tourist attractions in the scottish borders

Jedburgh Town Centre

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Things To Do In The Scottish Borders Itinerary

Our big cities may have their fair share of exciting attractions, but did you know our regions have lots of hidden gems to discover too? When it comes to your next holiday, slow and steady could win the race. Let us introduce you to the Scottish Borders. From its rolling hills, adrenaline-fuelled mountain biking trails, distilleries and historic castles and abbeys, there's so many reasons why the Scottish Borders is the perfect holiday destination.

To help you make the most out of your time here, we're taking things slowly with our 4-day itinerary as you take in its wonderful sights dotted across the region, so you don't miss out on anything special. Enjoy!

• Distance 87 Miles 139 km
• Transport Car
• Main theme Activities

Day 1 Peebles

We're off to kickstart our slow adventure in the pretty town of Peebles. Situated in the heart of the Scottish Borders and just a 45-minute drive from Edinburgh, get ready to invest your time in the town's wonderful array of attractions. Reinvigorate your senses by heading out into the fresh air, you'll find lots of walking routes with different lengths. Why not round off your day with a special treat by paying a visit to Cocoa Black for pure chocolate indulgence?

Dawyck Botanic Garden Stobo

Dawyck Botanic Garden

Retreat away from the crowds and enter the peaceful oasis that is Dawyck Botanic Garden. Home to a stunning collection of trees and shrubs, you'll be impressed by its vibrant bursts of colour all year round. When spring has sprung see swathes of snowdrops or immerse yourself in autumn colours, with hues of mustard yellows, glowing oranges, and vibrant reds to help you celebrate this picturesque season.

After exploring the garden, you'll have no doubt worked up an appetite. Stop off and soak in the views at the café. You'll find lots of tasty dishes to choose from and with their  Taste Our Best  accreditation, you can never go wrong on quality here.

Did you know? Dawyck Botanic Garden is just one of the many attractions that can be found along the  John Buchan Way . This 13-mile route which starts in Peebles and finishes in Broughton boasts stunning scenery and a wide variety of attractions. Highlights include Caidemuir Hill, Stobo Kirk, John Buchan Centre and Neidpath Castle.

If you're willing to explore more of Peebles on foot, check out these other fantastic  walking routes .

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Cocoa Black Peebles

Cocoa Black chocolates

© Cocoa Black Limited

If you're looking to sweeten up your day, we've got just the treat for you! Head to Cocoa Black and live your dreams of becoming a master chocolatier. Put on your apron and head into the kitchen where you'll be taught how to make delicious desserts from afternoon teacakes, pastries, and even vegan chocolates. At the end of your class, you'll be able to take home your wonderful creations to try out. Mmmm!

• Level access to dining room, cafe or restaurant

Day 2 Innerleithen and Duns

You've taken walking in your stride but now it's time to enjoy the thrill of mountain biking. With four downhill trails to choose from, Innerleithen is an outdoor haven for every cyclist. In the afternoon, brush up on your Scottish history with a visit to Traquair House, the most prominent Jacobite house in South Scotland. If motorsport gets your heart racing, take a trip down memory lane at the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum where you will learn more about one of the greatest racing drivers of all time.

Innerleithen 7Stanes Innerleithen

Innerleithen 7stanes

Fancy an adrenaline rush? Explore the Borders' natural beauty on two wheels with Innerleithen 7Stanes. Located at Innerleithen Forest, this is a prime location for downhill riders and offers four main tracks to hone your skills. If you really want to test your mountain bike out, take on the challenging red-graded Innerleithen XC trail. This thrilling single-track route is complete with lots of jumps and drop offs for a challenging but fun ride.

It's not just mountain biking that Innerleithen is renowned for. Cool down and take a leisurely stroll through the forest with lots of walking trails to choose from or take in the beautiful scenery while on horseback.

Traquair House Innerleithen

Traquair House Courtyard

© Traquair House

Explore Scotland’s oldest inhabited house, a former royal hunting lodge dating from 1107 which remains a family home to this day.

Wander round the beautiful rooms, tour Traquair House Brewery and navigate your way around the maze.

While you’re there find out more about Traquair House’s Jacobite connections - in the 1700s the earls of Traquair supported the Jacobite cause. Bonnie Prince Charlie even visited the house in 1745.

• Pets Welcome

Jim Clark Motorsport Museum Duns

Jim Clark Motorsport Museum

You don't need to live life in the fast lane to enjoy this wonderful attraction. Discover the incredible legacy of racing driver, Jim Clark. From his humble beginnings working as a farmer in the Scottish Borders to becoming the most decorated Formula One driver of all time, take a trip down memory lane to look back on his remarkable career. Watch short films of him competing in races, browse through his impressive trophy cabinet and view two of his winning race cars, the Lotus Cortina and the Lotus 25.

Day 3 Melrose

Traquair House was just a taster of the Borders' rich history but we've got even more for you to uncover at Melrose Abbey and Abbotsford House. Once you've had your history fix, it's off for a delicious bite to eat at the Hoebridge before you escape and enjoy the peace and quiet of Harmony Garden.

Melrose Abbey Melrose

Melrose Abbey

We're very lucky to share with you wonderful stories of Scotland's historic past, and Melrose Abbey is no exception. Originally founded by David I in 1136 for the Cistercian Order, the abbey is believed to be the final resting place of Robert the Bruce's heart. Although largely destroyed by Richard II's English army in 1385, you can take an audio tour around the site and see its striking architectural details up close. A few significant features to spot include hobgoblins, cooks with ladles and even a bagpipe playing pig. The question is, can you find them all?

Why visit one Borders abbey when you can visit another three, you're on holiday after all! Discover the magnificent ruined abbeys of Dryburgh, Jedburgh and Kelso along  The Borders Abbeys Way . This 103 km walk takes you on a colourful journey through history dating back to the 12th century. Admire the picturesque scenery as you stop off to explore the pretty towns and villages or if you're looking to catch a bite, head to the River Tweed and River Teviot for a bit of morning fishing.

Abbotsford House Melrose

Abbotsford's historic house exterior view.

Scotland has produced many great literary figures throughout the years, from Robert Burns to Val McDermid. No matter what your favourite genre is, there is lots of Scottish literature waiting to be added to your reading list. Today we're here to shine a spotlight on another of the country's finest writers, Sir Walter Scott.

Helping to capture the imaginations from readers around the world, step inside his home and see where it all began! You'll stumble across shelves upon shelves of books in his personal study, a grand library and lots of artefacts on display relating back to some of his most famous works. Outside, adults can enjoy the peaceful setting of the Regency Walled Gardens while the fun awaits at the Play Trail for younger visitors, complete with a wooden fortress and seven-metre tunnel slide.

The Hoebridge Melrose

The Hoebridge

It's not just all about the history in the Borders, the food is a huge part of the experience too. If you're planning a holiday to South Scotland, be sure to make a reservation at The Hoebridge. Serving happy customers since 2015, this family-run restaurant uses the freshest of ingredients from local suppliers to create mouth-watering dishes. Choose from a selection of small or large plates to tantalise your tastebuds. Roast chicken croquette, chargrilled shaws Borders ribeye steak and grilled sea bass are just some of the foodie favourites that make a regular appearance on the menu.

Harmony Garden Melrose

Harmony Garden

Enjoy a slice of paradise at Harmony Garden where you will wander around freshly cut lawns and view spectacular displays of flowerbeds full of vibrant colour. Make sure you have your camera at the ready, the garden is a great location to admire the ruins of Melrose Abbey and the Eildon Hills from a distance.

Fancy staying that wee bit longer? The garden also offers self-catering accommodation, perfect if you're looking to rest your head for the night.

Day 4 Kelso, Jedburgh and Hawick

It's our last day in the Scottish Borders but before you go home, we still have a couple of suggestions left. Start off the day with another history lesson at Floors Castle. Of course, a trip to Scotland wouldn't be complete without trying its national drink. A wee dram of whisky at The Borders Distillery is bound to keep your spirits high. Slàinte!

Floors Castle Kelso

Floors Castle & the River Tweed

Impressively grand and very much still intact, Scotland's largest inhabited castle is impressive even without its 5-star status. Built in 1721 by architect William Adam, it has been a family home to the Innes-Ker family for over 300 years.

With so much to see and do, one day may not be enough to view its vast collection of fine art, porcelain and tapestries, extensive gardens and woodlands walks, as well as its child-friendly adventure playground.

The Borders Distillery Hawick

The Borders Distillery outer building

Having opened in 2018, it is the first Scotch Whisky distillery to open in the region since 1837, offering visitors the chance to learn more about Scotland's national drink. Take a distillery tour and you'll uncover the secrets behind the distilling process of its Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Kerr's Gin and Puffing Billy Steam Vodka before finishing off with a wee dram at the distillery bar. Don't worry if you're the designated driver, you'll be able to take home a few samples to try in the comfort of your own home.

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

10 of the Best Historic Sites in the Scottish Borders

Discover the scottish borders' rich heritage at these unmissable sites, experiences and attractions..

Harry Sherrin

29 jun 2022.

The Scottish Borders, encompassing the historic counties of Berwickshire, Peeblesshire, Roxburghshire and Selkirkshire, is a region home to centuries of fascinating history.

Once the site of skirmishes between English and Scottish clans, the Scottish Borders boasts an array of fascinating castles and strongholds. The region is also renowned for its Iron Age hillforts, glorious 16th-century manor houses and the relics of its industrial heritage.

Here are 10 unmissable historic sites in the Scottish Borders.

1. Melrose Abbey

Founded in 1136 by David I, Melrose Abbey was the first Cistercian abbey in  Scotland . Situated along the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders, the abbey was home to 450 years of monastic life until falling into ruin after the 16th century.

Today, a large portion of Melrose Abbey’s 14th century church remains, although you will have to use some imagination to see the rest of the abbey, guided by the outlines on the ground. Looking up, visitors can see icons nestled in niches on top of the church roof alongside gargoyles and weather-beaten stone.

2. Traquair House

Traquair House is a fortified mansion style house in the Scottish Borders and is believed to be the oldest continually inhabited house in  Scotland . Traquair House has been lived in for over 900 years and was originally built as a hunting lodge for Scottish monarchs.

Today the house is lived in by the 21st Lady of Traquair and her family, but the historic house and vast Traquair estate are open to the public. On a guided tour, see the cradle, bed and room within which Mary, Queen of Scots stayed with her son and future king, James VI and I. Visitors can also wander through the estate’s vast parkland, exploring the maze or ambling down to the River Tweed.

3. Abbotsford

Abbotsford is a large country mansion in the Scottish Borders best known as the home of historical novelist and poet, Sir Walter Scott. Scott massively extended the house and grounds, hosting writers, politicians, noblemen and many of Scott’s readers during his lifetime and later becoming a place of literary pilgrimage.

Open 7 days a week between 10am and 5 pm, today you can step back into the historic house and chapel before wandering the beautiful gardens. Inside the house, walk the halls lined with medieval battlements and enter rooms with grand fireplaces and wallpapered in the rich colours and textures of East Asia, reflecting the period’s  colonial fervour .

4. Robert Smail’s Printing Works

Robert Smail’s Printing Works is an operational letterpress printers in the  Scottish Borders town of Innerleithen. The press at Robert Smail’s dates back to the Victorian era and has been in continual use until the present day.

Today, visitors can easily find the print works along Innerleithen’s high street, the brown shopfront and beautiful stained glass door leading you into the National Trust entrance and gift shop – open Monday to Friday. From the office, you can go on an hour long guided tour, wandering through to the large office full of stationary, writing slates, pencils, sealing wax and bottles of ink.

5. Pennymuir Roman Camps

The Pennymuir Roman Camps, also known as the Towford Camps, are formed of the remains of three Roman temporary camps in Scotland. The camps were temporary, and were probably used as training bases, providing tented accommodation for troops on exercise. The largest of the camps spreads some 17 hectares which would have easily accommodated two legions of men or more. It may also have simply been a temporary marching camp.

All four of the camps are recorded as earthworks in rough moorland, with camps I and II amongst the best preserved in Scotland. The site is open and is a popular and scenic walking spot. For those with a trained eye, the remains of the camps are still visible among the earthworks and provide a fascinating insight into the movements of Roman army groups .

6. Jedburgh Abbey

Situated in the Scottish Borders town of Jedburgh, this Augustinian abbey was built in the 12 century. The site was founded by David I and constructed in early Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles. The building has seen its fair share of conflict over the centuries, given its location near the border with England.

Today, the abbey is in a state of ruin and has undergone extensive conservation work to keep the site open to the public. Visitors can walk the grounds, peruse the visitor’s centre and also access the on-site shop.

7. Floors Castle

Found in the historic county of Roxburghshire, in the Scottish Borders, Floors Castle is a stately home and the seat of the Duke of Roxburghe. Despite its name, the structure never served as a military fortress; it’s a 17th-century estate, to which the castle-like towers and turrets were added in the 19th century.

Floors Castle, as well as still being the home of the Duke of Roxburghe and his family, is a public attraction. Making for a great family day out, the site is home to grand room, beautiful gardens, well-stocked galleries and a cafe.

8. Hermitage Castle

This historic stronghold near Liddesdale in the Scottish Borders was home to vicious battles and disputes in the middle ages. Built in c. 1360, the castle was of strategic importance given its location on the Scottish Middle March. It was reinforced in the 16th century to stand up to guns and artillery.

Now in a state of partial ruin, Hermitage Castle is under the jurisdiction of Historic Environment Scotland. The site is open to the public in the summer months. Some say the stronghold is home to the ghost of Mary, Queen of Scots .

9. Leaderfoot Viaduct

The Leaderfoot Viaduct is a 19th-century railway viaduct that crosses Scotland’s River Tweed. Construction was completed in 1863, granting the Berwickshire Railway access over the river. It was damaged by floods in the 1940s, and was nearly demolished in the 1980s due to its poor condition.

Today, the Leaderfoot Viaduct, also known as the Drygrange Viaduct, is a category A monument. Visit the surrounding greenery or the nearby Old Bridge for stunning views of the historic feat of engineering.

10. Smailholm Tower

Near Kelso in the Scottish Borders, Smailholm Tower is a peel tower built in the 15th or 16th centuries to provide shelter from English raiders. It is perhaps most famous as the site that inspired Sir Walter Scott to enjoy border ballads when he visited as a child.

Smailholm Tower is now a Scheduled Ancient Monument overseen by Historic Environment Scotland. VisitScotland listed it as a 5-star tourist attraction in 2007, a very rare accolade. The tower is open to the public and remains in a remarkable state of preservation. Visitors can get up close to the structure and explore an on-site exhibition.

