borders and the second-highest in the Southern Uplands. Its broad, rounded summit is marked by the UK's highest air traffic beacon and offers sweeping panoramic views across Scotland’s rolling hills and valleys. Accessible by several hiking routes, Broad Law is a haven for walkers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquil natural beauty and historical intrigue in the heart of the Borders.
A brief summary to Broad Law
- Biggar, GB
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Start your hike from the Megget Stone for a direct and manageable ascent with scenic views.
- Wear sturdy footwear and bring weather-appropriate gear, as conditions can change rapidly near the summit.
- Use the air traffic beacon on the summit as a visual guide, especially in poor visibility.
- Respect the working farm areas and keep dogs on leads where required.
- Enjoy wildlife spotting opportunities—look out for red deer, mountain hares, and birds of prey.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Peebles or Moffat, expect a 30 to 45-minute journey to the Megget Stone parking area via rural roads. Parking is limited and may require walking a short distance to trailheads. No parking fees apply.
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Bus and Walking
Take a regional bus service to Peebles or Moffat, then prepare for a 2 to 3-hour walk along country roads and tracks to reach Broad Law’s main ascent points. Public transport is infrequent, so plan accordingly.
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Cycling
Experienced cyclists can access Broad Law via quiet rural roads and gravel tracks from nearby villages. The terrain includes steep sections and rough surfaces; allow 1.5 to 2 hours depending on fitness and weather.
Broad Law location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
- Snow
Discover more about Broad Law
Geographical Significance and Physical Features
Broad Law stands proudly at 840 meters (2,756 feet) as the highest point in the Scottish Borders and the second-highest in the Southern Uplands. Its broad, rounded dome shape dominates the surrounding landscape, characterized by smooth grassy slopes and steep-sided glens reminiscent of the Cheviots or Howgill Fells. The summit is notable for hosting the highest VOR air traffic beacon in the UK alongside a radio tower, which serve as distinctive landmarks visible for miles around.Routes and Hiking Experience
The hill is accessible via multiple routes, with the most popular starting points including the Megget Stone and Hearthstanes near the A701. The ascent typically involves walking along gravel forestry roads and open hillside tracks, with gradients easing near the summit. The terrain transitions from boggy and heathery lower slopes to grassy upper sections. The full hike can take between 4 to 5 hours, covering approximately 11 kilometers (7 miles), offering a rewarding challenge for walkers of moderate fitness. The summit’s beacon also acts as a vital navigation aid in poor visibility.Panoramic Vistas and Natural Beauty
From the summit, visitors are treated to unparalleled panoramic views across the Southern Uplands and beyond. On clear days, the horizon reveals iconic Scottish peaks such as Goat Fell, Ben Lomond, Lochnagar, and even distant landmarks like the Isle of Man’s Sileau Freoaghane. The expansive vistas invite moments of quiet reflection amid the wild, open landscape.Wildlife and Ecological Richness
Broad Law’s environs are rich in wildlife, with frequent sightings of red deer, mountain hares, and a variety of birds of prey. The diverse flora includes mossy and heather-covered slopes that change colors with the seasons, enhancing the hill’s natural charm. This biodiversity makes the area a rewarding destination for nature lovers and photographers.Historical and Cultural Context
The area around Broad Law holds historical significance, with ancient trade routes and archaeological remnants hinting at thousands of years of human activity. The hill’s summit was once part of shifting county boundaries, adding layers of administrative history. These cultural elements deepen the visitor experience, connecting the natural grandeur with Scotland’s rich heritage.Practical Considerations and Visitor Tips
Parking is limited at the Megget Stone and Hearthstanes, with some additional roadside parking near Megget Reservoir. The weather can be harsh, especially in winter when the summit resembles an Arctic landscape, so appropriate clothing and equipment are essential. The route is well-marked but can be remote, requiring careful planning and respect for the natural environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
James Hogg Monument
9.6 km
A striking white monument honoring James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, overlooking the serene St Mary's Loch in Scotland's Borders.
The Dawyck Cafe
11.9 km
A warm, light-filled cafe in the heart of Dawyck Botanic Garden, serving seasonal soups, sandwiches, and excellent home baking with views over 65 acres of woodland.
