Bell Craig

This Southern Upland Donald sits within the Ettrick Hills, forming part of a high ridge overlooking the Moffat Water valley. Often overshadowed by the more popular heights across the A708, it offers a quieter, grassy ascent with a grandstand view across the glen to White Coomb’s dramatic eastern crags.

• •The name likely derives from a combination of the Scots 'bell', describing a rounded hill shape, and 'craig', referring to the small rocky outcrops found on its steeper northern flanks.
• •The northern slopes of the hill form part of the Moffat Hills Special Area of Conservation, recognized for its rare arctic-alpine flora and high-altitude heathland.
• •Positioned directly across the valley from the higher Moffat Hills, the summit provides a perfect profile view of the spectacular glacial hanging valley of Midlaw Burn and the scree-covered slopes of Hart Fell.
• •As a Donald, it is frequently climbed as part of a long, undulating ridge walk starting from the Selkirk road, often paired with its neighbours Bodesbeck Law and Mid Craig.
• •Despite the 'Craig' in its name suggesting rugged rock, most walkers will find the summit to be a characteristically damp and grassy Southern Upland experience.