Top Things to do in Scottish Borders
What to do and see in Scottish Borders, Scotland: The Best Gardens
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. Carolside gardens
2. Monteviot Gardens
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
3. 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.
4. Mellerstain House & Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 147 reviews
Experience one of Scotland's finest stately homes. Located in the heart of the Scottish Borders, Mellerstain is a unique example of William & Robert Adam design, presenting a complete picture as it would have been some 240 years ago. •Admire the outstanding Robert Adam interiors •Enjoy the fine art, embroidery, china & furniture collections.•Relax within acres of parkland, gardens,lakeside/ woodland walks & playground •Treat yourself in the courtyard café •Holiday in our self-catering cottages.
Reviewed By CLE68 - Scotland, United Kingdom
Family visit to the gardens which were beautiful and stunning to walk round. A great woodland walk leading round the lake with the house as a backdrop - well signposted and clear paths. The gardens are well tended and bursting with colour. The cafe is only serving hot / cold drinks. We were served by a very efficient and mannerly young man who also sold the tickets for the gardens. The coffees were fantastic - cappuccino and espresso. Lovely to see barista style coffee being served. Definitely 5* service and would highly recommend visiting these beautiful gardens and grounds.
5. Dawyck Botanic Garden and Cafe
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 344 reviews
Dawyck is truly one of the world's finest arboreta. Seasonal displays of abundant exotic and native plants provide a breathtaking backdrop of colour throughout the year. The Garden also offers an award-winning visitor centre, gift shop with plant sales and a cafe. Part of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
Reviewed By Bridgehouse_10 - Staveley, United Kingdom
If you want a relaxing and inspiring three hours, like big trees, bushes & shrubs, and enjoy areas of outstanding natural beauty, this is a great place to visit.
6. Hirsel Estate
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 96 reviews
Reviewed By jamesmO3669SC - Dundee, United Kingdom
THIS IS A VERY GOOD PLACE to spend a day out by yourself or as a family or group. Lots to see and do. Visit the heritage farm exhibition, go for walks around the estate, see the azalia's , rhodedendrums and flowering bushes, then pop into the lovely tearoom for a lite bite.
7. Mary Queen of Scots' Visitor Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 570 reviews
Following advice from the Government and Public Health Scotland in relation to Covid-19, Mary Queen of Scots' Visitor Centre is temporarily closed. A re-opening date cannot be predicted at this time but our website and social media platforms will be regularly updated. We are grateful for your patience and understanding and very much look forward to welcoming you back. Mary Queen of Scots’ Visitor Centre is set in the centre of historic Jedburgh and this 16th century tower house tells the story of Scotland’s tragic queen. Mary’s month here in Jedburgh in 1566 was a turning point in her life. A fine display of paintings, objects and textiles associated with her explores not only her life and times but the cult that has grown up around her.
Reviewed By JGrant44 - Cork, Ireland
Housed in a lovely building, this really is a good place to have a quick history lesson on Mary Queen of Scots and events of the time. Extremely interesting displays, lovely building, helpful staff, nice grounds and all without charge. Well worth a visit and thank you so much.
8. Woodside Garden Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 72 reviews
An attractive Victorian walled garden with an award-winning tearoom, plant centre, wildlife garden and events and activities
Reviewed By austindibb
Great cafe with good covid measures. The sandwiches were wonderfully fresh with local produce.. Just had to stop again on the way back to Perthshire. Oh yes and just happened to squeeze in a victoria plum tree into the car. Got some great advice from the garden centre.
9. Monteviot House and Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 45 reviews
10. Stobo Farm
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 58 reviews
The garden is currently closed to all visitors as it is undergoing a programme of major engineering and maintenance work.
Reviewed By FitzyMax - Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Beautiful place to walk and appreciate nature in this peaceful haven within the grounds of Stobo Castle.
