Top Things to do in Scottish Borders
5 Visitor Centers in Scottish Borders That You Shouldn't Miss
A short distance from Edinburgh is a landscape strewn with sturdy hill forts, ancient castles and ruined abbeys that hints at the tumult of the past. It's quite at odds with the picturesque rolling, if windswept, sheep-studded hills and quiet valleys that make all seem agreeably placid to today’s visitor. At its heart are the ruins of four medieval abbeys with Jedburgh, the most complete, the best to visit first for its insights into monastic life. Of the others, Melrose is both the pick of the bunch, and also close to Abbotsford, the sometime home of the Romantic novelist Sir Walter Scott, and a splendid receptacle for his engrossing collection of historical curios. There are fine country houses to visit, notably Mellerstain for its exquisite Robert Adam interiors, and Manderston, the enjoyable swan song of the Edwardian Country House. Anglers should note that the River Tweed is also one of Scotland’s finest salmon-fishing rivers.
Restaurants in Scottish Borders
1. Abbotsford House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,063 reviews
Abbotsford is the extraordinary home of the 19th century novelist and ‘Great Scott’ who popularised tartan, saved the Scottish banknote and rediscovered his country’s Crown Jewels. In 2021-2022 Scotland celebrates the 250th anniversary of Sir Walter Scott. Visit Abbotsford during this special occasion to meet the man behind the monument, whose imagination and patriotism shaped the Scotland of today. Discover a treasure trove of fascinating objects which inspired his greatest poems and novels. Learn about Scott's life, browse the gift shop, enjoy seasonal food in our cafe or simply relax in the beautiful formal gardens and tranquil woodlands.
Reviewed By captcalculus
if you're anywhere near Melrose. Fascinating house of Sir Walter Scott with an excellent hand-held audio guide that allows you to wander through at your own pace, providing optional commentary on additional items in each room/area. Also, the gardens are quite nice, even in September. I am one of those driven people who like to get in and get out, but even so, we spent close to 3 hours here. Don't miss.
2. The St Abbs Visitor Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 68 reviews
Overlooking St Abbs Harbour and occupying the old Village Hall, the Centre offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape in a stunning contemporary setting. Here you’ll discover the history and culture of St Abbs past and present through interactive displays and exhibits. Our friendly staff are on hand to offer a warm welcome and answer your questions about the village and surrounding area.
Reviewed By mdnn85 - Shifnal, United Kingdom
We visited St Abbs on our way from Edinburgh as we knew it was a location used in Avengers: Endgame. We spoke with Susan in visitor centre and she was wonderful, really helpful and provided loads of information regarding where different scenes were filmed both in and outside of St Abbs. I would say St Abbs is a must for any Marvel fan but also for anyone who loves the open air and beautiful landscapes.
3. Jedburgh VisitScotland iCentre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 67 reviews
Jedburgh iCentre is situated next to the magnificent Jedburgh Abbey and adjacent to a large Free Car Park and Public Toilets Your one-stop shop for information and activities in the Scottish Borders and beyond. Our friendly team of knowledgeable staff can provide you with information and advice that will help you make the most of your time in the area. We can help you with inspiring places to visit; the best places to eat; detailed maps, guidebooks and a wide range of quality gifts and souvenirs, we might even tell you about a hidden gem or two. Whatever you need, just ask, we’re here to help! We look forward to welcoming you!
Reviewed By X4006DOsueb - Pickering, United Kingdom
This Visit Scotland information centre is well set out. The shop is excellent, with a variety of Scottish gifts at a good range of prices.Good information on the locality. The staff were really friendly and helpful.
4. Lochcarron Visitor Centre
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 91 reviews
Lochcarron Visitor Centre, in the heart of the Scottish Borders, offers our famous mill tours where you see all aspects of tartan production, then peruse our Visitor Centre and shop for knitwear, tartan and our fabulous accessories as well as taking a look at our lovely gift shop - Our newly expanded coffee shop offers Starbucks coffee, home made cakes, scones and light lunches! Well worth a visit!
Reviewed By A2715IMninag
I purchased a Lochcarron of Scotland 100% cashmere scarf at the Edinburgh Castle gift shop after looking at numerous other cashmere scarves on the Royal Mile. I didn't come to Selkirk, but I'm writing this review anyway because I really liked the quality of the cashmere of the scarf I bought. I used it during my time in the Highlands, including a very windy day in Skye, and the scarf kept me very warm and it is so soft. It's expensive (102 pounds), but it was worth it!
5. Harestanes Countryside Visitor Centre
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 189 reviews
Set in beautiful countryside and with a great outdoor play park, there’s plenty to do at Harestanes, whatever the weather. Discover for yourself why Harestanes is one of the Scottish Borders' best-loved attractions!
Reviewed By Em92travel - Greenlaw, United Kingdom
We were lucky not very busy when we were there as was during school time but was a lovely sunny day. Kids (2, 4 & 9) had a great time at the new park while we had tea and cake on one of the benches. Then we went for a walk following the paths. Kids had fun running around the trees and exploring. All fell asleep on the way home so was a very successful day. Also a sand pit out back near the cafe they enjoyed that as well.
