Top Hotels in Scottish Borders
Top Things to do in Scottish Borders
The best available hotels & places to stay near Scottish Borders
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.
Things to do in Scottish Borders
1. Wheatsheaf Hotel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 444 reviews
Award winning hotel & restaurant; comfortable country accommodation overlooking the village green of Swinton, Scottish Borders. Winner of Luxe Best Dog Friendly Accommodation 2019
Nice little country hotel
Reviewed By Michael SSwindon is by far anything from a swinging or lively village. But for a stay to venture out the surrounding attractions it's an ideal place. The hotel/pub/restaurant is privately owned and cared with lots of love. The meals are very good. The winelist is not grant, but everybody finds a good bottle. Breakfast was served at the table and freshly made. The menu was limited, but ok. We surely can reccomend this place, though I would give it a 3* Plus but not a 4*.
2. Tontine Hotel Peebles Scottish Borders
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1532 reviews
Situated in the heart of Peebles, we are a family run hotel totally geared up to providing you with a wonderful break. Known for our excellent service and food, we have 36 en-suite bedrooms, secure bike storage, drying room, FREE WiFi and private parking for our guests. So if you want to escape for some well earned rest and relaxation, or to enjoy some quality time with friends and family, the Tontine is the perfect place to be.
Best place to stay in Peebles
Reviewed By ashishjohn84Peebles is a place with so many scenic places, and must visit destination. Tontine is the best hotel for accommodation; it is has great location, amazing staff and best breakfast and place to park as well.
3. Eye Sleep Over
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 543 reviews
Eye Sleep Over offers a clean, modern room with a comfortable bed and a functional en-suite bathroom. A range of Single, Twin, Double and Easy Access rooms are available, all priced at a budget to suit all from businessman to family. Special rates for multi- night stays, all prices include Vat. Large private car park.
Excellent budget accommodation
Reviewed By Sharon LExcellent hotel for a stopover or for longer if exploring the area. Clean, comfortable room and extremely helpful and friendly staff. And all for a great price. Definitely a good alternative to Premier Inn/Travelodge and with a more personal touch as it's independent rather than part of a chain. Large car park plus petrol station next door are added benefits. Would definitely use again when in the area.
4. Ednam House
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1044 reviews
Ednam House sits on the banks of the River Tweed, enveloped by three acres of enchanting gardens. A spacious, stately mansion dating back to 1761 with a home-from-home atmosphere, it’s the ideal spot to recharge mind and body and soak up the best of the Borders. With the convenience of a town centre location, and the tranquillity and atmosphere of a country house residence, Ednam House, like the area it occupies, offers something for everyone.
Wedding anniversary visit
Reviewed By millingtonhughGreat to revisit, wonderfully tranquil riverside location, a very warm reception and excellent service and food throughout our stay. Wonderful room with superb view of heron and oyster catchers, not to mention the swans going about their daily business.
5. Kingsknowes Hotel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 312 reviews
Finding an ideal romantic hotel in Galashiels does not have to be difficult. Welcome to Kingsknowes Hotel, a nice option for travelers like you. Close to Waverley Line Artwork (1.3 mi), a popular Galashiels landmark, Kingsknowes Hotel is a great destination for tourists. Guest rooms offer a flat screen TV and a desk, and Kingsknowes Hotel makes getting online easy as free wifi is available. You can also take advantage of some of the amenities offered by the hotel, including room service and baggage storage. In addition, guests can enjoy free breakfast during their visit. As an added convenience, there is free parking available to guests. While in Galashiels, you may want to check out some of the restaurants that are a short walk away from Kingsknowes Hotel, including Herges on the Loch (0.6 mi), Zaika Tandoori (1.2 mi), and The Salmon Inn (1.2 mi). If you’re looking for things to do, you can check out Old Gala House (1.2 mi), which is a popular attraction amongst tourists, and it is within walking distance. Kingsknowes Hotel looks forward to welcoming you on your visit to Galashiels.
Writing Break
Reviewed By sallyf787From check in to departure my visit ran smoothly. Beautiful setting, spotless and perfect room with everything I needed for a relaxing break. Comfortable bed and pillows, warm fluffy towels, superb shower and all the food from breakfast to lunch and dinner was superb. Helpful friendly and professional staff and nothing was too much trouble.
6. Dryburgh Abbey Hotel
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1251 reviews
The Dryburgh Abbey Hotel sits on the banks of the River Tweed in the breathtaking Borders countryside. Next to the historic ruins of Dryburgh Abbey, Sir Walter Scott's last resting place, it offers a fabulous location for fishing, cycling, walking, or simply enjoying a relaxing leisure break. Quality local produce is served in the tranquil setting of the Tweed resataurant by friendly and attentive staff. The proximity of the hotel to the Abbey also makes it an ideal venue for that special wedding day.
Lovely pet friendly hotel
Reviewed By scotland69Spend two nights at this hotel over the weekend and enjoyed our time there, they are very pet friendly hotel and allow your pet into dinning areas where most other hotels would not allow, the only thing that let this hotel down was their breakfasts, the set up was not ideal because where they buffet breakfast was laid out by the time you got back to your table the food was cold, in my opinion the food was only lukewarm to start with, the hotel might have to have have re think about their set up, I did hear a few other guests complaining about this as well, apart for that we enjoyed our stay and will definitely be back when we are down that way again
7. SCHLOSS Roxburghe Hotel & Golf Course
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 583 reviews
SCHLOSS Roxburghe is an exceptional country house estate with a Championship Golf Course and a range of outdoor activities, nestled in the beautiful Scottish Borders but little more than an hour's drive from both Edinburgh and Newcastle. This elegant property includes 20 bedrooms and suites, many of which are located within the historic house. Cuisine is top quality and varied, with an emphasis on fresh, home-grown produce. There are numerous cosy bars with roaring log fires for leisurely drinks, and the Spa, set to open in the near future, promises to be a first-class wellbeing destination. The charming country house has been enhanced by an extensive and tasteful refurbishment with further plans for a separate extension to feature 58 additional rooms, a luxurious spa and state-of-the-art meeting space.
