MELROSE is a haven for hikers and ramblers who come to explore area by the bucket load every year.

And this summer, visitors, and of course locals too, can now pick up a detailed booklet featuring 12 beautiful walking routes around the town and the surrounding countryside.

'Paths Around Melrose' was put together by Scottish Borders Council’s Ranger Service, who worked in close association with Melrose Paths Group on the guide.

New routes include a link to Old Melrose, which is believed to have been the site of the Anglo-Saxon monastery where St Cuthbert began his monastic life.

There is also a new Leaderfoot Circular walk added to the booklet, which links Melrose and Gattonside with the Leader Water Path to Leaderfoot and onto Newstead.

Other walks take in Abbotsford House and the Eildon Hills while the guide also details links to Tweedbank Rail Station for walkers.

SBC’s Executive Member for Planning and Environment, Councillor Ron Smith, said: “The Borders is an excellent location for walking and this booklet provides a series of routes in and around Melrose for visitors and locals to enjoy.

“A number of the walks offer historical, mythological and natural interest, including the Eildons, Old Melrose, Newstead and Rhymer’s Glen."

The routes range from two to nine miles so cater for all abilities and levels of fitness.

David Langworth of Melrose Paths Group added: “The walks, with the booklet to hand, help locals and visitors appreciate and learn more about the landscape and heritage of this part of the central Borders.”

Paths Around Melrose is priced at £2 and is available from Masons of Melrose Bookshop, Melrose Visitor Information Centre, accommodation providers in the town and can also be purchased online from www.walkmelrose.org.uk.