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Table of contents:

• Introduction
• What's it Known For
• History of the area

Inspiration

ancient abbeys, impassioned literature and slow-moving historical towns

Spread like a rumpled green blanket over a vast swathe of southeast Scotland, this is a land of widescreen hillscapes, clear-running rivers and lively festivals

As though living up to its name, the Scottish Borders region has a habit of being sidelined by visitors. Some see it as a kind of unremarkable hinterland – or, even worse, as a transit zone to be sped through between England and metropolitan Scotland – but to think like this is to miss out spectacularly. For those in the know, the nearly 2,000 square miles of rolling, regal countryside that make up the Borders are packed with excuses to linger. People choose to live here for good reason.

Spread like a rumpled green blanket over a vast swathe of southeast Scotland, this is a land of widescreen hillscapes, clear-running rivers and lively festivals, a place where arable traditions prevail, where history resounds over every valley, and where the handsome towns and villages bubble with cultural activity. To the east, meanwhile, the sweeping cliffs of the Berwickshire coastline only add to the overall appeal.

The likes of Peebles, Melrose and Kelso are all well accustomed to winning over first-time visitors, twinning age-old architecture with modern, independent local businesses. The Borders doesn’t go in for large settlements – the biggest town is Galashiels, with a population that barely noses 15,000 – and this is a major part of the charm. The atmosphere-laden abbeys, towering castles and boundless open views that define the region were a rich source of inspiration for the likes of Sir Walter Scott and John Buchan.

Don’t be tempted, however, into thinking the pace of life never rises above a saunter. The mountain-biking and hiking options are not only exciting but genuinely extensive, while archery, diving and even surfing all get a look-in too. Bored in the Borders? Chance would be a fine thing.

Discover The Borders

Where would you like to visit?

What's The Borders Known For

The Borders means different things to different people. To some – and more fool them – it’s a region that barely warrants a look-in. To others, it’s entwined with romantic notions of ancient abbeys, impassioned literature and slow-moving historical towns. But while traditions are held dear here, and the rural scenery soothes the soul, the region’s younger, more modern creative spirit is ever more in evidence.

Where to visit

Abbotsford the home of sir walter scott, jedburgh castle jail & museum, hume castle, kelso abbey, dryburgh abbey, greenknowe tower, great polish map of scotland, leaderfoot viaduct, neidpath train tunnel & castle, number four gallery, kailzie gardens, borders distillery, melrose abbey, borders textile towerhouse, scott’s view, coldingham bay, paxton house, fatlips castle, gunsgreen house, the history of the borders.

The Borders region has seen more than its share of bloodshed over the centuries. Indeed, its proximity to the neighbours down south means there’s arguably nowhere in Scotland that has witnessed more battles and upheavals. But its tale begins way back in prehistoric times, with roundhouses and stone circles testament to a population that dates to at least the Iron Age.

Later came the Romans, who spent time in the area before building Hadrian’s Wall, leaving a string of camps behind (most obviously Trimontium, a fort complex near Melrose). During the Dark Ages, meanwhile, the region spent a while temporarily incorporated into the kingdom of Northumbria, before settling into a period where Christianity held sway – the Borders Abbeys still act as a reminder of this time.

Things took a more macabre turn when the armies of King Edward I of England arrived in 1296, massacring almost half the Borders’ population in a bid to subjugate Scotland. There followed three centuries of turbulent fighting – sometimes occasional, sometimes unremitting – between the two nations, finding a culmination of sorts when, in 1603, King James VI of Scotland also became King James I of England.

Despite this, tensions and divisions rumbled on, although by the 19th century a form of peace and prosperity had arrived, thanks to the region’s fast-growing textile industry. Many mills from the period still stand today.

Our Suggestions

Abbotsford house.

Harmony Garden

Jedburgh Abbey

Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre

Neidpath Castle

St Mary's Loch

Things to know

Getting around

The Scottish Borders are easily explored using the Borders Explore Pass, which gives you access to train travel into the region from Edinburgh and access to bus routes. The Borders Historic Route is popular with drivers, covering 89 miles of the region, as well as dedicated paths for mountain biking and cycling.

Getting to  The Borders

The region is reached within two hours drive from Edinburgh and Newcastle, both of which have the closest major airports. If you’re travelling by train, the East Coast main line operates from London up to Edinburgh with stops in the region between, as well as services on the Borders Railway from Edinburgh to ten Borders towns. If you’re driving from England, follow the M6 motorway north before changing to the M74 at the Scottish Borders for the direct route to Glasgow. From Southern Scotland, use the same M74 motorway and from Northern Scotland, use the M9 and M80 roads.

Thanks to its closeness to the capital, the Borders specialises in small towns and villages with plenty of charm and character. With a variety of accommodation options available from countryside to coastline, the region has a lot of significant history to explore in places like Selkirk, Peebles, Melrose and Eyemouth.

• Where to stay

The Borders offer a variety of homegrown delicacies to cutting-edge contemporary cuisine from coast to rural countryside. Alongside hometown glories like Selkirk Bannock and Hawick Balls is a great tradition for high-quality seafood, meat and poultry, as well as more than 100 artisanal producers of everything from ice cream to wine to cheese.

Eating & drinking

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Our top recommendations, hidden spots, waterloo monument, smailholm tower, st abb’s head national nature reserve, buccleuch arms, schloss roxburghe, giacopazzi’s, the hoebridge restaurant, greenhouse cafe, the abbey view cafe & bookshop, the three hills coffee co café, main street trading company café, the mainstreet trading company, the spotty dog deli, the flat cat gallery and café, history & folklore, william wallace and the siege of dunnottar castle, why is edinburgh called ‘the athens of the north’, walking the banffshire coast, urquhart castle – the guardian of the great glen, thomas randolph and the capture of edinburgh castle, the world’s one and only knighted penguin lives at edinburgh zoo., the wolf’s lair – loch an eilein, the wolf of badenoch and the burning of elgin cathedral, the winter goddess of ben nevis, the wicked earls of castle sinclair girnigoe, people of scotland, win a romantic 3-night escape to the isle of skye, welcome to cladach beach house: scotland’s most scenic cocktail bar, tracing inspirations: a jeweller’s journey from the isle of skye to callander with heather mcdermott, the drystone company: meet the drystone wallers from perthshire who are transforming outdoor spaces with traditional expertise and contemporary design, schloss roxburghe – accommodation spotlight, meet visual artist jane hunter, meet tori gray illustrator and owner of harbour lane, meet the maker behind helen ruth scarves, meet the maker behind fernweh uk – laura sherriffs, touring the southern coast of scotland, the redcap of hermitage castle, melrose abbey and robert the bruce’s heart, hills, forests and valleys of southern scotland, 5 best beaches in the scottish borders, join free today.

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Must-see attractions in Borders Region

Traquair House

Borders Region

One of Scotland's great country houses, Traquair House has a power­ful, ethereal beauty, and exploring it is like time travel. Odd, sloping floors and a…

Just outside Melrose, this is where to discover the life and works of Sir Walter Scott, to whom we arguably owe both the modern novel and our mind's-eye…

Hermitage Castle

The 'guardhouse of the bloodiest valley in Britain', Hermitage Castle embodies the brutal history of the Scottish Borders. Desolate but proud with its…

Paxton House

Paxton House, 6 miles west of Berwick-upon-Tweed, is beside the River Tweed and surrounded by parkland and gardens. It was built in 1758 by Patrick Home…

Melrose Abbey

Perhaps the most interesting of the Border abbeys, red-sandstone Melrose was repeatedly destroyed by the English in the 14th century. The remaining broken…

Dryburgh Abbey

This is the most beautiful and complete of the Border abbeys, partly because the neighbouring town of Dryburgh no longer exists (another victim of the…

Jedburgh Abbey

Dominating the town skyline, this was the first of the great Border abbeys to be passed into state care, and it shows – audio and visual presentations…

Gunsgreen House

Standing proud and four-square across the harbour, this elegant 18th-century John Adam mansion was built on the profits of smuggling: Eyemouth was an…

Floors Castle

Grandiose Floors Castle is Scotland's largest inhabited mansion, home to the Duke of Roxburghe, and overlooks the Tweed about a mile west of Kelso. Built…

Mellerstain House

Finished in 1778, this is considered to be Scotland's finest Robert Adam–designed mansion. It is huge and famous for its classic elegance, ornate…

St Abbs & Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve

The clear, clean waters around St Abbs form part of St Abbs & Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve, one of the best cold-water diving sites in Europe. The…

Smailholm Tower

Perched on a rocky knoll above a small lake, this narrow stone tower provides one of the most evocative sights in the Borders and keeps its bloody history…

Heart of Hawick

Three buildings form the 'heart' of Hawick. A former mill holds a cafe and cinema. Opposite, historic Drumlanrig's Tower, once a major seat of the Douglas…

Coldstream Museum

The proud history of the Coldstream Guards is covered here. Formed as part of Oliver Cromwell's New Model Army in 1650, they played a significant part in…

Mary, Queen of Scots' Visitor Centre

Mary stayed at this beautiful 16th-century tower house in 1566 after her famous ride to visit the injured Earl of Bothwell, her future husband, at…

Borders Textile Towerhouse

The historic Drumlanrig’s Tower is a solid stone mansion that was once a major seat of Douglas clan power in the Borders. It now holds the Borders Textile…

Halliwell's House Museum

Halliwell’s House Museum is the oldest building (1712) in Selkirk. The museum charts local history with an engrossing exhibition, and the Robson Gallery…

Sir Walter Scott's Courtroom

Drop into Sir Walter Scott’s Courtroom, where there’s an exhibition on the man’s life and writings, plus a fascinating account of the courageous explorer…

St Abbs Visitor Centre

This modern exhibition in St Abbs has interesting interactive displays on the often stormy history of this harbour village. Spoken reminiscences from…

Heritage Hub

The Heritage Hub, formerly the corn exchange, is a handy facility for anyone wishing to trace Scottish heritage, or other local archives. If you can't…

Eyemouth Museum

Set in a church, the town museum has intriguing local history displays, particularly relating to the town's fishing heritage. Its centrepiece is the…

Coldingham Priory

Little remains of what was once one of the region's most powerful monasteries before the Black Death then Oliver Cromwell reduced it to ruins. The current…

Kelso Abbey

Once one of the richest abbeys in southern Scotland, Kelso Abbey was built by the Tironensians, an order founded in Picardy and brought to the Borders…

Harmony Garden

This well-laid-out formal garden is a pleasant spot to while away a sunny afternoon, with views to the Eildon Hills and a riot of flowers in spring. The…

Jedburgh Castle Jail

Jedburgh Castle was a victim of Scotland's wars for independence but this smart 1820s prison was built on the site as part of a jail reform program. You…

Hawick Museum & Art Gallery

This museum has an interesting collection of mostly 19th-century manufacturing and domestic memorabilia as well as details on a tragic pair of local…

John Buchan Story

This museum tells the story of the author of The Thirty-Nine Steps and numerous other writings. A well-rounded figure, Buchan also became Governor-General…

Priorwood Garden

By Melrose Abbey, this pretty walled garden has a venerable apple orchard with over 90 varieties as well as a garden dedicated to flowers for drying.

Walk This Way

Pop into this army surplus store on the main road to see the small but atmospheric basement collection of WWII memorabilia.

St Abbs Nature Exhibition

This small exhibition will prepare you for the birdlife of the nearby St Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve.

More destinations you need to see

The best things to do in the Scottish Borders

Home to ancient abbeys, splendid stately homes and a heritage textiles industry, the Scottish Borders are worthy of your time, so don’t miss these highlights

The Scottish Borders, that green region of sloping hills and patchwork pastures that follows the serpentine shape of the River Tweed, forming a natural border with England, is a quiet part of southern Scotland but one that still manages to hold a surprising number of attractions.

The River Tweed , which gave its name to the Scottish fabric that originated here, once powered the many water mills of the region, and has also long provided a picturesque backdrop to the many beautiful castles and estate houses that line its banks.

But things weren’t always so harmonious here, and the Borders Abbeys of Melrose, Jedburgh, Dryburgh and Kelso are testament to a time of huge unrest. Built during the reign of David I in the 12th century, they once represented Scotland’s might and power, yet they all suffered at the hands of the invading English armies.

For a journey through the Borders from past to present, here are the places you should visit in the Scottish Borders.

Best things to do in the Scottish Borders

Melrose abbey, melrose.

The first and the most famous of the Scottish Borders Abbeys, the ruins of this abbey give a good sense of the scale and prestige of the once grand church. Melrose Abbey was held in such esteem that it was here that Alexander II was buried after his death in 1249 and where Robert the Bruce’ s heart was supposedly brought to be buried (his body was interred at Dunfermline Abbey, in Fife).

Whether it really is the legendary king’s heart lying in the Chapter House is hard to prove either way, but it doesn’t stop people coming to visit this sacred place, just in case.

historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/ melrose-abbey

Seasons, Gattonside

As the name suggests, this restaurant, just a 15-minute walk outside Melrose, focuses on seasonal dishes using produce sourced as locally as possible. Its opening hours are limited (just Fridays and Saturday evenings at present), and it is popular, so do book ahead.

seasonsborders.co.uk

The Hoebridge, Gattonside

Another fine restaurant just outside Melrose, the interiors of the Hoebridge are as fresh as its small plate dishes, which change monthly depending on what’s in season. It’s a great place to support Scottish producers, with fish and shellfish from Ross Dougal in Eyemouth to organic flours from Mungoswells in East Lothian and beer from the Borders’ own Tempest Brewing Co.

thehoebridge.com

SCHLOSS Roxburghe, Kelso

Approached via a long tree-lined driveway, this revamped hotel resort (left), well placed for visits to Floors Castle, is without a doubt the most luxurious place to stay in the Borders. Once part of the Roxburghe Estate, the building has been a country house hotel for some time, but locals will tell you that it was a bit tired and old fashioned. Not so anymore.

Thanks to an ambitious renovation project under its new owners, the 12.18. Group, the new-look SCHLOSS Roxburghe is a delight, with a new-look bistro-style restaurant in Charlie’s, which overlooks the outdoor heated pool, from where you can swim into the peaceful yet jaw-dropping spa to relax before trying out the scented sauna, hot tub or plunge pool.

Rooms are large with modern-style four-poster beds, freestanding baths, and rainfall showers, while a more traditional atmosphere can be felt in the cosy fire-lit lounges and the hidden away bar (see above). On-site activities include golf on the Championship course.

luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/ schloss-roxburghe-hotel-golf-course

Kelso and Floors Castle

Another Borders Abbey can be found in the pretty market town of Kelso, where Sir Walter Scott spent much of his childhood. It has fabulous views of turreted Floors Castle , both from the bridge over the river on the way in and on the drive between Melrose and Kelso.

