Tour the Scottish Borders, a Peaceful Landscape with a Dramatic History
The Scottish Borders is nowadays a peaceful pastoral region dotted with neat little market towns. Yet, once upon a time the Borders were the bloody battlefields on which the English and Scots engaged in ceaseless warfare for three hundred years.
This reiver's country of the Borders was an enclave between Scotland and England with its own laws, ethics and an economy based on theft, blackmail and kidnapping for ransom. Such describes the dramatic history of the Scottish Borders.
Across the Borders 4,500 sq kms, the landscape transforms from valleys, moorland and rich arable and pastoral fields to rocky shores, jagged coastlines, and sandy beaches. The dramatic coast is home to charming fishing villages which offer peaceful days out and fresh sea air. The high sea cliffs are lined with picturesque fishermen's cottages. Explore the sandy bays and clear, deep water coves or take a boat trip to view the shoreline from a different perspective.
The River Tweed, renowned for some of the best fishing in the world, flows through a gentle valley of rolling hills and moorland, on its way forming the border between Scotland and England. Flowing for almost 160kms, the Tweed is Scotland's fourth longest river and is abundant with Atlantic salmon.
The short but rocky Berwickshire coastline is dotted with picturesque fishing villages.
Eyemouth has been a busy fishing port since the 13th century where you can watch the catches coming in. Make an offer and you might be having the freshest of fish for breakfast. There are beaches, secluded coves, and little villages with their quaint harbours like Coldingham, Burnmouth and St Abbs, a tourist favourite with the St Abbs Heads nearby and the National Nature Reserve.
For superb outdoor adventure the Scottish Borders share the legendary 7stanes mountain biking centres of Glentress, Innerleithen, and Newcastleton as well as more gentle cycling and walking trails through delightful forest paths, something for the whole family to discover.
No matter the season, the Scottish Borders are the perfect introduction to Scotland, especially when driving up from England where it is a great overnight stop.
Stay one night, and with your free spirit, end up staying longer.
Spring brings new splashes of colour to the valleys; the woodlands come to life with the sights and sounds of spring. On a bracing walk or leisurely cycle along one of the many paths immerse yourself in the Scottish Borders stopping by historic houses, botanic gardens, watching wildlife or just enjoying the bewildering views.
The summer months bring memorable events steeped in culture and history. In medieval times, the four great abbeys of Jedburgh, Kelso, Melrose, and Dryburgh dominated the region. Now they form the 88 km Abbeys Cycle Route.
Within the northern transept of Dryburgh Abbey is buried Sir Walter Scott, who died in 1832, and his wife Charlotte.
Wherever your explorations take you, you will come across the name of Sir Walter Scott, the Border's most famous son, and one of Scotland's. He celebrated the Borders with his memorable poems, put the Trossachs on the Tourist map, enhanced the reputation of the Highlands and the Clan Culture, and discovered the lost "Honours of Scotland". He gained more than royal approval and honours. He became internationally renowned with his prolific writing and novels like "Rob Roy", "Ivanhoe", and "Waverley", to name but a few.
Experience the excitement and tradition of the many Common Riding of the Marches and Border Reiver Festivals. Border towns commemorate their local legends, history, and traditions by celebrating once a year during the months of June until August with magnificent gallops involving hundreds of horses.
Admire the glorious summer displays of colour in the parks and gardens. Enjoy the refreshing cool breezes on a walk along the stunning east coast.
Autumn in the Scottish Borders brings with it a blaze of reds, oranges, and ochre in the woodlands as the heather in the hills deepen to a rich purple.
This is the season to sample the fine harvest of the Scottish Borders Larder. Cheeses, fresh baking, organic meats, preserves, traditional Scottish fare are all on offer to tempt your taste buds.
Winter can be one of the finest times to visit the Scottish Borders as it becomes a winter wonderland with the frost topped hills of the Cheviots, the Moorfoots and the Pentlands. One of the most breathtaking winter scene is Scott's View, where Sir Walter Scott would stop while walking to admire the Scottish Borders in all their glory, framed by the Eildon Hills in the distance.
