Bowhill House & Grounds: A Victorian Estate in the Scottish Borders
Explore Bowhill House’s Victorian heritage, scenic woodland walks, and family adventure playground in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Bowhill House & Grounds, near Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, is a historic country estate offering exclusive Victorian-era house tours, extensive landscaped grounds, and a family-friendly adventure playground. The estate features a world-renowned art collection, way-marked woodland walks, and seasonal amenities including cafes and exhibitions, making it a rich cultural and outdoor destination.
A brief summary to Bowhill House & Grounds
- Bowhill House, Selkirk, TD7 5ET, GB
- +44175022204
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book the limited-access Victorian Home tour in August well in advance to secure your place.
- Visit the adventure playground during its open season from April to August for family fun.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive woodland trails and estate grounds.
- Enjoy refreshments at the Old Kitchen Café or bring a picnic to use the designated picnic areas.
- Use the Borders Estate car park for year-round access to walks like Lady’s Walk and Duchess’ Drive.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Selkirk, Bowhill House is approximately 3 miles west via the A708 Moffat/St Mary’s Loch Road, with ample on-site parking available for a £3 charge. The route is well signposted with brown tourist signs. Travel time is about 10 minutes. Note that parking fees apply.
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Train and Taxi
Take the Borders Railway to Galashiels Station, then a taxi ride of about 15 minutes covers the 5-mile journey to Bowhill House. Taxi services include Hunters Cabs and Selkirk Taxis. This option is suitable for visitors without a car but requires taxi booking in advance.
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Cycling
For active travelers, cycling from Galashiels to Bowhill takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes along local roads and countryside paths. The terrain is moderate, suitable for experienced cyclists comfortable with rural routes.
Bowhill House & Grounds location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Bowhill House & Grounds
A Storied Victorian Home and Its Legacy
Bowhill House stands as the principal residence of the Dukes of Buccleuch, with a history spanning over two centuries. In August 2025, visitors can explore the newly opened "Bowhill – The Victorian Home" tour, which offers exclusive access to nine rooms rarely seen by the public. These rooms highlight the private and social spaces of the 5th Duke of Buccleuch, Walter Francis, and his wife Charlotte Anne, notable figures closely connected to Queen Victoria. The tour reveals Bowhill not only as a grand estate but as a lived-in home, showcasing impressive interiors such as the Saloon, framed by 17th-century Mortlake tapestries. The house also houses the internationally acclaimed Buccleuch Collection, featuring masterpieces by artists like Canaletto, Raeburn, Reynolds, and Gainsborough, alongside exquisite furniture, silver, and rare books.Expansive Grounds and Scenic Woodland Trails
Surrounding the house, Bowhill’s grounds offer a tranquil natural retreat with beautifully landscaped gardens and extensive walking paths. Four way-marked trails of varying lengths wind through glens and heather-clad hills, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls or invigorating hikes. The Borders Estate area remains open year-round, welcoming visitors to enjoy less formal surroundings, including the Lady’s Walk and Duchess’ Drive. The estate’s setting beside peaceful lochs and rich wildlife habitats enhances its appeal as a nature escape within the Scottish Borders.Family-Friendly Adventure Playground and Seasonal Activities
Bowhill is well suited to families, featuring an adventure playground equipped with two 30-metre zip-wires, embankment slides, a large wooden fort, swings, a rope bridge, and musical instruments for interactive play. The playground operates seasonally from early April through August, coinciding with the opening of the grounds. Ranger-led activities and a small indoor soft play area further enrich the experience for children. Seasonal passes allow repeated access to the playground and grounds, encouraging multiple visits throughout the open months.Dining and Visitor Amenities
Visitors can refresh at the Old Kitchen Café located in the Courtyard, offering light lunches, homemade cakes, and beverages when the grounds are open. The Horsebox catering stand near the playground serves snacks and drinks during peak months. Facilities include accessible toilets, seating areas, and information boards, ensuring a comfortable visit. Parking is available with a charge, and the estate is wheelchair accessible in key areas, though some trails may present challenges.Access and Location Context
Bowhill House is situated three miles west of Selkirk on the A708 Moffat/St Mary’s Loch Road, with clear signage from Selkirk. The nearest train station is Galashiels, about five miles away, from where visitors can take a taxi or cycle. While driving is the most convenient option, limited public transport options exist, and visitors are advised to plan accordingly. The estate’s rural setting offers a peaceful retreat while remaining accessible from Edinburgh and other Borders towns.Seasonal Opening and Visitor Experience
The grounds and adventure playground are open seasonally from early April to the end of August, with Bowhill House tours available exclusively in August 2025. Pre-booking is strongly recommended for house tours due to limited availability. The estate balances cultural heritage with outdoor leisure, providing an enriching day out for art lovers, families, walkers, and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of the Buccleuch family, explore natural landscapes, and enjoy engaging activities in a picturesque Scottish Borders setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aikwood Tower
2.0 km
Experience 500 years of Scottish Borders history and luxury at Aikwood Tower, a stunning 16th-century peel tower set in breathtaking countryside.
