Top Things to do in Melrose
Things to do in Melrose, Scotland: The Best Sights & Landmarks
Discover the best top things to do in Melrose, United Kingdom including Melrose Abbey, Abbotsford House, Eildon Hills, The Leaderfoot Viaduct, also known as the Drygrange Viaduct, The Abbey Mill, Rhymer's Stone.
Restaurants in Melrose
1. Melrose Abbey
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,136 reviews
Melrose Abbey is now open and we are delighted to welcome you back. Booking in advance is essential. Find out more and book at restarthistory.scot. Probably the most famous ruin in Scotland, the abbey was founded by David I in 1136 for the Cistercian Order, and it was largely destroyed by Richard II's English army in 1385. The surviving remains of the church are of the early 15th century, and are of an elegance unsurpassed in Scotland. Objects found during excavation are displayed in the Commendator's House. The exterior of this magnificent ruin is decorated by unusual sculptures, including hobgoblins, cooks with ladles and a bagpipe playing pig. The abbey is also thought to be the burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart, marked with a commemorative carved stone plaque within the grounds.
Reviewed By Termer13 - Swanage, United Kingdom
Prominently situation in Melrose, the Abbey is an integral part of the identity of Melrose. Imposing and full of atmosphere the Abbey is well worth a visit and while you’re there there’s loads more to see in this lovely borders town where I happily grew up!
2. 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.
3. Eildon Hills
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 111 reviews
Reviewed By TimN781 - Lymington, United Kingdom
We walked up the 2 tallest hills to have fantastic views from each summit. Starting from Melrose, it was a hard 80 minute climb to the Mid hill summit at 422m. Down the same path, a bit of a scramble, then up to the north summit. Breathtaking views at both summits, in all directions. Carried on down steep path to Newstead and back to Melrose. Nearly 4 hours in all. A great walk.
4. The Leaderfoot Viaduct, also known as the Drygrange Viaduct
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 80 reviews
Reviewed By Q3750YCsueg - Accrington, United Kingdom
We had seen this from the main road while driving into Melrose. On the way back we saw signs for the viaduct so we pulled off down the road, which isn't very long and you can just park on the road side as there is a sign that says no vehicles past this point, parking is free of charge with no time restrictions. It is only a very short walk (as I am disabled this is important for me). The viaduct stands majestically in the landscape, it is beautiful as you stand looking down into the river Tweed will the viaduct on your left hand side and to the right a bridge that is older and today's modern bridge behind it. There is a large information board which tells you the history of all three bridges. There are also signposted walks for other attractions in the area. There is some seating available if you want to just rest awhile.
