Hermitage Castle is a semi-ruined castle 16 miles south of Hawick. It is under the care of Historic Scotland. The castle has a reputation, both from its history and its appearance, as one of the most sinister and atmospheric castles in Scotland. This all-road cycling route starts at the Common Haugh in Hawick, passing through Branxholme, Newmill, Teviothead, Mosspaul, Bill’s Cleuch, Whitrope and Shankend.