Though it looks like something from a fairytale book, Floors Castle is home to the 11th Duke of Roxburghe, making it the largest inhabited castle in Scotland. You can take a tour of the castle itself or walk the expansive grounds, which include a Victorian walled garden.

floorscastle.com

Abbotsford, Melrose

If you are arriving into the Scottish Borders along the Borders Railway from Edinburgh, then alight at Tweedbank and you can reach Sir Walter Scott’s cherished home on foot in just 20 minutes. Like a museum of the writer’s life and interests, it’s a chance to see his personal library, delve into his fascination with Scottish history and more whimsical pursuits, and hear the story of the house, whose stones, in Scott’s own words, “speak both of triumph and disaster.”

scottsabbotsford.com

Cringletie, Peebles

For a hotel with history in the Borders, try this castle hotel, built in 1860 by renowned architect David Bryce. In many ways the hotel is the epitome of the Scottish baronial castle hideaway, with Bryce’s trademark style of crow-stepped gables and small towers, an extravagantly grand dining room (right), and 28 acres of parkland and woodland to explore.

However, its tasting menu, which changes daily, helping to keep things interesting as well as sustainable with very little wastage, uses produce from either a single-source producer or the hotel’s kitchen garden, and really makes it stand out from others in a similar mould.

Taken over by New Zealand-born Bill Cross and his wife in 2019, who had already successfully run a Cotswolds hotel, the hotel is gradually going through a refurbishment programme – a new nature trail has recently been added and next up is the conservatory – which will both bring some welcome updates to the hotel and estate while being very sensitive to the history and aesthetic of it all. In keeping with its traditional setting, the hotel can organise piped dinners, shooting, fishing, and falconry, while guests are free to play croquet, boules, and pitch-and-putt on the lawns.

luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/cringletie

Mill shops & Distillery, Hawick

Birthplace of Scottish tweed, Hawick, the town where the rivers Tweed and Teviot meet, is where you can learn more about the evolution of the Borders wool and manufacturing industry, from its 18th-century origins through to being the go-to place for many couture designers working with tweed and cashmere today.

There are lots of mill shops where you can buy textiles to take home, from household names like Johnstons of Elgin (which as its name suggests began life in Moray but set up shop here in 1980); to fashionable Hawico , renowned for its vibrant colours; and Lovat Mill , which weaves Estate and Regimental Tweeds for more than 50 private estates and military regiments. While in the town, take a tour of the Borders Distillery, which is bringing whisky-making back to the region for the first time since 1837.

madeinhawick.com

Great Tapestry of Scotland, Galashiels

The brainchild of Scottish author Alexander McCall Smith, this huge tapestry tells not only of Scotland’s key moments in history but also the stories of everyday people, from mill workers to herring girls, on a canvas that carries many references to Scotland’s natural landscape.

McCall Smith worked closely with both Andrew Crummy, the artist behind the Prestonpans Tapestry, and historian and writer Alistair Moffat to piece together what and who should be included.

The result is an extraordinary homage to Scotland’s past and an embodiment of the nation’s pride, with panels created by 1,000 stitchers. It can now be viewed in its permanent home in Galashiels.

greattapestryofscotland.com

This is an extract, read the full future in the September/October issue of Scotland, available to buy here from 18 August. 

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Published six times a year, every issue of Scotland  showcases its stunning landscapes and natural  beauty, and delves deep into Scottish history. From mysterious clans and famous Scots (both past and present), to the hidden histories of the country’s greatest castles and houses, Scotland ‘s pages brim with the soul and secrets of the country. Scotland magazine captures the spirit of this wild and wonderful nation, explores its history and heritage and recommends great places to visit, so you feel at home here, wherever you are in the world.

8 Places To Visit In The Scottish Borders

Published by Graeme on March 24, 2021 March 24, 2021

Places to visit in the Scottish Borders are too often overlooked for the wild Highlands or curated Edinburgh. If you’re guilty of skipping them then you’re missing out. Let me show you just 8 places to visit in the Scottish Borders that you could do in a single daytrip and the stories behind them. It’s a circular route and there are so many other detours you could take along the way.

This is by no means a complete list of things to do in the Borders, but it gives a good variety. Use this as the bones of a daytrip and add or subtract whatever you want along the way!

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1 – Scotts View

https://goo.gl/maps/87PBQZSCGr42SjvD6

The first of our places to visit in the Scottish Borders is this incredible view out towards the Eildon Hill. Named after the man who did so much for Scotland and its stories – Sir Walter Scott.

Walter isn’t the only Scott worth talking about here though. It was said that Michael Scott, the famous Borders Wizard was the one who cleaved the Eildon Hill into the three peaks we see today. The best known story was how Michael got his powers from a white serpent. After defeating the snake out on the hills he was encouraged to retrieve a section and cook it. After tasting the meal he was gifted with incredible knowledge and powers.

You can read or listen to the full story here!

There is parking for cars in a layby and benches to sit and enjoy the scenery.

2 – William Wallace Statue

https://goo.gl/maps/9JY92ZZydn29uY5BA

Just a three minute drive from Scott’s View, at Bemersyde stands this incredible 30 foot high statue of William Wallace . It was built for the Earl of Buchan in 1814 but as far as we know, Wallace had no connection to this area of the Scottish Borders.

Wallace wasn’t quite a commoner but the son of a minor landowner of Elderslie. He rose from being fairly unknown to be knighted and appointed a Guardian of Scotland, gaining a reputation as a fierce and ruthless fighter along the way.

There are practically no records of Wallace until 1297 when Wallace gathered a band of men and attacked the Sheriff of Lanark. There were a number of small groups carrying out daring attacks until eventually the whole combined Scottish force triumphed at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. One of the English leaders, Hugh de Cressingham was flayed and Wallace made a sword belt out of his skin.

Wallace wasn’t done and he raided the North of England but after his loss at the Battle of Falkirk, his reputation took a hit. He gave up being a guardian but carried on fighting right up until he was betrayed and captured in 1305. At the age of 35 Wallace was hung, drawn and quartered in London then his limbs sent to Perth, Stirling, Newcastle and Berwick.

There is a small car park here and a short woodland walk to the statue.

3 – Dryburgh Abbey

https://goo.gl/maps/NG3eKoB5zSDzJ2NU8

Another 3 minute trip and we come to the ruins of one of the big four Scottish Borders Abbeys. Any of these incredible buildings make great places to visit in the Scottish Borders! Dryburgh Abbey is beautiful and tranquil but with a turbulent past and more than its fair share of stories.

Built around 1150 for the Premonstratensian Order (try saying that after a few drams) it was destroyed and rebuilt at least three times before eventually giving in to the Scottish Reformation. Sir Walter Scott loved the peaceful abbey and is buried here in a simple tomb. Not far away you can find the plain military tombstone of Field Marshal Douglas Haig, commander of the BEF in WW1.

Having been around for almost 900 years any building would pick up some ghosts along the way and Dryburgh is no exception. They have even spilled over to the hotel next door where the Grey Lady wanders the grounds. The story goes that a young woman lived here when the abbey was still functioning and fell in love with one of the monks. When his brethren discovered their affair they executed him for straying so far from their path and his lover drowned herself in the River Tweed.

Dryburgh Abbey is managed by Historic Scotland . Free to members and £6 for an adult ticket otherwise. Dog Friendly!

4 – Fatlips Castle

https://goo.gl/maps/EtwgoyonWwh4mQKf8

About 25 minutes drive away this time is the interestingly named Fatlips Castle. One of many towerhouses in the Scottish Borders.

This towerhouse went by a number of different names and nobody knows the true reason behind the one that stuck. One story says that there was a goat called Fatlips in the castle that would cry out every time the English were coming. Another explanation was that the lord who lived here was especially friendly and ruled that everybody was to be kissed on entry.

Perched on the Minto Crags in the Borders, the tower was originally built by Turnbull of Barnhill, a famous Border Reiver. The Border Reivers came from both sides of the border and carried out raids on small horses or ponies that could make their way over the poor terrain. They would come back with somebody else’s cattle before another reiver would do the same thing to them. These towers were built as strongholds to stop that from happening!

The legend of how the Turnbulls got their name is a fascinating story. One day, William of Rule was accompanying Robert the Bruce on a hunt when a wild bull attacked. William was a giant of a man and immediately charged in front of the King to protect him. He grabbed the bull’s horns and turned it’s head to side where it could be finished off by the other hunters. Robert rewarded William with lands, the symbol of a bull’s head on his coat of arms and the new surname “Turn-e-bull”. There is limited space to park here and it’s a steep uphill climb to the tower. No entry inside but the view alone makes it one the best places to visit in the Scottish Borders!

5 – Linton Kirk

https://goo.gl/maps/8VYamYSAYUACg3xj8

We’re really starting to rack up the miles now as we arrive at Linton Kirk 30 minutes away.

Today the kirk sits on a small hill in one of the most peaceful places to visit in the Scottish Borders. Things weren’t quite so peaceful though when this area was terrorised by the Linton Worm.

This was a vicious serpent that hid in a hollow under Linton Hill, living off the local livestock. It had powerful jaws and poisonous breath that would kill whoever came near.

The legend reached the ears of John de Somerville who was desperate to prove himself. Fearlessly, the young man rode over to challenge the beast. He sat on his horse outside the Worm’s lair and it slowly came out to meet him. The Worm opened its jaws wide but couldn’t get quite wide enough to swallow both man and horse. Instead of attacking, it just stood in confusion and that gave Somerville an idea.

He came back with a specially made lance, twice as long as normal with burning peat on the end. Once again it came out and when it opened its jaws wide, Somerville charged forward to lance the burning peat down its throat.

The creature was slain and Somerville was knighted becoming the first Baron of Linton. There is even a carved stone fitted into the modern church that commemorates the story! You can just make out the man on horseback lancing the creature.

The kirk is still used as a place of worship. There is a car park and you can see the carved stone but I would avoid here on a Sunday.

6 – Smailholm Tower

https://goo.gl/maps/ckNAZLRKaVm9QMui7

30 Minutes from Linton stands Smailholm Tower, an isolated sentinel watching over the surrounding landscape.

This peel tower was built by the Pringle family around the early 15th century when they were vassals to the Black Douglases. Smailholm was there to protect the family and their cattle from any Border Reivers prowling around. It would be no easy job to sneak up on the castle and there is a little seat built into the grassy roof for a watchman.

The tower moved into possession of the Scott family and became a great source of inspiration to a young Walter Scott. He would visit here with his grandfather who lived in the nearby farmhouse. The boy spent a considerable amount of time around the ruins of the castle, letting his imagination run wild.

Walter used the tower as a setting in some of his literary works, convincing his grandfather to restore the tower. If it wasn’t for Walter Scott, then this would be lost as yet another pile of stones and we’d have a lot less places to visit in the Scottish Borders today!

Smailholm is managed by Historic Scotland so free to members and £6 for an adult ticket otherwise. You can park and walk around the outside of the tower for free.

7 – Melrose Abbey

https://goo.gl/maps/qwK3ncSLhKZPh2RbA

20 more minutes in the car and we have practically gone full circle now. Melrose Abbey dominates the town and is probably the most important abbey in the Scottish Borders today.

Originally built 1136-46 on the orders of King David I, the interesting thing about Melrose isn’t the architecture or the setting but it’s residents. King Alexander II and the wizard Michael Scott are buried somewhere here but most famously this is the resting place of Robert the Bruce’s heart.

Bruce did a lot of impressive things in his time, fighting to ensure Scotland remained an independent country. Unfortunately, he didn’t have the time to go on crusade. He was a pious man and desperately wanted to go to the Holy Land so on his deathbed, made his loyal friend James Douglas promise to take his heart instead.

Bruce’s heart was placed in a casket, hung around Douglas’ neck and off he went to find his own crusade. The small group of Scots knights joined a campaign against the Moors in Spain. Sadly, not many survived the fighting. One dubious account by Walter Scott has Douglas launch Bruce’s heart at the enemy in a dying act of defiance.

Douglas’ body and Bruce’s heart were returned to Scotland and it was believed the heart was buried in Melrose Abbey but nobody knew where. That was until a mysterious lead casket was dug up in 1996. After a bit of investigating, it was proved there was a recognisable heart inside. It dated from around the right time and was reburied with a memorial stone for all to pay respect to the real Brave Heart.

Melrose Abbey is managed by Historic Scotland so free to members or £6 to adults. The grounds are dog friendly but not the small museum.

8 – Thomas Rhymer Stone

https://goo.gl/maps/xTxUkbqjAqQPVBLb8

It might not seem like much, but to me this was one of the most fascinating places to visit in the Scottish Borders. Just outside of Melrose you will find a stone marking where the old Eildon Tree stood. It commemorates a legendary Borders figure called Thomas the Rhymer.

While Thomas was resting under the Eildon Tree, he was approached by a mysterious rider. This was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen and he jumped to his feet and bowed low. She told him that she was Queen of the Fairies and had come to seek him out.

Thomas was baffled but when the Queen invited him to kiss her on the lips, he was soon under her spell. She told him they were going to ride to the fairy kingdom where he would serve her for seven years. Without question, Thomas climbed up behind her.

Thomas was warned that if he uttered a single word inside the fairy realm, he would never return home. It felt like only a matter of days to Thomas when the Queen told him he was free to go. For his service he was gifted with the power of prophecy and a tongue that could never lie. Returning to the Scottish Borders, he became known for predicting events that are still coming true almost 800 years later.

This spot featured in one of his famous prophecies:

“At Eildon Tree, if yon shall be, a brig ower Tweed yon there may se ”

Opened in 1863, the Leaderfoot Viaduct is high enough that you can just see it from the stone.

You can easily park near the stone and wander up to the benches placed for enjoying the view.

Other Places To Visit In The Scottish Borders?

That list has barely scratched the surface of one of the most interesting regions of Scotland. It’s enormous so I could have written 80 places to visit in the Scottish Borders if I’d tried! There are castles, market towns, two more grand abbeys and a whole host of fascinating things to do in the Borders. If you’re interested in literature then some of Scotland’s greatest writers spent time here.

Let me know if you follow this route and enjoy any of the stories you find along the way. Once you’ve finished exploring the Scottish Borders, why not take a visit to Perthshire next?

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13 Comments

Marianne · March 25, 2021 at 10:09 pm

I wish I could save all these knowledge. I hope they will be on future postcards. There’s so much a brain can take 😂😂😂. But always enough room for anyo🐕🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Related

Graeme · March 25, 2021 at 10:23 pm

Don’t worry, all of these stories are posts in Instagram as well that you can save! And this (hopefully) isn’t going anywhere!

Marianne · March 25, 2021 at 10:11 pm

Sorry for all the typos. On a plane ✈️🤔 Qu’est-ce ça ???

Stephanie · March 25, 2021 at 10:26 pm

Love all the stories! I am slowly reading through the ones in Instagram as well. One of these days I am definitely going to visit. So much to see and enjoy.

