Best Attractions in Roxburghshire
Planning a trip to Roxburghshire? Discover the best attractions in Roxburghshire with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best attractions in Roxburghshire
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
63 attractions
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Tourist attraction4.6★3,402 reviews
Housesteads Roman Fort - Vercovicium - English Heritage Site
Housesteads Roman Fort, also known as Vercovicium, is the best-preserved Roman fort in Britain, perched dramatically on the Whin Sill escarpment along Hadrian’s Wall near Hexham. This ancient military site, occupied for nearly 300 years, features extensive ruins including barracks, a hospital, and the famously intact Roman toilets. The adjacent museum offers interactive exhibits and artifacts that bring Roman frontier life vividly to life, set against sweeping panoramic views of Northumberland’s rugged landscape.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Castle4.5★2,950 reviews
Lindisfarne Castle
Perched atop a volcanic crag on Holy Island, Lindisfarne Castle is a striking Tudor fort transformed into an Edwardian holiday home by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. Managed by the National Trust, it offers visitors panoramic views of the North Sea, unique Arts & Crafts interiors, and access to historic gardens and nearby lime kilns. The castle’s location on a tidal island requires careful attention to causeway crossing times, adding to its remote charm and dramatic setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.5★2,552 reviews
Jedburgh Abbey
Jedburgh Abbey, founded in 1138 by King David I, is one of Scotland’s four great Border Abbeys. This striking ruin showcases a unique blend of Romanesque and early Gothic architecture, reflecting centuries of construction and turbulent history near the English border. Visitors can explore the vast remains of the abbey church, cloisters, and ancillary buildings, alongside a visitor centre displaying medieval artefacts and a recreated herb garden.
Daily 9:30–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.6★2,068 reviews
Abbotsford the home of Sir Walter Scott
Abbotsford, located near Melrose in the Scottish Borders, is the former home of Sir Walter Scott, the celebrated 19th-century novelist and poet. This neo-Gothic mansion showcases Scott’s personal library, study, and richly decorated rooms left almost untouched since his death. Surrounded by beautifully maintained Regency gardens and woodland walks along the River Tweed, Abbotsford offers a unique glimpse into Scottish literary heritage and architecture.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Abbey4.5★2,134 reviews
Melrose Abbey
Melrose Abbey, located in the Scottish Borders town of Melrose, is a grand ruined Cistercian monastery founded in 1136 by King David I. Renowned for its exquisite late medieval Gothic architecture and intricate stone carvings—including the famous bagpipe-playing pig—the abbey is also the burial site of King Robert the Bruce's heart. While the abbey church is currently closed for masonry conservation, visitors can explore the cloister, grounds, and museum, which showcase medieval artifacts and the abbey’s rich history.
Daily 9:30–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Castle4.6★1,902 reviews
Dunstanburgh Castle
Dunstanburgh Castle, perched on a remote headland along Northumberland’s rugged coast, is one of England’s grandest medieval fortresses. Built in the early 14th century by Earl Thomas of Lancaster, its atmospheric ruins overlook dramatic cliffs and the North Sea. Accessible via a scenic 1.3-mile coastal walk from Craster village, the castle offers panoramic sea views, rich history, and abundant wildlife, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.7★1,515 reviews
National Monument of Scotland
The National Monument of Scotland, perched atop Calton Hill in Edinburgh, is a striking neoclassical structure inspired by the Parthenon in Athens. Conceived as a memorial to Scottish soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars, it remains unfinished since construction halted in 1829 due to funding shortages. Despite its incomplete state, the monument offers dramatic architectural presence and panoramic views over Edinburgh's skyline and the Firth of Forth.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Gift shop4.6★1,140 reviews
Floors Castle
Floors Castle, near Kelso in the Scottish Borders, is Scotland’s largest inhabited castle and a grand historic estate. Built in the 1720s and remodeled in the 19th century, it features magnificent architecture, extensive gardens including a Victorian walled garden and Millennium Garden, woodland and riverside walks, and inviting cafés. The estate offers a rich blend of history, nature, and cultural heritage, perfect for day trips from Edinburgh or Newcastle.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 3–5 hrs
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Gastropub4.6★993 reviews
The Horseshoe Inn
Nestled in the picturesque village of Eddleston near Peebles, The Horseshoe Inn is a renowned gastropub, restaurant, and boutique inn offering a cozy, characterful atmosphere. Known for its exceptional Scottish cuisine, including standout dishes like venison pie and full Scottish breakfasts, it combines rustic charm with refined dining. Guests enjoy comfortable, individually decorated rooms, a welcoming bar, and attentive service, making it a favored stop for travelers exploring the Scottish Borders.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Nature reserve4.8★870 reviews
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve, located on the tidal Holy Island off Northumberland's coast, is renowned for its rich wildlife including migratory birds, seals, and wildflowers. This protected coastal habitat features tidal mudflats, saltmarshes, dunes, and peaceful walking trails with bird hides, offering visitors a tranquil nature experience amid stunning seascapes and historic surroundings.
