What to do in the Scottish Borders
The Scottish Borders is a region of captivating contrasts, from the tranquility of the magnificent rolling hills, lush forests and sparkling rivers, to action-packed outdoor activities and an enthralling history that covers bloody battles and royal ruins, literary greats and figures of myth and legend.
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Abbotsford HouseGet straight to the heart of Scotland's vivid history by visiting Abbotsford, home to the 19th century novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott. Scott fell in love with the Scottish Borders and spent his life uncovering ancient Border ballads and folklore and populating his works with Scottish Borders history and scenery. Explore the house, where you can see Scott's study where he wrote many of his best known novels, as well as the beautiful woodlands and grounds surrounding it. |
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Thirlestane CastleThirlestane Castle was originally built in the 13th century as a fort ot defend the approach to Edinburgh. Take a look around the Bonnie Prince Charlie room and indulge your inner child with the fantastic collection of Edwardian, Victorian and Georgian toys, lovingly kept in the nurseries. |
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Dawyck Botanic GardensOne of the four National Botanic Gardens of Scotland, Dawyck is one of the world's finest arboreta. Its majestic trees, the product of almost three centuries of planting, form a splendid backdrop to the abundance of native and exotic plants on display. The gardens are a joy to visit at any time of year with each season producing its own spectacular bursts of colour. |
Melrose AbbeyPicturesque Melrose has it all - ancient monuments, the magnificent backdrop of the Eildons and fast-paced rugby tournaments as the birthplace of rugby sevens. Explore the ruins of historic Melrose Abbey, home to the secret burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart. Look out for the famous bagpipe-playing pig that is engraved onto the Abbey. |
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Hawick CashmereThe Scottish Borders is famous for its textiles. Located in the Border town of Hawick, at Hawick Cashmere you can watch the weaving machines at work and browse the mill shops for some of the finest quality cashmere knitwear. |
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Glentress ForestVisit Glentress Forest for a range of walking opportunties, from gentle strolls to challenging hikes where you can spot buzzards and roe deer. Glentress has more forest trails than any other Tweed valley forest and is also famous for its 7stanes mountain biking trails. |
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St Cuthbert's WayWalk St Cuthbert's Way for the perfect combination of history and natural splendour. The 100km walk from Melrose Abbey to Holy Island is inspired by the life of St Cuthbert. You'll be captivated by the variety of scenery from lush valleys to stark moorland and from coastal flats and sand dunes to historic abbeys and Roman remains. |
