Best Attractions in Selkirkshire
Planning a trip to Selkirkshire? Discover the best attractions in Selkirkshire with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best attractions in Selkirkshire
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
42 attractions
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Local history museum4.4★2,911 reviews
Museum of Edinburgh
Located at 142-146 Canongate on the historic Royal Mile, the Museum of Edinburgh offers a fascinating journey through the city's rich past. Housed in a 16th-century building, this free museum showcases iconic objects, artworks, and stories that reveal the cultural heritage and dramatic history of Scotland’s capital. Visitors can explore maze-like historic rooms filled with engaging exhibits and special exhibitions throughout the year.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.5★2,670 reviews
Jedburgh Abbey
Jedburgh Abbey, founded in the 12th century by King David I, is one of Scotland’s finest surviving Augustinian abbeys. Showcasing a blend of Romanesque and early Gothic architecture, the abbey’s impressive ruins reveal centuries of history shaped by border conflicts and monastic life. Visitors can explore the nave, transepts, cloisters, and herb garden, alongside a visitor centre with artefacts and interactive exhibits that bring the abbey’s rich past to life.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Nature reserve4.8★2,163 reviews
Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve
Nestled between Edinburgh’s Braid Hills and Blackford Hill, the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve offers 150 acres of serene woodland, marshland, and grassland. This steep-sided river valley features the Braid Burn stream, historic Hermitage House, and panoramic views from Blackford Hill, making it a peaceful urban escape rich in natural beauty and local heritage.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.6★2,151 reviews
Abbotsford the home of Sir Walter Scott
Abbotsford, nestled on the banks of the River Tweed near Melrose, is the former home of Sir Walter Scott, Scotland’s renowned 19th-century novelist and poet. This neo-Gothic mansion offers visitors a unique glimpse into Scott’s life through its preserved rooms, extensive personal library, and rich collections of antiques and relics. The estate also features beautifully maintained Regency gardens, woodland walks, and a visitor centre with a café, exhibition, and shop.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–4 hrs
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Abbey4.5★2,225 reviews
Melrose Abbey
Melrose Abbey, founded in 1136 by King David I, is Scotland’s first Cistercian monastery and a magnificent ruin nestled in the Scottish Borders. Renowned for its exquisite late medieval architecture and intricate stone carvings, including the famous bagpipe-playing pig gargoyle, the abbey holds deep historical significance as the burial site of Robert the Bruce’s heart. Visitors can explore the cloister, museum, and grounds that reveal centuries of monastic life, royal patronage, and turbulent border conflicts.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Toy museum4.3★2,014 reviews
Museum of Childhood
The Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh is the world’s first museum dedicated to the history of childhood, showcasing toys, games, clothing, and memorabilia from the 18th century to today. Located on the Royal Mile, it offers an engaging, nostalgic journey for visitors of all ages, with interactive areas, historical exhibits, and a rich collection celebrating the evolution of childhood and play.
Daily 10:00–16:30Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Botanical garden4.7★968 reviews
Dawyck Botanic Garden
Dawyck Botanic Garden, located near Stobo and Peebles in the Scottish Borders, spans 65 acres of woodland and burnside walks. Renowned as one of the world's finest arboreta, it features rare and remarkable species from Nepal, China, Chile, and North America thriving in its continental climate. Visitors can explore ancient trees, vibrant seasonal displays, and the unique Cryptogamic Sanctuary dedicated to mosses and fungi.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Park and Garden4.7★707 reviews
Wilton Lodge Park
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.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–4 hrs
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Football club4.7★519 reviews
Heart of Midlothian Football Club
Heart of Midlothian Football Club, commonly known as Hearts, is Edinburgh's oldest football club, founded in 1874. Their home ground, Tynecastle Stadium, opened in 1886 and is renowned for its historic main stand designed by Archibald Leitch. The stadium has evolved over more than a century, witnessing record crowds and hosting significant matches, making it a cornerstone of Scottish football heritage.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Museum4.8★415 reviews
The Great Tapestry of Scotland
Located in Galashiels, the Great Tapestry of Scotland Visitor Centre is a purpose-built gallery housing one of the world’s largest community arts projects. The tapestry, hand-stitched by 1,000 people, visually narrates Scotland’s rich history and culture. The award-winning building features a striking geometric roof inspired by local architecture, with gallery spaces, a café, shop, and educational facilities, making it a vibrant cultural hub in the Scottish Borders.