Tress Of The Kings
4.0 km
Discover the ancient Trees Of The Kings in Selkirk, where Scottish royal history and nature unite in a serene, storied landscape.
Southern Reporter
4.6 km
Historic home of the Southern Reporter newspaper, a cornerstone of Selkirk’s rich journalistic heritage on the town’s vibrant High Street.
Scottish Borders Rocks
4.6 km
Explore Scottish Borders Rocks in Selkirk for a unique selection of ethically sourced crystals and locally crafted treasures that capture Scotland's beauty.
Jean's Wood
12.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Jean's Wood in Melrose, where lush greenery and serene pathways invite you to explore the beauty of nature.
Traquair Arms Hotel
12.9 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
13.2 km
A spacious, cyclist-friendly holiday home in Innerleithen, perfect for exploring the iconic trails of the Scottish Borders.
Macdonald Cardrona Hotel
17.3 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, your perfect Scottish retreat in Peebles.
Eshiels Community Recycling Centre
19.5 km
Discover Eshiels Community Recycling Centre: A sustainable initiative in Peebles promoting responsible waste management and eco-friendly practices.
James Hogg Monument
20.1 km
A striking white monument honoring James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, overlooking the serene St Mary's Loch in Scotland's Borders.
Over Ancrum
20.5 km
Discover the tranquil historic landmark of Over Ancrum near Jedburgh, where medieval heritage meets scenic Scottish landscapes.
Peebles Hydro Hotel
20.8 km
Historic 4-star hotel with scenic Tweed Valley views, family-friendly leisure, spa, and classic Scottish hospitality in Peebles.
The Park
21.2 km
Historic charm and modern comfort meet in the heart of Peebles, with local dining and scenic walks just steps away.
Peebles Mercat Cross
21.4 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
21.4 km
Explore Peebles with Blackwood & Smith LLP, your trusted experts in legal services and estate agency for a seamless property experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Newark Castle
1.7 km
Discover the rich history of Newark Castle, a stunning historical landmark in Selkirk, Scotland, perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre & Golden Eagle Eyrie
2.5 km
Discover the captivating salmon journey and the majestic golden eagle conservation at Philiphaugh Estate’s unique wildlife centre.
Go Wild Scotland
3.8 km
Explore accessible trails and vibrant wildlife in Mauldsheugh Wood, a community-driven nature sanctuary on Selkirk’s doorstep.
Mauldsheugh Wood Community Wildlife Project
3.8 km
A welcoming 20-acre woodland in Selkirk offering accessible trails, rich wildlife, and interactive nature experiences for all ages.
A Selkirk Legacy
4.2 km
Discover the tranquil riverside heritage and rich cultural legacy of Selkirk along the scenic Ettrick Water.
Andrew Elliot Ltd.
4.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish textile craftsmanship and heritage at Andrew Elliot Ltd., a boutique mill in Selkirk specializing in exquisite fabrics and throws.
The Haining
4.4 km
Discover The Haining, a stunning Palladian estate in Selkirk blending historic grandeur, serene loch walks, and the birthplace of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier.
Halliwell's House Museum
4.5 km
Discover Selkirk’s oldest building and its rich local history through engaging exhibits and historic charm in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Auld Kirk (site of Kirk O' the Forest)
4.5 km
Explore Auld Kirk, a historical landmark in Selkirk, and immerse yourself in Scotland's rich ecclesiastical heritage.
Sir Walter Scott's Courtroom
4.5 km
Step into the historic courtroom where Sir Walter Scott served justice and explore the rich legacy of Scotland’s literary and legal heritage in Selkirk.
