Scottish Borders
The Scottish Borders is a beautiful region of Scotland that offers visitors a range of experiences, from exploring historic sites and picturesque towns to enjoying outdoor activities and shopping for local produce and crafts. Here’s a guide to visiting the Scottish Borders and some of the top attractions to see and do.
Getting to the Scottish Borders
The Scottish Borders is located in the southeastern part of Scotland, and is easily accessible by car or public transport. The nearest airports are Edinburgh and Newcastle, both of which have regular flights from major UK and international cities. From there, visitors can take a train or bus to various towns and villages throughout the region.
Where to Stay
Visit our Accommodation guides including our guide on hotels for the best places to stay.
Places to eat out
The Caddy Mann Restaurant, Jedburgh: This award-winning restaurant is located in the heart of Jedburgh and offers a range of locally sourced Scottish cuisine, including seafood, game, and vegetarian options.
The Horseshoe Inn, Eddleston: A charming gastropub with a focus on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, the Horseshoe Inn offers a range of classic pub dishes and modern Scottish cuisine.
Burts Hotel, Melrose: A historic hotel with a popular restaurant that serves a range of classic Scottish dishes, including haggis, Cullen skink, and smoked salmon.
Seasons Restaurant, Kelso: Located in the Roxburghe Hotel, Seasons Restaurant offers a range of contemporary Scottish cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on seasonal produce.
Firebrick Brasserie, Lauder: A popular restaurant with a rustic atmosphere and a range of French and Scottish-inspired dishes, including seafood, steak, and vegetarian options.
The Hoebridge Restaurant, Peebles: A family-run restaurant that specializes in Scottish cuisine, including locally sourced meat and seafood dishes, as well as vegetarian options.
The Mainstreet Trading Company Cafe, St Boswells: A charming cafe located in a converted bookstore, with a range of freshly made sandwiches, soups, salads, and baked goods.
Where are the best places to Shop
The Scottish Borders region offers a range of shopping experiences, from independent boutiques to larger shopping centers. Here are some of the best places to shop in the area:
Kelso Farmers’ Market: Held on the fourth Saturday of every month, this popular farmers’ market offers a range of locally produced food and drink, including meat, cheese, bread, and beer.
Borders Textile Towerhouse: A museum and shop dedicated to the history of textile production in the Scottish Borders, with a range of locally made fabrics and garments available for purchase.
Peebles High Street: A charming high street with a range of independent boutiques, gift shops, and cafes, perfect for a leisurely stroll and some shopping.
The Borders Distillery Shop: In addition to offering tours and tastings, The Borders Distillery also has a shop where visitors can purchase a range of whiskey, gin, and other spirits.
Hawick Cashmere: A well-known Scottish brand that produces high-quality cashmere garments and accessories, with a factory outlet in Hawick where visitors can purchase products at discounted prices.
The Greenhouse at Stableyard: A unique shopping experience in a converted greenhouse, with a range of artisanal products and gifts, including ceramics, jewelry, and candles.
Galashiels Retail Park: For those looking for more traditional retail therapy, the Galashiels Retail Park offers a range of large chain stores, including Marks & Spencer, Next, and Boots.
Attractions to visit in the Scottish Borders
Melrose Abbey: This magnificent 12th-century abbey is the burial place of Robert the Bruce’s heart and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings.
Floors Castle: One of the largest inhabited castles in Scotland, this impressive 18th-century castle is set in stunning parkland and offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of Scotland’s aristocracy.
Jedburgh Abbey: Another beautiful abbey in the Scottish Borders, Jedburgh Abbey is a 12th-century ruin that boasts impressive architecture and a rich history.
Abbotsford House: The former home of Sir Walter Scott, this stunning Georgian mansion is set in beautiful gardens and offers a fascinating insight into the life and works of Scotland’s most famous writer.
St Abbs Head: A stunning coastal nature reserve with rugged cliffs, stunning seascapes, and an abundance of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and dolphins.
Scott’s View: This panoramic viewpoint offers stunning views across the Tweed Valley and is said to have been a favorite spot of Sir Walter Scott.
The Three Brethren: Three distinctive hills that offer incredible views across the Borders countryside, and a popular spot for hikers and walkers.
Traquair House: The oldest inhabited house in Scotland, Traquair House is a magnificent fortified mansion with a rich history and stunning grounds.
The Borders Distillery: A relatively new attraction, The Borders Distillery is a must-visit for whiskey lovers, offering tours, tastings, and an insight into the production process.
The Sir Walter Scott Way: This long-distance trail is a 92-mile route that takes walkers through some of the most stunning scenery in the Scottish Borders.
The Harestanes Countryside Visitor Centre: A popular family-friendly attraction with a range of activities and exhibitions, including a playground, a wildlife garden, and a café.
The Borders Book Festival: Held annually in the historic town of Melrose, this literary festival attracts some of the biggest names in literature and offers a range of talks, readings, and other events.
Mellerstain House and Gardens: This stunning Georgian mansion is set in beautiful gardens and offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of Scotland’s aristocracy.
Bowhill House and Country Estate: A magnificent 19th-century mansion set in beautiful parkland, Bowhill House and Country Estate offers visitors a range of activities and attractions, including a museum, a café, and extensive gardens.
The Jim Clark Motorsport Museum: A fascinating museum dedicated to the life and career of Scottish racing driver Jim Clark, who won two Formula One World Championships in the 1960s.