Time to spend 1.5–4 hrs
Paxton House
Paxton House, near Berwick-upon-Tweed, is one of Britain’s finest 18th-century Palladian country houses, designed by John and James Adam in 1758. Set on 80 acres of gardens, woodland, and riverfront, it features exquisite Adam interiors, an extensive collection of Chippendale furniture, and Scotland’s largest purpose-built picture gallery. Visitors enjoy guided tours, riverside walks, a tearoom, and family-friendly amenities including an adventure playground and picnic areas.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
Wilton Lodge Park
Wilton Lodge Park is a vast 107-acre urban green space in Hawick, Scotland, blending natural beauty with rich heritage. Centered around an 18th-century mansion housing the oldest museum in the Scottish Borders, the park offers woodland walks, a modern inclusive playground, formal gardens, and riverside paths along the River Teviot. With restored historic features, community horticulture, and a lively events program, it is a cherished destination for families, nature lovers, and culture seekers alike.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–4 hrs
Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum
Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum, located in the historic Scottish Borders town of Jedburgh, offers an immersive glimpse into 19th-century prison life within a striking castellated building. Built in the 1820s on the site of a medieval castle, it uniquely combines medieval exterior architecture with Georgian prison interiors. The museum also showcases local history, traditions, and notable figures, making it a rich cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
Mon–Sat 10:00–16:00 · Sun 10:00–15:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall
Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall, located near Moffat in Scotland, is one of the UK’s highest waterfalls, plunging 60 meters into a glacial valley. Set within the National Trust for Scotland's nature reserve, it offers a dramatic cascade resembling a horse’s tail, surrounded by rugged upland scenery, rare wildlife, and historic sites. The steep walking trail leads to Loch Skeen, a tranquil mountain loch and the waterfall’s source, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views and a rich natural heritage.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Go Ape Peebles, Glentress Forest
Set within the scenic Glentress Forest near Peebles, Go Ape offers an exhilarating treetop experience featuring high ropes courses, Scotland’s highest zip wire, and thrilling Tarzan swings. Surrounded by the lush Tweed Valley, this outdoor adventure blends adrenaline-pumping challenges with breathtaking natural beauty, perfect for families, friends, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable 2-3 hour activity in the Scottish Borders.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
Dryburgh Abbey
Dryburgh Abbey, nestled by the River Tweed near Melrose in the Scottish Borders, is a remarkably complete medieval ruin founded in 1150. Known for its graceful Gothic architecture, peaceful woodland setting, and as the final resting place of Sir Walter Scott, the abbey offers visitors a tranquil glimpse into monastic life with well-preserved cloisters, a chapter house with original plasterwork, and scenic grounds featuring ancient trees and memorials.