Tue–Sat 9:30–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Summerhall Distillery
Located in the vibrant Newington district of Edinburgh, Summerhall Distillery is the city’s first exclusive gin distillery in over 150 years. Founded in 2013 by friends Marcus Pickering and Matthew Gammell, it crafts the acclaimed Pickering’s Gin from a historic 1947 recipe. Set within the creative Summerhall arts complex, the distillery offers immersive tours, tastings, and cocktail experiences that celebrate both tradition and innovation in gin-making.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Kelso Abbey
Kelso Abbey, founded in 1128 by King David I, stands as one of Scotland’s grandest monastic ruins, showcasing remarkable Romanesque architecture. Although currently closed to visitors for essential masonry repairs, its impressive remains and historic significance make it a compelling landmark in the scenic town of Kelso, near the confluence of the Tweed and Teviot rivers.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Bowhill House & Grounds
Bowhill House & Grounds, near Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, is a historic country estate offering exclusive Victorian-era house tours, extensive landscaped grounds, and a family-friendly adventure playground. The estate features a world-renowned art collection, way-marked woodland walks, and seasonal amenities including cafes and exhibitions, making it a rich cultural and outdoor destination.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
Smailholm Tower
Smailholm Tower, a well-preserved 15th-century tower house near Kelso in the Scottish Borders, stands on a rocky outcrop offering stunning panoramic views. Built by the Pringle family, it combines medieval defensive features with residential comfort. The tower is steeped in history, linked to border skirmishes and Sir Walter Scott’s literary inspiration, and features evocative displays that bring border ballads and life to the past.
Mon–Thu 10:00–16:30 · Sun 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Haining
The Haining Estate in Selkirk is a grand Palladian mansion set within 160 acres of tranquil grounds, featuring a picturesque loch, woodland paths, and beautifully restored stables and cottages. Once the home of the Pringle family since the 1700s, it now serves as a cultural and community hub with art galleries, event spaces, and a renowned connection to the Dandie Dinmont Terrier breed. The estate offers peaceful walks, historic architecture, and a welcoming environment for visitors and dog lovers alike.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Trimontium Museum
Nestled in Melrose’s Market Square, the Trimontium Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the Roman Empire’s northernmost frontier. This award-winning heritage museum showcases fascinating artifacts from the nearby Roman fort at Newstead, bringing to life the interactions between Romans and Iron Age tribes. Visitors can explore immersive exhibits, including a VR experience, and enjoy guided walks to the ancient fort site. The museum is family-friendly, fully accessible, and a cultural highlight of the Scottish Borders.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
National Library of Scotland
The National Library of Scotland, located on George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town, is Scotland’s largest library and a major European research hub. Housing over 24 million printed items, manuscripts, maps, and archival films, it offers free access to its reading rooms, exhibitions, a café, and a shop. Visitors can explore Scotland’s rich heritage through rare collections, permanent and temporary exhibitions, and engaging events.
Mon–Thu 10:00–19:00 · Fri–Sat 10:00–17:00Time to spend 2–3 hrs
Tushielaw Inn
Tushielaw Inn is a welcoming pub and bed & breakfast nestled in the scenic Ettrick Valley near Selkirk, Scotland. Renowned for its warm hospitality, excellent food, and live music nights, it offers a peaceful retreat about 1.5 hours from Edinburgh and Glasgow. Set amidst beautiful countryside, the inn combines rustic charm with cozy accommodations, making it a favored stop for travelers seeking authentic Scottish Borders experiences.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
The Peony Rose Coffee House
Nestled in the heart of Selkirk, The Peony Rose Coffee House offers a warm and inviting retreat with exceptional coffee, homemade cakes, and a friendly atmosphere. Open daily, this charming café is a beloved spot for locals and visitors seeking a cozy place to enjoy breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea in a relaxed setting.
Mon–Sat 9:00–16:30 · Sun 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
St. Patrick
St Patrick's Church is a historic Catholic church located in Edinburgh's Old Town near Cowgate. Originally built between 1771 and 1774 as an Episcopalian chapel, it became a Catholic church in 1856 to serve the Irish immigrant community. The church features a notable neoclassical facade added in 1929, with statues of St Patrick and St Brigid, and houses several chapels including memorials for World War I parishioners. It remains an active place of worship and a peaceful oasis in the city centre.
