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Why we love the Borders and Lowlands

Look no further for adrenaline-fuelled adventure, top-notch local seafood and escapism into mesmerising scenery. Brimming with peaks and valleys for two-wheeled adventures or for exploring with its furriest residents, the Borders and Lowlands is a haven for adventure seekers, food lovers and explorers. Within easy reach of northern England and direct routes to and from Glasgow and Edinburgh, Scotland’s Borders and Lowlands are waiting to be discovered by you.

Things to do in the Borders and Lowlands

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Eucalyptus groves, palm trees and giant gunnera – welcome to Scotland’s most exotic garden.

Explore Logan Botanic Garden

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland

A pathway through a tropical garden.
Logan Botanic Garden

This is no ordinary castle – Culzean has its very own beach, country park, Adventure Cove and more.

Find the fun at Culzean Castle and Country Park

Photo by: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

Culzean Castle and Country Park
Culzean Castle and Country Park

Discover the many stories and myths behind the Arthurian legend on this immersive sightseeing route.

More about The Merlin Trail

Photo by: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

An overhead view of the Moffat Hills in Scotland's Southern Uplands
The Merlin Trail

Toast your adventure with a dram from the world’s oldest privately owned Scotch whisky distillery.

Explore Bladnoch Distillery

Photo by: Bladnoch Distillery

Location: Lowlands

Bladnoch Distillery, Bladnoch, Wigtownshire
Bladnoch Distillery

Built in the shape of a triangle, this unique 13th-century fortress sits on the southern coast of Scotland.

Plan your visit to Caerlaverock Castle

Photo by: VisitScotland/Damian Shields

Caerlaverock Castle
Caerlaverock Castle

Held in the pretty village of Denholm, this annual autumn festival celebrates all things folk music.

More about Denholm Folk Festival

Photo by: Ian Oliver / Denholm Folk Festival

Location: Lowlands

Denholm Folk Festival
Denholm Folk Festival

Love history? Follow in the footsteps of the Scottish Queen at this magnificent 16th-century towerhouse.

Explore the Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Mary Queen of Scots' House and visitor centre
Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre

For wildlife-filled hikes and invigorating road trips, look to this natural reserve in the south-west of Scotland.

Go wild at Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere

Photo by: VisitScotland/David N Anderson

Galloway and Sothern Ayshire UNESCO Biosphere
Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere

This hotel spa features a Roman-style sauna, Turkish-inspired steam bath and a menu of decadent treatments.

Discover Dalhousie Castle

Photo by: Sean Elliot Photgraphy/Dalhouseie Castle

Location: Lowlands

Dalhousie Castle Spa
Dalhousie Castle

Head south from Edinburgh to Glentress Forest for epic mountain biking trails, treetop adventures and rare wildlife.

Hit the trail at Glentress

Photo by: VisitScotland / David N Anderson

Biking the cycle paths of Glentress Forest
Glentress

This 15th-century stronghold is dubbed ‘the ship that never sailed’ thanks to its imposing appearance on the Firth of Forth.

Discover Blackness Castle

Photo by: Visit Scotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Blackness Castle
Blackness Castle

This garden is always in bloom – from its blue poppies in summer, to winter’s white snowdrops.

Visit Dawyck Botanic Garden

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

The Swiss Bridge at Dawyck Botanic Garden
Dawyck Botanic Garden

This is where the story of Scotland’s best-loved poet began, with a museum featuring 5,000 artefacts and handwritten manuscripts.

Visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

Photo by: VisitScotland

Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

Maybe you’ll try a full-moon wild swimming session, learn to sail solo, or catch a fish for your supper?

Visit Whiteadder Watersports Centre

Photo by: Whiteadder Watersports Centre

Location: Birmingham

Whiteadder Watersports Centre
Whiteadder Watersports Centre

Visitors of all faiths are welcome to revel in the historic grandeur of this 12th-century church.

Discover Duddingston Kirk

Photo by: Shutterstock / Christophe Cappelli

Location: Lowlands

Duddingston Kirk
Duddingston Kirk

Tracing the route of an old railway line, this 7.4-mile (12km) trail makes for spectacular hiking and cycling.

Follow the Tweed Valley Railway Path

Photo by: Ian Linton Photography/Go Tweed Valley

Location: Lowlands

Tweed Valley Railway Path
Tweed Valley Railway Path

Come face to face with some of Scotland’s cutest – and hairiest – residents.