Daily 9:30–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Cragside Formal Garden
Cragside Formal Garden, part of the renowned Cragside estate near Morpeth, Northumberland, offers a beautifully tiered Victorian garden set amidst stunning natural landscapes. Known for its vibrant flower displays, manicured lawns, and historic features like the Italian Terrace and Gothic Clock Tower, the garden invites visitors to explore its three levels connected by elegant stairways. This tranquil garden complements the wider Cragside estate, famed for its pioneering hydroelectric house and extensive woodlands.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Thirlestane Castle
Thirlestane Castle, near Lauder in the Scottish Borders, is a magnificent 16th-century castle set in extensive parklands. Home to the Maitland family for over 400 years, it features grand State Rooms with exquisite plasterwork ceilings, an extensive collection of family portraits, and a unique Toy Museum. The castle offers guided tours, luxury accommodation, and hosts events, all within a stunning historic and natural setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Kailzie Gardens
Kailzie Gardens, located just outside Peebles in the Scottish Borders, is a stunning 20-acre estate featuring a magnificent walled garden with rare plants, an 1860 Mackenzie and Moncur glasshouse, and extensive woodland walks. Known for its seasonal displays of snowdrops, rhododendrons, roses, and autumn leaves, Kailzie offers a peaceful and scenic retreat with a welcoming café and dog-friendly atmosphere.
Daily 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts
Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts offer a remarkable glimpse into England’s turbulent border history with Scotland. The medieval castle ruins, complemented by some of the most complete and impressive Elizabethan and later bastioned town defences in England, surround the historic town. Visitors can walk the entire circuit of the ramparts, enjoying panoramic views of the town, the River Tweed, and the sea, while exploring detailed interpretation boards that bring the site’s rich military past to life.
Daily 10:00–16:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Mary Queen Of Scots' Visitors Centre
Set in a historic 16th-century tower house in the heart of Jedburgh, Mary Queen Of Scots' Visitor Centre offers an immersive journey into the life and times of Scotland’s tragic queen. Explore period rooms, evocative exhibits, and beautiful gardens featuring historic pear trees. The centre presents Mary's pivotal month in Jedburgh with engaging displays, audio guides, and a gift shop, all free to visit with donations welcomed.
Mon–Sat 10:00–16:00 · Sun 10:00–15:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Norham Castle
Norham Castle is a striking 12th-century medieval fortress located in Norham, near Berwick-upon-Tweed, England. Perched on the banks of the River Tweed, it played a pivotal role in Anglo-Scottish border conflicts for over four centuries. Today, its vast ruins and imposing Great Tower offer dramatic riverside views and a glimpse into its turbulent history, all accessible free of charge during daylight hours.
Daily 10:00–18:00Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Great Polish Map of Scotland
A unique and whimsical outdoor attraction located within the grounds of Barony Castle Hotel near Peebles, the Great Polish Map of Scotland is an oversized cartographic installation that reimagines Scotland's geography with a distinctly Polish artistic perspective. This quirky, Instagram-worthy landmark celebrates cultural exchange and artistic creativity, drawing visitors curious about its unconventional charm and the beautiful Scottish Borders landscape surrounding it.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Station Park
Station Park in Moffat is a well-maintained public park located on Beattock Road along the A701. It features a boating lake, children’s play areas, flower beds, and a putting green, making it a popular spot for families and visitors seeking a relaxing outdoor experience. The park also honors local heritage with a memorial to Air Chief Marshal Hugh Dowding, a notable WWII figure born in Moffat. Open daily from 8am to 6pm, it offers free parking and accessible facilities.
Daily 8:00–18:00Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Traquair House
Traquair House, located near Innerleithen in the Scottish Borders, is Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited house, dating back over 900 years. Originally a royal hunting lodge and later a family home of the Stuart family since 1491, it features historic architecture unchanged for over 300 years, extensive grounds with a maze and woodland, and a renowned brewery revived in the 20th century. Visitors can explore the house, gardens, brewery, and enjoy dining in the 1745 Cottage Restaurant.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Hermitage Castle
Hermitage Castle, located in the remote Scottish Borders near Newcastleton, is a vast and eerie fortress dating back to the 13th century. Known as the 'guardhouse of the bloodiest valley in Britain,' it played a pivotal role in controlling the Scottish Middle March. With a history steeped in violence, intrigue, and legend—including connections to Mary Queen of Scots and notorious Border reivers—this imposing ruin offers a haunting glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past.
