Top Things to do in Scottish Borders
The 6 Best Scenic Walking Areas in Scottish Borders, Scotland
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. Pettico Wick
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Pettico Wick is the stunning lookout in the heart of the St Abb's Head National Nature Reserve popular with photographer!
2. Hume Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 22 reviews
The present castle was built in 1789 as a folly to enhance the view from Marchment House, about 8 miles to the North East, for Sir Hugh Hume, 3rd Earl of Marchmont. it was built on the ruins of a much larger older castle dating back to the 13th Century. It is easy to imagine the strategic importance of this earlier castle, when you view the landscape all around. It must be one of the most beautiful views in Southern Scotland. The Castle is open all year round and is free. There is a small car park below it. Please visit the Castle's website for more details and history.
Reviewed By Bibcay - Gateshead, United Kingdom
This is a epic castle. It doesn’t look like a castle but still go because I had the time of my life. The view is fab too and watch your step because there are tons of sheep poo.
3. St Abbs Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 8 reviews
The great St Abbs Lighthouse surrounded by scenic views and an abundance of wildlife! Located on our Berwickshire Coastal Path and the St Abb's Head National Nature Reserve, St Abbs Lighthouse is a stunning landmark surrounded by great scenic views and wildlife. It certainly is worth the walk!
Reviewed By gdc1156 - Manchester, United Kingdom
Starting at the National Trust for Scotland Car Park take the short walk to St Abbs before starting the Lighthouse Walk. A picturesque fishing village with lots of photo opportunities. Walk back towards the car park & follow the signs for the coastal path/lighthouse. Spectacular scenery all along the 5 mile walk to the lighthouse & back to the car park. Reward yourself with a cup of tea & piece of cake at The Old Smiddy situated just by the car park. A great way to spend the morning or afternoon ????
4. Floors Castle & Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 796 reviews
** CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO THE LATEST GOVERNMENT RESTRICTIONS. PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR THE LATEST COVID-19 UPDATES.** Scotland's largest inhabited castle. A great day out for all the family. 5* visitor attraction only 1 hour from Edinburgh and Newcastle. Enjoy spectacular gardens, cafes, shopping, countryside walks, Castle tours, cycle trail, kids playground and events. Due to the ongoing global Coronavirus situation, the Castle and grounds are closed until further notice. Please Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and Covid-19 updates.
Reviewed By Expectal0t - Eyemouth, United Kingdom
Rather different this year, first registering for track and trace at the Cafe which serves as the garden entrance. Paper cups and cardboard boxes for food and a reduced simple menu that is a lot more common now. No one was eating indoors but there are 8 well separated covered family benches outside. A long line of blue Agapanthus in full flower separates the garden paths from the cafe and a taste of whats to come. The herbaceous borders are looking particularly good this year, probably the finest in the area. The tapestry garden (formally the pant centre) has filled out and looking good with meandering paths amongst the plants (probably helped by lots of horse manure). Healthy looking veg and a vivid wild flower section this year. The greenhouses all look tidy with collections of Fuchsia and Pelargoniums etc all in flower and there's a long border of Jersey lily's in full flower adjacent to the fruit houses. They also have an open gassy area for the kids to play with some extra seating. The gardeners need to be congratulated for creating a splendid show.
