Robert Smail's Printing Works: A Living Victorian Printing Heritage
Step back into Victorian times at Robert Smail's Printing Works, the UK's oldest working letterpress printers and a vibrant museum of printing history.
Robert Smail's Printing Works in Innerleithen is the UK's oldest working commercial letterpress printing museum. Preserved by the National Trust for Scotland, it offers immersive guided tours showcasing Victorian-era printing presses, original office spaces, and hands-on experiences in traditional typesetting. Visitors can explore historic machinery, see printing in action, and purchase unique stationery crafted on-site, capturing a century of printing history in a vibrant, operational setting.
A brief summary to Robert Smail's Printing Works
- High St, Innerleithen, Innerleithen, EH44 6HA, GB
- +441896830206
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance as access to the printing works is by guided tour only and spaces are limited.
- Try your hand at typesetting during the tour for a hands-on experience of Victorian printing.
- Visit the stationer’s shop to purchase unique cards and prints made on original Victorian equipment.
- Check opening days carefully; the printing works is open mainly on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays during certain months.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Travel by train to Tweedbank Station, approximately 20 km from Innerleithen, then take a local bus or taxi for a 30-40 minute journey to Innerleithen. Train fares range around £10-£15, with bus fares approximately £3-£5. Services operate regularly but check schedules in advance.
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Car
Driving directly to Innerleithen from Edinburgh or Glasgow takes about 1.5 hours via the A7. Parking is available near the High Street but can be limited during peak times. No parking fees apply, but spaces are limited.
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Local Taxi
Local taxi services operate from nearby towns and railway stations. A taxi from Tweedbank Station to Robert Smail's Printing Works takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately £25-£30. Booking in advance is recommended.
Robert Smail's Printing Works 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
Discover more about Robert Smail's Printing Works
A Glimpse into Victorian Printing Craftsmanship
Robert Smail's Printing Works stands as a remarkable testament to the art and industry of letterpress printing from the Victorian era. Established in 1866, this printing shop operated continuously until 1986, producing newspapers, business cards, tickets, posters, and stationery for the local community. The building itself, located on Innerleithen's High Street, retains much of its original character, including Robert Smail’s office, which remains largely unchanged since the 19th century. Visitors step into a time capsule, witnessing the tools, furniture, and documents that shaped the daily life of a Victorian printer.Operational Museum with Authentic Machinery
The printing works is not just a static museum but a living, breathing workshop. It houses three working presses, including a pedal-operated press, the historic Wharfedale Reliance machine from the 1870s once powered by a water wheel, and a 1952 Heidelberg Platen press. Guided tours offer visitors the unique opportunity to see these machines in motion, demonstrating the intricate process of hand-setting type and printing before the digital age. The walls are lined with shelves of metal movable type and 52 guardbooks, showcasing an extensive archive of printed materials produced over a century.Hands-On Experiences and Educational Value
Visitors are invited to try their hand at typesetting in the Caseroom, learning how printers arranged individual letters into composing sticks to form words and sentences. This interactive element brings the craft to life, making it accessible and engaging for all ages. The museum also features a paper store and a stationer’s shop where guests can purchase cards, postcards, calendars, and prints created using the original Victorian and Edwardian equipment, blending historical appreciation with tangible souvenirs.Preservation and Cultural Significance
Since its acquisition by the National Trust for Scotland in 1986, Robert Smail's Printing Works has been preserved as a vital piece of Scotland's industrial heritage. It offers insights into the evolution of printing technology and the social history of the Scottish Borders. The site is protected by law, ensuring that this rare example of a working Victorian print shop remains intact for future generations to explore and appreciate.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The atmosphere within the printing works is immersive and evocative, with the scent of ink and paper filling the air. The guided tours, lasting about 90 minutes, provide detailed narratives about the printing process and the family business that ran it. The shop and office spaces add authenticity, with period furnishings and original documents that tell stories of local commerce and community life. The experience is both educational and nostalgic, appealing to history enthusiasts, families, and those curious about traditional crafts.Community Engagement and Special Programs
Robert Smail's Printing Works also welcomes school visits, offering educational programs that align with curriculum goals. Volunteers play an essential role in maintaining the site and delivering tours, fostering community involvement. The printing works occasionally hosts special events and workshops, enhancing its role as a cultural hub in Innerleithen and contributing to the preservation of printing heritage in Scotland.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Traquair Arms Hotel
0.3 km
Historic 200-year-old coach house hotel and gastro pub offering cozy rooms, hearty local cuisine, and warm hospitality in scenic Innerleithen.
