Kailzie Gardens: A Historic Botanical Haven in the Scottish Borders
Explore 20 acres of historic walled gardens, ancient woodlands, and vibrant seasonal blooms just east of Peebles in the scenic Scottish Borders.
Kailzie Gardens is a captivating 20-acre botanical garden and woodland estate located just east of Peebles in the Scottish Borders. Renowned for its stunning 19th-century walled garden, Victorian glasshouse, and diverse plant collections, it offers visitors peaceful woodland walks, vibrant seasonal displays, and a charming café. The garden’s rich history, mature specimen trees including the UK's oldest larch, and beautifully maintained herbaceous borders make it a year-round destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Kailzie Gardens
- Kailzie, Peebles, EH45 9HT, GB
- +441721720682
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during spring to enjoy the spectacular displays of snowdrops and bluebells along woodland trails.
- Reserve a spot at the Courtyard Café to sample local produce and enjoy refreshments during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring both the formal gardens and woodland paths, some of which have uneven terrain.
- Bring a camera to capture the enchanting laburnum arch, rose garden, and the rare Victorian glasshouse.
- The gardens are dog friendly but picnics are not permitted; refreshments are to be consumed in the café only.
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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Bus
Take the Borders Buses service from Peebles town center to the B7062 road stop near Kailzie Gardens, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Services run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency varies. Walking from the bus stop to the gardens involves a 10-minute walk on a minor road.
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Car
Driving from Peebles town center to Kailzie Gardens takes about 10 minutes via the B7062. Free parking is available on-site. Note that the access road is narrow in places and may be busy during peak seasons.
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Walking
For the adventurous, a scenic 5 km walk from Peebles town center to Kailzie Gardens follows country lanes and footpaths, taking roughly 1 to 1.5 hours. Terrain is mostly gentle but includes some uneven surfaces.
Kailzie Gardens 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 Kailzie Gardens
Legacy of a Timeless Garden Estate
Nestled on the banks of the River Tweed, Kailzie Gardens spans 20 acres of meticulously cultivated gardens and ancient woodlands. The estate’s origins reach back centuries, with the famous Kailzie larch planted in 1725 standing as the oldest in the UK. The gardens reflect generations of passionate horticultural care, blending formal and wild elements harmoniously. Central to the estate is the 19th-century walled garden, enclosed by imposing 18-foot-high walls that shelter an array of plants including climbers, vegetables, and vibrant herbaceous borders.A Botanical Showcase of Seasonal Splendor
Kailzie Gardens is celebrated for its year-round floral displays. Spring brings carpets of snowdrops and bluebells along woodland paths, while summer showcases a spectacular rose garden and mature shrubs bursting with color. Autumn transforms the landscape with brilliant foliage, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding rolling hills. The Victorian glasshouse, a rare example of Mackenzie and Moncur’s regency craftsmanship dating from 1860, houses exotic plants such as fuchsias and pelargoniums, enriching the garden’s botanical diversity.Woodland Walks and Arboretum Treasures
Beyond the walled garden, visitors can explore extensive woodland trails that wind through a well-laid arboretum featuring champion trees and rare specimens. The naturalistic setting invites quiet reflection and wildlife spotting amidst burnside walks and shaded glades. The estate’s diverse habitats provide a tranquil escape, where the sounds of rustling leaves and birdcalls enhance the sensory experience.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Kailzie Gardens offers a welcoming visitor environment with accessible paths, a popular Courtyard Café serving local produce, and a seasonal shop featuring gifts and plants. The estate is dog friendly and provides free parking. Activities include a children’s nature trail, an 18-hole putting green, and pétanque courts, making it suitable for families and casual visitors alike. Informative signage throughout the gardens aids plant identification and enriches the visit.Conservation and Community Connection
The garden is a locally managed, eco-friendly site committed to preserving its natural and horticultural heritage. It acts as a cultural landmark within the Scottish Borders, hosting seasonal events such as the Snowdrop Festival. Kailzie Gardens fosters a deep connection between visitors and the landscape, encouraging mindfulness and appreciation of Scotland’s botanical legacy.Seasonal Highlights and Special Features
Visitors can witness spectacular displays of snowdrops in February, vibrant rhododendrons in spring, and prize-winning show vegetables cultivated within the walled garden. Sculptures and water features add artistic touches throughout the grounds. The estate’s blend of formal garden design and wild woodland creates a unique, immersive environment that changes with the seasons, inviting repeat visits throughout the year.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Macdonald Cardrona Hotel
1.5 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, your perfect Scottish retreat in Peebles.
Eshiels Community Recycling Centre
1.5 km
Discover Eshiels Community Recycling Centre: A sustainable initiative in Peebles promoting responsible waste management and eco-friendly practices.
Peebles Hydro Hotel
2.9 km
Historic 4-star hotel with scenic Tweed Valley views, family-friendly leisure, spa, and classic Scottish hospitality in Peebles.