Mon–Sat 8:00–19:00 · Sun 8:00–18:00Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Hoots - Comedy, Drag, & Cabaret Bar
Hoots is a vibrant comedy club and drag cabaret bar located at 16 Home Street in Edinburgh’s West Tollcross. Known for its lively atmosphere, it offers a unique blend of stand-up comedy, dazzling drag performances, and cabaret shows in an intimate setting. The venue is celebrated for its friendly staff, engaging hosts, and a welcoming environment that makes it a top choice for a fun night out in the city.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Roslin Gunpowder Factory
Nestled in the tranquil Roslin Glen near Edinburgh, the Roslin Gunpowder Factory ruins reveal a rich industrial heritage dating back to the early 19th century. Once Scotland’s largest gunpowder mill, it played a vital role in military and industrial production for over 150 years. Surrounded by mature woodlands and the River North Esk, the site offers atmospheric ruins, peaceful walking trails, and a glimpse into the perilous craft of gunpowder manufacturing.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room & Music Museum, The University of Edinburgh
Tucked away in Edinburgh’s Old Town, St Cecilia’s Hall is Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall and a captivating museum of historic musical instruments. Housed in a Georgian gem on Niddry Street, this intimate venue combines elegant 18th-century architecture with a world-class collection of harpsichords, violins, and rare instruments. Visitors explore galleries filled with beautifully preserved pieces and can hear them played in the atmospheric Sypert Concert Room, where music echoes through centuries in a setting that feels both scholarly and deeply resonant.
Tue–Sat 10:00–16:30Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre & Golden Eagle Eyrie
Nestled in the scenic Philiphaugh Estate near Selkirk, the Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre offers a unique window into the life cycle of wild salmon through live underwater footage and interactive exhibits. Adjacent to it, the Golden Eagle Eyrie within the Waterwheel Tearoom showcases the inspiring conservation efforts to restore golden eagle populations in southern Scotland. Visitors can enjoy nature trails, a restored walled garden, and local wildlife in a tranquil riverside setting.
Daily 8:00–17:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Lochcarron of Scotland Visitor Centre
Located in Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, the Lochcarron of Scotland Visitor Centre offers a unique glimpse into the world of traditional Scottish tartan weaving. Housed within the Waverley Mill, this centre features guided tours of a working textile mill, a shop stocking high-quality cashmere, merino, and lambswool products, and bespoke fitting appointments for Highland wear. Visitors experience the rich heritage of tartan production, from yarn dyeing to finished garments, all woven in Scotland since 1947.
Mon–Thu 9:30–16:30 · Fri 9:30–14:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
The Comedy Attic
Nestled in the historic Grassmarket area of Edinburgh, The Comedy Attic offers an intimate and lively stand-up comedy experience atop the Beehive Inn. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, top-tier comedians, and engaging hosts, it delivers a night of nonstop laughter in a cozy pub setting. Ideal for groups and solo visitors alike, it’s a must-visit for those seeking authentic Scottish humor and a memorable evening out.
Fri–Sat 20:15–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–2 hrs
Newark Castle
Newark Castle near Selkirk in the Scottish Borders is a 15th-century tower house steeped in dramatic history. Originally built by the powerful Douglas family and later held by the Crown, it witnessed sieges, royal ownership, and tragic massacres during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. Today, the ruins stand within the peaceful grounds of Bowhill House, offering visitors a haunting glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past and medieval architecture.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Halliwell's House Museum
Halliwell's House Museum, housed in Selkirk's oldest surviving building from 1712, offers a captivating glimpse into the town's rich history. Located in a narrow cobbled close, the museum features exhibits on local life, archaeology, and fine art, including an ironmonger's shop and the Robson Gallery. It reveals Selkirk's heritage, from medieval times through notable events like the Battle of Flodden, making it a cultural gem in the Scottish Borders.
Tue–Sat 11:00–16:00Price level $Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Sir Walter Scott's Courtroom
Sir Walter Scott's Courtroom in Selkirk is a historic museum housed in the 1804 courthouse where the famed Scottish author served as Sheriff-Depute of Selkirkshire for nearly 30 years until 1832. Visitors can explore the well-preserved courtroom, period furnishings, legal documents, and personal artifacts that illuminate Scott’s judicial career and local history in the Scottish Borders.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Mauldsheugh Wood Community Wildlife Project
Mauldsheugh Wood Community Wildlife Project in Selkirk is a 20-acre family-friendly nature reserve featuring a 1km wheelchair-accessible trail, abundant wildlife, and interactive digital nature tables. It offers peaceful woodland walks with opportunities to spot birds, mammals, and pond life, supported by community activities and wildlife rangers.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Peebles Library
Peebles Library, Museum & Gallery is housed in the historic Chambers Institution on High Street, Peebles. Gifted by William Chambers in 1859, this striking 16th-century building hosts a vibrant museum and gallery featuring permanent plasterwork friezes and changing exhibitions on local history, art, and textiles. The library offers public computer access and printing services, welcoming visitors with free entry and a rich cultural experience in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Andrew Elliot Ltd.