Meet the animals at Kitchen Coos and Ewes

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

A couple taking a guided farm experience among Highland cattle and sheep from a purpose-built trailer.
Kitchen Coos and Ewes

The TV series has immortalised many of the area’s most spellbinding historic landscapes and monuments.

Discover Outlander filming locations

Photo by: Visit Scotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Blackness Castle
Outlander – Borders and Lowlands

Dating back to the 12th century, this spiritual spot once served as an Augustinian abbey.

Explore Jedburgh Abbey

Location: Lowlands

Jedburgh Abbey
Jedburgh Abbey

There’s plenty to keep you busy in Troon – even when you’re not on one of its seven(!) golf courses.

Tee off in Troon

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

A long sandy beach framed by grassy dunes, with a dog walker in the distance.
Troon

With its vibrant programme of art, design and photography, this historic house celebrates Scottish culture.

What’s on at Old Gala House

Photo by: Phil Wilkinson

Location: Lowlands

Castle Jail Museum and Old Gala House
Old Gala House

This Clydebank distillery has won several awards for its whiskies – and they’re anything but ordinary…

More about Auchentoshan Distillery

Photo by: Gary Baker/ Auchentoshan Distillery

Location: Lowlands

Auchentoshan Distillery, Clydebank, Dunbartonshire
Auchentoshan Distillery

Praised by the Michelin Guide, this family-run restaurant in Melrose is a true culinary gem.

Discover Provender Restaurant & Bar

Photo by: Visit Scotland

Location: Lowlands

Provender Melrose Restaurant and Bar
Provender Restaurant & Bar

Thanks to both Marvel and Harry Styles, this quaint Borders fishing village is now world-famous.

Plan your trip to St Abbs

Location: Lowlands

visitscotland_50543085741
St Abbs – Avengers Endgame

This mighty stronghold dates back to the 14th century, and has a fascinating royal history.

Discover Craigmillar Castle

Photo by: Visit Scotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Craigmillar Castle
Craigmillar Castle

Step inside a 19th-century prison, to discover what life was like in the cells – and perhaps even spot a ghost…

Explore Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum

Photo by: Phil Wilkinson

Location: Lowlands

Jedburgh Castle Jail Museum
Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum

From outdoor theatre shows to Halloween frights, this historic house knows how to put on a show.

Plan your trip to Floors Castle

Photo by: VisitScotland / Ian Rutherford

Location: Lowlands

Floors Castle, Roxburghe estate, Kelso in Roxburghshire
Floors Castle

Discover priceless artworks, exquisite antiques and beautiful grounds at this impressive stately home in Selkirk.

Get to know Bowhill House

Photo by: Euan Myles/Bowhill House

Location: Lowlands

Bowhill House, Selkirk, Selkirkshire, Scotland
Bowhill House

Set within a historic castle, this destination spa boasts a sumptuous health club and accommodation.

Relax at Stobo Castle

Photo by: Stobo Castle

Location: Lowlands

Stobo Castle Rest Room
Stobo Castle

Enjoy some sea air in the traditional fishing village of Dunure, whose harbour appears in Outlander.

Get some sea air at Dunure

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Two small boats moored in a small stone harbour on a sunny day, with seven lobster cages in the foreground.
Dunure

With its acclaimed restaurant and beautiful suites, this stately hotel celebrates the finer things in life.

Stay at the Kingsknowes Hotel

Photo by: Kingsnowes Hotel

Location: Lowlands

Kingsknowes Hotel, Galashiels, Scotland
Kingsknowes Hotel

Discover the largest surviving stretch of ancient woodland in Midlothian in this green space that once housed Scotland’s largest gunpowder mill. 

Explore Roslin Glen Country Park

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

A man and woman in hiking gear smile at each other while sitting on tree roots in a forest.
Roslin Glen Country Park

This grand mansion was the home of Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most celebrated writers.

What’s on at Abbotsford House

Photo by: VisitScotland / PRImaging

Location: Lowlands

Abbotsford House
Abbotsford House

Founded in 1136, this magnificent gothic abbey is where Robert the Bruce’s heart was buried.

