Paxton House: A Palladian Masterpiece on the River Tweed
Explore Paxton House, a stunning 18th-century Palladian mansion with exquisite Adam interiors, fine furniture, and scenic gardens by the River Tweed.
Paxton House, near Berwick-upon-Tweed, is one of Britain’s finest 18th-century Palladian country houses, designed by John and James Adam. Built from 1758, it features exquisite Adam interiors, an extensive collection of Chippendale and Trotter furniture, and Scotland’s largest purpose-built picture gallery. Set within 80 acres of gardens and parkland along the River Tweed, it offers historic tours, riverside walks, a tearoom, and family-friendly amenities.
A brief summary to Paxton House
- Paxton, Berwick-upon-Tweed, TD15 1SZ, GB
- +441289385777
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance to fully appreciate the house’s history and collections.
- Visit the Courtyard Stables Tearoom for homemade cakes and light lunches in a historic setting.
- Allow time to explore the 80 acres of gardens, woodland, and riverside walks.
- Check seasonal schedules for boat trips on the River Tweed and special events.
- Accessibility options include wheelchair access and a wheelchair available for house and grounds tours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Berwick-upon-Tweed, take the B6461 for approximately 5 minutes to reach Paxton House. Parking is available on-site free of charge. The route is straightforward but note that minor roads lead to the estate.
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Bus
Bus number 32 runs from Berwick-upon-Tweed town center and railway station directly to Paxton House from Monday to Saturday during the main season. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes. Service frequency varies seasonally.
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Train and Bus
Arrive by train at Berwick-upon-Tweed on the East Coast Main Line, then connect to bus number 32 for a short 15-minute ride to Paxton House. This combination offers a convenient public transport option.
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Walking
For active visitors, walking from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Paxton House is possible but requires about 1.5 hours along country roads and footpaths. Terrain is mostly flat but not suitable for all mobility levels.
Paxton House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Paxton House
Architectural Elegance Rooted in Love and Legacy
Paxton House was commissioned in 1758 by Patrick Home of Billie, inspired by his love for Sophie de Brandt, a Prussian heiress. Though their marriage never occurred, the house stands as a testament to 18th-century Palladian architecture, designed by John and James Adam, brothers of the renowned Robert Adam. The design draws heavily on Italian Renaissance principles, resulting in a grand pink sandstone mansion with a commanding entrance portico and symmetrical wings housing the kitchen and stables. Its interiors showcase the refined neoclassical style that the Adam brothers popularized across Britain.Rich Collections and Regency Enhancements
In 1811, George Home, Patrick’s cousin, expanded Paxton House with the addition of the Regency Picture Gallery, Library, and Bust Room, designed by Robert Reid, Scotland’s King's Architect. This gallery is the largest purpose-built picture gallery in a Scottish country house and houses over 70 paintings on loan from the National Galleries of Scotland, featuring prominent Scottish artists such as Sir Henry Raeburn and the Scottish Colourists. The house’s twelve period rooms also display an exceptional collection of Thomas Chippendale and William Trotter furniture, representing the finest craftsmanship of the 18th and 19th centuries.Grounds and Gardens Along the Tweed
Paxton House is set within 80 acres of accessible gardens, woodland, and parkland on the banks of the River Tweed. Visitors can enjoy riverside walks, picnic areas, an adventure playground, and wildlife observation hides. The Victorian boathouse and salmon fishing museum have been restored, and boat trips on the Tweed are offered in summer months. The estate also includes a newly restored historic waterwheel, one of Scotland’s oldest domestic water supply systems, adding to the site’s heritage appeal.Historical Context and Caribbean Connections
The Home family, who owned Paxton House for generations, had significant ties to the Caribbean, owning sugar plantations in Grenada worked by enslaved people. Ninian Home, a former owner and governor of Grenada, was known for his comparatively humane treatment of enslaved workers, reflecting Enlightenment ideals, though the family profited from the plantation economy. The house and its contents reflect this complex history, preserved today for public benefit through the Paxton House Trust.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors can explore the house through guided tours that bring to life its rich history and collections. The Courtyard Stables Tearoom offers homemade cakes and light lunches in a charming setting, with accessible facilities including wheelchair access and a wheelchair available for tours. The estate also features a gift shop, picnic areas, and family-friendly activities, making it suitable for a range of visitors. Seasonal events and exhibitions add to the cultural offerings throughout the year.Preservation and Public Access
In 1988, John Home Robertson, the last family owner, gifted Paxton House, its contents, and 80 acres of grounds to the nation. The independent Paxton House Trust now manages the property, ensuring the preservation of its architectural and cultural treasures. The house remains remarkably unchanged since its Georgian heyday, offering a genuine glimpse into 18th and 19th-century aristocratic life in the Scottish Borders.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Broad Shiel
3.2 km
Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.