Peebles sits peacefully in the glorious Tweed Valley on a crisp winters morning with the River Tweed flowing sedately past.
Shopping in the Scottish Borders
The Scottish Borders are famous for their textiles and the perfect place to shop for the softest of cashmeres, the cosiest of woollens and the finest of tweeds. Border weavers have been making beautiful fabrics and garments since the 13th century. After 700 years of mastering their craft, it is no wonder that there is great demand for Johnstons of Elgin, Lochcarron, and Hawico Scotland who have established their brands and world-wide reputations. Border textile manufacturers are still at the centre of an international network, importing the finest raw materials and exporting top quality finished clothes to the fashion capitals of the world, for example Milan, New York, Paris, London, and Tokyo. Follow the Scottish Borders Textile Trail for that special gift you were thinking about.
The landscape inspires local craftspeople to reflect the beauty of their surroundings with creations in glass, wood, ceramic, and paint.
Relish the fresh food flavours of the Borders where seafood is so fresh it was swimming the day before. This is the region of hand picked berries, home-grown beef, lamb, and venison which can be washed down with locally crafted beers. Sample the great foods presented in the friendly restaurants, cafés, pubs on your travels throughout the Scottish Borders.
Take advantage of the fresh seasonal produce at the farmers markets and quench your thirsty palate in one of the many award winning breweries like Scottish Borders Brewery, Broughton Ales, Tempest Brewery, and Traquair House Brewery.
Activities in the Scottish Borders
Trails for Walking
With more than 1,500km of dedicated walking routes in the Scottish Borders there is something for all levels of fitness and ambition. The John Buchan Way is a challenging 21km, one day walk, through rolling countryside taking you between Peebles and Broughton. Named after the famous author of the "Thirty Nine Steps". Although born in Perth, John Buchan developed a love for the Borders while walking amidst the scenery and wildlife when he spent many summer holidays with his grandparents.
If that is not enough of a challenge, then consider the 48kms of the Berwickshire Coastal Path if you love the crashing of waves and the call of seagulls.
Follow in the footsteps of the 5th century Saint Cuthbert and make a pilgrimage with 100kms of country scenery between Lindisfarne and Melrose on the St Cuthbert's Way.
Not quite a pilgrimage but the Borders Abbey Way is slightly longer taking in those magnificent ruined monasteries.
One of Scotland's longest trails, at 338kms is the Southern Upland Way, which meanders between Portpatrick in Dumfries & Galloway and Cockburnspath in the Borders. It covers 96kms within the Scottish Borders giving you something to think about. Should you do the full walk? Or just the Scottish Borders section? Perhaps just a wee section?
On your Bike in the Scottish Borders
If you, your friends, or family enjoy sitting on the saddle of a bicycle the Scottish Borders present the ideal opportunity to tour the region with cycling trails to suit all levels; from gentle short forest paths, to the longer 88km 4 Abbeys Cycle Route, to the 400km Southern Borders Loop which you can take at your own leisure over a number of days.
Not satisfied with those possibilities? The adrenaline junkies can do their thing on the popular 7stanes Mountain Biking Trails and circuits. Newcastleton is a fantastic introduction to the sport of Mountain Biking, being the ideal home to a bike centre which offers shorter routes to get the less experienced riders up to speed. The trails at Glentress and Innerleithen provide more challenging experiences with some of the most renowned mountain biking in the UK.
Anglers from all over the world come to test their skills and enjoy the freedom and tranquillity of the Tweed and Teviot rivers, considered top class fishing, where you can catch that elusive salmon.
Instead you can try your luck with mackerel, haddock, cod and other sea fish at the picturesque harbours of Eyemouth, Burnmouth, or St Abbs.
Like all Scottish regions there are golf courses aplenty to while your time away on your favourite sport. The Borders region has its fair share of wee gems, like Hawick Golf Club. It is the oldest in the region and since Colin Montgomery, Nick Faldo and Tony Jacklin liked it so much they became honorary members. Should you be time limited with so many other things on the go why not try one of the challenging 9 hole courses.