Andrew Elliot Ltd. is a distinguished textile mill located in Selkirk, Scotland, specializing in the production of high-quality fashion and interior fabrics, including throws. Rooted in Scottish Borders' rich textile heritage, the mill combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, offering a limited but exquisite range of woven fabrics. Visitors can appreciate authentic Scottish textile artistry and the mill's commitment to sustainable and ethical production.
Mon–Thu 8:00–16:30 · Fri 8:00–13:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Torwoodlee Broch
Torwoodlee Broch is a significant Iron Age archaeological site near Galashiels, Scotland, featuring the remains of a multi-story defensive roundhouse built around the 1st or 2nd century AD. Situated on a hillside overlooking the Gala Water, the broch was part of a larger fort complex and is notable for Roman artifacts discovered during excavations, highlighting its historical importance in the Scottish Borders region.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Elibank Castle
Elibank Castle, located near Walkerburn in the Scottish Borders, is a late 16th-century ruined fortified house once home to the influential Murray family. Set on an artificial plateau with commanding views over the Tweed valley, the castle features vaulted basements, a surviving tower, and remnants of terraced gardens. Though now a romantic ruin, it reflects centuries of Scottish history, clan rivalries, and architectural evolution.
Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Go Wild Scotland
Mauldsheugh Wood is a 20-acre community wildlife project located on the edge of Selkirk in the Scottish Borders. It offers a family-friendly, wheelchair-accessible 1km nature trail rich with diverse wildlife, including birds of prey, mammals, amphibians, and insects. The woodland features interactive digital trail elements and is managed by Go Wild Scotland, providing an immersive nature experience for all ages.
Daily 9:00–17:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Ride Scotland's Horse Country
Discover the scenic and tranquil landscapes of Lindean, Galashiels, renowned as Scotland's horse country. This tourist attraction offers an immersive experience into equestrian culture set amidst the rolling hills and natural beauty of the Scottish Borders. Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, it provides a peaceful escape with opportunities to explore riding trails and local countryside.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Skelfhill Pen
Skelfhill Pen is a prominent hill located near Hawick in the Scottish Borders, standing at 532 meters (1746 feet). Marked by an Ordnance Survey trig point, this intermediate-level hiking destination offers panoramic views across the rolling hills of Teviotdale and the Southern Uplands. Its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings make it a rewarding spot for walkers and nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape in Scotland’s scenic countryside.
Time to spend 3.5–5 hrs
A Selkirk Legacy
A Selkirk Legacy is a notable tourist attraction located on Riverside Road in Selkirk, Scotland. Nestled along the scenic Ettrick Water, it embodies the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Scottish Borders. This site offers visitors a chance to explore the legacy of Selkirk’s past, set within a tranquil riverside environment that reflects the town’s traditional charm and natural beauty.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
South Bridge
South Bridge in Edinburgh is a historic 18th-century stone bridge spanning the Cowgate valley, famous for the labyrinthine South Bridge Vaults beneath it. Originally built as storage and workshops, the vaults later became grim living quarters and hideouts for criminals, including body snatchers. Rediscovered in the 1980s, the vaults now offer a chilling glimpse into Edinburgh’s dark past and are renowned for their paranormal activity.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
George Square
George Square is a historic Georgian square in Edinburgh, laid out in 1766 on the city’s south side adjacent to the Meadows. Originally a prestigious residential area for professionals, it is now largely owned by the University of Edinburgh, featuring notable university buildings, tranquil gardens, and a labyrinth. The square blends classical architecture with modern academic life and hosts vibrant cultural events each summer.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Anchor Close
Anchor Close is a historic narrow lane in Edinburgh's Old Town, dating back to the early 16th century. Nestled off Cockburn Street, it offers a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage with its cobbled streets and 17th-century buildings. Known for its connection to the Crochallan Fencibles club and early printing of the Encyclopaedia Britannica, Anchor Close is a charming spot that blends centuries of history with the vibrant life of modern Edinburgh.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
61 Grassmarket
Located in the vibrant Grassmarket area of Edinburgh’s Old Town, 61 Grassmarket sits within a historic square renowned for over 500 years of market activity, dramatic history, and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. This lively area blends medieval charm with modern culture, featuring traditional pubs, independent shops, and cobblestone streets that echo tales of public executions, literary visits, and bustling commerce.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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