Crown of Scotland
14.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Crown of Scotland, a stunning mountain peak offering scenic hikes and panoramic views in Moffat.
Frenchland Tower
18.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Frenchland Tower, a 16th-century stronghold offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Scotland’s feudal past near Moffat.
The Neidpath Inn
19.8 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at The Neidpath Inn, featuring cozy accommodations, local cuisine, and vibrant live music in the heart of Peebles.
The Tontine Hotel
19.8 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Peebles, with excellent dining and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Blackwood & Smith LLP, Solicitors & Estate Agents
19.9 km
Explore Peebles with Blackwood & Smith LLP, your trusted experts in legal services and estate agency for a seamless property experience.
Peebles Mercat Cross
20.0 km
Historic octagonal stone monument marking Peebles’ medieval market rights and civic heritage, adorned with unique carvings and a 17th-century sundial.
The Park
20.0 km
Historic charm and modern comfort meet in the heart of Peebles, with local dining and scenic walks just steps away.
Peebles Hydro Hotel
20.4 km
Historic 4-star hotel with scenic Tweed Valley views, family-friendly leisure, spa, and classic Scottish hospitality in Peebles.
Eshiels Community Recycling Centre
20.6 km
Discover Eshiels Community Recycling Centre: A sustainable initiative in Peebles promoting responsible waste management and eco-friendly practices.
Auchen Castle
20.6 km
Historic Scottish fairytale castle and elegant wedding venue nestled in scenic Dumfries and Galloway with unique Egyptian revival architecture.
Macdonald Cardrona Hotel
21.6 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, your perfect Scottish retreat in Peebles.
Traquair Arms Hotel
22.4 km
Historic 200-year-old coach house hotel and gastro pub offering cozy rooms, hearty local cuisine, and warm hospitality in scenic Innerleithen.
Biking In The Borders
23.0 km
A spacious, cyclist-friendly holiday home in Innerleithen, perfect for exploring the iconic trails of the Scottish Borders.
Unmissable attractions to see
Talla Reservoir
3.5 km
Historic Victorian reservoir nestled in scenic Scottish Borders hills, blending engineering heritage with tranquil natural beauty.
Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall
9.3 km
Experience one of the UK’s highest waterfalls cascading 60m through a stunning glacial valley rich in wildlife and history.
Southern Uplands
10.8 km
Explore Scotland’s Southern Uplands, a stunning mountain range of rolling hills, historic trails, and tranquil rural landscapes.
Manor Water
10.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich heritage of Manor Water, a peaceful river winding through the scenic Manor Valley near Peebles.
Dawyck Botanic Garden
12.0 km
Explore Dawyck Botanic Garden’s world-class arboretum with towering trees, vibrant seasonal blooms, and tranquil woodland walks in the Scottish Borders.
Dryhope Tower
12.1 km
Discover Dryhope Tower, a stunning historical landmark in the Scottish Borders, offering rich heritage and breathtaking views of the countryside.
Stobo Castle Health Spa
13.3 km
Scotland's premier adults-only destination spa—a castle sanctuary for complete wellness and tranquillity.
Eventim Apollo
14.3 km
Experience iconic live entertainment in London’s beautifully restored Art Deco gem, the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith.
universestore
14.3 km
Your go-to camping shop in scenic Moffat, offering the latest outdoor gear for all your adventure needs.
Stobo Kirk
14.6 km
Explore Stobo Kirk, a rare 12th-century Norman church dedicated to St Mungo, nestled in the serene Scottish Borders near Peebles.
Tushielaw Inn
16.7 km
A charming Scottish Borders inn offering cozy stays, hearty food, and lively pub nights in the tranquil Ettrick Valley.
Biggar Gasworks Museum
17.8 km
Explore Scotland’s only preserved small-town gasworks, where history and steam-driven machinery bring coal gas production to life.
Treenis
18.4 km
Discover Treenis in Biggar: a tranquil blend of breathtaking Scottish landscapes and rich local heritage.