The Park
3.2 km
Historic charm and modern comfort meet in the heart of Peebles, with local dining and scenic walks just steps away.
Peebles Mercat Cross
3.4 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
3.5 km
Explore Peebles with Blackwood & Smith LLP, your trusted experts in legal services and estate agency for a seamless property experience.
The Tontine Hotel
3.5 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Peebles, with excellent dining and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The Neidpath Inn
3.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at The Neidpath Inn, featuring cozy accommodations, local cuisine, and vibrant live music in the heart of Peebles.
Traquair Arms Hotel
5.3 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
5.3 km
A spacious, cyclist-friendly holiday home in Innerleithen, perfect for exploring the iconic trails of the Scottish Borders.
Barony Castle Hotel
9.8 km
Historic 16th-century castle hotel near Peebles with luxury spa, acclaimed dining, and scenic grounds featuring the Great Polish Map of Scotland.
The Dawyck Cafe
11.8 km
A warm, light-filled cafe in the heart of Dawyck Botanic Garden, serving seasonal soups, sandwiches, and excellent home baking with views over 65 acres of woodland.
Hirendean Castle
12.7 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.
James Hogg Monument
18.6 km
A striking white monument honoring James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, overlooking the serene St Mary's Loch in Scotland's Borders.
Aikwood Tower
18.6 km
Experience 500 years of Scottish Borders history and luxury at Aikwood Tower, a stunning 16th-century peel tower set in breathtaking countryside.
Unmissable attractions to see
Horsburgh Castle
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting Horsburgh Castle, a historic landmark in Peebles, Scotland, offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval heritage.
Glentress Forest Lodges
1.3 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
1.8 km
Experience Scotland’s highest zip wire and thrilling treetop challenges in the stunning Glentress Forest near Peebles.
1881 Distillery & Gin School
2.9 km
Discover the UK’s largest residential gin school nestled in Peebles Hydro, crafting unique gins from local botanicals and pure spring water.
Glentress Forest
2.9 km
Scotland's premier mountain biking destination set amid ancient woodland and dramatic Borders scenery.
Eastgate Theatre
3.3 km
A vibrant community arts venue in Peebles offering theatre, music, film, and creative workshops in a stunning historic setting.
Peebles Burgh Hall
3.4 km
Historic Peebles Burgh Hall blends rich heritage with vibrant community spirit in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Tweeddale Museum & Gallery
3.4 km
Explore Borders heritage and art in a historic 16th-century building with free admission and engaging exhibitions year-round.
Peebles Library
3.4 km
Explore Peebles’ historic Chambers Institution with its vibrant library, museum, and gallery showcasing Borders heritage and art.
John Buchan Story Museum
3.4 km
Explore the life and legacy of John Buchan, Scotland’s famed author, in this intimate museum nestled in the heart of Peebles.
Go Tweed Valley Visitor Information Centre
3.4 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore the stunning landscapes, culture, and activities of Scotland’s Tweed Valley from Peebles High Street.
The Super Store
3.4 km
Peebles’ beloved natural foods shop offering organic, vegan, and free-from products in a friendly, community-focused setting.
The Oven Door
3.5 km
Charming courtyard café in Peebles offering homemade bakes, fresh sourdough, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Shukria Indian Cuisine
3.5 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi takeaway in Peebles, serving freshly prepared halal dishes with friendly service and rich flavors.
Peebles Old Parish Church
3.6 km
A majestic Gothic Revival church standing proudly on Peebles’ historic High Street, blending centuries of heritage and stunning artistry.
Essential places to dine
The Courtyard Cafe at Kailzie Gardens
0.1 km
A charming cafe nestled in Kailzie Gardens offering fresh seasonal dishes, warm hospitality, and a peaceful courtyard setting near Peebles.
Glentress Hotel
1.0 km
Mountain bike haven at Glentress Forest with hearty food, secure storage, and genuine outdoor hospitality.
Renwicks at Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf and Spa
1.5 km
Enjoy seasonal British and Scottish cuisine with panoramic views over Peebles' championship golf course at Renwicks Restaurant.
Green Tree Hotel
3.3 km
Experience comfort and warmth at Green Tree Hotel in Peebles – your ideal base for exploring Scotland's breathtaking landscapes.
Mandarin Garden
3.4 km
Experience authentic Cantonese and Hong Kong flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Peebles.
Jim Jack's Fish & Chips - Peebles
3.4 km
Classic Scottish fish and chips served fresh and crispy in the heart of Peebles with friendly, made-to-order service.
The Cross Keys - Peebles
3.4 km
A historic and welcoming hotel in Peebles offering cozy rooms, a lively pub, and a perfect base for exploring the Scottish Borders.
The County
3.4 km
A cozy, dog-friendly pub in Peebles serving hearty food and warm hospitality in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
The Crown Hotel
3.5 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Crown Hotel, Peebles’ cozy and welcoming base in the Scottish Borders.
