Hawick

Steam rises from the Teviot Water on crisp mornings as this proud textile town wakes up in the heart of the Scottish Borders. Hawick's mills once clothed half of Scotland, and you can still feel that industrial heritage in the solid stone buildings lining the high street.

Climbing White Hill rewards you with proper views across the rolling border country - on clear days you'll spot the distinctive cone of Rubers Law rising to the east. The War Memorial stands as a sobering reminder of the town's sacrifices, while the Sir Andrew Smith Birthplace Memorial honours one of the area's notable sons.

Walkers will find themselves spoilt for choice. Blackcastle Hill and Borthaugh Hill offer gentler climbs, perfect for an afternoon ramble. More ambitious hikers can tackle the circuit taking in Chapel Hill, Drinkstone Hill and Grain Hill - it's a bit of a trek but well worth the effort for those panoramic border views.

Getting here is straightforward enough. The A7 runs straight through town, connecting Hawick to Edinburgh in the north and Carlisle to the south. Regular bus services link to Galashiels and Jedburgh.

Basing yourself at nearby Stouslie Snugs puts you right in farming country, with easy access to all those hills dotting the landscape. The glamping site makes a cracking base for exploring not just Hawick itself, but the wider Borders region - you're well-placed for day trips to the historic abbeys at Melrose and Dryburgh, or even a dash across to Hadrian's Wall.