The Peony Rose Coffee House
4.5 km
A charming Selkirk café serving exceptional coffee, homemade cakes, and warm hospitality in a cozy, inviting setting.
Lochcarron of Scotland Visitor Centre
4.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan weaving, bespoke Highland wear, and rich textile heritage at Lochcarron of Scotland Visitor Centre in Selkirk.
Mungo Park Monument
4.7 km
Explore the Mungo Park Monument in Selkirk, a historical site honoring the legacy of Scotland's adventurous explorer Mungo Park.
Ride Scotland's Horse Country
6.6 km
Explore the tranquil horse country of Lindean, Galashiels, where scenic trails and equestrian heritage create a peaceful Scottish Borders escape.
Sunderland Hall
7.1 km
Historic Scottish Baronial mansion and archaeological site nestled in scenic gardens near Galashiels.
Essential places to dine
The Waterwheel
2.5 km
Historic estate café nestled in scenic woodlands above Selkirk, offering local charm near the famous 1645 Battle of Philiphaugh site.
Philipburn Restaurant
3.4 km
Traditional Scottish dining elevated with fresh local ingredients in a historic hotel setting surrounded by tranquil gardens.
Heatherlie House Hotel
4.0 km
A charming boutique hotel in Selkirk offering warm hospitality, spacious rooms, home-style dining, and a peaceful park setting.
Taste of Spice
4.5 km
Experience authentic Indian and South Asian flavours in the heart of Selkirk with Taste of Spice’s vibrant dishes and warm atmosphere.
The Fleece Selkirk Ltd
4.5 km
Scottish Borders pub with exceptional wines and quality food in Selkirk's Market Place.
Tibbie's
4.5 km
Contemporary Scottish dining celebrating seasonal ingredients and regional flavours in the heart of Selkirk.
The County
4.5 km
Historic coaching inn in Selkirk’s market square, blending heritage charm with modern comfort and a warm welcome.
Thai Valley Restaurant
4.6 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy, family-run setting on Selkirk’s High Street, perfect for all occasions.
Cross Keys Inn Ettrickbridge - Scotland's "Pub of the Year"
5.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at Cross Keys Inn, Ettrickbridge’s award-winning pub and cozy country inn in the heart of the Borders.
Chompey's
5.2 km
Experience the best takeaway in Selkirk at Chompey's - where quality meets convenience in every delicious bite.
Smiddy Bar & Restaurant
7.1 km
Cozy country pub in Ashkirk offering traditional Scottish dishes and warm family hospitality near Selkirk.
Woll Restaurant
7.5 km
A warm, family-friendly restaurant at New Woll Estate, serving hearty British and Scottish fare with golf-course views and a welcoming country feel.
The Salmon Inn
10.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at The Salmon Inn in Galashiels – your cozy retreat for breakfast and pub delights.
Quins
10.7 km
A vibrant gastropub in Galashiels’ town center offering hearty meals, coffee, and drinks in a welcoming, casual atmosphere.
1953 Bar and Restaurant
10.8 km
Authentic Indian and Nepalese flavors meet warm hospitality and a lively bar in the heart of Galashiels’ High Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ettrick Valley Giftware - Scottish Tea Towels, Aprons & Bags
4.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish textile heritage with iconic tea towels, aprons, and bags crafted in Selkirk’s historic Forest Mill.
Sue Elliot Creative Silks & Velvets
4.3 km
Discover exquisite hand-dyed silks and velvets transformed into unique scarves and accessories in the heart of Selkirk.
The General Store, Selkirk
4.5 km
A vibrant community hub in Selkirk offering affordable repairs, vintage treasures, and sustainable reuse initiatives in a welcoming setting.
SPAR Market Place Selkirk
4.5 km
Your dependable local convenience store in Selkirk, open daily with a wide range of essentials and friendly service.
Ettrick Forest Interiors
4.6 km
Explore unique handmade curtains and accessories at Ettrick Forest Interiors in Selkirk, where quality craftsmanship meets exceptional service.
British Red Cross shop, Selkirk
4.6 km
Support humanitarian aid and sustainability by shopping or donating at the British Red Cross Charity Shop in Selkirk’s historic High Street.