Lychee Chinese Restaurant in Peebles
3.5 km
Authentic Chinese flavors and friendly service come together in Peebles’ cozy Lychee Chinese Restaurant, perfect for evening dining and takeaway.
Coltman's Kitchen, Deli & Bar
3.5 km
Fresh seasonal fare and relaxed dining with scenic River Tweed views in the heart of Peebles’ historic High Street.
Prince of India
3.5 km
Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in the heart of Peebles with warm hospitality and a diverse menu.
Bridge Inn
3.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at Bridge Inn, Peebles' cozy pub with local ales and hearty meals.
Franco’s
3.6 km
Cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Peebles offering authentic pizzas, pasta, and vegan-friendly dishes with scenic riverside views.
The Cozy Kitchen
3.6 km
Exceptional homemade bakes and specialty coffee in Peebles' most welcoming Old Town sanctuary.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Steffy's Boutique
3.4 km
Vintage elegance and preloved treasures, carefully restored for those who appreciate timeless style.
Graham McGrath
3.4 km
Discover timeless menswear and personalized style advice at Graham McGrath, Peebles’ charming boutique for quality fashion.
Whitie's Books & Crafts
3.4 km
Discover a cozy haven of books and crafts in Peebles where creativity and community come together in perfect harmony.
The Gift Box
3.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a bright, friendly boutique nestled in the heart of historic Peebles.
A Wee Treat
3.4 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
3.4 km
A welcoming boutique on Peebles High Street offering quality baby and youth clothing, shoes, and toys with a personal touch.
The Perfect Style
3.4 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personal styling in a welcoming boutique setting on Peebles’ historic High Street.
Sense Scotland
3.4 km
Vintage finds and second-hand treasures supporting disability services across Scotland.
The Couchee Righ
3.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish craftsmanship and local treasures in Peebles' most charming gift shop.
Inis
3.5 km
Discover elegant ladies' fashion in the heart of Peebles at Inis, a boutique blending style, quality, and personalized service.
Head To Toe
3.5 km
Discover beautiful gifts and warm hospitality at Head To Toe, a cherished shop on Peebles’ historic High Street since 1989.
Scott Brothers
3.5 km
A beloved family-run hardware shop in Peebles offering a vast range of home, garden, and DIY essentials with expert local service since 1891.
Wilkies of Peebles
3.5 km
Discover timeless fashion and quality outerwear at Wilkies, Peebles’ beloved High Street clothing shop blending tradition with style.
Peebles Comics & Games
3.5 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.
Herringbone Gift Shop and Number Fifty Six Tea & Coffee House
3.5 km
Artisan coffee and curated gifts in a charming Peebles townhouse.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Handlebar & Grill Glentress
1.0 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
3.2 km
Cozy cafe in Peebles serving fresh coffee, pastries, and light meals daily from dawn till late evening.
The Central Bar
3.4 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.
Durty Brewing
5.3 km
Discover Innerleithen’s vibrant microbrewery with exclusive craft beers, a cozy taproom, and a welcoming atmosphere for all drink lovers.
Tibbie Shiels Inn
18.5 km
Historic inn and camping by St. Marys Loch offering cosy rooms, live music, and stunning Scottish Borders scenery.
Philipburn House Hotel
20.1 km
Historic Georgian charm meets modern comfort in tranquil gardens just outside Selkirk, ideal for exploring the scenic Scottish Borders.
Niki's Lounge Bar
20.5 km
A cozy, friendly lounge bar in Galashiels offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Town Arms Inn
21.3 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Town Arms Inn in Selkirk, a perfect base for exploring the enchanting Scottish Borders.
Cross Keys
24.2 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Biggar offering hearty fare, quality drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere where friendships are forged.
The Flotterstone Inn
24.9 km
Experience the charm of The Flotterstone Inn, a welcoming retreat in Edinburgh, perfect for enjoying local cuisine and stunning landscapes.
The Dean Tavern
26.4 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Newtongrange offering great food, excellent beer, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Royal Oak
26.6 km
A cozy and affordable British pub in Bonnyrigg, offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a warm local atmosphere.
Laird & Dog Inn
27.6 km
A charming traditional inn in Lasswade offering hearty Scottish fare, friendly service, and a cozy base near Edinburgh.
Ship Inn
29.1 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Dalkeith’s High Street offering hearty fare, local ales, and a friendly community atmosphere.
Old Colliery
30.2 km
Friendly family pub near Edinburgh with hearty food, dog-friendly perks, and a proud mining heritage in a welcoming community setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Union Club
5.2 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
The Vale Of Leithen Social Club
5.4 km
A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Indigo Rooms
21.2 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
Warehouse Nightclub
21.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
Morven
28.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Nothing
30.3 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
The Border Club
32.4 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
32.5 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
Square One
32.7 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Legends
34.9 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Mash House
34.9 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
34.9 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Bongo Club
34.9 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
La Belle Angele
34.9 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Liquid Room
34.9 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