Your Tour of the Great Abbeys of the Scottish Borders
Dryburgh Abbey
The graceful ruins of Dryburgh Abbey, nestled in wooded seclusion by the banks of the River Tweed, has an air of quiet meditation, the idyllic spot for the last resting place of some of Scotland's most famous sons.
In the 18th century, David Erskine, the 11th Earl of Buchan purchased Dryburgh House and created a charming landscape, in which the ancient abbey figured prominently. On his death, he was laid to rest in the abbey's sacristy while 3 years later his good friend, Sir Walter Scott, poet, novelist, and sheriff was buried in the north transept. In 1928, a third great Scot, Field-Marshal Earl Haig, was interred beside Scott. Their family and kinsfolk were laid to rest with them.
As with many ecclesiastic centres their demise was finally confirmed with the Protestant lead Scottish Reformation of the 156os with looting and burning and Dryburgh Abbey was never to escape such a fate. By 1584 just two brethren remained alive.
Jedburgh Abbey
Jedburgh Abbey was established as a priory of Augustinian canons around 1138 by King David I and gained abbey status around 1154. With Jedburgh being close to the border with England, David I wanted his new abbey to demonstrate his power and authority over the Borders – at the time known as the 'debatable lands'.
The Augustinians were noted for their support of royal governance. So, their houses were generally located close to royal power centres. Holyrood Abbey sits beside Edinburgh Castle, Cambuskenneth Abbey beside Stirling Castle, Scone Abbey beside the hallowed place where Scottish kings were enthroned, and St Andrews Priory beside the headquarters of the Scottish Church.
In 1285, Alexander III and his new queen, Yolande de Dreux, were married in Jedburgh's splendid abbey church. Legend tells of a ghostly figure appearing before the congregation and foretelling the king's death. Alexander died the following year, after falling from his horse, a pivotal event in Scotland's history.
Despite the ravages of wars with England, the weather, and the Scottish Reformation the abbey remains as impressive today, almost 900 years later.
Kelso, one of Scotland's prettiest towns, a favourite subject for artists, and an historic burgh, was the ideal location for Kelso Abbey in the 12th century as it was close to King David's new castle at Roxburghe. There was a time when it was one of Scotland's largest and wealthiest religious establishments.
Comparatively, little remains of what was once a sprawling influential monastery estate. On your visit you will see, what now survives after the devastation suffered from the invading English armies over the centuries and the Scottish Reformation, one of the most spectacular architectural achievements of medieval Scotland.
The Abbey was visited by Mary, Queen of Scots during her visit to the Scottish Borders in 1566, while her predecessors, James III & James IV were both crowned in this once elegant church. When you stand within the walls image the pomp and ceremony of such a prestigious occasion.
Melrose Abbey
When in the grounds of Melrose Abbey look out for the carved stone plaque which commemorates the burial place of the heart of King Robert the Bruce, who died in 1329. Learn more about why only his heart was buried here while his body was interred at Dunfermline Abbey. In 1996 an archaeological excavation on the site unearthed a conical lead casket which contained a heart. With no other record pertaining to the burial of hearts it was considered to be that of Robert I and was reburied at the abbey on June 22, 1998. King Alexander II who died in 1249 is also buried at the abbey.
Within the interior, the ornate stone vaulting over the presbytery, the elegant piers, and window tracery will catch your attention. Outside you will come across some of the most mesmeric sculptures to be found on any medieval church building. These include demons and hobgoblins, lute-playing angels, cooks with ladles, and is completed by the famous bagpipe-playing pig.
You can also visit the small museum housing a display of artefacts found within the abbey.
Visit the Exquisite Castles & Estates of the Scottish Borders
Exquisite most certainly describes the settings in which these residences are situated with inspirational landscapes and grand vistas. And yes, descendants of the original owners still inhabit a number of these grand buildings. They are certainly a vibrant source of architectural and artistic discourse.
The critics describe them ranging from "a mock medieval extravaganza", "dignified and imposing" to "gems of 18th century classical restraint". Their interiors are most certainly flamboyant with works of art on display from very famous artists in numerous media. Visit them at your leisure and put yourself into the position one lucky architect found himself. Budget was not a problem. Bring out your flamboyance and architectural flair - what would you have designed?
