Wilton Lodge Park: Historic Green Heart of Hawick
A historic mansion, lush gardens, and vibrant community spaces unite in Wilton Lodge Park, Hawick’s expansive riverside retreat.
Wilton Lodge Park is a sprawling 107-acre urban oasis in Hawick, Scottish Borders, featuring woodland walks, formal gardens, a modern play area, and the historic Hawick Museum housed in an 18th-century mansion. The park blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, offering riverside paths, memorials, and seasonal events in a tranquil setting along the River Teviot.
A brief summary to Wilton Lodge Park
- 12 Wilton Park Rd, Hawick, TD9 7LG, GB
- +441450378023
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit Hawick Museum inside the 18th-century mansion for free to explore local history and unique exhibitions.
- Explore the woodland trails and seek out the picturesque Cala Burn waterfall hidden behind the museum.
- Enjoy the inclusive playground designed for children of all ages, featuring trampolines, swings, and themed play areas.
- Check the summer events schedule for bandstand concerts, family fun sessions, and seasonal festivals.
- Take time to visit the walled garden, a community horticulture space offering seasonal flowers and produce.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Hawick town centre with Wilton Lodge Park, with a journey time of approximately 10–15 minutes. Buses run hourly on weekdays and less frequently on weekends. Tickets cost around £2–£3 GBP one way.
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Car
Driving to Wilton Lodge Park from central Hawick takes about 5 minutes. Parking is available near the park entrance, but spaces can be limited during events. No parking fees apply.
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Walking
From Hawick town centre, walking to Wilton Lodge Park takes roughly 20–25 minutes along mostly flat, paved paths suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair users.
Wilton Lodge Park 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 Wilton Lodge Park
A Storied Mansion at the Park’s Core
Wilton Lodge Park centers around an 18th-century mansion, originally built by the Langlands family and later owned by James Anderson’s family in the early 19th century. Since 1910, this grand building has housed Hawick Museum, the oldest museum in the Scottish Borders. The museum’s collections offer a window into local and global history, including exhibits on Hawick’s textile heritage, wartime memorabilia, and tributes to local motorcycle champions Jimmie Guthrie and Steve Hislop. The museum’s setting adjacent to the town’s war memorial enriches its historical significance.Expansive Green Spaces and Natural Features
Spanning over 100 acres along the River Teviot, Wilton Lodge Park offers a diverse landscape of woodland trails, riverside walks, and formal gardens. Visitors can explore the Cala Burn waterfall hidden beneath a canopy of trees, a picturesque spot shaped partly by historic quarrying for the mansion’s reconstruction. The park’s woodlands are alive with seasonal flora and fauna, inviting nature lovers to enjoy peaceful strolls, bark rubbings, and outdoor scavenger hunts.Community and Recreation Facilities
The park features a modern, inclusive playground designed by Wicksteed Playgrounds, catering to children of all ages with equipment ranging from toddler pirate ships to trampolines and swings. The walled garden serves as a community hub for horticulture and training, where local groups cultivate fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Sports pitches are available for booking, and a newly rebuilt bandstand hosts a lively summer events program, including family fun sessions and festivals.Recent Regeneration and Heritage Revival
Wilton Lodge Park has undergone a significant £3.6 million regeneration project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. This comprehensive restoration has revived original park features, restored historic gates, enhanced the museum’s outdoor classroom, and reintroduced lost heritage elements. The project also introduced a new café with a link bridge over the River Teviot and relocated the children’s play area, ensuring the park remains a cherished community asset.Seasonal Events and Cultural Engagement
Throughout the warmer months, the park comes alive with a variety of events such as fireworks displays, Easter egg hunts, science festivals, and a summer bandstand program. These activities foster community spirit and provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages, complementing the park’s tranquil natural environment.A Sanctuary for All Ages and Interests
Wilton Lodge Park offers something for everyone—from history enthusiasts exploring the museum’s rich collections to families enjoying the playground and picnics in the gardens. Its blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and recreational facilities makes it a vital green space in Hawick, cherished by locals and visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aikwood Tower
13.6 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
14.2 km
Discover the ancient Trees Of The Kings in Selkirk, where Scottish royal history and nature unite in a serene, storied landscape.
Southern Reporter
14.3 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
14.3 km
Explore Scottish Borders Rocks in Selkirk for a unique selection of ethically sourced crystals and locally crafted treasures that capture Scotland's beauty.
Border Memories
15.4 km
Discover your roots and explore your family's past at Border Memories, a premier genealogical service in a scenic setting.
Over Ancrum
17.3 km
Discover the tranquil historic landmark of Over Ancrum near Jedburgh, where medieval heritage meets scenic Scottish landscapes.
Jean's Wood
19.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Jean's Wood in Melrose, where lush greenery and serene pathways invite you to explore the beauty of nature.
Schloss Roxburghe - Destination by Hyatt
26.0 km
A majestic Jacobean estate blending historic charm with modern luxury, set on 300 acres of scenic Scottish Borders countryside.