Stephanie · March 25, 2021 at 10:30 pm

Love all the stories! Enjoyable to read. Slowly working my way through the ones on Instagram as well. Definitely going to have to plan a trip to visit. So much to see and enjoy!

Graeme · March 25, 2021 at 10:47 pm

Glad you’re enjoying them! Hopefully it won’t be long before you can visit and by then I might have a few more of these guides on the way!

Stephanie · March 25, 2021 at 10:32 pm

Didn’t mean to post the same thing twice. 🤣 Apparently it takes a minute to post. 🤦‍♀️ Sorry!

No problem! I think the site is still trying to learn what is spam and what isn’t!

Karen Sieg Taylor · March 26, 2021 at 10:22 am

Very interesting information and lovely pics. One day for when i finally visit Scotland. Thanks

Graeme · March 26, 2021 at 1:08 pm

Hopefully that day is soon!

Billy Boyd · March 26, 2021 at 8:57 am

Amazing! Thanks so much for the information.

You’re welcome!

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Things to do in the Scottish Borders

There are so many things to do in the Scottish Borders, it’s a wonder the area is still relatively undiscovered when it comes to tourism. Most visitors to Scotland head north, making a bee-line for the Highlands and Islands to snap up their cow selfies, or over to Edinburgh to gawp at the bagpipe buskers and try on kilts. 

And that’s a shame.

Yet we’ve been guilty of the same, and have lost count of the number of times we’ve driven north without a thought to the area we were passing through. That all changed this month when we spent a week exploring some of the best things to do in the Scottish Borders, and boy did we enjoy it. There were no crowds, bagpipes or selfie sticks. Instead we found a land rich in heritage, surrounded by gently undulating countryside that still retained that unique and gloriously hardy Scottish ‘edge’, despite being so close to England.

We could easily have spent a couple of weeks in the Scottish Borders, discovering ancient abbey ruins, visiting castles and stately homes, and eating all the haggis bonbons. I almost don’t want to tell you about it because I would hate for the the Borders to fall prey to mass tourism in the future (not that I’m going to single-handedly do that by writing this blog post!). However it’s a place that deserves to be shouted about. With so much to offer even the first-time visitor to Scotland, the Borders area is undoubtedly going to become the next big ‘discovery’ on the country’s tourism trail, and I’m thrilled that we were here near the beginning.

Best things to do in the Scottish Borders

This is quite a long post (because there are so many things to do in the Scottish Borders) so grab a cuppa and a handful of your favourite biscuits (I’m a chocolate hobnob girl myself) and read on.

1. Go back in time at Jedburgh Abbey

Hubbie and I love crumbling old ruins, and were in seventh heaven clambering around all the historic sites up here. Paradise for us doesn’t mean palm trees and sandy swathes. A bit of moss-covered ancient rock and tall towers with far-reaching views will do us just fine. There are 4 Borders Abbeys, all quite close together and easily seen in a day or two combined with other attractions. One of our favourite places to visit in the Scottish Borders has to be Jedburgh Abbey , still magnificent 9 centuries after its foundations were laid by David I. Despite being frequently targeted by armies from across the border, Jedburgh Abbey remains impressively in tact, and worthy of any Instagram feed if that’s your thing. There’s also an aromatic herb garden, small visitor centre and stone display to explore.

Top Tip: at the west end of the nave there’s a tiny spiral staircase which leads up to a balcony on the first floor giving superb views of the entire building.

2. Release your inner literary geek at Abbotsford House

Most Brits will have heard of Sir Walter Scott. He’s the chap who famously wrote Ivanhoe and Rob Roy , and was one of the most popular 19th Century writers in Britain. Growing up in Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders, Scott set many of his ballads, poems and novels in the local area, the success of which allowed him to build a magnificent estate on the banks of the River Tweed which further added to his creative inspiration.

Abbotsford House  is open to visitors and one of the most popular things to do in the Scottish Borders. It’s well worth a visit, even if literature isn’t really your cup of tea. The library is simply stunning, and it’s the sort of place that will have you coming away wanting to redesign your own home. Even if you don’t have 120 acres to play with.

Top Tip:  there are 2 different audio guides available, one which is factual, and one which is narrated by an actor (complete with lilting Scottish accent) pretending to be Scott himself showing you around his house. We tried them both (typically Hubbie made me take the theatrical version) but on balance preferred the factual one as it was sometimes difficult to sift through the drama and actually understand what the rooms were all about on the other guide. Plus there were dogs barking for effect on mine, which is never a good idea. I don’t do dogs.

3. Contemplate life at Scotts View

Scotts View is really easy to get to by car. Just take the B6404 between St Boswells and Kelso then turn onto the smaller B6356. The viewpoint is just a few miles along this road and offers one of the best, and most famous, panoramas in the Scottish Borders. Overlooking the River Tweed and the iconic Eildon Hills, this was apparently a favourite spot of Sir Walter Scott to come and contemplate life and look for inspiration for his novels. It’s a great place for a picnic on a sunny day, which I’m assured does sometimes occur in Scotland!

Top Tip:  just before you get to Scotts View there’s a tiny car park and a short walk which leads to an enormous William Wallace Monument. It also makes sense to combine a visit to Scotts View with Dryburgh Abbey (no. 12 below!), which is just down the road.

4. Be a warrior for the day by trying Tomahawk Throwing

Visiting the Scottish Borders isn’t just about heritage and good views. It’s also about having fun, and there was one activity which topped this list with ease. Tomahawk throwing! You know, just your average day out, with added axes. I was a little apprehensive before we arrived, but not because I was scared of the weapons. I just knew I’d be useless whilst Hubbie would be flinging things left, right and centre, and hitting the target every time.

That’s pretty much how it happened.

Yet instead of feeling stupid, I absolutely loved it and hadn’t had that much fun in ages. Tutor Tracy from the Roxburghe Shooting School expertly put us through our paces in the beautiful grounds of the Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course near Kelso (where we later had afternoon tea). She had patience and enthusiasm in equal measures and before long even I was hitting the reds. So proud of myself and it definitely, almost certainly, well hopefully, wasn’t down to just a bit of luck.

We used two types of axe. The smaller girlie ones were called ‘angels’ and in theory should have been easier to strike with seeing as they had 4 points. However they required a lot of power behind the throw because they were pretty light, and I found the action more natural with the heavier axes. Hubbie of course picked it up almost immediately, which is reassuring should we ever have to defend ourselves from other tomahawk wielding warriors.

Hands down the best thing we did in the Scottish Borders!

Top Tip: the shooting school also offers a range of other country sports such as archery, clay pigeon shooting and fly fishing, all your quintessential Scottish pursuits!

5. Indulge in Afternoon Tea

We’re huge fans of afternoon tea (because after all, who doesn’t love cake!), and never miss an opportunity to indulge when we’re on holiday. There are lots of establishments across the Scottish Borders who offer this quintessential mid-afternoon experience, but we decided to try the Roxburghe Hotel near Kelso since it had roaring log fires and a few yummy local twists. It was also where we did the tomahawk throwing, and thought the two would work well together. They did!

Afternoon tea at the Roxburghe Hotel came with all the usual traditional morsels, but additionally there was Scottish salmon mousse and haggis bonbons. Yum. Being March it was very quiet and we had the drawing room all to ourselves, so we settled down by the fire and tucked in. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. It was actually one of the heartiest afternoon teas we’d ever eaten, and thankfully they gave us a ‘doggy bag’ to take home everything we couldn’t finish

Top Tip: combine your afternoon tea with a session at the shooting school for a truly memorable day out in the Scottish Borders. Or if you’re into golf, head over to the Roxburghe Golf course for a few rounds.

6. Go in search of Robert the Bruce’s heart at Melrose Abbey

Another abbey, this time below the Eildon Hills in the pretty town of Melrose. Probably the most famous ruin in all of Scotland, it was once loved by Robert the Bruce himself, and the chapter house was chosen as the final resting place for his heart. As with all the Border Abbeys, Melrose was subjected to attacks by the English during the Middle Ages yet the ruins today still give a good idea of what life would have been like for the monks who lived here until 1590. To see a fascinating collection of medieval artefacts which were found in the cloister at Melrose Abbey head over to the Commendator’s House Museum which is just outside the abbey grounds.

Most people consider Melrose Abbey one of the top things to do in the Scottish Borders, but we have to admit we preferred Jedburgh. However the views here at Melrose are really superb so make sure you climb to the top of the bell tower for a gorgeous panorama out across the surrounding countryside. 

Top Tip: keep an eye out for the famous bagpipe-playing pig gargoyle!

7. Sleep in a Castle

I’d had my eye on Dalhousie Castle for years, and visiting the Scottish Borders seemed the ideal time to finally check it out. I was worried we’d be disappointed, thanks to the weight of expectation that had built up over the last decade, but thankfully that wasn’t the case. Dalhousie Castle and Aqueous Spa (to give it it’s full title!) is on the banks of the River Esk, just 8 miles south of Edinburgh, and famous for being the oldest inhabited castle in Scotland. Only a little fearful of ghosts in a place that has survived war and intrigue, we figured that somewhere with a guest list that has included Edward I, Queen Victoria and of course our friend Sir Walter Scott, would be worth the risk. Instead of apparitions we found indulgent suites and world-class dining, all without the usual whiff of pretension that so often comes with such a place.

Oliver Cromwell used the castle as a base from which to invade Scotland during the Civil War, and being a bit of a 17th century history nerd I was delighted to find we’d be sleeping in the Cromwell Room with it’s modern 4-poster bed and seductive lighting. But perhaps the best bit was the Dungeon Restaurant, complete with candlelight, suits of armour and food that more than lived up to its reputation.

Top tip: if you want to eat in the dungeon restaurant make sure you book ahead as it’s understandably very popular.

Check availability for Dalhousie Castle

8. Try your hand at the ancient sport of Falconry

Falconry isn’t only a sport, it’s also an art and part of Scotland’s ancient heritage. Historically, hawking was a past-time usually undertaken by the nobility, but today anyone can have a go and it’s one of the most popular things to do in the Scottish Borders. We booked a session with Falconry Scotland who are based in the grounds of Dalhousie Castle up near Edinburgh. It was our first time trying falconry, so we opted for the 45 minute Raptor Experience where we flew a Harris Hawk called Iona in the grounds in front of the castle, and also got to hold a lovely Eagle that made me realise I need to get to the gym more. She was very heavy on the arm! Hubbie of course was a natural.

It was a lot of fun, and definitely something we’d do again, but we did feel it was rather expensive. It cost £40 per person for a group session, for what was essentially a bit of a talk (albeit very interesting!) and the chance to have a bird land on our arms about 6 times each. We had been hoping to walk through the castle grounds with the bird swooping down from all directions, but actually we were just standing a few metres away from the bird enclosure, with the hawk using the same couple of trees from which to approach us. Perhaps we’ve seen too many nature programmes and had set our expectations too high. Having said that, if you can afford it I do recommend giving it a go. It’s definitely one of those iconic Scottish Borders experiences that isn’t something you’ll forget in a hurry.

Top Tip : Falconry at Dalhousie Castle is by appointment only, so don’t just turn up hoping for a session, make sure you book in advance.

9. Explore ancient Peel Towers

The Scottish Borders are peppered with medieval peel towers, dating back to the days when families and clans had to protect themselves from marauding cattle raiders. The ground here was never suitable for arable farming so the people who resided here depended on raising livestock which was the currency of these lawless lands, and perhaps understandably many inhabitants turned to cattle rustling in order to survive. The peel towers were built both as strongholds for wealthier families and to protect their most prized livestock. Today many of these peel towers are still standing. Some have been restored as historical places of interest, some are crumbling ruins that just add to the romance of the region, whilst others have been fully renovated and turned into houses or tourist accommodation.

One of the most accessible peel towers to visit is Smailholm , perched on a rocky crag half way between Melrose and Kelso. The minor road is rough and muddy in places as it crosses through farmland, but it’s not a problem in a normal car. There’s a short steep climb up to the tower (which only takes 5 minutes) and during the summer months it’s possible to look inside. We visited during winter so made do with the rather spectacular views from outside.

Top tip: you might want to bring sturdy hiking shoes or even wellies if it’s been raining, it was quite boggy when we were there in March.

Another popular peel tower is the brilliantly named Fatlips Castle , which we didn’t have time to explore but having seen it from the road have put it at the top of our list for next time. You can pick up the key from the garage in Denholm and have a look inside once you’ve climbed up the hill. Definitely a mini adventure worth considering.

10. Solve the Da Vinci Code at Rosslyn Chapel

If you’ve ever read Dan Brown’s book ‘The Da Vinci Code’ you’ll know all about the Rosslyn Chapel . Built in 1446 as a place of worship, the chapel is still used today for services, as well as being a popular visitor attraction in the Edinburgh area. Guides do information talks every hour inside the chapel, which are well worth listening to as there is just so much to take in. Nearly everything you come across has an intriguing story behind it, with or without the influence of Tom Hanks!

Top tip: photography isn’t allowed inside the chapel but you can snap away to your hearts content in the grounds outside.

11. Stay in a Peel Tower

Whilst visiting the Scottish Borders we also stayed at Aikwood Tower , a stunning 500 year old peel tower which is now a luxury self-catering hideaway in the Ettrick Valley. The tower is little changed since its days as a stronghold, although the interior is rather more luxurious than it would have been in the 16th century. This peel tower is an astonishing combination of contemporary elegance and medieval memory, with opulent bed chambers and roll top baths alongside a spiral stone staircase and a great hall complete with ancient fireplace and lofty ceilings. It’s the perfect base for a group of friends or family to experience all the best things to do in the Scottish Borders.

READ THIS: A review of our stay at Aikwood Tower

If you’re visiting Scotland with your family, or having a group celebration, there are plenty of quirky and unique houses to rent which make great bases for exploring this incredible part of the country too. We’re planning on bringing the relatives up here next year to celebrate a special birthday, and can’t wait to show them what we’ve discovered. 

12. Walk in the footsteps of monks at Dryburgh Abbey

Although there are 4 abbeys in the Scottish Borders, we decided to just visit 3, because you can perhaps have too much of a good thing after all. Our third was Dryburgh Abbey , and we actually preferred it to Melrose, which although pretty impressive structurally, was in a town. Dryburgh Abbey has to be one of the most peaceful places we’ve ever explored, and one of our favourite things to do in the Scottish Borders. Hidden away down on the banks of the River Tweed, it exists in a quietly secluded little world of its own, with just the spirits of medieval monks and the local wildlife for company.

What sets Dryburgh Abbey apart as one of the most fascinating places to visit in the Scottish Borders is the chapter house and monastic quarters which are remarkably complete. You can even see the paintwork inside which dates back to when the abbey was first built. This is also where Sir Walter Scott is buried, a fitting place for one who loved the area so much.

Top tip: take a walk down to the river below the abbey and see if you can spot an otter. They’re quite common here and we spent a happy half hour watching one playing in the water. Magical.