Abbotsford House
As a child Sir Walter Scott convalesced and spent holidays in the Scottish Borders with close relatives who influenced his development with fascinating local folklore. When he decided to settle in the Borders, his ancestral homeland, he not only built and lived in Abbotsford House but he designed it himself.
Here you will find artefacts that reflect Scottish history such as the door from the Old Tolbooth in Edinburgh, the desk made from wood from a ship of the Spanish Armada. Look out for Rob Roy's gun, Bonnie Prince Charlie's quaich, James IV's hunting bottle, the keys of Loch Leven Castle and other treasures.
Paxton House
Paxton House is one of the finest examples of neo-Palladian architecture in Scotland. It was completed in 1763 to the design of renowned architect John Adam and includes a magnificent picture gallery now put to great use by virtue of a partnership with the National Galleries for Scotland.
There is a rare and nationally important furniture collection of Thomas Chippendale's work as well as an outstanding collection by Scotland's leading 19th century cabinet maker, William Trotter. Discover the sad but romantic tale behind the pair of chamois leather gloves on display in the house.
Mellerstain House
Mellerstain, one of Scotland's great Georgian houses, is a gem of 18th century classical restraint, master-works of the gifted Adam family. Started in 1725 by William Adam and completed in 1778 by his more famous son, Robert. Some considers the result to be one of Robert's finest works.
The interior decoration is exceptional, with the ceilings especially note-worthy, having been preserved in the original Adam colours. The Library is a masterpiece of Classical decoration and colour, finely detailed plasterwork incorporating marble busts by Roubiliac. Visit Mellerstain and enjoy the fabulous paintings, embroidery, china, and furniture collections and be inspired by the friendly atmosphere and romantic location of one of Scotland's greatest houses.
The majestic Bowmill House & Country Estate is the main Scottish residence of the Duke of Buccleuch whose family connections to the vast woodland estate go back seven hundred years when it was part of Ettrick Forest. These magnificent woodlands offer a variety of peaceful walks for all ages and abilities. Its Little Theatre hosts drama and music performances.
House tours are full of history and superb art treasures, including 18th century hand-painted Chinese wallpapers, numerous paintings by famous artists and thousands of books. Bowhill House is truly a magical place with its imposing situation, elegant proportions and impressive cultural collections which make it one of the Scottish Borders' most popular visitor attractions.
Thirlestane Castle
Nestled in an idyllic part of the Scottish Borders, Thirlestane Castle is a magnificent 16th Century Castle set in a meadow landscape. It is still the family home to the Duke of Lauderdale and is one of the oldest and finest castles in Scotland.
During the summer months Thirlestane is open to day visitors for comprehensive tours of the public, private and domestic areas of the castle, plus exhibitions of Borders country life.
Manderston House
Manderston House, standing in 56 acres of formal gardens with magnificent stables and stunning marble dairy, is the supreme country house of Edwardian Scotland where no expense was spared. There are opulent staterooms, extensive "downstairs" domestic quarters, and its ultimate claim to fame, the only silver-staircase in the world.
When John Kinross, the architect, enquired as to how much he could spend on the building, he was told that 'it simply doesn't matter' – an architect's dream come true! Imagine the house and garden as your fairy-tale dream come true on a visit to the magnificent creation of John Kinross.
The Roxburghe Estate
The Duke of Roxburghe's family estate comprises, at its heart, the elaborately turreted 18th century Floors Castle, one of Scotland's most outstanding historic houses and largest inhabited castle. On the estate there is also the Roxburghe Hotel, an aristocratic retreat with award winning dining, roaring fires and the best in luxury and service. The Estate boasts a spectacular championship golf course set in 200 acres of rolling parkland on the banks of the river Teviot.
A must see is the magnificent collection of artwork comprising fine art, porcelain, and tapestries. Walking down the long corridors adorned with priceless tapestries and paintings is a memorable experience in itself. The castle is quite a fairytale vision, and also offers exquisite views across the Scottish borders.