Daily 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Neidpath Castle
Neidpath Castle is a striking 14th-century L-plan tower house perched on a cliff overlooking the River Tweed near Peebles, Scotland. With origins dating back to the 12th century, it has been home to the Fraser, Hay, Douglas, and Wemyss families, witnessing centuries of Scottish history including royal visits, sieges, and cultural legends. Today, it remains a privately owned historic site, retaining much of its medieval character and serving as a wedding and event venue.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Kelso Abbey
Kelso Abbey, founded in 1128 by King David I, is one of Scotland’s grandest medieval monastic ruins. Though currently closed for essential masonry repairs, its striking Romanesque architecture and evocative remains stand as a testament to its former wealth and religious significance. Set on the edge of the historic town of Kelso, the abbey’s ruins and surrounding graveyard offer a tranquil, atmospheric glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past, free to explore from outside the site.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Smailholm Tower
Smailholm Tower is a well-preserved 15th-century peel tower located near Kelso in the Scottish Borders. Built by the Pringle family as a defensive fortress against English raids, it stands 65 feet tall atop a rocky outcrop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and distant landmarks like Bamburgh Castle. The tower’s rich history includes its role in border conflicts, sheltering persecuted Catholic priests, and inspiring literary giant Sir Walter Scott. Visitors can explore its vaulted rooms, battlements, and exhibitions that bring to life centuries of turbulent Scottish heritage.
Mon–Thu 10:00–16:30 · Sun 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Hume Castle
Hume Castle, perched on a commanding hilltop near Kelso in the Scottish Borders, is a heavily modified ruin with origins dating back to the late 12th or early 13th century. Originally built by William de Home, it served as the ancestral seat of the powerful Home family and played a pivotal role in Anglo-Scottish conflicts. Rebuilt in the late 18th century as a romantic folly, it offers sweeping views across the Tweed Valley and remains a symbol of Scotland’s turbulent border history.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Mellerstain House & Gardens
Mellerstain House, near Gordon in the Scottish Borders, is a grand 18th-century stately home renowned as possibly the only complete building designed by Robert Adam. Featuring exquisite interiors, including a celebrated library and music room, it stands amidst 80 hectares of parkland with Italianate terraced gardens designed by Sir Reginald Blomfield. The estate reflects centuries of Scottish history and architectural evolution, open to visitors in spring, summer, and autumn.
Mon 11:00–16:00 · Fri–Sun 11:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Off the Square
Off the Square is a beloved café located at 20 Horsemarket in Kelso, offering a welcoming atmosphere with quality food and friendly service. Known for its delicious breakfast, lunch options, and exceptional afternoon teas, this cozy spot features indoor and outdoor seating, making it perfect for casual dining and relaxing with friends or family. Its popularity among locals and visitors alike is reflected in its warm ambiance and consistently praised menu.
Mon–Sat 9:30–15:30Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Scott's View
Scott's View is a renowned scenic viewpoint near Melrose in the Scottish Borders, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the River Tweed valley and the three peaks of the Eildon Hills. Named after Sir Walter Scott, who cherished this vista, it features easy access with free parking and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the rolling farmland, woodlands, and historical connections in a tranquil setting that captures the essence of Scotland’s heritage and natural beauty.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Coldstream Museum
Located in the heart of Coldstream’s Market Square, Coldstream Museum offers a rich exploration of the town’s unique border history and its famed Coldstream Guards regiment. The museum features permanent military exhibits, local history displays, a courtyard gallery with rotating contemporary art, and a children’s interactive area. Open seasonally from spring to autumn, it provides accessible facilities and a peaceful courtyard with picnic spots, all free to visit with donations welcomed.
Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Jacksons At Jedburgh
Jacksons at Jedburgh is a welcoming family-run farm in the Scottish Borders offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and traditional farming life. Meet Highland cows, sheep, goats, and other friendly animals while enjoying rustic outdoor play areas and scenic rural landscapes. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, this farm attraction blends education, relaxation, and wholesome fun for all ages in a tranquil countryside setting.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Treenis
Treenis is a captivating tourist attraction located in the picturesque town of Biggar, Scotland. Renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it offers visitors a tranquil retreat into the Scottish countryside. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, vibrant flora, and local stories that bring the area's history to life. Ideal for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts, Treenis blends scenic beauty with a welcoming community spirit.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
King's Own Scottish Borderers Regimental Museum
Situated in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s historic barracks, the King's Own Scottish Borderers Regimental Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the storied history of one of Scotland's renowned infantry regiments. The museum houses an extensive collection of military artifacts, including swords, guns, medals, and uniforms, curated by knowledgeable staff dedicated to preserving the regiment’s legacy. Visitors can explore exhibits that span centuries of military heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Lochcarron of Scotland Visitor Centre
Located in Selkirk, the Lochcarron of Scotland Visitor Centre offers an immersive experience into the world of Scottish tartan weaving. Visitors can explore a working mill, witness traditional weaving processes, enjoy a shop with a wide range of tartan clothing and accessories, and book private fittings for bespoke Highland wear. The centre blends heritage, craftsmanship, and retail in a welcoming setting within the Scottish Borders.
Mon–Thu 9:30–16:30 · Fri 9:30–14:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Rock UK Whithaugh Park
Nestled in 110 acres of scenic Scottish Borders countryside near Newcastleton, Rock UK Whithaugh Park is a premier outdoor adventure centre offering Scandinavian-style lodge accommodation, an indoor heated swimming pool, and over 30 adventurous activities including mountain biking, gorge walking, and a 300m twin zip wire. Ideal for groups from 4 to 192, it blends thrilling outdoor experiences with tranquil natural surroundings.
Daily 8:30–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 4–48 hrs
Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre & Golden Eagle Eyrie
Nestled in the scenic Philiphaugh Estate near Selkirk, the Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre offers a captivating insight into the life cycle of Atlantic salmon with live underwater footage and interactive exhibits. Adjacent is the Golden Eagle Eyrie, an informative exhibition dedicated to the conservation and resurgence of golden eagles in southern Scotland. Visitors can enjoy tranquil woodland walks, a restored waterwheel, and a charming café, making it a rich wildlife and heritage experience.
Daily 8:00–17:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Harmony Garden
Harmony Garden in Melrose is a serene, walled garden spanning about 3.5 acres, offering manicured lawns, vibrant borders, and historic bulb displays dating back over a century. Nestled opposite Melrose Abbey, it features a Georgian manor house, fruit and vegetable gardens, and panoramic views of the Abbey and Eildon Hills. Open daily from 10am to 5pm (April to October), admission is free with donations welcomed.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Edin's Hall Broch
Edin's Hall Broch, near Duns in the Scottish Borders, is a rare Iron Age broch located far south of Scotland's typical broch heartlands. Dating from around the 2nd century AD, this large drystone structure, approximately 28 meters in diameter, is surrounded by remnants of an ancient hillfort and a ruined village. Its unique location and impressive construction offer a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric defensive architecture outside the Highlands.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Cross Kirk
Cross Kirk is a striking ruin of a medieval church and former monastery in Peebles, Scotland, founded in the 13th century to house relics of St Nicholas. Set in a tranquil glade with mature Scots pine, it was a pilgrimage centre until the early 1600s and later served as the parish church before being abandoned in 1784. The site features impressive nave walls, a bell tower, and traces of cloisters, offering a peaceful glimpse into Scotland’s religious heritage.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Moffat Museum