13. Blow the cobwebs away at Tantallon Castle

Over on the coast between North Berwick and Edinburgh, Tantallon Castle is the stuff of fairytales. Perched dramatically on the edge of some rather foreboding looking cliffs, Tantallon was the stronghold of the powerful Douglas family, who were often at odds with the Crown. Overlooking Bass Rock (famous for its gannet colony), the castle was put under siege by James IV and James V, but it wasn’t until Oliver Cromwell invaded in 1651 that the castle was finally destroyed. What remains today is a haunting reminder of the unsettled times the Scottish Borders have seen over the centuries.

It was a grey drizzly day when we visited and I was a bit gutted not to snap that perfect blue sky shot, but actually the weather just added to the moody atmosphere and made the experience all the more embracing.  

Top tip: this is another place that gets rather muddy in wet weather and since the castle is a short walk from the car park it’s best not to come in your high heels.

14. Pretend to be posh at Floors Castle

A lot of the bigger attractions in the Scottish Borders are closed to visitors over the winter, which is a real shame for those of us who love travelling outside of the main season. Thankfully there was still plenty for us to see, but unfortunately Floors Castle wasn’t one of them. Famed for being Scotland’s largest inhabited castle and built in the 18th century for the 1st Duke of Roxburghe, it’s one of the main attractions in the Scottish Borders and a place we hope to visit on our next trip. Still a family home, Floors Castle boasts a splendid collection of grand rooms, tapestries and fine art, and the views of the River Tweed and Cheviot Hills are stunning. The grounds are gorgeous and ideal for an afternoon woodland or riverside stroll before popping into the terrace cafe for a slice of cake.

15. Explore the priest holes at Traquair House and Brewery

We’re not massive fans of stately homes, but Traquair House definitely deserves a couple of hours of your time. It’s the oldest inhabited house in Scotland and back in ye olde times was a pleasure park for Scottish royalty, as well as being a refuge for Catholic priests escaping persecution. The Traquair Stuart family were prominent supporters of the Jacobite cause, and Mary Queen of Scots. Today the house is little changed and open to the public, and has a superb collection of relics and letters from the past. The grounds and woodlands are idyllic for a summer stroll, and there’s a cottage restaurant serving food throughout the day.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BNMVvvmgjEk/?taken-by=traquairhouse

Top tip: There’s also an award-winning brewery at Traquair House, so if you’re into traditional Scottish ales, this is the place to go.

16. See the seabirds at St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve

Formed by volcanoes, St Abbs Head is the most famous landmark on the beautiful Berwickshire coastline, just north of the border with England. This dramatic headland with plunging cliffs, offshore stacks, carpets of wildflowers and crystal clear waters is home to a spectacular colony of seabirds and you can see them up close from several vantage points along the cliff-top. It’s a fantastic place for birdwatchers, hikers and natures lovers to explore, and feels much more wild and remote than it actually is.

17. Go ghost hunting at Hermitage Castle

Another site that doesn’t open over winter is the eerie and isolated ruin of the 14th century Hermitage Castle in Liddesdale near Hawick. You can however walk up to it, but if you want to explore inside it usually opens around Easter time. Hermitage Castle has a particularly intriguing history full of treason, murder and even romantic trysts, and is known as ‘the guardhouse of the bloodiest valley in Britain’ thanks to its role in controlling the Anglo-Scottish border during the Middle Ages. On a less gruesome note, Mary Queen of Scots used to meet her lover, the 4th Earl of Bothwell, at Hermitage Castle, and Sir Walter Scott was also a fan of the site.

Top tip: even if the castle isn’t open during your visit, you can still enjoy a good view from the road.

For even more inspiration about things to do in the Scottish Borders, check out the Visit Scotland website to help plan your stay.

Where to stay in the Scottish Borders

One of the things we love about the Scottish Borders is that when it comes to accommodation there’s a lot of variety, from quirky luxurious properties with centuries of history behind them, to tasteful and friendly B&Bs and iconic hotels. Here are some of our top picks:

Historic Castles

Dalhousie Castle – it was such a treat staying in the oldest inhabited castle in Scotland, and despite its age the castle was incredibly luxurious inside. There are several different suites with 4-poster beds and a rather unique underground dungeon restaurant where you dine by candlelight beneath suits of armour.

Cringletie House – a beautiful 19th century country castle house with 28 acres of gardens that offers affordable luxury just 18 miles south of Edinburgh.

Quirky Luxury Retreats

Aikwood Tower – one of our favourite hideaways to date, Aikwood Tower is a Medieval peel tower just outside Selkirk perfect for special occasions, stag or hen parties, and friends and family get togethers.

Roulotte Retreat – quirky and romantic French-crafted gypsy caravans near the Eildon Hills in the heart of the Scottish Borders, featuring exotic interiors inspired from travels around the world.

Iconic Hotels

Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course – this is where we had afternoon tea and did our tomahawk throwing. The hotel is a splendid old building filled with comfortable antique furniture, roaring log fires and a good dose of traditional Scottish decor.

Dryburgh Abbey Hotel – set on a tranquil and secluded 10 acre private estate right next to the beautiful Dryburgh Abbey and River Tweed, the Dryburgh Abbey Hotel has large bedrooms, a swimming pool and an enviable location.

Search Scottish Border Hotels

Bed and breakfasts.

Kingsmuir House – an award-winning luxurious guest house near Peebles with friendly hosts, scrummy Scottish breakfasts and a tasteful interior that nods to the traditional whilst keeping things comfortably modern. 

The Barn at the Coach House – just a 13 minute walk from Melrose Abbey, this cute B&B is well presented with ensuite rooms, a sun terrace and an excellent central location from which to explore the Scottish Borders.

Thanks to Visit Scotland for providing us with Media Passes to discover the best things to do in the Scottish Borders. All words and opinions remain our own, and we never accept complimentary entrances unless we’d have been prepared to pay for them ourselves. 

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Thank for your article, I was considering the Borders for a trip and this has encouraged me. Slightly taken aback at the room rate of the Aikwood Tower, more like Trump Tower! Oh well when my ship comes in…..

It’s not a ‘room rate’ at Aikwood, it’s for the entire castle, so if there are a few of you it’s actually pretty good considering what you’re getting. Couldn’t be further from Trump Tower if you tried 😉 The Borders are so beautiful and uncrowded, they’re really one of the best parts of Scotland to explore, so I hope you have a wonderful time whatever you get up to!

Wonderful post. I bought my boyfriend a spa day in Dalhousie Castle, with an afternoon tea on top. Wonderful visit. As is the case with afternoon tea, we left feeling satisfied but extremely full. If you’re in that area, a trip to Rosslyn chapel is a great addition too.

A day spa there sounds good, we’ll have to try that next time! We did visit Rosslyn a few years ago, great tip, will have to add it, thanks Andrew!

Stunning pics (worthy of watercolour paintings) of my favourite places in the Scottish Borders, Thank you for the re-visits and info on those visits still to come.

I may just have to dig out my watercolours again, though tend to be much better with the camera these days 🙂 Thanks for stopping by, glad it brought back some memories, such a stunning area with an intriguing history!

What a lovely article and some beautiful photographs of our amazing Scottish Borders. Next time you are in the area why not book a stay at Airhouses? 5 Star luxury with your own hot tub, stunning views of lots of animals to befriend.

Thanks Carol, you certainly live in a beautiful part of the world! And a hot tub is always a good idea 🙂

Oh boy, lots of things to do in Scotland that don’t involve wearing a kilt. I think the tomahawk throwing sounds like fun. But why do they call it ‘tomahawk’ in Scotland where you don’t have tomahawks? Couldn’t they have found a more local name for that. I’m sure Mel Gibson in Braveheart wasn’t calling his sword a “tomahawk’. Inquiring minds want to know 🙂

PS. I hate your new capta thing. I always get it wrong

It was actually Europeans who introduced the concept of a metal blade to the Native Americans (they used to use stone) which they then used on tomahawks, supposedly based on a Royal Navy blade! The little ‘angel’ axes were Scandinavian, but the Vikings were ‘ere once upon a time so I guess that makes sense. Personally I just think Tomahawk sounds more “Grrrrrr” than Axe. And whilst Mel may not be too shabby at yelling ‘freedom’ and doing moonies, I’m not sure he’s an authority on weaponry. Although he did have a tomahawk in The Patriot so who knows. 🙂 I hate the captcha too, trying to sort a new one!

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14 Free Things to Do in the Scottish Borders

Located in the southeast of Scotland, the Scottish Borders is a region full of history, culture, and unparalleled natural beauty. It stretches from the rolling hills and moorland of the west, through gentler valleys to the rich agricultural plains of the south, towards the many attractions of the Lothians to the north, and onto a rugged coastline that meets the North Sea on its eastern edge.

The Scottish Borders is known for its turbulent past that has been marked by centuries of conflict between Scotland and England, but it’s also home to some of the most beautiful religious sites in the country including the impressive abbeys of Melrose , Dryburgh, Jedburgh , and Kelso. The region is also home to grand stately homes like Mellerstain House, Abbotsford (home of Sir Walter Scott), and Floors Castle, all of which offer a glimpse into the affluent lifestyle of the region’s rich and powerful residents.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Scottish Borders offers a huge range of activities. You can explore the Eildon Hills, cycle along the Tweed Valley Railway Path, fish in the River Tweed, or enjoy a leisurely round of golf on one of its many courses, and if you like long-distance walks, the Berwickshire Coastal Path (one of my favourite hiking routes) offers breathtaking views and the chance to spot seals and dolphins.

In this article, we’ll take a look at a few of the top attractions in the region that won’t cost a single penny to visit, ranging from museums and forests to superb walking trails. Join me as I uncover the charm of the Scottish Borders where history, culture, and adventure await.

Borders Textile Towerhouse

• Address:  Borders Textile Towerhouse, 1 Tower Knowe, Hawick, TD9 9BZ
• Opening Times: Apr–Oct Mon–Sat: 10.00 – 16.30, Sunday: 12.00 – 15.00. Nov – Mar Mon-Sat: 10.00 – 16.00, Tues & Sun: Closed
• Website: Borders Textile Towerhouse

The Borders Textile Towerhouse is a unique attraction located in the historic town of Hawick. This 500-year-old tower has been transformed into an interactive museum dedicated to the region’s textile industry, and it’s absolutely choc-a-block full of objects related to one of Scotland’s biggest exports.

At the museum, you can learn about the history of tweed and knitwear production in the Borders from the traditional methods used in the past to the cutting-edge technologies employed today. The museum features a variety of displays and exhibits including historical artefacts, working looms, and examples of beautiful products created by local textile manufacturers. Along with its educational offerings, the Borders Textile Towerhouse also has a shop where you can buy locally-made textiles and crafts.

It’s a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in fashion, design, history, or local culture, and it’s located right in the heart of Hawick so it’s easy to reach and has plenty of places nearby to park the car.

Coldstream Museum

• Address: 12 Market Square, Coldstream, TD12 4BD
• Opening Times: 25th Mar – 30th Sept Mon-Sat: 9.30 am – 12.30 pm and 1.00 – 4.00 pm and Sun 2.00 pm-4.00 pm. 1st – 31st Oct Mon to Sat 1.00 pm to 4.00 pm. Closed Sun.
• Website:   Coldstream Museum

The Coldstream Museum is located in Coldstream, a famous town in the Scottish Borders that’s well known for its military associations. The museum features exhibitions that tell the story of the Coldstream Guards – the oldest continuously serving regiment in the British Army – which was founded all the way back in 1650.

The museum is housed in the former Coldstream Parish School, a building that dates back to 1845, and features a variety of exhibits that provide insights into the local history of Coldstream itself, the story of the Coldstream Guards, and displays relating to the Battle of Flodden .

The museum offers an enjoyable and informative experience for history enthusiasts and is free to enter, though as it’s run by a charity they do ask for voluntary donations to help with the upkeep of the building. The museum is on one level so it’s accessible to all abilities and it also has a children’s play area, a shop, and a nice wee courtyard with a picnic bench.

Cove Harbour

• Address: Cove, Cockburnspath, Berwickshire, TD13 5XD
• Opening Times: 24/7, 365 days a year
• Out About Scotland Guide: Cove Harbour & Pease Bay

Cove Harbour is a picturesque harbour situated on the east coast of Scotland close to Pease Bay holiday park which is easily accessible from the A1. This hidden gem is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, offers stunning views over the North Sea, and features a strip of soft golden sand that’s perfect for family days out.

The harbour consists of two small basins protected by a pier and breakwater with a handful of buildings around it including traditional fishing cottages and an old salmon house, all of which add a real sense of historic charm to the place.

To get there, head to the village of Cove and the car park facing the sea. From there you’ll see a gated path leading down a slope which enters a tunnel that’s cut through the red sandstone cliffs, at the end of which is another path that leads to the harbour. It’s a fantastic location for a sunny afternoon getaway and it’s also a good starting point for coastal hikes due to the Southern Upland Way which passes overhead on the cliff edge.

Two points to note are that there’s a steep path to reach the harbour meaning it might not be suitable for the elderly or wheelchair users, and there are no facilities in the immediate area so if you need the toilet you’ll have to drive back onto the A1 and use the public block in the layby (postcode TD13 5YU).

Eyemouth Museum

• Address:  Auld Kirk Manse Road, Eyemouth, Berwickshire, TD14 5JE
• Opening Times: Mon to Sun 10:00 (12:00 Sun) to 16:00
• Website: Eyemouth Museum

This is a charming local history museum nestled in the heart of Eyemouth and housed in an attractive 18th-century building. The building was once a granary, but it has now been converted into a museum that showcases the town’s fascinating past.

Eyemouth Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of artefacts and exhibits that trace the history of Eyemouth from its earliest days to the present. The collections are wide-ranging, covering aspects of the town’s social, cultural, and industrial history including items like the ‘Eyemouth Disaster Tapestry’ which is a 15-foot long tapestry that depicts the tragic events of the Great East Coast Fishing Disaster of 1881 when 189 local fishermen lost their lives.

In addition, the museum houses an impressive range of exhibits related to the once-thriving industry of fishing that characterized Eyemouth in the past, and visitors can see the old equipment used in the trade alongside photographs, personal items of the townsfolk, and even a reconstructed smugglers’ cove. The museum also offers the unique experience of a traditional ‘Fisherrow fishwives’ cottage where visitors can explore a recreated 18th-century home complete with period furniture.

Glentress Forest

One of the best-known and loved forests in Scotland, Glentress is widely recognized for its beautiful forest and the thrilling mountain bike trails that run through it

The forest is internationally acclaimed for its biking trails which range from easy green routes to challenging black routes that test the skills of even the most experienced riders. With over 50 miles of purpose-built trails, it’s no wonder that Glentress is often referred to as the ‘home of British mountain biking’.