Great hotel fir a romantic getaway or for golf
Reviewed By fetchamskiersLovely hotel with beautifully furnished rooms, lovely restaurant. They also have an excellent golf course. If you are playing golf I would recommend the courtyard room as good for the course. They are also adding a swimming pool, gym, spa and function room
8. Burt's Hotel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 470 reviews
Everyone needs a place to lay their weary head. For travelers visiting Melrose, Burt's Hotel is an excellent choice for rest and rejuvenation. Well-known for its quaint environment and proximity to great restaurants and attractions, Burt's Hotel makes it easy to enjoy the best of Melrose. You’ll enjoy relaxing rooms that offer a flat screen TV, and you can stay connected during your stay as Burt's Hotel offers guests free wifi. The hotel features room service. Plus, Burt's Hotel offers a lounge, providing a pleasant respite from your busy day. For guests with a vehicle, free parking is available. While staying at Burt's Hotel, visitors can check out The Leaderfoot Viaduct, also known as the Drygrange Viaduct (1.9 mi), which is a popular Melrose attraction. If you like Indian restaurants, Burt's Hotel is conveniently located near Indiana finest indian cusine. If you’re looking for something to do, Melrose Abbey (0.1 mi), Three Hills Roman Heritage Centre- Trimontium Museum (0.0 mi), and The Gallery, Melrose (0.0 mi) are a nice way to spend some time, and they are all within walking distance of Burt's Hotel. Whether you’re traveling for business, pleasure or both, Burt's Hotel is sure to make your visit to Melrose one worth remembering.
Excellent food and service, this is a well run hotel
Reviewed By Ann PWe had 3 nights here in a spacious superior double, excellent bed, no creaky floor boards and a good size bathroom. Breakfast and dinner were excellent, an interesting menu, well presented food and efficient service. We charged our electric car using the type 2 EV charging point in the hotel car park. This needs to be switched by reception and there's a 30p per kilo watt hour charge, which is reasonable. Plenty to see in the local area. The new Trimontium museum next door was excellent, giving a good insight into Roman artifacts found in the area.
9. Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa
Overall Ratings
4 based on 3584 reviews
Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa in Peebles, offers luxurious contemporary accommodation set in timeless natural surroundings. With the hotel's scenic location on the banks of the River Tweed you'll discover a relaxing haven - just 40 minutes outside Edinburgh and 90 minutes from Glasgow and the North of England - nestled amidst the tranquillity of the Scottish Borders landscape. With an award-winning restaurant, two bars, 99 comfortable and spacious bedrooms and conference and wedding facilities, our hotel in Peebles makes the perfect retreat for a leisure stay and offers a superb backdrop for any special occasion. While you're staying with us, why not try your hand at a round of golf on our 18-hole championship course or enjoy a dip in the pool and a luxurious treatment in our spa and leisure club. Guests can also take advantage of our fishing rights and try to catch some Scottish Salmon along the River Tweed.
Fantastic Stay
Reviewed By Foodlover5888Tom went above and beyond for us on this stay. My husband booked a spa break here for my brithday and it was Tom who took care of everything along with constant communication. He is truly an asset to the team!
10. Waverley Castle Hotel
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 967 reviews
The stately looking Waverley Castle Hotel, situated one mile outside the town of Melrose, is set splendidly in five acres of rolling parkland at the heart of the Scottish Borders. Nestling between the River Tweed and the Eildon Hills, it is a stunning building boasting stunning views. Guests can happily relax in the Eildon Restaurant and enjoy outstanding views out over the Eildon Hills. After dinner you can continue your evening in the welcoming bar and ballroom where you can dance the night away to our excellent evening entertainment. The area is perfect for those who like to get out and explore. There are several sightseeing walks to enjoy nearby including one along the River Tweed. Historical Edinburgh is easily accessible by car for a day trip and is well worth a visit for the castle, shops, architecture and much more.
Great mid range stay
Reviewed By 1664LOVEI was really worried about staying at the Waverley Castle hotel, having booked at short notice for a 2 night stay package, and then read previous reviews. I should not have worried. Our package included dinner on the first evening and was excellent value for money offering an average set meal choice and quality or £25 of the a la carte menu which had a wide and varied choice. Ground floor room was comfortable and looked recently refurbished, as did the bathroom where hot water was always available. (The shower head support bracket was loose and needs some slight attention, and the ventilation fan is quite noisey (R10)) We used the bar where the staff were very friendly and helpful Check in and departure staff at reception very helpful and efficient. The corridor and stair areas were very warm because apparently the hotel water and heating are linked, this is no problem for guests but must be costing the hotel a fortune given the recent energy price increases, I think the hotel management should be looking at correcting this without delay. Breakfast in the restaurant was excellent. Dogs were allowed in the Hotel and on the evening we used the bar there was a very large dog in the bar which made us cut our stay there short, as some one who is allergic to pets and pet hair this was not very good, we stayed in a specified pet free room without any issues. The quaint town was a short walk along the river or road and had several bars and restaurants, we used the Italian in the old railway station which was excellent.