Visit Melrose Abbey

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Melrose Abbey
Melrose Abbey

Discover the history of the Boyd family, who called Dean Castle home for over 400 years.

Go wild at Dean Castle Country Park

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Exterior of a small castle with a flagpole and a few trees on a sunny day.
Dean Castle Country Park

Meet the ‘Pink Palace’, star of Outlander series two.

Discover Drumlanrig Castle

Photo by: Visit South West Scotland / Damian Shields

Exterior of a sandstone palace with ornate turrets surrounded by woodland with high mountains in the distance in autumn.
Drumlanrig Castle

With its bounty of superb local produce, this community market is a must-visit for foodies.

Explore Kelso Farmers’ Market

Photo by: Visit Kelso

Location: Lowlands

Kelso Farmers’ Market
Kelso Farmers’ Market

Visit East Lothian’s last working watermill – recognise it from Outlander?

Visit Preston Mill

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

A stone water mill with an unusual conical roof beside a pool of water.
Preston Mill

This small organic farm has taken the foodie world by storm, winning awards for its sustainably grown produce.

Shop at East Coast Organics

Photo by: East Coast Organics

Location: Lowlands

East Coast Organics stall at Edinburgh Farmers’ Market, Castle Terrace, Edinburgh
East Coast Organics

Eucalyptus groves, palm trees and giant gunnera – welcome to Scotland’s most exotic garden.

Explore Logan Botanic Garden

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland

A pathway through a tropical garden.
Logan Botanic Garden

This is no ordinary castle – Culzean has its very own beach, country park, Adventure Cove and more.

Find the fun at Culzean Castle and Country Park

Photo by: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

Culzean Castle and Country Park
Culzean Castle and Country Park

Discover the many stories and myths behind the Arthurian legend on this immersive sightseeing route.

More about The Merlin Trail

Photo by: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

An overhead view of the Moffat Hills in Scotland's Southern Uplands
The Merlin Trail

Toast your adventure with a dram from the world’s oldest privately owned Scotch whisky distillery.

Explore Bladnoch Distillery

Photo by: Bladnoch Distillery

Location: Lowlands

Bladnoch Distillery, Bladnoch, Wigtownshire
Bladnoch Distillery

Built in the shape of a triangle, this unique 13th-century fortress sits on the southern coast of Scotland.

Plan your visit to Caerlaverock Castle

Photo by: VisitScotland/Damian Shields

Caerlaverock Castle
Caerlaverock Castle

Held in the pretty village of Denholm, this annual autumn festival celebrates all things folk music.

More about Denholm Folk Festival

Photo by: Ian Oliver / Denholm Folk Festival

Location: Lowlands

Denholm Folk Festival
Denholm Folk Festival

Love history? Follow in the footsteps of the Scottish Queen at this magnificent 16th-century towerhouse.

Explore the Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Mary Queen of Scots' House and visitor centre
Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre

For wildlife-filled hikes and invigorating road trips, look to this natural reserve in the south-west of Scotland.

Go wild at Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere

Photo by: VisitScotland/David N Anderson

Galloway and Sothern Ayshire UNESCO Biosphere
Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere

This hotel spa features a Roman-style sauna, Turkish-inspired steam bath and a menu of decadent treatments.

Discover Dalhousie Castle

Photo by: Sean Elliot Photgraphy/Dalhouseie Castle

Location: Lowlands

Dalhousie Castle Spa
Dalhousie Castle

Head south from Edinburgh to Glentress Forest for epic mountain biking trails, treetop adventures and rare wildlife.

Hit the trail at Glentress

Photo by: VisitScotland / David N Anderson

Biking the cycle paths of Glentress Forest
Glentress

This 15th-century stronghold is dubbed ‘the ship that never sailed’ thanks to its imposing appearance on the Firth of Forth.

Discover Blackness Castle

Photo by: Visit Scotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Blackness Castle
Blackness Castle

This garden is always in bloom – from its blue poppies in summer, to winter’s white snowdrops.

Visit Dawyck Botanic Garden

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

The Swiss Bridge at Dawyck Botanic Garden
Dawyck Botanic Garden

This is where the story of Scotland’s best-loved poet began, with a museum featuring 5,000 artefacts and handwritten manuscripts.

Visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

Photo by: VisitScotland

Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

Maybe you’ll try a full-moon wild swimming session, learn to sail solo, or catch a fish for your supper?

