The Borders Abbeys Way is one of Scotland's Great Trails, a fascinating circuit that takes in the historic ruined abbeys of Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh. Within its 68 miles (109 km) it includes also the charming towns of Hawick and Selkirk, and passes Abbotsford House, the historic home of Sir Walter Scott. Much of the terrain is easy-going, beside the Rivers Tweed and Teviot, and the hilly sections offer splendid views. The route is most easily reached by rail from Edinburgh to Tweedbank, near Melrose. This guidebook contains all you need to plan and enjoy your trip:¿ ten pages of detailed mapping of the route at 1:50,000¿ detailed route description, plus summaries with distance, terrain and food/drink stops¿ coverage of the history and architecture of the Borders abbeys¿ planning information for transport and accommodation¿ a section about habitats and wildlife, with superb images¿ lavishly illustrated, with over 70 colour photographs¿ rucksack-friendly format, printed on rainproof paper.