For those who prefer a more leisurely day out, the forest offers several walking trails that wind through it, while wildlife lovers will be able to look for critters including deer, badgers, and a variety of bird species.

One of the most-visited attractions is the Glentress Peel Visitor Centre where you can find information about the forest, its history, and the local wildlife before relaxing in a café and browsing some shops. For younger visitors, the forest offers a unique Wild Watch area where kids can learn about local wildlife, as well as burn off energy in a fun adventure play area.

Hume Castle

• Address:  Hume Castle, Hume, Berwickshire, TD5 7TR
• Opening Times: Open year-round.
• Website: Hume Castle

Hume Castle is a prominent historical site that sits on a high ridge offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It dates back to the 13th century and was a stronghold of the Home family, from which it takes its name.

Hume Castle was a powerful fort in its time, withstanding various sieges and battles and playing a crucial role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. The castle was captured and recaptured several times before finally being destroyed by the English in 1545 and later rebuilt in the 18th century as a romantic folly and beacon tower, giving it the unique appearance it has today.

Architecturally, the castle is essentially a large, walled enclosure around a central mound, with a single entrance gateway and the remains of two beacon towers. Despite being a ruin, the remaining walls are still imposing and the site is atmospheric enough to attract photographers in droves.

As for nearby attractions, the picturesque town of Kelso is around 5 miles to the south where visitors can explore Floors Castle and Kelso Abbey, and the River Tweed, famed for salmon fishing, is another major attraction.

Kelso Abbey

• Address:  Kelso, Roxburghshire, TD5 7JF
• Opening Times: 1 Apr to 30 Sept: 9.30 pm to 5.30 pm. 1 October to 31 March: Mon, Tues, Weds, Sat and Sun, 9.30 am to 4 pm. Closed Thurs and Fri.
• Website: Kelso Abbey

Kelso Abbey is a magnificent ruined monastery that was established in 1128 by a community of Tironensian monks. The Abbey played a major role in the religious and political landscape of Scotland during the Middle Ages and even though it’s now partially in ruin its architectural grandeur is still awe-inspiring today.

Historically, Kelso Abbey was one of the wealthiest and most powerful monastic institutions in Scotland. It was a prominent religious and political centre that served as a meeting place for Scotland’s Parliament, but this influence meant that it was frequently targeted during the Anglo-Scottish wars, suffering extensive damage over time.

The biggest event associated with Kelso Abbey is that it was the crowning of James III of Scotland, while legend has it that it’s haunted by the ghost of a piper who mysteriously disappeared after going into a tunnel beneath the buildings.

Today, while only a fraction of the original structure remains, Kelso Abbey continues to captivate visitors with its architectural beauty which ensures it remains one of the most popular free attractions in the Borders.

The Jim Clark Motorsport Museum

• Address:  44 Newtown Street, Duns, Berwickshire, TD11 3AU
• Opening Times: 25th Mar -30th Sept: Mon-Sat 10.30 am-1.00 pm, 2.00 pm-4.30 pm and Sun 2.00 pm-4.00 pm. 1st Oct-31st Oct: Mon-Sat, 1.00 pm-4.00 pm
• Website: The Jim Motorsport Museum

The Jim Clark Motorsport Museum, located in the charming town of Duns, is an absolute treasure trove for motorsport enthusiasts and is a fitting tribute to one of the greatest racing drivers in history, Jim Clark.

Founded in 1982, the museum was initially housed in the old Berwickshire town hall before undergoing a complete renovation in 2019 and reopening with a fresh look and a new collection of exhibits that are aimed at celebrating the life and career of the double Formula 1 world champion.

The museum houses a fantastic collection of memorabilia from Clark’s illustrious career, including his race suits, trophies, and a comprehensive photographic archive. The most remarkable exhibits are undoubtedly the beautifully restored racing cars which include a Lotus 25, a type of car Clark drove in the 1963 season, and a Lotus Cortina like the one he drove to victory in the British Saloon Car Championship in 1964.

Beyond the exhibits, the museum tells the story of Jim Clark from his early years in the Scottish Borders to his triumphs on the global stage and his untimely death. Interactive displays, films, and personal testimonials offer a vivid portrait of the man behind the legend, making it a fascinating journey into motorsport history.

Locharron of Scotland Visitor Centre

• Address:  Dunsdale Road, Selkirk, Selkirkshire, TD7 5DZ
• Opening Times: Mon-Sat 9 am-5 pm, Sun 11 am – 4 pm
• Website:   Locharron Visitor Centre

The Locharron of Scotland Visitor Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone eager to explore Scotland’s textile heritage. With over 70 years of experience, Locharron of Scotland is the world’s leading manufacturer of tartan and is renowned for creating high-quality tartan clothing.

As you step into the visitor centre you’ll be transported into a world of tartan thanks to a fascinating exhibition showcasing the history and production of tartan weaving through the ages. You can witness first-hand the skill and craftsmanship that goes into each tartan product as you watch weavers at work on traditional looms, after which you can purchase some traditional tartan products in the on-site shop from kilts to scarves, ties, and blankets.

For those interested in tracing their Scottish ancestry, the Locharron Weavers Shop offers a unique ‘Find Your Clan’ service where you can discover your family’s tartan and learn more about your Scottish roots, and there’s also a cosy café where you can relax with a cuppa and a selection of delicious shortbread.

Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre

• Address:  Philiphaugh Estate Office, Selkirk, TD7 5LX
• Opening Times: Sun-Sat: 09:00 – 17:00
• Website: Philiphaugh Estate

The Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre is an unusual but must-see destination situated near the town of Selkirk in the Scottish Borders. Offering a rare opportunity to observe salmon in their natural habitat, the centre is a favourite amongst nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts alike.

Established in 1998, the centre is part of the larger Philiphaugh Estate which spans an incredible 1,000 acres. It presents a unique opportunity for visitors to watch Atlantic salmon leap up the cauld (a Scottish term for a weir or small dam) in the Ettrick Water, an incredible spectacle that mainly happens during the spawning season in autumn.

The centre features underwater cameras that provide live feeds of the salmon in the river as well as interactive displays that show information about the life cycles of the salmon, their migration, and the challenges they face during their long journey.

In addition to salmon viewing, the estate is home to a number of walking trails, a community garden, and a battlefield site from the Battle of Philiphaugh in 1645, and if you’re a bird watcher, you’ll be pleased to know that the area is a haven for many bird species including heron and kingfishers.

The Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre is open throughout the year, but the best time to watch the salmon is between June and November.

Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre

• Address:  Queen Street, Jedburgh, Roxburghshire, TD8 6EN
• Opening Times: Mar-Nov: Mon-Sat 9.30 am-4.30 pm and Sun 10.30 am-4.00 pm
• Website: Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre

The Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre is a must-visit for any history aficionado. The centre offers a unique and immersive insight into the life and times of one of Scotland’s most famous and controversial monarchs, Mary Queen of Scots, in a beautifully preserved 16th-century tower house.

The interior of the house has been decorated to reflect the styles of the period and is filled with exhibits and artefacts relating to Mary’s life and reign, including letters written in her hand, personal belongings, and portraits as well as a replica of Mary’s death mask.

The visitor centre features fascinating stories about the turbulent period of Mary’s reign, from her return to Scotland after the death of her French husband to her imprisonment and eventual execution, and both children and adults will enjoy listening to the expert guides who bring it all back to life. Apart from the attractions in the visitor centre, the grounds offer fantastic views of the Scottish Borders countryside and are an ideal starting point for exploring the many nearby walking trails.

St. Ronan’s Wells Visitor Centre

• Address:  Wells Brae, Innerleithen, Tweeddale, EH44 6JE
• Opening Times: 25th Mar – 29th Oct: Mon-Fri 10.00 – 13.00 and 14.00 – 17.00 and Sat & Sun 14.00-17.00
• Website: St. Ronan’s Wells Visitor Centre

St. Ronan’s Wells Visitor Centre is an unusual attraction near Innerleithen in the Scottish Borders. The centre has a history dating back to the 1820s when it was established as a spa resort and was named after St. Ronan, a 7th-century Irish missionary who was said to have discovered a spring with healing properties in the area.

Today, the visitor centre serves as a museum showcasing the history of the spa and its significance in the local area where visitors can explore a variety of exhibits from displays about the mineral water’s health benefits to the rituals of Victorian spa treatments.

The visitor centre boasts a garden area where visitors can relax, and it also serves as a venue for various events that include craft fairs, garden festivals, and local history talks. As far as amenities go, there’s a gift shop offering a range of souvenirs and local craft items, public restrooms, and wheelchair access.

St. Abbs Head Nature Reserve

• Address:  St Abbs, Eyemouth, Borders, TD14 5QF
• Website: St. Abbs Head Nature Reserve

St. Abbs Head Nature Reserve is an idyllic spot on the coastline near the quaint fishing village of St. Abbs. Spread across 200 acres, it stretches out to the sea along a dramatic clifftop path that offers breathtaking views of the North Sea and beyond. The nature reserve is characterized by its towering cliff faces that dramatically plunge into the sea, creating a safe haven for countless nesting seabirds.

St. Abbs Head is a wildlife lover’s paradise as it’s home to thousands of seabirds including guillemots, kittiwakes, razorbills, and puffins, while the surrounding waters teem with marine life from playful seals to dolphins.

The most notable landmark at the reserve is the iconic St. Abbs Head Lighthouse which was built in the 19th century and is still in use today. Visitors can also explore the remnants of Fast Castle (an ancient fortress) to the north, and the lovely harbour of Eyemouth to the south.

Birdwatching is the most popular pastime at St. Abbs Head but it’s also a great location for diving and snorkelling, as is hiking along the clifftop paths and enjoying the spectacular coastal views.

The Polish Map of Scotland

• Address:  Barony Castle Hotel UK, Eddleston, EH45 8QW
• Website: The Polish Map of Scotland

The Polish Map of Scotland is a large-scale, three-dimensional, outdoor concrete map located on the grounds of Barony Castle in Eddleston. It was built between 1974 and 1979 and is believed to be the largest physical relief map in the world.

The map was conceived and created by Jan Tomasik, a Polish war veteran who had served alongside Scottish soldiers during World War II. After the war, Tomasik became a successful hotelier, acquiring Barony Castle and turning it into a hotel (I’ve stayed there several times and can confirm it’s a superb place to stay). The map was an expression of his gratitude towards Scotland for its support of Poland during the war.

The map’s construction involved the careful shaping of concrete over a wire mesh laid out on the ground and it’s impressively accurate, with topographical features like mountains, valleys, and bodies of water all represented in detail. It measures approximately 50m by 40m with a scale of 1:10,000.

The map was originally filled with water to highlight Scotland’s lochs and coastal areas but it fell into disrepair and was almost forgotten until 2010 when it was rediscovered and a restoration effort was launched which led to it being officially recognized as a monument of national importance in 2014.

As for other attractions, Barony Castle itself is an absolute must-visit. The 16th-century tower house was expanded over the centuries into a mansion and is now a hotel with its own restaurant, spa, and luxury rooms. It’s set in 25 acres of formal gardens and woodland, and nearby, you can visit the picturesque town of Peebles or take a scenic drive to Edinburgh which is less than an hour away.

Related Posts

Glentress Forest Visitor Guide

Melrose Abbey Visitor Guide

Jedburgh Abbey Visitor Guide

Cove Harbour Visitor Guide

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

12 Must Visit Towns and Villages in the Scottish Borders

This post lists the best towns and villages in the Scottish Borders that you must visit. The Scottish Borders is a lovely region in Scotland to explore.

Despite the Scottish Borders being in an ideal central location in the UK between Edinburgh and England . The area is often missed out by tourists.

Scottish Borders is a very easy place to reach from the capital city of Edinburgh . This area has everything that you need and bonus, you can avoid all the busy tourist traffic. 

The Berwickshire coast is stunning and dramatic. Also, there is a tranquil vista of rolling hils in the countryside.

Some towns are villages in the Scottish Borders are so charming and beautiful . It is worth it to pay a visit. 

Peebles is a romantic town located on the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders . This is an area which is surrounded by outstanding beauty. A wealth of medieval buildings from the 12th century make up the town. 

The Cross Kirk is one of the medieval buildings, a Trinitarian priory founded by Alexander II in 1296. Traquair House is one of the greatest historic houses in Scotland.

A large map of Scotland known as the Great Polish Map is located nearby. This walk was made by a Polish soldier who was interested in Topography.  

Learn about a well-known Scottish author at the John Buchan Story . Also, learn more about the history of Peebles and the surrounding area at Tweeddale Museum and Gallery .

Peebles Accommodation: Macdonald Cardrona Hotel Golf & Spa , Barns Bothy , Coachman’s Cottage

Things to do in Peebles

• Traquair House
• 1881 Gin Distillery & Microbrewery
• Neidpath Castle
• John Buchan story
• Tweeddale Museum & Gallery
• Great Polish Map

Lauder is a former Royal Burgh and the town has a long medieval High Street. Also, the town is close to the Lammermuir Hills .

Lauder is one of the stops on the Southern Upland Way . The Southern Upland Way is a long-distance walking route from Portpatrick on the west coast to Cockburnspath on the east. 

Thirestane Castle is a 17th-century castle which was once the magnificent home to the Maitland family. The castle has wonderful plasterwork ceilings, fine furnishings and paintings.

There is a toy museum in the castle, tours are available during the summer months.

Lauder Accommodation: Black Bull , Lornebank Homestay , The Maitland at Thirlestane Castle

Things to do in Lauder

• Thirlestane Castle
• Southern Upland Way

In the 19th century, the textile industry was booming in Galashiels . Lots of mills were established in the area and the population increased.

You can learn more about the history and heritage on the Architectural Trail , and the Old Gala House . Also, make sure to pay a visit to The Great Tapestry of Scotland Gallery & Visitor Centre .

Galashiels is a stop on the Southern Uplands Way . Also, the Borders Railway stops here and you can join the National Cycle Network Route 1 . 

Galashiels Accommodation: Tweedbank , The Salmon Inn , Watson Lodge Guest House

Things to do in Galashiels

• Borders Railway Line
• Great Tapestry of Scotland Gallery & Visitor Centre
• Old Gala House
• National Cycle Network Route 1
• Southern Uplands Way

Melrose is a small historic town located near the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders . The small town has a lovely selection of boutique shops and lovely restaurants.

Located at the foot of the Eildon Hills , this is the perfect place to base yourself to hike one of the three hills. Eildon Hill North is a relatively easy and quick hike. 

Melrose has a long history, the Romans occupied the area. Melrose Abbey was the first Cistercian abbey to be established in Scotland . The abbey is famous for the brilliant medieval carving and as a burial place of two kings. 

There are two historic gardens nearby. Priorwood features an apple orchard and Harmony Gardens has a stunning walled garden.