Neidpath Castle
19.2 km
Discover Neidpath Castle, a majestic 14th-century tower house overlooking the River Tweed, rich in history, legends, and stunning medieval architecture.
Lothlorien Antique & Collectables Emporium
19.2 km
Discover a nostalgic treasure trove of antiques, collectibles, and a free toy museum in the heart of charming Moffat.
Essential places to dine
Award-Winning The Gordon Arms Restaurant with Rooms
16.2 km
Historic Scottish Borders inn blending award-winning local cuisine with cozy rooms and tranquil valley views.
The Ghillie Restaurant
17.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish dining in the historic and elegant setting of Cornhill Castle’s Ghillie Restaurant, Biggar.
The Barony
17.7 km
Classic dishes with a contemporary twist served in a stylish, welcoming setting in the heart of Biggar.
Annandale Arms Hotel and Restaurant
19.2 km
Traditional Scottish charm meets modern comfort at Annandale Arms Hotel, a lively hub for dining, music, and relaxation in Moffat.
Claudios Restaurant
19.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors in a cozy, family-friendly setting at Claudios Restaurant, Moffat’s beloved dining spot.
Brodies
19.4 km
Warm hospitality and delicious contemporary cuisine await you at Brodies, Moffat’s beloved restaurant and bar.
Moffat Woolen Mill restaurant
19.5 km
Experience traditional Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the historic charm of Moffat Woolen Mill Restaurant.
Bridge Inn
19.8 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at Bridge Inn, Peebles' cozy pub with local ales and hearty meals.
Franco’s
19.8 km
Cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Peebles offering authentic pizzas, pasta, and vegan-friendly dishes with scenic riverside views.
Coltman's Kitchen, Deli & Bar
19.8 km
Fresh seasonal fare and relaxed dining with scenic River Tweed views in the heart of Peebles’ historic High Street.
Prince of India
19.8 km
Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in the heart of Peebles with warm hospitality and a diverse menu.
The Cozy Kitchen
19.8 km
Exceptional homemade bakes and specialty coffee in Peebles' most welcoming Old Town sanctuary.
From Scratch Restaurant
19.8 km
A family-run dining gem at Peebles Golf Club, serving hearty British and Scottish fare with warm hospitality and lovely course views.
Mandarin Garden
19.9 km
Experience authentic Cantonese and Hong Kong flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Peebles.
The Crown Hotel
19.9 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Crown Hotel, Peebles’ cozy and welcoming base in the Scottish Borders.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Greenpark
14.3 km
Explore Greenpark Gift Shop in Moffat for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of Scotland's charm and creativity.
Everyday Beautiful
16.1 km
Discover unique and stylish clothing at Everyday Beautiful, the perfect shopping destination for fashion-savvy tourists.
Love & Sparkle Unique Gifts
16.1 km
Explore Love & Sparkle Unique Gifts for one-of-a-kind treasures and local craftsmanship, perfect for thoughtful souvenirs and unique gifts.
The Alchemist's Forge
17.3 km
Discover bespoke sterling silver and gold-accented jewellery crafted with artistry and nature’s inspiration in the tranquil Lamington countryside.
Harbro Country Store
19.2 km
Your trusted rural supply store in Peebles, offering expert animal feed, pet care, gardening essentials, and equestrian supplies.
Wildflower Designs
19.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artisan crafts at Wildflower Designs, Moffat’s charming boutique on High Street.
The Corner Gallery
19.3 km
Discover bespoke Scottish knitwear and designer clothing crafted with heritage and style at The Corner Gallery in Moffat.
Glamorous Gifts and Beauty
19.3 km
Discover unique gifts and rejuvenating beauty services in Moffat’s charming boutique blending local craft with pampering.
House Of Gaia
19.8 km
Crystals, spirituality, and tranquility in the heart of Peebles' High Street.
On A Shoestring
19.8 km
Affordable quality footwear in the historic heart of Peebles’ Old Town, blending style, comfort, and local charm.
Time & Tide
19.8 km
Explore Time & Tide in Peebles for unique gifts, homewares, and local crafts that embody the spirit of Scotland.