Basanti India
4.6 km
Discover Basanti India in Selkirk, where unique gifts and exquisite jewelry capture the essence of Indian culture and craftsmanship.
Jiggle Ma Wiggle
4.8 km
Discover unique, vegan-friendly gifts and local crafts at Jiggle Ma Wiggle, Selkirk’s charming boutique of creativity and sustainability.
The Vintage Besoms
10.7 km
Curated vintage fashion, antiques, and homewares celebrating the character of bygone eras in the Scottish Borders.
Guess What
10.7 km
Discover unique treasures and beautiful gifts at Guess What, a charming shop in the heart of Galashiels’ vibrant town centre.
The Hub on the High Street
12.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts, local gins, and friendly service at The Hub on the High Street in Innerleithen.
Droopy Dandelion - The Scottish Fairy Shop
13.0 km
A whimsical Scottish gift shop where handcrafted magic and fairy-tale wonder come to life.
FINDRA Clothing
13.0 km
Explore stylish, sustainable outdoor clothing and community spirit at FINDRA Clothing in Innerleithen’s vibrant High Street hub.
Lou Lou's Vintage Emporium
13.0 km
Discover unique vintage Scottish cashmere and timeless treasures in a welcoming Innerleithen boutique.
Love Scottish
13.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish artisan gifts and natural home fragrances in the heart of Melrose’s Market Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Philipburn House Hotel
3.4 km
Historic Georgian charm meets modern comfort in tranquil gardens just outside Selkirk, ideal for exploring the scenic Scottish Borders.
The Town Arms Inn
4.4 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Town Arms Inn in Selkirk, a perfect base for exploring the enchanting Scottish Borders.
Niki's Lounge Bar
10.1 km
A cozy, friendly lounge bar in Galashiels offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Durty Brewing
12.9 km
Discover Innerleithen’s vibrant microbrewery with exclusive craft beers, a cozy taproom, and a welcoming atmosphere for all drink lovers.
Waverley Bar
15.2 km
A traditional, friendly Scottish pub in Hawick’s heart, famed for its lively atmosphere and welcoming community vibe.
Office Bar
15.3 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Hawick’s historic West End, offering authentic charm, quality beers, and a friendly local atmosphere.
The Exchange Bar
15.4 km
Historic Victorian pub in Hawick with original wood panelling, ornate cornices, and a cozy lounge for live music and community gatherings.
Drumlanrig Bar
15.4 km
A cozy and lively bar in Hawick’s Drumlanrig Square, perfect for local beers, live music, and a welcoming Scottish Borders atmosphere.
The Handlebar & Grill Glentress
18.4 km
A cyclist-friendly grill in Glentress offering hearty local dishes, craft beers, and scenic outdoor dining amidst the Tweed Valley’s stunning trails.
Tibbie Shiels Inn
19.8 km
Historic inn and camping by St. Marys Loch offering cosy rooms, live music, and stunning Scottish Borders scenery.
Ancrum Cross Keys
20.5 km
A charming Scottish Borders pub offering warm hospitality, exceptional locally sourced food, and scenic riverside views in Ancrum village.
Wild Bean Cafe
21.2 km
Cozy cafe in Peebles serving fresh coffee, pastries, and light meals daily from dawn till late evening.
The Central Bar
21.4 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.
The Belter's Bar
23.5 km
Savor hearty meals and legendary burgers in Jedburgh’s lively and welcoming Belter's Bar.
The Vibe
30.7 km
A vibrant late-night bar in Kelso’s heart, The Vibe offers a lively spot for drinks and socializing until the early hours.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Warehouse Nightclub
10.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
The Indigo Rooms
10.7 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
The Vale Of Leithen Social Club
12.9 km
A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.
Union Club
13.0 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
Morven
13.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
The Border Club
14.9 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
15.1 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
Square One
15.4 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Nothing
15.7 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
The Royal British Legion
30.6 km
Discover community, camaraderie, and local entertainment at The Royal British Legion in Kelso - a vibrant hub for visitors and locals.
Frankenstein
48.6 km
Electrifying Gothic pub where Frankenstein's monster awakens hourly amid pizzas, chilling cocktails, and Old Town vibes—Edinburgh's spookiest nightlife haunt.
The Mash House
48.6 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
48.6 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
48.6 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
Sneaky Pete's
48.6 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