Biking In The Borders
0.4 km
A spacious, cyclist-friendly holiday home in Innerleithen, perfect for exploring the iconic trails of the Scottish Borders.
Macdonald Cardrona Hotel
4.4 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, your perfect Scottish retreat in Peebles.
Eshiels Community Recycling Centre
6.7 km
Discover Eshiels Community Recycling Centre: A sustainable initiative in Peebles promoting responsible waste management and eco-friendly practices.
Peebles Hydro Hotel
8.1 km
Historic 4-star hotel with scenic Tweed Valley views, family-friendly leisure, spa, and classic Scottish hospitality in Peebles.
The Park
8.6 km
Historic charm and modern comfort meet in the heart of Peebles, with local dining and scenic walks just steps away.
Peebles Mercat Cross
8.7 km
Historic octagonal stone monument marking Peebles’ medieval market rights and civic heritage, adorned with unique carvings and a 17th-century sundial.
Blackwood & Smith LLP, Solicitors & Estate Agents
8.8 km
Explore Peebles with Blackwood & Smith LLP, your trusted experts in legal services and estate agency for a seamless property experience.
The Tontine Hotel
8.8 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Peebles, with excellent dining and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The Neidpath Inn
9.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at The Neidpath Inn, featuring cozy accommodations, local cuisine, and vibrant live music in the heart of Peebles.
Aikwood Tower
13.8 km
Experience 500 years of Scottish Borders history and luxury at Aikwood Tower, a stunning 16th-century peel tower set in breathtaking countryside.
Barony Castle Hotel
14.2 km
Historic 16th-century castle hotel near Peebles with luxury spa, acclaimed dining, and scenic grounds featuring the Great Polish Map of Scotland.
Hirendean Castle
14.9 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Hirendean Castle, a 16th-century peel tower nestled in Scotland’s serene Moorfoot Hills with rich history and haunting legends.
Tress Of The Kings
15.7 km
Discover the ancient Trees Of The Kings in Selkirk, where Scottish royal history and nature unite in a serene, storied landscape.
Southern Reporter
16.1 km
Historic home of the Southern Reporter newspaper, a cornerstone of Selkirk’s rich journalistic heritage on the town’s vibrant High Street.
Unmissable attractions to see
Borders Blues club
0.0 km
Experience authentic live blues in a cozy, vibrant venue at the heart of Innerleithen’s rich musical scene.
Traquair House
1.3 km
Discover Scotland’s oldest inhabited house, a royal hunting lodge turned historic family home with gardens, brewery, and centuries of Stuart heritage.
Leithen Water
3.2 km
Discover Leithen Water, the swift, clear river that shapes Innerleithen’s landscape, heritage, and community spirit in the Scottish Borders.
Horsburgh Castle
5.3 km
Explore the enchanting Horsburgh Castle, a historic landmark in Peebles, Scotland, offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval heritage.
Kailzie Gardens
5.4 km
Discover the enchanting walled garden, historic glasshouse, and serene woodland trails of Kailzie Gardens in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Glentress Forest Lodges
5.7 km
Peaceful forest lodges near Peebles offering cozy stays and direct access to world-class mountain biking trails in the Scottish Borders.
Go Ape Peebles, Glentress Forest
5.7 km
Experience Scotland’s highest zip wire and thrilling treetop challenges in the stunning Glentress Forest near Peebles.
Glentress Forest
6.0 km
Scotland's premier mountain biking destination set amid ancient woodland and dramatic Borders scenery.