Traquair House is a fascinating place to visit with so much to do, see and explore. It is the oldest continuously lived-in house in Scotland with numerous generations of the Stuart family having called it home since 1491. With the same Stuart name who could have blamed them for being loyal to the ill fated Jacobite cause of Prince Charles Edward Stuart, especially since they were devout Catholics and wanted a Catholic monarchy to continue. On your visit find out how the family did not count the same cost as did so many Jacobite loyalists. For many it was the ultimate cost and loss of family lands.
After your visit to the house, the grounds and maze as well as the craft workshops and restaurant you are sure to have a tremendous thirst which is catered for with a visit to their very own brewery, a natural extension from the old days when the kitchen was the place to do the brewing.
Smailholm Tower
Smailholm Tower was Sir Walter Scott's ancestral home which played a large part in his childhood. It was to Sandyknowe Farmhouse, the dwelling down in the hollow, that he was sent to recover from illness at the age of only 18 months. Sandyknowe, having replaced Smailholm Tower as the Scott's family home was where his grandmother and aunt related to him tales of the Border countryside. In later life, Scott acknowledged the huge influence these tales had on his imagination and shortly before his death he paid an emotional visit to Smailholm.
Let it arouse your imagination when you visit.
Hermitage Castle
Hermitage Castle is a forbidding and oppressive place in deepest Liddesdale within the Scottish Borders. For much of its 400 year existence it was the key to controlling the Scottish Middle March and as such it was fought over time and time again. Hermitage has a rich history of torture and treason from which myths and legends have sprung, but it is most famous for a very royal romantic encounter.
In October 1566, James Hepburn, the 4th Earl of Bothwell and secret lover of Mary Queen of Scots, lay wounded in Hermitage after a skirmish with a Border Reiver, Jack of the Park. On hearing the news, Mary, who was still married at the time to Lord Darnley, decided to visit him in his sick-bed, and rode out from Jedburgh, a 40 km ride across difficult terrain. Her fleeting visit on 16 October, lasted two hours.
Mary made the arduous return journey to Jedburgh on the same day, but her horse stumbled and she was thrown from her horse into a bog from which she contracted a fever. She convalesced in a fortified house in Jedburgh for a week. She was fortunate to recover from this ordeal as it was touch and go whether she would survive at one point. The house, now a museum, is known as the Mary, Queen of Scots' Visitor Centre and portrays a fascinating insight into the dramas and betrayals of her life.
The Botanic Garden of Dawyck is truly one of the world's finest arboreta. With seasonal displays of abundant exotic and native plants providing a breathtaking backdrop of colour throughout the year. It is also home to one of Scotland's finest tree collections, dating back three centuries.
The Dawyck Botanic Garden also offers an award-winning visitor centre and a café overlooking the woodland.
John Buchan is one of Scotland's most famous authors, mainly remembered for his spy novel, "The Thirty-Nine Steps" which has been adapted for film on numerous occasions. It was highly ranked at number 4 in the British Films of the 20th century. "Greenmantle" was Buchan's other famous novel featuring the adventures of his hero, Richard Hannay.
Few people know that he was also Governor General of Canada as well as being a prodigious writer of other material. The popularity of the films helped give him an international reputation. The John Buchan Story Museum, in Peebles, tells the story of John Buchan through fascinating artefacts, surrounded by the beautiful Scottish Borders countryside that he loved.
Towns and Villages of the Scottish Borders
The picturesque fishing port of Eyemouth has a fascinating history. In days gone by the main source of income was in dodging the Customs and Excise taxes levied by the government and this was done by smuggling. The geography of Eyemouth and its coastline were perfect for stashing contraband goods in hidden caves and secluded coves.
The smuggled good would be distributed through a house specially designed and built in 1753 by local smuggler John Nisbet. Discover the secret hiding places where smuggled goods were kept in the John Adam designed, Gunsgreen House. A great family destination with hands-on activities and displays.
Take a trip along the coast in a Glass Bottom Boat. Eyemouth is a centre for diving with a dive shop on Gunsgreen Pier, commercial dive companies and a bunk house in the town.