Also, the home of Sir Walter Scott – Abbotsford House is located three miles west on the banks of the River Tweed .

In 1883, Ned Haig a local butcher and rugby player discovered Rugby’s Sevens. Every spring, there is a carnival atmosphere when the international tournament – Melrose Sevens takes place. 

Melrose Accommodation: Mulberry Cottage , The Ghillie , Kirklands House B&B

Things to do in Melrose

• Melrose Abbey
• Eildon Hills
• Priorwood Gardens
• Harmony Gardens

Selkirk is one of the oldest Royal Burgh in Scotland . The town is located high above the Ettrick and Yarrow Valleys in the heart of the Scottish Borders . 

The town has strong links with Sir Walter Scott, as he served as the sheriff for 33 years. Halliwell’s House is Selkirk’s oldest building and is located in a narrow wynd.

There is a museum located in Halliwell’s House which explores the long history of the town. You can learn about William Wallace and the Battle of Flodden.

Bowhill House is a stunning Georgian house located on the outskirts of Selkirk .

The house is located in an enchanting glen and the heathery hills. There are outdoor walking trails, stunning gardens and lakes for fishing.

Selkirk Accommodation: Philipburn Hotel , Heatherlie House Hotel , Kilmuir

Things to do in Selkirk

• Bowhill House
• Halliwells House

Hawick is the largest town in the Scottish Borders with a population of 13,586. There is a nice selection of shops and restaurants, particularly many selling fine knitwear. 

Located in the prime area for the textile industry, it is the perfect place to learn about Scotland’s knitwear and tweed story.

Borders Textile Townhouse is located in a 16th century tower house and offers insights into the textile industry. Also, Hawick is part of the Textile Trail .

Wilton Lodge Park is located on the banks of the River Teviot . Here, you can explore the 107 acres of riverside and tree-lined walks, and a walled garden. 

View excellent exhibitions regarding the town’s history and culture at the Hawick Museum and Scott Gallery . In addition, the Border’s Distillery has been producing whisky in this area since 1837.

Hawick is also a popular stop on the Borders Historic Route .

Hawick Accommodation: Arthur Apartment , Lyndail Cottage , Riverside Retreat

Things to do in Hawick

• Borders Textile Towerhouse
• Borders Taxtile Townhouse
• Textile Trail
• Wilton Park Lodge

Jedburgh is the most southern town on this list and is located just 10 miles north of the English Border, due to the proximity and closeness to the border between Scotland and England . Up to the 17th century, Jedburgh was a frontier town.

Full-blown and ruthless battles are thankfully a thing of the past. Now, this area of the Borders is peaceful with a nice selection of shops, cafes, restaurants and walking trails.

Jedburgh has many historical attractions. The Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre is based in the house where the queen stayed on a visit to Edinburgh in 1566. 

Jedburgh Abbey is one of the four Border Abbeys founded in the 12th century for Augustinian canons. Explore the abbey, the visitor centre and the surrounding herb garden which features aromatic plants and a stone display.

At the Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum, you can learn what life was like for the prisoners in the 19th century. Also, the old Jailer’s house now has displays of the town’s rich history, traditions and industries. 

Ale Water Valley is located between the historic towns of Selkirk , Hawick and Jedburgh . This is a nice place to stretch your legs and has many outdoor activities to participate in. 

Jedburgh Accommodation: Castle Gate Apartment , Reivers Cottage , Serena Lodge

Things to do in Jedburgh

• Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre

Kelso 

Kelso is a historic market town, located on the junction of the River Tweed and River Teviot . The town square is said to be the largest city square in Scotland . 

On the cobbles, the old rings where the cattle were tethered on market days still exist. Around the square, there is a lovely array of shops, cafes and restaurants. 

Floors Castle , Scotland’s largest inhabited house, is in the distance in the parkland overlooking the River Tweed . The interiors of the exquisite 18th-century mansion feature tapestries, grand rooms and superb views. 

Kelso Abbey dates back to the 12th century and features the best of Romanesque architecture. Kelso Abbey is one of the finest of the Border’s Abbey .

Beirhope Alpacas is set in a stunning setting, nestled in the Cheviot Hills . Experience the cuteness of the Alpacas on a short trek or during feeding time.

Kelso Accommodation: Tweed Hideaway , The Bothy , Sevenacres

Things to do in Kelso

• Kelso Abbey
• Floors Castle
• Beirhope Alpacas

This lovely historic fishing town is located five minutes north of the border with England . Eyemouth has a natural harbour and fishing dates back to the 13th century. 

Walk along the windswept coast and discover the hidden coves and unusually narrow harbour. Or, walk along the coast to Eyemouth Fort .

Gunsgreen House is a famous mansion house located on the south side. This was the centre of the illicit trade of wine, tobacco, spirits and tea in the 18th century. 

In the 18th century, smuggling with rife in the underground tunnels, narrow wynds and caves. Follow in the footsteps of the smugglers on the Smugglers Trail . 

Eyemouth Accommodation: The Westmorland , Adams House , Near Bank Cottage

Things to do in Eyemouth

• Eyemouth Fort
• Smugglers Trail 
• Gunsgreen House

Coldingham 

Coldingham is the smallest populated settlement on this list. This small village has a population of 512.

It is an attractive village on the east of the Berwickshire coast, only a few miles north of Eyemouth . 

At the heart of the village are the ruins of Coldingham Priory . Coldingham Priory was once the wealthiest and most important monasteries in medieval Scotland . 

Coldingham Sands is Scotland’s answer to Australia’s Brighton Beach . Decorated beach huts line the back of the beach, it is the perfect photo opportunity. 

In the summer this beach is very popular. Coldingham Bay is a popular surfing destination.

For those who enjoy walking, the Berwickshire Coastal Path has great views. 

Coldingham Accommodation: Templehall Cottage , The Law House , The Cedar Tiny House

Things to do in Coldingham

• Coldingham Priory
• Coldingham Sands
• Berwickshire Coastal Path

Saint Abbs is a beautiful coastal fishing village north of Eyemouth and close to Coldingham . This small village is surrounded by a rugged setting, with jagged cliffs and is lined with old fishermen’s cottages. 

Recently, St Abbs has increased in popularity. The town has been featured in the Avengers movie franchise.

Also, Saint Abbs has been the filming location for Harry Style’s music video – Adore You . 

St Abbs’s Head National Nature Reserve involves 200 acres of wild, rugged coastline and dramatic jagged cliffs. It is a hub for sea birds and other wildlife. 

Walk to Pettico Wick Bay , north of St Abbs where you can see the 400 million-year-old pink and purple volcanic lava of the Pettico Wick fault.

St Abbs Lighthouse is a stunning landmark surrounded by great scenic views and wildlife. Also, Saint Abbs is a thriving hub for scuba divers.

Things to do in St Abbs

• St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve
• St Abbs Head Lighthouse

Duns features a lovely quiet market square, where you can try and imagine all the events that have occurred here throughout the centuries. In previous times, this was the main trade market area for the townspeople.

Formula 1 legend Jim Clark grew up on a farm near Duns . Sadly, at the age of 32, the spot claimed his life.

A strong legacy has been left in the town and the wider area. 

You can visit the museum that displays how life work and career. There are displays with racing cars, trophies, fantastic photographs and audio recordings from people that knew him well.

In addition, Duns is the birthplace of John Duns Scotus, the great medieval philosopher. In the 14th century, Duns Scotus taught at the University of Paris. There is a bronze statue of Duns Scotus in the public park.

Duns Castle is a 14th-century castle which is a popular wedding venue. The grounds of Dun Castle is now a park and bird sanctuary.

Take the short and easy trek up Duns Law . At the 700 foot summit, there are remains of an Iron Age Hill Fort and 17th century forts.

Duns Accommodation: Spring Cottage , The White House , Cairnbank House

Things to do in Duns:

• Jim Clark Motorsport Museum
• Duns Castle Nature Reserve
• Duns Castle Estate
• Manderston House

What town are on the border of Scotland?

Gretna is a town in Dumfries and Galloway which is on the border of Scotland . The border runs along the River Sark next to Gretna .

Which is the nicest town in the Scottish Borders?

According to the Sunday Times, Melrose is ‘The Best Place to Live in Scotland’ . This is hard to disagree with as Melrose is a picturesque tranquil town with tonnes of character.

What is the closest village to the Scottish Borders?

The settlement of Coldstream lies just north of the Scotland/England Border on the River Tweed . Gretna is a small town in Dumfries and Galloway which overlooks the Scotland/England Border on the River Sark . 

Coldstream and Gretna were two popular destinations for runaway marriages in the 18th and 19th centuries.

What towns are on the border of England and Scotland?

Gretna is a town in Dumfries and Galloway which is next to the River Sark . The River Sark marks the western part of the Scotland/ England Border making Gretna extremely close to the border.

Coldstream is a small settlement in the Scottish Borders which is located right next to the River Tweed which marks the Scotland/England Border .

The Scottish Borders is perhaps the easiest destination to reach. Dumfries and Galloway to the west, Edinburgh and the Lothians to the north and Northumberland and northern England to the south. 

Explore the ruined historical abbeys, grand stately homes, rolling hills and the spectacular countryside.

Best of all, the little towns and villages in the Scottish Borders , filled with character and culture. On top of this, the locals are extremely welcoming. 

Many of the towns and villages in the Scottish Borders follow the typical market town set-up. Others are small picturesque fishing villages or medieval Royal Burghs . 

All the towns are close by, a short drive away from each another and most are accessible by public transport.

You can combine a few towns and villages in the Scottish Borders to create a great day trip . Eyemouth , St Abbs and Coldingham are lovely coastal towns which will make a lovely afternoon out exploring. 

Also, Kelso , Jedburgh , Hawick , Selkirk and Melrose are often completed together on a road trip. This route is called the Borders Abbey Way .

There is so much history to learn about and gorgeous views to soak in. As one of the least visited and undermined areas of Scotland, I recommend heading here for your next trip.

• Oct 6, 2019

Family days out in the Scottish Borders

The guide to the best places to go and things to do in and around the Scottish Borders

The Scottish Borders is a great place for children with an abundance of family-friendly activities and attractions, indoors and outdoors, to keep everyone happy all year round.

An hour south of Edinburgh by road or train, there's no shortage of adventures for all the family. Climb and zip wire through a forest, fly birds of prey or whizz down a hillside on a grass sledge: the choice is yours.

We've picked out some of our favourites to help you make the most of your precious family time. Why not watch this little trailer from Visit Scotland, then dive on into the listings below?

Born in the Borders

One for all the family. There's a brewery, there's a distillery, there's a lovely restaurant with some seriously tasty baking, there's roller-skating, there's grass sledging, there's ospreys. Seriously, there's a lot going on here. Open all year.

Kielder Water Birds of Prey Centre

OK, we're cheating a teeny bit because it's a couple of miles over the border into England. But this is a splendid day out. See eagles, hawks, owls and loads of other birds and take part in flying them on the regular displays. The staff take a genuine interest in their work and. They'll do personal experiences too. Great fun. Open all year.

Beirhope alpacas

Fast becoming a must-do experience. You can just pet one of these quirky creatures or take it off on a lead for a wall. There's scenery. There's alpacas. It's oddly relaxing. And kids love them. Open all year (weather permitting).

The Wild Outdoors

For those who prefer not to wrap the kids in cotton wool, something to get them out and about and off the Xbox. Tree climbing, tomahawk throwing: what's not to like? Drop them off for a day of adventure on one of their school holiday camps or arrange a bespoke experience.

Eyemouth Rib Trips

Take a short high speed blast up the coast or a more leisurely coastal exploration. Lots of seabirds and the chance of dolphins too. Great for all ages.

Traquair House Maze

The maze is the big draw for children. If you like them enough, you can shout directions from the terrace to help them find their way out. There's also an adventure playground and some adorable animals.

Family friendly treetop adventures for those with a head for heights. There's a 50 metre high zip wire that runs for 325 metres and a full high ropes course. You can see ospreys at the nearby viewing centre during the summer season. Open all year.

Bowhill estate

Lots going on here. There's a great adventure playground in the woods, lots of hands on events during the summer season and LandRover safaris up onto the hills of the estate. There'a ruined castle too. Look out for red squirrels - they're making a comeback and there are regular sightings. The full programme is available during the summer season but the grounds are open all year round.

Wild Tree Adventures

Adventures and tree climbing for anyone aged six or over. It's what it sounds like - you climb a big tree. But there are ropes and safety helmets and anyone can have a go. Lovely views from up there too. Open all year.

Rusty Bodkins Archery

Bring out your inner Robin Hood. Archery for children 7+ (though there's some fun activities for younger children too). Events at various castles but can also put together a personalised experience.

Rock UK - Whithaugh Park

Family adventure days throughout the year at Newcastleton. There's a 300 metre zip line, along with gorge walking, climbing, fencing, bouldering, kayaking, swimming and archery.

Netherurd House

Outdoor activities in the heart of the countryside west of Peebles, including raft building, zorbing, canoeing, climbing or archery.

And a few nearby extras:

Edinburgh zoo.

Giant pandas, Scottish wildcats, meerkats, chimpanzees, a penguin parade and the chance to walk underneath a tiger. It's a full day out for all the family. Open all year.

Edinburgh International Climbing Arena

Kids driving you up the wall? Take them somewhere they can climb their own walls. Fully supervised roped adventures for all ages at Ratho to the west of Edinburgh.

Dynamic Earth

Interactive science museum in Edinburgh. Travel back in time to the Big Bang. There's a 360 dome cinema. And a mini-iceberg, which is pretty cool...

Birdoswold Roman Fort

The longest remaining stretch of Hadrian's Wall and a cavalry fort, with an entertaining museum with plenty of interactive exhibits aimed at children and an engaging clue-solving quest around the ruins.

Tullie House Museum

Plenty to keep all the family busy at this engaging museum in Carlisle. Experience a raid by the bloodthirsty Border Reivers, dress up as a Roman soldier and fire a Roman weapon.

Serenity Farne Island Boat Trips

Puffins aplenty and lots of other sea life to keep all the family happy. Trips vary in length and you can land on some of the islands - depending on weather conditions - or just enjoy a leisurely couple of hours on the water as the super-helpful crew point out the wildlife.

We're always updating the list, so check again soon for our latest discoveries.

Need somewhere to stay?

Too much to choose from? Why not base yourself at the heart of the Borders and make a holiday of it.

The Five Turrets is a glamorous self catering/exclusive-use holiday property near the centre of town, with fairytale castle looks and accommodation for up to eight people in four double bedrooms. There's secure cycle storage on site.

The Five Turrets in Selkirk was named by The Sunday Times as one of the top 25 self catering properties in the UK for 2019.