Elibank Castle
6.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Elibank Castle, a 16th-century Scottish Border fortress with stunning valley views and rich clan history.
1881 Distillery & Gin School
8.1 km
Discover the UK’s largest residential gin school nestled in Peebles Hydro, crafting unique gins from local botanicals and pure spring water.
Eastgate Theatre
8.7 km
A vibrant community arts venue in Peebles offering theatre, music, film, and creative workshops in a stunning historic setting.
Peebles Burgh Hall
8.7 km
Historic Peebles Burgh Hall blends rich heritage with vibrant community spirit in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Tweeddale Museum & Gallery
8.7 km
Explore Borders heritage and art in a historic 16th-century building with free admission and engaging exhibitions year-round.
Peebles Library
8.7 km
Explore Peebles’ historic Chambers Institution with its vibrant library, museum, and gallery showcasing Borders heritage and art.
John Buchan Story Museum
8.8 km
Explore the life and legacy of John Buchan, Scotland’s famed author, in this intimate museum nestled in the heart of Peebles.
Essential places to dine
No1 Peebles Road
0.3 km
Cozy breakfast and coffee spot in Innerleithen offering great food, relaxing vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere at moderate prices.
Renwicks at Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf and Spa
4.4 km
Enjoy seasonal British and Scottish cuisine with panoramic views over Peebles' championship golf course at Renwicks Restaurant.
The Courtyard Cafe at Kailzie Gardens
5.3 km
A charming cafe nestled in Kailzie Gardens offering fresh seasonal dishes, warm hospitality, and a peaceful courtyard setting near Peebles.
Glentress Hotel
5.5 km
Mountain bike haven at Glentress Forest with hearty food, secure storage, and genuine outdoor hospitality.
Green Tree Hotel
8.6 km
Experience comfort and warmth at Green Tree Hotel in Peebles – your ideal base for exploring Scotland's breathtaking landscapes.
Mandarin Garden
8.7 km
Experience authentic Cantonese and Hong Kong flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Peebles.
The Cross Keys - Peebles
8.8 km
A historic and welcoming hotel in Peebles offering cozy rooms, a lively pub, and a perfect base for exploring the Scottish Borders.
Jim Jack's Fish & Chips - Peebles
8.8 km
Classic Scottish fish and chips served fresh and crispy in the heart of Peebles with friendly, made-to-order service.
The County
8.8 km
A cozy, dog-friendly pub in Peebles serving hearty food and warm hospitality in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Lychee Chinese Restaurant in Peebles
8.8 km
Authentic Chinese flavors and friendly service come together in Peebles’ cozy Lychee Chinese Restaurant, perfect for evening dining and takeaway.
The Crown Hotel
8.8 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Crown Hotel, Peebles’ cozy and welcoming base in the Scottish Borders.
Coltman's Kitchen, Deli & Bar
8.9 km
Fresh seasonal fare and relaxed dining with scenic River Tweed views in the heart of Peebles’ historic High Street.
Prince of India
8.9 km
Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in the heart of Peebles with warm hospitality and a diverse menu.
Bridge Inn
8.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at Bridge Inn, Peebles' cozy pub with local ales and hearty meals.
Franco’s
8.9 km
Cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Peebles offering authentic pizzas, pasta, and vegan-friendly dishes with scenic riverside views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Hub on the High Street
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts, local gins, and friendly service at The Hub on the High Street in Innerleithen.
Lou Lou's Vintage Emporium
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage Scottish cashmere and timeless treasures in a welcoming Innerleithen boutique.
FINDRA Clothing
0.2 km
Explore stylish, sustainable outdoor clothing and community spirit at FINDRA Clothing in Innerleithen’s vibrant High Street hub.
Droopy Dandelion - The Scottish Fairy Shop
0.2 km
A whimsical Scottish gift shop where handcrafted magic and fairy-tale wonder come to life.
Steffy's Boutique
8.7 km
Vintage elegance and preloved treasures, carefully restored for those who appreciate timeless style.