Visit Whiteadder Watersports Centre

Photo by: Whiteadder Watersports Centre

Location: Birmingham

Whiteadder Watersports Centre
Whiteadder Watersports Centre

Visitors of all faiths are welcome to revel in the historic grandeur of this 12th-century church.

Discover Duddingston Kirk

Photo by: Shutterstock / Christophe Cappelli

Location: Lowlands

Duddingston Kirk
Duddingston Kirk

Tracing the route of an old railway line, this 7.4-mile (12km) trail makes for spectacular hiking and cycling.

Follow the Tweed Valley Railway Path

Photo by: Ian Linton Photography/Go Tweed Valley

Location: Lowlands

Tweed Valley Railway Path
Tweed Valley Railway Path

Come face to face with some of Scotland’s cutest – and hairiest – residents.

Meet the animals at Kitchen Coos and Ewes

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

A couple taking a guided farm experience among Highland cattle and sheep from a purpose-built trailer.
Kitchen Coos and Ewes

The TV series has immortalised many of the area’s most spellbinding historic landscapes and monuments.

Discover Outlander filming locations

Photo by: Visit Scotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Blackness Castle
Outlander – Borders and Lowlands

Dating back to the 12th century, this spiritual spot once served as an Augustinian abbey.

Explore Jedburgh Abbey

Location: Lowlands

Jedburgh Abbey
Jedburgh Abbey

There’s plenty to keep you busy in Troon – even when you’re not on one of its seven(!) golf courses.

Tee off in Troon

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

A long sandy beach framed by grassy dunes, with a dog walker in the distance.
Troon

With its vibrant programme of art, design and photography, this historic house celebrates Scottish culture.

What’s on at Old Gala House

Photo by: Phil Wilkinson

Location: Lowlands

Castle Jail Museum and Old Gala House
Old Gala House

This Clydebank distillery has won several awards for its whiskies – and they’re anything but ordinary…

More about Auchentoshan Distillery

Photo by: Gary Baker/ Auchentoshan Distillery

Location: Lowlands

Auchentoshan Distillery, Clydebank, Dunbartonshire
Auchentoshan Distillery

Praised by the Michelin Guide, this family-run restaurant in Melrose is a true culinary gem.

Discover Provender Restaurant & Bar

Photo by: Visit Scotland

Location: Lowlands

Provender Melrose Restaurant and Bar
Provender Restaurant & Bar

Thanks to both Marvel and Harry Styles, this quaint Borders fishing village is now world-famous.

Plan your trip to St Abbs

Location: Lowlands

visitscotland_50543085741
St Abbs – Avengers Endgame

This mighty stronghold dates back to the 14th century, and has a fascinating royal history.

Discover Craigmillar Castle

Photo by: Visit Scotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Craigmillar Castle
Craigmillar Castle

Step inside a 19th-century prison, to discover what life was like in the cells – and perhaps even spot a ghost…

Explore Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum

Photo by: Phil Wilkinson

Location: Lowlands

Jedburgh Castle Jail Museum
Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum

From outdoor theatre shows to Halloween frights, this historic house knows how to put on a show.

Plan your trip to Floors Castle

Photo by: VisitScotland / Ian Rutherford

Location: Lowlands

Floors Castle, Roxburghe estate, Kelso in Roxburghshire
Floors Castle

Discover priceless artworks, exquisite antiques and beautiful grounds at this impressive stately home in Selkirk.

Get to know Bowhill House

Photo by: Euan Myles/Bowhill House

Location: Lowlands

Bowhill House, Selkirk, Selkirkshire, Scotland
Bowhill House

Set within a historic castle, this destination spa boasts a sumptuous health club and accommodation.

Relax at Stobo Castle

Photo by: Stobo Castle

Location: Lowlands

Stobo Castle Rest Room
Stobo Castle

Enjoy some sea air in the traditional fishing village of Dunure, whose harbour appears in Outlander.

Get some sea air at Dunure

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Two small boats moored in a small stone harbour on a sunny day, with seven lobster cages in the foreground.
Dunure

With its acclaimed restaurant and beautiful suites, this stately hotel celebrates the finer things in life.