James Hogg Monument
26.1 km
A striking white monument honoring James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, overlooking the serene St Mary's Loch in Scotland's Borders.
Traquair Arms Hotel
27.4 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
27.7 km
A spacious, cyclist-friendly holiday home in Innerleithen, perfect for exploring the iconic trails of the Scottish Borders.
Kelso
30.5 km
Discover Kelso’s medieval charm and rich heritage nestled in the scenic Scottish Borders’ Tweed Valley.
Kelso Abbey
30.5 km
Explore the historical marvel of Kelso Abbey, a magnificent testament to Scotland's medieval architecture nestled in the scenic Scottish Borders.
Macdonald Cardrona Hotel
31.6 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, your perfect Scottish retreat in Peebles.
Greenknowe Tower
32.0 km
A fortified 16th-century tower house where Renaissance ambition meets Borders landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Skelfhill Pen
12.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and panoramic views atop Skelfhill Pen, an inviting hillwalk near Hawick in the Scottish Borders.
The Haining
13.8 km
Discover The Haining, a stunning Palladian estate in Selkirk blending historic grandeur, serene loch walks, and the birthplace of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier.
Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre & Golden Eagle Eyrie
14.0 km
Discover the captivating salmon journey and the majestic golden eagle conservation at Philiphaugh Estate’s unique wildlife centre.
Auld Kirk (site of Kirk O' the Forest)
14.1 km
Explore Auld Kirk, a historical landmark in Selkirk, and immerse yourself in Scotland's rich ecclesiastical heritage.
Halliwell's House Museum
14.2 km
Discover Selkirk’s oldest building and its rich local history through engaging exhibits and historic charm in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Sir Walter Scott's Courtroom
14.2 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
14.3 km
A charming Selkirk café serving exceptional coffee, homemade cakes, and warm hospitality in a cozy, inviting setting.
Go Wild Scotland
14.3 km
Explore accessible trails and vibrant wildlife in Mauldsheugh Wood, a community-driven nature sanctuary on Selkirk’s doorstep.
Mungo Park Monument
14.4 km
Explore the Mungo Park Monument in Selkirk, a historical site honoring the legacy of Scotland's adventurous explorer Mungo Park.
Mauldsheugh Wood Community Wildlife Project
14.4 km
A welcoming 20-acre woodland in Selkirk offering accessible trails, rich wildlife, and interactive nature experiences for all ages.
Andrew Elliot Ltd.
14.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish textile craftsmanship and heritage at Andrew Elliot Ltd., a boutique mill in Selkirk specializing in exquisite fabrics and throws.
A Selkirk Legacy
14.8 km
Discover the tranquil riverside heritage and rich cultural legacy of Selkirk along the scenic Ettrick Water.
Bowhill House & Grounds
14.9 km
Explore Bowhill House’s Victorian heritage, scenic woodland walks, and family adventure playground in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Lochcarron of Scotland Visitor Centre
14.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan weaving, bespoke Highland wear, and rich textile heritage at Lochcarron of Scotland Visitor Centre in Selkirk.
Ferniehirst Castle
16.3 km
Explore Ferniehirst Castle, a majestic 15th-century fortress of Clan Kerr nestled in Scotland’s scenic Jed Valley, rich with border warfare history and royal intrigue.
Essential places to dine
The Night Safe
1.0 km
Cozy bistro and vibrant cocktail bar offering exquisite dining and friendly service in the heart of Hawick’s High Street.
Adam's Kitchen
1.0 km
A cozy British restaurant in Hawick offering hearty traditional dishes with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service.
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.
Smiddy Bar & Restaurant
8.2 km
Cozy country pub in Ashkirk offering traditional Scottish dishes and warm family hospitality near Selkirk.
The Waterwheel
14.0 km
Historic estate café nestled in scenic woodlands above Selkirk, offering local charm near the famous 1645 Battle of Philiphaugh site.
Heatherlie House Hotel
14.2 km
A charming boutique hotel in Selkirk offering warm hospitality, spacious rooms, home-style dining, and a peaceful park setting.
Tibbie's
14.2 km
Contemporary Scottish dining celebrating seasonal ingredients and regional flavours in the heart of Selkirk.
Taste of Spice
14.2 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
14.2 km
Scottish Borders pub with exceptional wines and quality food in Selkirk's Market Place.
The County
14.3 km
Historic coaching inn in Selkirk’s market square, blending heritage charm with modern comfort and a warm welcome.
Thai Valley Restaurant
14.3 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"
14.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at Cross Keys Inn, Ettrickbridge’s award-winning pub and cozy country inn in the heart of the Borders.
Philipburn Restaurant
14.8 km
Traditional Scottish dining elevated with fresh local ingredients in a historic hotel setting surrounded by tranquil gardens.
Chompey's
15.2 km
Experience the best takeaway in Selkirk at Chompey's - where quality meets convenience in every delicious bite.