Duns Castle, whose grounds are now a park and bird sanctuary, was redeveloped in 1820 around a 14th century peel tower given by Robert the Bruce to Randolph, Earl of Moray. In the park is the quaintly name Hen Poo, a lake which is the centrepiece of Duns Castle Nature Reserve, owned and managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust.
Nearby Greenknowe Tower is set in beautiful surroundings and the small kirk at Ellemford is where James IV met his commanders before the disastrous Battle of Flodden in 1513. For those of you who are fond of walks with lovely countryside views, the hill of Duns Law (233m) offers commanding views of the Merse and the rich, low-lying farmlands running out from the coast. Visit the Jim Clark Museum, a unique centre devoted to the late world Formula 1 champion racing driver. The museum attracts motor racing enthusiasts from all around the world who consider it to be a pilgrimage.
Duns is also recognised as the likely birthplace of John Duns Scotus, the great medieval philosopher and theologian who taught at the University of Paris during the 14th century. He was a Franciscan monk whose influence is still felt within the Catholic Church to this day. His thinking was controversial, and his opponents gave him the less flattering name of Dunse from which the word "dunce" is contrived. A bronze statue of Duns Scotus stands in the public park as well as a cairn in the castle grounds.
Discover the history of this beautiful Border town and its links with Sir Walter Scott at St Ronan's Wells Visitor Centre, a historic spa building, originally constructed by the Earl of Traquair in the 182os to provide a comfortable retreat for visitors. It was largely rebuilt and extended in 1896 to accommodate indoor bathing facilities and a bottling plant. As a boy, Sir Walter Scott would frequently visit as do visitors to sample the spring water which is still "on tap". Hear about the connection with his good friend and fellow writer James Hogg.
At Robert Smail's Printing Works turn back time and see how printing was done at the start of the 20th century before the advent of the microchip.
Innerleithen is also for thrill seekers. It's one of the famous 7stanes MTB venues renowned for its four downhill trails, all of them orange-graded Bike Park Extreme.
Explore Old Gala House, a museum and gallery covering over 50 years of the town's history. Old Gala House hosts a lively and varied exhibition programme of visual art, local interest and educational exhibitions throughout the season. Some of these are in partnership with the British Museum as well as shows by local painters, printers and stone carvers. Old Gala House has a café with free wifi and a gift shop. During the summer season admire and relax in the gardens, recently re-established, with a pond, spring bulbs and rhododendrons.
Walk the nearby Southern Upland Way or get on your bike and do the Tweed Cycle Way.
Hawick is now a quiet Border town but hundreds of years ago it was at the heart of the Border wars. It has the good fortune to be located on the beautiful banks of the River Teviot which has helped power the town's prosperity based on its famous knitwear. Visit the Heart of Hawick, an arts, culture and museum hub, where you will find the Borders Textile Towerhouse and discover why many of the world's leading designers, international names like Chanel and Dior, have made use of the skills of local textile workers. It has a gift shop stocking unique quality items.
You can find out just how wild and ruthless the Border Reivers were during the turbulent old days when you pass by Drumlanrig Tower Visitor Centre. Originally built in the 15th century as a peel tower house it was once a stronghold of the powerful Douglas family.
These bad old times are celebrated every March in the Hawick Reivers Festival when the town steps back several centuries with drama, songs, re-enactments, and poetry. In early June the Common Riding takes place celebrating the gallant youths of 1514. Discover why one rider proudly carries a flag aloft as does the statue in the High Street.
Take in a round of golf at the Hawick Golf Club, the oldest in the Scottish Borders where the par-four 16th hole has been renamed McLaren's Miracle after the late rugby commentator and Hawick man, Bill McLaren once secured a hole-in-one here.
Jedburgh boasts a proud association with Mary, Queen of Scots who stayed there in 1566. Visit the Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre, and learn more about the fateful relationship she had with James Hepburn, Lord Bothwell, who lay wounded at nearby Hermitage Castle.
