The Waterwheel at Philiphaugh Estate, Selkirk
Historic estate café nestled in scenic woodlands above Selkirk, offering local charm near the famous 1645 Battle of Philiphaugh site.
Nestled within the historic Philiphaugh Estate near Selkirk, The Waterwheel is a charming café and cake shop located at East Lodge, Philiphaugh Old Mill. Set amidst 600 acres of woodland and farmland, this spot offers visitors a cozy retreat with locally inspired refreshments, surrounded by rich history including the site of the 1645 Battle of Philiphaugh and Victorian walled gardens.
A brief summary to The Waterwheel
- East Lodge, Philiphaugh Old Mill, Selkirk, TD7 5LU, GB
- +44175022258
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
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
- Visit during daytime hours from 10am to 4pm to enjoy the full café menu and estate walks.
- Explore the nearby restored Victorian walled garden for a peaceful complement to your visit.
- Combine your café stop with a walk along the Battle of Philiphaugh trail to connect with local history.
- Check seasonal availability for estate events or distillery tours at Selkirk Distillery on the estate.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Waterwheel location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Waterwheel
Historic Roots of Philiphaugh Estate
Philiphaugh Estate, perched above the town of Selkirk, is steeped in centuries of Scottish history. The estate’s lands have been linked to the Murray family since the early 1500s, with documented ownership dating back to a 1508 Great Seal charter. The area is most famously known for the Battle of Philiphaugh in 1645, a pivotal conflict during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms where Covenanter forces defeated the Royalists. Archaeological remains beneath the estate hint at even older settlements, including Roman artifacts and an Anglian village, underscoring the deep historical layers present on this land.A Landscape of Natural Beauty and Conservation
Spanning over 600 acres, the estate features a diverse mix of woodlands, farms, and grouse moorland. The Strang Steel family, stewards of the estate, have long championed forestry and conservation, planting and managing a variety of tree species to enhance biodiversity and visual appeal. Estate walks meander through these woods, offering visitors immersive nature experiences amid the rolling hills of Ettrick Forest. The estate also nurtures a balanced agricultural tradition with award-winning livestock breeds, reflecting a harmonious blend of nature and farming heritage.The Waterwheel: A Café Steeped in Local Charm
Located at East Lodge within the old mill precincts of Philiphaugh, The Waterwheel café invites guests to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a selection of cakes and refreshments. Housed in a building that nods to the estate’s milling past, the café provides a welcoming spot for walkers and history enthusiasts alike. Its moderate pricing and cozy setting make it an ideal place to pause while exploring the estate’s grounds, including the restored Victorian walled garden nearby.Heritage and Modern Sustainability
Philiphaugh Estate combines its rich heritage with modern sustainability practices. The presence of a hydroelectric station harnessing energy from the estate’s waterways illustrates this blend of tradition and innovation. The estate carefully manages its ecosystems, preserving a 160-year-old aquatic environment around the mill lade. This commitment to eco-friendly practices complements the estate’s historical and natural significance, making it a model of responsible land stewardship.Exploring the Battle of Philiphaugh Site
Visitors can trace the footsteps of history by following the battlefield walk, which crosses the valley of the Ettrick Water and ascends into the hills and woods of Philiphaugh Estate. The walk offers spectacular views over the valley and the surrounding forested hills, allowing one to reflect on the dramatic events of 1645. Interpretive signage and the landscape itself evoke the tension and turmoil of the battle, providing a vivid connection to Scotland’s turbulent past.Community and Cultural Significance Today
Today, the estate remains a vital part of the local community, hosting the Selkirk Distillery within its grounds and supporting traditional farming practices. The Waterwheel café, alongside estate walks and historical sites, contributes to a well-rounded visitor experience that celebrates both heritage and the living culture of the Scottish Borders. This blend of history, nature, and hospitality makes Philiphaugh Estate a distinctive destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Scotland’s past and present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Mauldsheugh Wood Community Wildlife Project
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The Haining
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A Selkirk Legacy
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Andrew Elliot Ltd.
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Halliwell's House Museum
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Auld Kirk (site of Kirk O' the Forest)
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Sir Walter Scott's Courtroom
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Essential places to dine
The Waterwheel
0.0 km
Historic estate café nestled in scenic woodlands above Selkirk, offering local charm near the famous 1645 Battle of Philiphaugh site.
Philipburn Restaurant
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The Fleece Selkirk Ltd
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Tibbie's
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The County
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Thai Valley Restaurant
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Chompey's
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Cross Keys Inn Ettrickbridge - Scotland's "Pub of the Year"
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Sue Elliot Creative Silks & Velvets
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SPAR Market Place Selkirk
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Ettrick Forest Interiors
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British Red Cross shop, Selkirk
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Basanti India
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- 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