Moffat Museum, located at 3 Church Gate in Moffat, Scotland, offers a fascinating journey through the town’s history from prehistoric times to the modern era. Housed in the historic Harthope House, the museum features interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and special exhibitions that explore Moffat’s evolution as a spa town, its role during wartime, and local legends. Operated by dedicated volunteers, it provides free entry and an engaging experience for all ages.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Cessford Castle
Cessford Castle is a large, ruined 15th-century L-plan fortress near Kelso in the Scottish Borders. Built around 1450 by Andrew Ker, the 1st Earl of Roxburghe, it was a heavily fortified stronghold of the notorious Border Reivers. With walls up to 4 meters thick and six storeys, including a pit prison and family living quarters, it withstood multiple sieges, notably by the Earl of Surrey in 1523. Abandoned by 1650, it remains a dramatic historical ruin set in peaceful countryside.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Fast Castle
Fast Castle is a striking medieval fortress ruin perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the North Sea in Berwickshire, Scotland. Dating back to at least the 14th century, its turbulent history includes repeated captures by English and Scottish forces, royal visits, and strategic importance during border conflicts. Today, the castle’s cliffside setting offers breathtaking coastal views and a challenging but rewarding walk, revealing remnants of its keep, curtain walls, and dramatic defensive position.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
The Royal British Legion
The Royal British Legion in Kelso is a vibrant social and community club located at 66 Roxburgh Street. It serves as a local hub for camaraderie, entertainment, and support for serving and ex-serving members of the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force. The club offers a welcoming atmosphere with a focus on remembrance and community spirit in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Moffat Spitfire
The Moffat Spitfire is a full-size replica of the iconic WWII Supermarine Spitfire fighter aircraft, located in the garden of a private home in Moffat, Scotland. Created by retired GP and former pilot Hamish MacLeod, it honors Air Chief Marshal Hugh Dowding, a native of Moffat and key figure in the Battle of Britain. This unique outdoor exhibit attracts aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, offering a rare chance to see an exact replica of the 1944 Mk IX Spitfire PT462 in a charming, accessible setting.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Black Middens Bastle House
Black Middens Bastle House is a 16th-century fortified farmhouse located in a remote part of Northumberland’s Tarset Valley. Built with thick stone walls to protect against Anglo-Scottish border raids, this bastle house features living quarters above and livestock shelter below. Now a roofless ruin managed by English Heritage, it offers a glimpse into the turbulent history of border reivers and rural life in the troubled Middle Ages.
Daily 9:00–17:00Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
St Cuthbert's Island
St Cuthbert's Island, also known as Hobthrush Island, is a small tidal island just off Holy Island in Northumberland. Accessible only at low tide, this secluded spot is steeped in spiritual history, reputed as a hermitage for St Cuthbert himself. Visitors can explore the remains of a medieval chapel and experience the tranquil natural surroundings that once offered refuge to one of England’s most venerated saints.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
The Hirsel Estate
The Hirsel Estate, near Coldstream in the Scottish Borders, is a grand historic country estate and Category A listed stately home, serving as the seat of the Earls of Home since 1611. The estate features a large Georgian house, extensive English-style gardens, parkland, woodlands, and a lake. Visitors enjoy craft workshops, a museum of country life, a tearoom, and scenic walks open year-round, all set in a landscape rich with history and natural beauty.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
Roxburgh Castle
Roxburgh Castle, located near Kelso in the Scottish Borders, is a historic ruin perched on a hill overlooking the Rivers Tweed and Teviot. Founded in the early 12th century by King David I, it played a pivotal role in the turbulent Anglo-Scottish conflicts, changing hands multiple times. Though now little remains beyond earthworks and fragments of stone walls, the site offers evocative views and a deep connection to Scotland’s medieval history, including the dramatic death of King James II during a siege in 1460.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Goswick Beach
Goswick Beach is a vast, serene stretch of golden sand along the Northumberland coast near Berwick-upon-Tweed. Known for its expansive dunes and sweeping views across Goswick Sands to Holy Island, this natural coastal haven offers peaceful walks, wildlife spotting, and a connection to local history. Its wide open spaces and striking seaside atmosphere make it a perfect escape for nature lovers and contemplative visitors.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Gordon Community Woodland