Jedburgh Abbey is one of the four great abbeys built in Scotland's border country during the Middle Ages, a frequent target for invading border armies.
The Jedburgh Castle Jail gives visitors a taste of what life was like in an 182os prison, whilst also telling the story of the Royal Burgh of Jedburgh.
Besides the impressive Kelso Abbey, the town in which it resides is one of the prettiest in Scotland. Its buildings are picturesque with a delightful market square with French-style cobbles, home to the monthly farmers market where you will find a range of local produce from the Scottish Borders. From the land, both farmed and wild, there are fresh products as well as processed on offer. Your sweet tooth is well catered for with home-made ice creams, fudges, Scottish tablets (no it is not an edible computer but a very delicious sort of sweetie. Kids love it!), scones, cakes, desserts, jams and honey.
Your fun and excitement start at the Kelso Racecourse, voted "Britain's Friendliest Racecourse", a National Hunt course which stages jumps racing from October through until May. For your perfect day out consider one of their hospitality packages on offer where you can dine in their premier restaurant with stunning views over the course and the spectacular action. Kelso Races host special race days. The popular Ladies Day is one of the "favourites", when the focus is on the lady in your life.
At the Coldstream Museum you can explore the history of this famous Border town and its association with the famous Coldstream Guards. A few kilometres north of Coldstream wander the Hirsel Estate, the seat of the Earls of Hume where you can discover their fascinating family history at the museum with craft studios and Tea Room.
As well as having the magnificent ruins of Melrose Abbey on its doorstep, Melrose is the birthplace of Rugby Sevens. The rugby sevens game was invented when a local butcher, Ned Haig, was looking to raise much needed funds for Melrose Rugby Club. From its humble roots it has become a global phenomenon having made its début at the 2016 Olympic Games. The Melrose Sevens rugby tournament takes places during April each year and offers a thrilling day out for all the family with teams travelling from all over the world to compete at the historic Greenyards.
Melrose offers a good range of boutique shops, tearooms, restaurants, and hotels with breathtaking views of the nearby Eildon Hills. Visit the Trimontium Heritage Centre and hear the story of Trimontium – a Roman fort in the nearby village of Newstead which served throughout the Roman period as a key defensive site and the hub for the network of Roman roads in Scotland.
Melrose hosts the annual Borders Book Festival which also takes place during June.
The Romans passed through Lauder 1800 years ago when they built Dere Street, the link between the Antonine Wall in central Scotland and modern day York in northern England. Since then Lauder has seen the passage of too many armies moving up and down this main thoroughfare. Today it retains its status as a significant road between England and Scotland, being an ideal place to stop for victuals in its excellent eating establishments.
You will fall in love with the market town of Peebles, cherished by locals and visitors alike and valued for its picturesque and unspoilt character. The town has something for everyone, from activities like fishing, walking, golf, cycling and horse riding to shopping, award winning restaurants and excellent accommodation. It even hosts its own Highland games every September with the Peebles Highland Games. So, you do not have to go further north into the Highlands to experience the spectacle of a traditional Highland games. You can watch cabers and haggis fly through the air as the bagpipes skirl and the young lassies and laddies dance and whirl. Yes, they have a Haggis Hurling competition; come see for yourself.
Tweeddale Museum and Gallery imparts some of the history and heritage of Peebles and shares the same building facilities as the John Buchan Story Museum.
Eastgate Theatre and Arts Centre opened its door to the public on March 4th 2004 with a stunning renovation of a church hall. It is now a complex for theatre, space for arts participation, studio and café/foyer which hosts film festivals, live and film drama. Look out for its events programme.
Glentress Forest which offers a range of walking routes and is one of the best mountain biking venues in the UK.
Dawyck Botanic Gardens, located outside of Peebles, is one of the world's finest arboreta and has a magic all of its own. The Gardens feature an award-winning visitor centre and a series of paths that take visitors through seasonal displays of abundant exotic and native plants.
St Abbs is internationally important for its rugged landscape and wildlife, not only above but below the waves. The St Abb's Head National Nature Reserve, adjacent to St Abbs, caters for birdwatchers and walkers while the Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve looks after the seaward side where there is excellent diving and fishing and of course both are a paradise for just exploring.