Graham McGrath
8.7 km
Discover timeless menswear and personalized style advice at Graham McGrath, Peebles’ charming boutique for quality fashion.
Whitie's Books & Crafts
8.7 km
Discover a cozy haven of books and crafts in Peebles where creativity and community come together in perfect harmony.
The Gift Box
8.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a bright, friendly boutique nestled in the heart of historic Peebles.
A Wee Treat
8.8 km
Discover quality gifts and local crafts at A Wee Treat, a beloved gift shop in the heart of Peebles, Scotland’s charming Borders town.
The Perfect Fit
8.8 km
A welcoming boutique on Peebles High Street offering quality baby and youth clothing, shoes, and toys with a personal touch.
The Couchee Righ
8.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish craftsmanship and local treasures in Peebles' most charming gift shop.
The Perfect Style
8.8 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personal styling in a welcoming boutique setting on Peebles’ historic High Street.
Sense Scotland
8.8 km
Vintage finds and second-hand treasures supporting disability services across Scotland.
Inis
8.8 km
Discover elegant ladies' fashion in the heart of Peebles at Inis, a boutique blending style, quality, and personalized service.
Peebles Comics & Games
8.8 km
Discover a vibrant world of comics, games, and collectibles at Peebles Comics & Games, your friendly local hub for nerd culture in the Scottish Borders.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Durty Brewing
0.3 km
Discover Innerleithen’s vibrant microbrewery with exclusive craft beers, a cozy taproom, and a welcoming atmosphere for all drink lovers.
The Handlebar & Grill Glentress
5.5 km
A cyclist-friendly grill in Glentress offering hearty local dishes, craft beers, and scenic outdoor dining amidst the Tweed Valley’s stunning trails.
Wild Bean Cafe
8.5 km
Cozy cafe in Peebles serving fresh coffee, pastries, and light meals daily from dawn till late evening.
The Central Bar
8.8 km
A cozy and friendly bar in Peebles offering a warm welcome, local drinks, and lively social nights in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Philipburn House Hotel
14.8 km
Historic Georgian charm meets modern comfort in tranquil gardens just outside Selkirk, ideal for exploring the scenic Scottish Borders.
Niki's Lounge Bar
15.3 km
A cozy, friendly lounge bar in Galashiels offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Town Arms Inn
16.0 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Town Arms Inn in Selkirk, a perfect base for exploring the enchanting Scottish Borders.
Tibbie Shiels Inn
18.6 km
Historic inn and camping by St. Marys Loch offering cosy rooms, live music, and stunning Scottish Borders scenery.
The Dean Tavern
27.7 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Newtongrange offering great food, excellent beer, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Waverley Bar
27.9 km
A traditional, friendly Scottish pub in Hawick’s heart, famed for its lively atmosphere and welcoming community vibe.
Office Bar
27.9 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Hawick’s historic West End, offering authentic charm, quality beers, and a friendly local atmosphere.
The Exchange Bar
28.0 km
Historic Victorian pub in Hawick with original wood panelling, ornate cornices, and a cozy lounge for live music and community gatherings.
Drumlanrig Bar
28.0 km
A cozy and lively bar in Hawick’s Drumlanrig Square, perfect for local beers, live music, and a welcoming Scottish Borders atmosphere.
The Flotterstone Inn
28.1 km
Experience the charm of The Flotterstone Inn, a welcoming retreat in Edinburgh, perfect for enjoying local cuisine and stunning landscapes.
The Royal Oak
28.4 km
A cozy and affordable British pub in Bonnyrigg, offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a warm local atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Vale Of Leithen Social Club
0.0 km
A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.
Union Club
0.3 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
The Indigo Rooms
16.0 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
Warehouse Nightclub
16.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
Morven
23.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Nothing
24.9 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
The Border Club
27.6 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
27.8 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
Square One
28.0 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
The Mash House
37.4 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
37.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Legends
37.4 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
37.4 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Bongo Club
37.4 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
37.4 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