Tiger Lily Gifts
19.8 km
Discover unique, quality gifts in the heart of Peebles at Tiger Lily Gifts, your boutique destination for special treasures.
Caledonia Lifestyle
19.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish tweed and lambswool craftsmanship at Caledonia Lifestyle, a charming boutique in the heart of Peebles.
Castle Warehouse Ltd
19.8 km
Family-run independent department store in Peebles offering diverse clothing, homeware, and gifts in a historic setting.
Wilkies of Peebles
19.8 km
Discover timeless fashion and quality outerwear at Wilkies, Peebles’ beloved High Street clothing shop blending tradition with style.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tibbie Shiels Inn
9.8 km
Historic inn and camping by St. Marys Loch offering cosy rooms, live music, and stunning Scottish Borders scenery.
Cross Keys
17.7 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Biggar offering hearty fare, quality drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere where friendships are forged.
The Central Bar
20.0 km
A cozy and friendly bar in Peebles offering a warm welcome, local drinks, and lively social nights in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Wild Bean Cafe
20.1 km
Cozy cafe in Peebles serving fresh coffee, pastries, and light meals daily from dawn till late evening.
The Handlebar & Grill Glentress
21.1 km
A cyclist-friendly grill in Glentress offering hearty local dishes, craft beers, and scenic outdoor dining amidst the Tweed Valley’s stunning trails.
Durty Brewing
22.4 km
Discover Innerleithen’s vibrant microbrewery with exclusive craft beers, a cozy taproom, and a welcoming atmosphere for all drink lovers.
The Village Inn
22.7 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish pub in Thankerton offering hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
Colebrooke Arms
26.6 km
A cozy village pub in Crawfordjohn offering hearty Scottish fare and warm hospitality amidst the scenic South Lanarkshire countryside.
Masons Arms
28.3 km
A cozy and friendly village pub in Carnwath offering classic dishes, welcoming atmosphere, and comfortable rooms for a true Scottish experience.
Wanlockhead Inn
29.2 km
Experience Scotland’s highest village pub with warm hospitality, quirky charm, and stunning upland views in historic Wanlockhead.
Philipburn House Hotel
31.5 km
Historic Georgian charm meets modern comfort in tranquil gardens just outside Selkirk, ideal for exploring the scenic Scottish Borders.
The Cross Keys Inn
31.8 km
Historic 18th-century inn in Douglas offering cozy charm, hearty Scottish fare, and welcoming hospitality by an open coal fire.
The Town Arms Inn
32.6 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Town Arms Inn in Selkirk, a perfect base for exploring the enchanting Scottish Borders.
Horse & Jockey Bar
33.1 km
A welcoming Lanark pub blending historic charm with hearty food and lively drinks in the town centre.
Maisies Bar
33.1 km
A cozy and friendly pub in Lanark’s heart, offering a warm welcome and great drinks in an intimate setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Union Club
22.4 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
The Vale Of Leithen Social Club
22.8 km
A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.
Square One
36.5 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Base Nightclub
36.7 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
The Border Club
36.7 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
The Indigo Rooms
36.7 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
Warehouse Nightclub
36.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
Morven
41.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Nothing
43.8 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
Grand Central
46.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and diverse events at Grand Central, Livingston's premier events venue for unforgettable nights out.
DreadnoughtRock Nightclub & Live Music Venue
48.2 km
Experience the pulse of Bathgate's nightlife at DreadnoughtRock, the ultimate live music venue and nightclub in the heart of the city.
Midnight Breakfast Club
48.4 km
A cozy live music venue and bar in Bathgate known for great tribute acts, strong drinks, and a friendly, lively atmosphere.
The Twig Nightclub
48.7 km
Bathgate’s oldest nightclub offering lively, affordable, and historic nightlife experiences every Saturday night.
West Lothian Casting Agency
49.1 km
Discover the vibrant adult entertainment scene at West Lothian Casting Agency, where immersive performances and themed events await every visitor.
Volunteer Arms Lounge Bistro
49.1 km
A friendly, moderately priced lounge bistro in Uphall offering home-cooked meals, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