Gordon Community Woodland is a sprawling 200-acre mixed broadleaf forest near the village of Gordon in the Scottish Borders. Featuring ponds, a river, old burial mounds, a disused railway line, and a cabin, it offers diverse natural and historical elements for exploration. The woodland is community-managed, with extensive walking paths including all-ability trails, making it accessible and inviting for nature lovers and families alike.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Davidson's Linn
Davidson's Linn is a scenic double waterfall nestled within the Northumberland National Park near Alwinton, Morpeth. Surrounded by dense forest and rugged terrain, it offers a tranquil, natural retreat for hikers and nature lovers. The waterfall features a main drop of around 4-5 metres with smaller cascades above, creating a picturesque and peaceful setting. Access requires a moderate hike through forest paths and open land, rewarding visitors with stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
Time to spend 2–4 hrs
North Shore - Holy Island
North Shore on Holy Island, also known as Lindisfarne, offers a tranquil coastal experience with stunning beaches largely missed by day-trippers. This tidal island is rich in history and natural beauty, featuring dramatic landscapes, wildlife habitats, and peaceful walking paths along its rugged shoreline. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, enjoy local pubs and cafés, and immerse themselves in a unique island atmosphere shaped by tides and centuries of heritage.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 3–8 hrs
Sunderland Hall
Sunderland Hall, located near Galashiels in the Scottish Borders, is a historic estate featuring a 19th-century Scottish Baronial mansion surrounded by terraced gardens and archaeological remains. The site offers visitors a unique blend of architectural heritage, natural beauty, and glimpses into ancient history, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Yetholm Heritage Centre
Nestled in Town Yetholm near Kelso, the Yetholm Heritage Centre offers a captivating journey through the rich history of the Scottish Borders and the Cheviot Hills. Featuring interpretative panels and exhibits, it reveals stories from prehistoric times to the vibrant local culture, including the legacy of the Scottish gypsies. Open daily with free entry, it is a must-visit cultural hub for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Daily 10:00–16:30Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Bow Castle
Bow Castle is the evocative remains of an Iron Age broch perched above the Gala Water valley near Galashiels in the Scottish Borders. Dating back around 3,000 years, this archaeological site offers a glimpse into ancient fortified settlements unique to Scotland. Though much of the structure is ruined, Bow Castle’s commanding hilltop position and rich history, including Roman-era artifacts, make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
The Navvies Graveyard
The Navvies Graveyard near Biggar, Scotland, is a solemn memorial site dedicated to 37 Irish laborers who died during the construction of the Caledonian Railway in the 1840s. Marked by simple stones and a memorial plaque, this tranquil burial ground reflects the harsh conditions faced by these workers and stands as a poignant reminder of Scotland’s industrial heritage.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Chillingham Castle
Chillingham Castle, located near Alnwick in Northumberland, England, is a formidable 13th-century fortress renowned for its rich history, ghostly legends, and well-preserved medieval architecture. Once a strategic border stronghold against Scottish incursions, it features thick curtain walls, lavish state rooms, a notorious torture chamber, and expansive gardens. Today, it offers visitors a unique blend of historical intrigue and paranormal mystery in a stunning rural setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Roxburgh Mains
Roxburgh Mains, near Kelso in the Scottish Borders, is an archaeological site marking the remains of Roxburgh Castle and the vanished royal burgh of Roxburgh. Perched on a strategic hill between the Rivers Tweed and Teviot, this site witnessed centuries of Scottish-English conflict, royal intrigue, and medieval life. Today, only earthworks and fragments remain amid scenic landscapes, inviting exploration of Scotland’s turbulent border history.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Eventim Apollo
The Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith, West London, is a landmark live entertainment venue renowned for its stunning Art Deco architecture and rich musical history. Originally opened in 1932 as the Gaumont Palace cinema, it has hosted iconic performances by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Marley. Today, it blends historic charm with modern upgrades, offering a versatile space for concerts, comedy, and theatre in one of the UK’s best-preserved original theatres.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
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