The Carters Rest
16.9 km
Cozy British pub and restaurant in Jedburgh offering hearty Scottish fare, homemade desserts, and a friendly atmosphere on historic Abbey Place.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
No. 3 Gifts
1.0 km
A cozy, independent gift shop in Hawick offering locally made crafts, Scottish souvenirs, and handcrafted candles in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Lovely Stuff
1.3 km
Discover vintage charm and unique home accessories at Lovely Stuff, Hawick’s boutique for antiques and handcrafted treasures.
Giftsscotland.com
2.6 km
Explore unique handcrafted gifts and souvenirs at Giftsscotland.com, a charming shop in the heart of Hawick, Scotland.
The General Store, Selkirk
14.2 km
A vibrant community hub in Selkirk offering affordable repairs, vintage treasures, and sustainable reuse initiatives in a welcoming setting.
SPAR Market Place Selkirk
14.3 km
Your dependable local convenience store in Selkirk, open daily with a wide range of essentials and friendly service.
Ettrick Forest Interiors
14.3 km
Explore unique handmade curtains and accessories at Ettrick Forest Interiors in Selkirk, where quality craftsmanship meets exceptional service.
British Red Cross shop, Selkirk
14.3 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
14.4 km
Discover Basanti India in Selkirk, where unique gifts and exquisite jewelry capture the essence of Indian culture and craftsmanship.
Ettrick Valley Giftware - Scottish Tea Towels, Aprons & Bags
14.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish textile heritage with iconic tea towels, aprons, and bags crafted in Selkirk’s historic Forest Mill.
Jiggle Ma Wiggle
14.7 km
Discover unique, vegan-friendly gifts and local crafts at Jiggle Ma Wiggle, Selkirk’s charming boutique of creativity and sustainability.
Sue Elliot Creative Silks & Velvets
14.9 km
Discover exquisite hand-dyed silks and velvets transformed into unique scarves and accessories in the heart of Selkirk.
The Vault of Curiosities
17.0 km
Discover rare antiques and fascinating stories at The Vault of Curiosities, a charming treasure trove in the heart of historic Jedburgh.
Thirty Five
17.0 km
A stylish boutique on Jedburgh’s historic High Street offering unique finds and personalized shopping in a welcoming setting.
Love Scottish
20.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish artisan gifts and natural home fragrances in the heart of Melrose’s Market Square.
Just Joh
20.4 km
Discover quirky gifts and unique accessories at Just Joh, Melrose’s charming independent boutique for unusual treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Drumlanrig Bar
0.9 km
A cozy and lively bar in Hawick’s Drumlanrig Square, perfect for local beers, live music, and a welcoming Scottish Borders atmosphere.
Office Bar
0.9 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Hawick’s historic West End, offering authentic charm, quality beers, and a friendly local atmosphere.
The Exchange Bar
1.0 km
Historic Victorian pub in Hawick with original wood panelling, ornate cornices, and a cozy lounge for live music and community gatherings.
Waverley Bar
1.2 km
A traditional, friendly Scottish pub in Hawick’s heart, famed for its lively atmosphere and welcoming community vibe.
The Town Arms Inn
14.2 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Town Arms Inn in Selkirk, a perfect base for exploring the enchanting 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.
The Belter's Bar
16.8 km
Savor hearty meals and legendary burgers in Jedburgh’s lively and welcoming Belter's Bar.
Ancrum Cross Keys
16.9 km
A charming Scottish Borders pub offering warm hospitality, exceptional locally sourced food, and scenic riverside views in Ancrum village.
Niki's Lounge Bar
21.5 km
A cozy, friendly lounge bar in Galashiels offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Tibbie Shiels Inn
25.9 km
Historic inn and camping by St. Marys Loch offering cosy rooms, live music, and stunning Scottish Borders scenery.
Durty Brewing
27.4 km
Discover Innerleithen’s vibrant microbrewery with exclusive craft beers, a cozy taproom, and a welcoming atmosphere for all drink lovers.
The Vibe
30.4 km
A vibrant late-night bar in Kelso’s heart, The Vibe offers a lively spot for drinks and socializing until the early hours.
The Handlebar & Grill Glentress
32.6 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
35.2 km
Cozy cafe in Peebles serving fresh coffee, pastries, and light meals daily from dawn till late evening.
The Central Bar
35.4 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Square One
0.9 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Base Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
The Border Club
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
Morven
17.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Nothing
19.4 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
Warehouse Nightclub
21.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
The Indigo Rooms
21.7 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
27.4 km
A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.
Union Club
27.5 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
Black Box Music Institute
59.0 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
59.0 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Club Britannia
59.3 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Deja Vu 60's 70's 80's Bar
59.5 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of the 60's, 70's, and 80's at Deja Vu Bar in Carlisle, where classic music and a lively atmosphere await.
Secret Carlisle
59.5 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
The Five Arches
62.6 km
Experience the charm of The Five Arches pub in Dumfries - a cozy spot for local brews and delightful fare.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