Royal Border Bridge
6.2 km
Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.
Berwick Bridge
6.4 km
A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Berwick Town Walls
6.7 km
Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.
Royal Tweed Bridge
6.7 km
A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Cumberland Bastion
6.7 km
Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.
Town Hall
6.7 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.
Coxon's Tower
6.8 km
Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.
Lord's Mount
6.8 km
Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.
Berwick Lighthouse
7.9 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.
Lamberton Skerrs
8.0 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.
Visit Berwickshire Coast
12.6 km
Explore the Berwickshire Coast: A stunning blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming coastal towns perfect for a memorable getaway.
Scoutscroft Leisure Park | Verdant Leisure
14.4 km
Relax by the stunning Berwickshire coast with cozy self-catering lodges, pet-friendly amenities, and seaside adventures at Scoutscroft Leisure Park.
Marjoribanks Monument
14.7 km
A towering tribute to Charles Marjoribanks offering stunning views and rich history at Coldstream’s eastern gateway.
Berwickshire High School
15.5 km
Discover Berwickshire High School in Duns, a charming educational institution that reflects the rich culture of the Scottish Borders.
Unmissable attractions to see
Union Bridge
1.0 km
Walk or cycle across the world’s oldest vehicular suspension bridge, a stunning 1820 engineering landmark linking England and Scotland over the River Tweed.
Lazy Day Cottages
3.1 km
Luxury log cabins with private hot tubs and sauna, nestled in peaceful Scottish Borders countryside near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Norham Castle
5.1 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of Norham Castle, a historic 12th-century fortress guarding the River Tweed and inspiring centuries of border history.
Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts
6.5 km
Walk the most complete Elizabethan ramparts in England, where medieval castle ruins meet panoramic views of Berwick and the River Tweed.
England / Scotland Border
6.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the England/Scotland border in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a must-visit for every tourist.
Berwick Boat Trips
6.6 km
Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed from the water on scenic boat trips blending wildlife, history, and stunning river and sea views.
Berwick Museum and Art Gallery
7.0 km
Discover Berwick’s rich history and art treasures within the atmospheric Berwick Barracks at this engaging museum and gallery.
Berwick-Upon-Tweed Barracks and Main Guard
7.0 km
Explore the historic 18th-century Berwick Barracks, a fortress of England’s border heritage with panoramic views and rich military exhibitions.
King's Own Scottish Borderers Regimental Museum
7.0 km
Explore the rich military heritage of the King's Own Scottish Borderers in Berwick's historic barracks museum.
Red Cliffs in Berwick-upon-Tweed
7.4 km
Experience breathtaking red sandstone cliffs and stunning coastal views just north of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Duddo Five Stones
8.3 km
Explore the ancient Duddo Five Stones, a mysterious Bronze Age stone circle set amidst Northumberland’s scenic border hills.
Twizel Castle
9.9 km
Explore Twizel Castle, a captivating medieval fortress transformed by Gothic revival, echoing centuries of border history in Northumberland.
Twizel Viaduct
10.7 km
Historic 19th-century six-arch railway viaduct near Cornhill-on-Tweed, blending Victorian engineering with scenic Northumberland countryside.
Manderston House
12.3 km
Explore Manderston House, an Edwardian masterpiece with the world’s only silver-plated staircase, set amid 56 acres of stunning Scottish Borders gardens.
Eyemouth Museum
12.4 km
Discover Eyemouth’s rich maritime heritage and community stories in this charming coastal museum with interactive exhibits and a welcoming atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
The Cross Inn Pub & kitchen
1.1 km
A charming countryside pub in Paxton offering traditional British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill
5.0 km
A welcoming family-friendly bar and grill in Berwick-upon-Tweed serving hearty homemade classics with fun for all ages.
The Castle Hotel & Restaurant
6.5 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort just steps from Berwick’s railway station and town centre.
Audela
6.6 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming historic setting on Berwick’s Bridge Street.
Restaurant 1782
6.6 km
Exquisite modern British dining in a historic manor with stunning sea views and seasonal local ingredients near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant
6.8 km
A cozy Berwick-upon-Tweed wine bar and restaurant offering local flavors, vegan and gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Limoncello
6.8 km
Experience fresh, authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting at Berwick’s beloved Limoncello on historic Hide Hill.
Ivy 43
6.8 km
Ivy 43 offers expertly crafted dishes and warm hospitality within the historic Kings Arms Hotel in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Amore Restaurant
6.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with charming indoor and garden terrace dining.
