Out & About

The Scottish Borders ...

.... a very special .... almost ..... secret corner of Scotland!

The Border country has a huge range of beautiful, unspoilt and changing scenery in a small area - it’s like Scotland in miniature!

Whether you would like to walk or ride this land of rivers and hills; travel quiet country roads and paths, weaving through rolling Border hills; cycle signed routes or hurtle down the mountain bike runs at Glentress in the Tweed Valley Forest Park, near Peebles! You'll certainly feel the glow!

Watch sea birds wheel over dramatic red sandstone cliffs at St Abbs Head or boat out to see the fantastic variety of birds on The Farne Islands .

Enjoy the wonderful sandy beaches and rocky coves of the Berwickshire and Northumbrian coast, where Lindisfarne and Bamburgh Castle stand proud.

Discover the rich history of the Border castles, keeps and great houses, a fascinating insight into times gone by at Floors Castle ,Mellerstain House , Abbotsford House home of Sir Walter Scott, Bowhill, Traquair buzzes with activity and great beer, Thirlestane Castle and Paxton House alive with events!

Feel the atmosphere in the remains of the four great Border Abbeys at Kelso, Melrose, Jedburgh and Dryburgh which bear testament to border raids of old. The Borders Explorer Pass is excellent value for money.

Be inspired by the colour and care of our local town gardens, so successful in national competitions. Matched by the vision of individual gardens, on both sides of the border - Alnwick, and Cragside in Northumberland and Mertoun, Kailzie where nesting Osprey are shown live on web-cam. and Dawyck Botanic Garden in the Borders

Take time and space for families at Harestanes, inside and out, with walks, play ground, crafts and a coffee shop, all in a wonderful setting! Or visit Jedforest Deer Park Farm by Jedburgh.

Golf - in fine settings on friendly local courses, The Hirsel, Kelso or choose from this selection! 
Don't forget to make the most of The Scottish Borders excellent value, Freedom of the Fairways pass

Experience the pride and passion of the Borderers, not just on the rugby pitch! The traditions of the local towns, live on in spectacular horse back “Common Ridings” through-out the summer months.

Visit exceptionally talented artists and craftsmen there are over 80 different workshops and galleries in the Borders! Unique opportunities for retail therapy, so you can take home more than just memories! Kelso Pottery at The Knowes Kelso,
Harestanes and The Hirsel Country Park near Coldstream

Diaries in the Borders are always full! Walking, cycling, music festivals, craft fairs, massed Pipe Bands, rugby matches, Sevens Tournaments, national hunt race meetings, point-to-points and The Borders Festival of the Horse. Local music, arts, drama and dance events all keep the traditions very much alive!

Be sure to bring your camera, whatever the season! Spring’s fresh leaves and bright white blossom; summer fields of ripening corn; autumnal hues of wood and hillside; crisp, clear lines of winter views; will all light and colour your stay!

The space, changing light and wonderful views simply take your breath away!

In short! The Scottish Borders has a special feel, all of its own, which we love and hope you will too!