The St Abbs Visitor Centre, overlooking the harbour, provides a natural focal point for visitors to the Berwickshire coast. Occupying the old Village Hall, the Centre offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape within a stunning contemporary setting where you will discover the history and culture of the region.
The Royal and Ancient Burgh of Selkirk has a number of famous sons.
William Wallace, Scotland's great hero who fought for independence and who was based in nearby Ettrick Forest, was proclaimed "Guardian of Scotland" in the town's Forest Kirk after his victory at Stirling Bridge of 1297.
Sir Walter Scott is still the town's most famous character. Scott was not only a literary giant but administered the law for 33 years as the local Sheriff in the Selkirk Courtroom, now a museum dedicated to his life and writings. The building dates from 1804 and stands in Selkirk's Market Place next to the imposing statue of Sir Walter himself. Inside you will discover the fascinating story of Scott's association with the town through the permanent displays of personal objects which once belonged to this world renowned writer of works such as Rob Roy and The Waverley Novels.
Selkirk Common Riding is recognised as one of the oldest of the Border festivals and dates from the fateful Battle of Flodden in 1513, where Selkirk sent 80 men to support the Scottish King James IV. Only one returned, bearing a blood-stained English flag.
In the High Street is the Mungo Park Monument, celebrating the African explorer born nearby in 1771.
Golf in the Scottish Borders
The Scottish Borders are known more for rivers, reivers, and rugby but is now making its mark in the world of golf. There are 21 clubs in the region of which eight clubs have 9-hole courses, ideal for a relaxing round.
The two top ranked courses in the Borders are both creations of Dave Thomas, namely Roxburghe and Cardrona, both of which are considered ideal for a one day 36 hole visit even though they are some distance apart. But then again, they offer excellent accommodation, restaurants and other facilities. So, if time permits!
The new layout at Eyemouth Golf Club features two extraordinary holes. The dramatic par three 6th, "A-Still-No-Ken," requires a heroic 170-yard carry to the green across a rocky coastal inlet, while the gargantuan par five 13th is considered to be Scotland's longest hole when played from the 656-yard back tee.
Peebles Golf Club is a challenging upland golf course of 6,160 yards which is set out in rolling Borders countryside. It is famed for its lush fairways, velvet green putting surfaces and stunning surroundings in the Tweed Valley. "Peebles for Pleasure" is the local town motto which holds fast when playing this delightful golf course.
Hirsel Golf Course is famed as having been referred to as "The Augusta of the Borders".
Golf in the Scottish Borders doesn't get much better than the wee gem at the new Woll Golf Course & Estate, one of the most popular Border courses with facilities second to none! Come and see for yourself with either a golf day or a golf weekend.
Torwoodlee Golf Course has two holes that can be a highlight of your round on a delightful parkland setting. The first is the 355-yard 6th ("Bowland View"), where the tee shot plunges, and the emphasis is plunging, down towards the green from the highest point on the course. The other is the 420-yard 13th ("Buckholm View"), which doglegs down to a putting surface that's shared with the 8th hole, one of two double greens on the course.
Hawick Golf Course presents wonderful views from elevated positions which improve the higher you go until you reach the highest point on the 11th hole where the Borders scenery is at its most dramatic. But you do have to focus your attention when playing the 6th hole, "Hunter" which is normally played against the prevailing wind.
Accommodation in the Scottish Borders
Travelling up from England? Why not spend an ideal few days at Stobo Castle Hotel & Spa where you can relax and unwind before continuing your journey? Nestled among the beautiful Scottish Borders countryside, Stobo Castle offers excellent service, fine food, elegantly trained staff and above all, the ability to find peace in a frenetic world.
Wherever you choose to roam, the Scottish Borders will captivate you with its beauty, charm and warmth, your choice of accommodation will only make it more memorable.
Scottish Borders - Coldstream - Duns - Eyemouth - Galashiels - Hawick - Innerleithen - Jedborough - Kelso - Lauder - Melrose - Peebles - Selkirk