Check availability here

• The Five Turrets

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Scotland Info Guide

A Guide to the Scottish Highlands Islands and Mainland

The Scottish Borders Guide

The landscape of the Scottish Borders varies from west to east. The western part has rolling hills and beautiful lochs such as St Marys Loch, one of the most beautiful lochs in Scotland according to the author. The central part of the Borders has a more rural character while the eastern part, bordering the North Sea, has some hidden gems such as the seaside village of St Abbs and the former fishing village of Cove. The river Tweed crosses the entire area of the Borders starting at the south-east at Tweed’s Well and flowing gradually to the east where the river flows into the North Sea at Berwick upon Tweed. On the banks of this beautiful river you can find lovely and romantic villages such as Peebles, Innerleithen and Melrose.

The Scottish Borders are steeped in history as it was once the home of Christian monks who lived in the magnificent Border Abbeys of Dryburgh, Melrose, Kelso and Jedburgh in the 13th and 14th centuries. Later the Borders were the scene of a devastating battle at Flodden Field but it was also the home of one of the most famous Scottish writer, Sir Walter Scott. It’s a fascinating area for those who love history but also for people who like to walk, cycle and discover the many different faces of this pretty part of Scotland.

Scottish Borders on the Map

Village and Towns in the Scottish Borders

The nearest town to Abbotsford is Galashiels; the largest settlement in the area. In the area to the west of ‘Gala’, as it’s known locally, are the remnants of Iron-Age earthworks and forts, especially at Torwoodlee; and it’s a reminder of the links the whole area has to the time period. More recently, Galashiels was home to a thriving textile industry, which like most of the order border towns has gone by the wayside (although Herriot Watt University’s School of Textiles is based here). The border hills have long been famed for their sheep, and the fast flowing Gala Water gave the mills the power they needed. You can still see the old factories here and there is a small museum charting the town’s history at Old Gala house.

Across the river from Newstead is the hidden village of Dryburgh, and ruins of Dryburgh Abbey, where Scott was finally buried – his tomb is next to that of Field Marshall the Earl Haig; who was born in Edinburgh and led the British forces in the First World War. Like Melrose, Dryburgh is also ruined having fallen into disuse following the Reformation in 1560. Today it’s in the care of Historic Scotland, and pretty easy to visit as long as you have a car.

Selkirk was once a town famous for its woollen industry, but these mills are now just another building within Selkirk. Selkirk was once the site of the first Border Abbey, where William Wallace was declared guardian of Scotland, another well known name Sir Walter Scott was also named sheriff for over 30 years. Selkirk is well known for its yearly festival named the Common Riding where up to 500 riders on horseback ride into town, the casting of the colours then take place in the town square. The common riding dates from the battle of Flodden in 1513, where 80 men from Selkirk went to the battlefield for the king, but only one returned bearing a blood stained English flag. If you ever visit Selkirk you must try the Selkirk Bannock, a delicious fruit cake.

Great Houses, Abbeys and Castles in the Borders

The four border abbeys
.

The Scottish Borders have some of the most beautiful ruined abbeys in the UK, you can find them in Melrose, Jedburgh, Dryburgh and in the town of Kelso. On our  Border Abbeys Page  you can read all about their fascinating past and present.

Bowhill House and Country Estate

The home of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry, set within the stunning Yarrow and Ettrik Valleys, is a wonderful estate to visit, from fine furnishings and paintings from the most famous painters in history, and lovely forest and rivers, Bowhill house have lots to offer for the whole family for a great day out.

Floors Castle

Thirlestane Castle

Thirlestane Castle is the family home of the Duke of Lauderdale and is one of the finest castles in Scotland, the castle is today inhabited by the Maitland family, and is very popular for weddings and events. Located in Lauder the castle provides lovely walks within the grounds and guided tours, also in the castle is a lovely tearoom for guests to enjoy.

Traquair House

Abbotsford House and Sir Walter Scott

Abbotsford house.

Sir Walter Scott

Sir Walter Scott was born in Edinburgh in 1771, the son of a solicitor, Scott survived a childhood bout of polio in 1773 that left him lame. To cure his lameness he was sent in 1773 to live in the rural Borders region at his grandparents’ farm at Sandyknowe, adjacent to the ruin of Smailholm Tower, the earlier family home. Here he was taught to read by his aunt Jenny, and learned from her the speech patterns and many of the tales and legends that characterized much of his work. Scott began studying classics at the University of Edinburgh in November 1783, at the age of only 12, a year or so younger than most of his fellow students. At the age of 25 he began dabbling in writing, translating works from German, his first publication being rhymed versions of ballads by Bürger in 1796. He then published a three-volume set of collected Scottish ballads, The Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border. This was the first sign of his interest in Scottish history from a literary standpoint. After Scott had founded a printing press, his poetry, beginning with The Lay of the Last Minstrel in 1805, brought him fame. He published other poems over the next ten years, including the popular The Lady of the Lake. Walter Scott died in 1832, aged 61, in Melrose.

Other places of interest in the Borders

The eildon hills.

The ‘Hills of the Elves’ have since time-immemorial been sacred hills – fawned over by our Neolithic ancestors, and worshiped by our Celtic forefathers. A set of prominent volcanic peaks long since extinct, they have a peculiar conical shape which probably explains the fascination since the Stone Age. Local legend tells that they are the final resting place of Thomas the Rhymer, a 13th century poet turned prophet; who received his gift of second sight from the fairy people residing in the hills. In the Bronze Age there was a sizeable settlement on the top of the peaks, perhaps the largest hill-settlement in Scotland at the time; but, by the time the Romans arrived in the 1st century AD it was pretty much abandoned. The Romans built a signalling station on one of the peaks guarding Dere Street – their long road north from Eboracum (York).

In AD80 the Romans entered what is now southern Scotland, and set up their principal base at the foot of the Eildons on a small rise above the Tweed. The fort was called Trimontium (and may mean ‘three hills’). The local population belonged to the Votadini (Gododdin) people, a Celtic tribe that had their ‘capital’ at Traprain near Haddington; and once the Romans had consolidated their British conquests with the building of Hadrian’s Wall in the 2nd century the Votadini served as a friendly buffer state, and it is likely that Trimontium was used as a sort of embassy and trading post. The remains of the fort are to the east of Melrose at Newstead, and there is an interpretation centre that is open to the public.

Battle of Flodden Field

The region also witnessed one of the most devastating of medieval battles when the Scots under James IV, were decimated at Flodden Field in 1513. The heavily armoured Scottish noblemen got stuck in the mud at the bottom of a hill near Branxton, south of the border near Coldstream, and their over long pikes and lances were simply no match for the shorter and sturdier English halberds.

Smailholm Tower

Scotts View

If you are planning a trip down to the area (about a 40 minute journey from Edinburgh), we would advise taking the back road from Earlston to Dryburgh and stopping at the beautiful ‘Scott’s View’; and its spectacular panorama over the Tweed and Eildons. It was said that Sir Walter Scott often stopped here while riding, and when his funeral cortege was heading to Dryburgh his faithful horse stopped one last time.

Views of the Scottish Borders including Scotts View and St Mary’s Loch

• Accommodation – Hotels in Scottish Borders
• Official website – Tourist Information for the Borders
• Maps – Tourist Attractions on Google Maps
• www.traquair.co.uk – Traquair House website
• www.roxburghe.net/castle – Floors Castle
• www.scottsabbotsford.com – Abbotsford House
• thirlestanecastle.co.uk – Thirlestane Castle
• www.bowhillhouse.co.uk – Bowhill House and Estate

note on image copyright: smailholm tower Walter Baxter – licensed for reuse under this creative commons licence

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The Scottish Borders Tourist attractions

Michelin guide.

• Scott's View The Green Guide 2.97 km - B 6356, Melrose TD6 activities details 
• Eildon Hills The Green Guide 3.57 km - A 6091, Melrose TD6 activities details 
• High Street The Green Guide 3.64 km - High Street, Melrose TD6 9PA activities details 
• Priorwood Garden The Green Guide 3.65 km - Abbey Street, Melrose TD6 9PX activities details 
• Melrose Abbey The Green Guide 3.76 km - Abbey House, Melrose TD6 9LG activities details 
• Trimontium The Green Guide 3.93 km - High Street, Melrose TD6 9DE activities details 
• Smailholm Tower The Green Guide 6.84 km - B 6397, Kelso TD5 7PG activities details 
• Abbotsford House The Green Guide 7.15 km - Melrose TD6 9BQ activities details 
• Waterloo Monument The Green Guide 9.49 km - Nisbet TD8 activities details 
• Mellerstain House The Green Guide 10.3 km - A 6089, Mellerstain TD3 6LG activities details 
• Selkirk Parish Church The Green Guide 10.9 km - High Street - Kirk Wynd, Selkirk TD7 activities details 
• High Street The Green Guide 11.1 km - High Street, Selkirk TD7 4BZ activities details 
• Market Place The Green Guide 11.2 km - Market Place, Selkirk TD7 activities details 
• Halliwell's House Museum The Green Guide 11.2 km - Market Place, Selkirk TD7 4BL activities details 
• Greenknowe Tower The Green Guide 12.6 km - A 6105, Gordon activities details 
• Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre The Green Guide 13.4 km - Queen Street, Jedburgh TD8 6EN activities details 
• Market place The Green Guide 13.4 km - Market Place, Jedburgh TD8 6AP activities details 
• Castlegate The Green Guide 13.4 km - Castlegate, Jedburgh TD8 6AR activities details 
• Canongate Bridge The Green Guide 13.5 km - Old Bridge End, Jedburgh TD8 6EU activities details 
• Jedburgh Abbey The Green Guide 13.5 km - Abbey Bridge End, Jedburgh TD8 6JQ activities details 
• Georgian Jail and Museum The Green Guide 13.5 km - Castlegate, Jedburgh TD8 6QD activities details 
• Cobby Riverside Walk The Green Guide 13.7 km - Cobby Riverside Walk, Kelso TD5 7DH activities details 
• Floors Castle The Green Guide 13.7 km - Kelso TD5 7SF activities details 
• Roxburgh Castle The Green Guide 13.8 km - Kelso TD5 7SF activities details 
• Roxburgh Street The Green Guide 14.8 km - Roxburgh Street, Kelso TD5 7DH activities details 
• The Square The Green Guide 15.1 km - The Square, Kelso TD5 7HH activities details 
• Abbey Court The Green Guide 15.2 km - Abbey Court, Kelso TD5 7JA activities details 
• Rennie Bridge The Green Guide 15.2 km - Bridge, Kelso TD5 7JD activities details 
• Dryburgh Abbey The Green Guide 15.2 km - Bridge, Kelso TD5 7JD activities details 
• Old Parish Church The Green Guide 15.3 km - Abbey Row, Kelso TD5 7JF activities details 
• Bowhill House and Country Estate The Green Guide 15.6 km - B 7039, Selkirk TD7 5ET activities details 
• Parish church of Lauder The Green Guide 16.4 km - Market Place, Lauder TD2 6SR activities details 
• Thirlestane Castle The Green Guide 16.6 km - A 6089, Lauder TD2 6RU activities details 
• Equestrian Monument The Green Guide 18.5 km - High Street, Hawick TD9 9BP activities details 
• Borders Textiles Towerhouse The Green Guide 18.9 km - 1 Tower Knowe, Hawick TD9 9BZ activities details 
• Hawick Museum and Scott Art Gallery The Green Guide 19.1 km - Wilton Lodge Park, Hawick TD9 7JL activities details 
• Feudal Mound The Green Guide 19.3 km - B6399, Hawick TD9 activities details 
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Global sport stars and documentary premiere set for Fort William

The WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series turns its attention to Scotland. The world’s very best downhill mountain bike riders will converge on Fort William for the opening round of the UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup from 3 to 5 May 2024.

The event will draw thousands to the UK’s outdoor capital for the ultimate weekend of downhill mountain bike racing. It offers fans a chance to watch mountain biking’s biggest stars take on the iconic Nevis Range track, which is revered as one of the longest and toughest courses in the world.

The UCI Mountain Bike World Series Fort William is the official season opener for the UCI Downhill World Cup. It is proudly supported by EventScotland, Highlands & Islands Enterprise, and the Highland Council.

A historic event

The 2024 edition promises to be one of the biggest in the sport’s history. Seven-time Fort William winner Greg Minnaar (Norco Factory Racing) will join Scottish hero Reece Wilson (Trek Factory Racing) and returning champion Charlie Hatton (Continental Atherton MTB Race Team) in the men’s elite field.

World champion Valentina Höll (YT Mob) and British star rider Tahnée Seagrave (FMD Racing) feature in the women’s elite field.

Top international riders and homegrown talent are all vying to position themselves on the podium at one of the most legendary venues in the sport.

Rider navigates rocks at the Mountain Bike World Cup

Image Credit: Nevis Range

Cable car above a rider at the Mountain Bike World Cup

Rider at the mountain bike world cup, crowds at the mountain bike world cup at fort william, what else can spectators enjoy.

Away from the track, the expo village showcases leading cycling brands. Mountain bike enthusiasts will have the opportunity to test the latest bike technology at the Shimano Test Track and rub shoulders with world class riders and teams moving through the elite athlete corridor before racing begins.

New for this year, fans can watch from the Red Bull fan zone, or enjoy the racing from a new grandstand uniquely positioned before the finish. This will offer unmatched views of the final airborne descent towards the line.

The Fort William crowd can expect to see the strongest calibre of riders take on the 2024 edition. None more so than serial winner Greg Minnaar.

As the luminaries of mountain biking descend into Fort William for the biggest UK race of the year, Warner Bros Discovery Sport will host an exclusive private premiere of a new mountain bike documentary Greg Minnaar: Not Done Yet .

This will be shown at the Highland Cinema on Tuesday 30 April, ahead of airing on Eurosport 2 at 9pm on Wednesday 1 May.

Scotland is the perfect stage for events and EventScotland is proud to be continuing its support of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Fort William. Following the success of the Mountain Bike Downhill at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships, this year’s UCI World Cup will provide the ideal opportunity once again come together and share a memorable experience as the world’s best riders battle it out for victory on the iconic Nevis Range course. Paul Bush OBE, Director of Events

How can I get to Fort William?

It's never been easier to get trackside. Exclusive ride and travel packages available in partnership with Citylink for direct access to the venue from either Glasgow or Edinburgh. There are also discounts on all tickets available to Young Scot members.

Spectator parking is only available at dedicated park and ride sites, with a free shuttle service in full operation across the weekend.

The WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series Fort William is set to inspire future generations of Scottish downhill mountain bike talent. There is a schools day event on Friday 3 May, and Scottish Cycling’s Mini Downhill Final on Saturday 4 May, ahead of the main event.

Credit: Citylink

Related links

More accolades for the 2023 uci cycling world championships, eventscotland attends sportaccord as silver partners, supported events, scotland's national events strategy.