Allanton Inn
7.0 km
A charming countryside inn offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and tranquil garden views in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
The Wheatsheaf Hotel and Restaurant
10.7 km
A charming blend of traditional Scottish hospitality, fine dining, and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Borders.
The Heathers Restaurant
12.1 km
Fresh seafood and harbour views in a historic golf clubhouse overlooking Eyemouth's working waterfront.
Oblo
12.4 km
Stylish harbourfront bistro in Eyemouth serving fresh seasonal dishes, cocktails, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
The Ship Restaurant & Bar
12.4 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Eyemouth, serving fresh local seafood and hearty fare in a lively, dog-friendly harbour-side setting.
The Blue Bell Inn
13.9 km
A charming country inn blending rustic warmth with modern comfort, serving hearty meals in scenic Northumberland borders.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Seagull's Nest
6.6 km
Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed’s charming seaside gift shop filled with unique nautical treasures and local crafts.
Bijoux
6.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Bijoux, a charming gift shop in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Loop Emporium
6.6 km
Discover unique vintage and upcycled fashion treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Loop Emporium.
Artisans at Serendipity
6.7 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by local artists in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Derrants
6.7 km
Discover unique local gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Derrants.
Unique Antiques
6.8 km
Discover quirky, unique antiques in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at this charming Hide Hill shop.
Granny's Keepsakes
6.8 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and heartfelt keepsakes in the charming, friendly boutique of Granny's Keepsakes in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store
6.8 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and local heritage within Berwick-upon-Tweed’s historic Woolmarket district.
CJR Gifts & Designs
13.9 km
Handcrafted artisan treasures celebrating the creative spirit of the Scottish Borders.
ScotlandShop
14.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans and bespoke tailoring in Duns’ premier showroom, celebrating heritage with over 500 clan plaids.
Number 18 Shop
14.8 km
Explore Number 18 Shop in Duns for unique clothing, handcrafted candles, stylish handbags, and exquisite jewelry, perfect for souvenirs.
The National Trust Shop
21.8 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at The National Trust Shop in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
The Good Gift Company
26.9 km
Discover unique, thoughtful gifts in the welcoming heart of Kelso at The Good Gift Company, your boutique destination for special keepsakes.
Doreen Shepherd Designs
27.0 km
Discover bespoke elegance and timeless Scottish craftsmanship at Doreen Shepherd Designs in Kelso’s charming Scottish Borders.
Kelso Antiques Centre
27.0 km
Discover vintage treasures and rich history at Kelso Antiques Centre, a charming hub for collectors and curious visitors in the heart of Kelso.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Thatch
6.2 km
A friendly family-run pub in Tweedmouth offering great drinks, a games room, and a welcoming community atmosphere near Berwick’s old bridge.
The Radio Rooms
6.3 km
A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.
Leaping Salmon
6.5 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.
The Barrels
6.6 km
Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.
The Curfew Micropub
6.6 km
A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.
The First & Last Inn
9.2 km
Cozy coastal pub and B&B in Upper Burnmouth offering hearty meals, friendly service, and scenic Scottish Borders charm.
The Craw Inn
11.8 km
Charming country inn in Auchencrow offering hearty food, cozy rooms, real ales, and warm Scottish Borders hospitality.
The Contented Sole
12.5 km
A friendly harbour-side pub offering fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare in the heart of Eyemouth’s fishing community.
BEST PUBLIC BAR
15.2 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Coldstream offering authentic Scottish Border hospitality in a charming rural setting.
The Lindisfarne Inn
15.7 km
Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.
The Vibe
27.3 km
A vibrant late-night bar in Kelso’s heart, The Vibe offers a lively spot for drinks and socializing until the early hours.
Schooner Inn
35.1 km
A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.
The Bear & Bull
36.8 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming bar and café on Dunbar’s High Street, offering quality food, drinks, and a warm local atmosphere.
The Joiners Arms
40.4 km
A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.
Ancrum Cross Keys
40.8 km
A charming Scottish Borders pub offering warm hospitality, exceptional locally sourced food, and scenic riverside views in Ancrum village.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed
6.6 km
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.
BedRocks
6.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
Nothing
40.7 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
Morven
43.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Warehouse Nightclub
46.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
The Indigo Rooms
46.6 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
The Border Club
56.3 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
Base Nightclub
56.6 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
Square One
57.1 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Borders Blues club
61.7 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Borders Blues Club, where the best of British blues music comes alive in Innerleithen.
The Vale Of Leithen Social Club
61.7 km
A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
61.8 km
A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.
Union Club
62.0 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
The Cross Keys - Peebles
68.6 km
Historic inn and cozy hotel in Peebles town centre, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and a lively pub atmosphere.
The Central Bar
68.7 km
Experience the heart of Peebles at The Central Bar, where local charm and refreshing drinks await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