Stay at the Kingsknowes Hotel

Photo by: Kingsnowes Hotel

Location: Lowlands

Kingsknowes Hotel, Galashiels, Scotland
Kingsknowes Hotel

Discover the largest surviving stretch of ancient woodland in Midlothian in this green space that once housed Scotland’s largest gunpowder mill. 

Explore Roslin Glen Country Park

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

A man and woman in hiking gear smile at each other while sitting on tree roots in a forest.
Roslin Glen Country Park

This grand mansion was the home of Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most celebrated writers.

What’s on at Abbotsford House

Photo by: VisitScotland / PRImaging

Location: Lowlands

Abbotsford House
Abbotsford House

Founded in 1136, this magnificent gothic abbey is where Robert the Bruce’s heart was buried.

Visit Melrose Abbey

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Lowlands

Melrose Abbey
Melrose Abbey

Discover the history of the Boyd family, who called Dean Castle home for over 400 years.

Go wild at Dean Castle Country Park

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Exterior of a small castle with a flagpole and a few trees on a sunny day.
Dean Castle Country Park

Meet the ‘Pink Palace’, star of Outlander series two.

Discover Drumlanrig Castle

Photo by: Visit South West Scotland / Damian Shields

Exterior of a sandstone palace with ornate turrets surrounded by woodland with high mountains in the distance in autumn.
Drumlanrig Castle

With its bounty of superb local produce, this community market is a must-visit for foodies.

Explore Kelso Farmers’ Market

Photo by: Visit Kelso

Location: Lowlands

Kelso Farmers’ Market
Kelso Farmers’ Market

Visit East Lothian’s last working watermill – recognise it from Outlander?

Visit Preston Mill

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

A stone water mill with an unusual conical roof beside a pool of water.
Preston Mill

This small organic farm has taken the foodie world by storm, winning awards for its sustainably grown produce.

Shop at East Coast Organics

Photo by: East Coast Organics

Location: Lowlands

East Coast Organics stall at Edinburgh Farmers’ Market, Castle Terrace, Edinburgh
East Coast Organics

Places to stay in the Borders and Lowlands

Dumfries

Follow in the footsteps of Scotland’s favourite son, Robert Burns, in Dumfries. Embrace local hospitality in a family-run guesthouse or hunker down in luxury at a country house hotel. There’s also a smattering of cosy self-catering cottages for more independence, including a range of options from EmbraceScotland.

Peebles

Only a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh, rural Peebles feels a world away from the capital. After a day hiking, biking or kayaking, choose from homely bed and breakfasts and hostels – or why not spend the night in a glamping tent or wigwam?

Melrose

The birthplace of rugby sevens, Melrose makes a great Borders base for the sports-inclined or green-fingered. Accommodation options range from Victorian coaching inns to the flexibility of touring caravan sites, as well as smart self-catered apartments. 

Explore nearby

  • From palaces to cobbled alleys and even a castle on a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

    Location: Edinburgh

    A young couple taking a selfie of view over historic town
  • Pushing the boundaries of art and culture, with a heart that beats through its people.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Tommy Ga-Ken Wan

    Two men looking at installation of suspended head sculptures
  • Historical hot property – evident in its castles, citadels and 2,000-year-old Hadrian’s Wall.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Chris Ceasar

    View from a distance of a castle on hill near a beach
  • Explore pristine woods, climb mountains and paddle the waters of Scotland's wild landscape.

    Photo by: VisitScotland

    A woman sitting and looking out across Loch Lomond
  • Dumfries, Scotland

    Welcome to the Queen of the South, the crowning glory of Dumfries and Galloway and the home of Scotland's national poet, Robert Burns.

    Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

    An ornate black and gold fountain with statues of people and fish in the centre of a shopping street.
  • Hit cultural hotspots and explore a spectacular national park on a 5-day adventure around central Scotland.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Paul Watt

    Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

    Two young women sat on the jetty of the waterfront in the evening with boats and buildings by the harbour.

Getting to the Borders and Lowlands

Spanning the width of the nation, the Borders and Lowlands are easy to travel to and get around with rail routes, roads and even by bike. With Edinburgh just around the corner and Northumberland to the south, you’ll find taking that first step across the Scottish border is easier than ever. Through well-connected road networks and trains with East Coast Main Line between London and Edinburgh, now’s the time to take a trip to Scotland.

Getting around

Whether you’re choosing to travel by train, bus, car or bike – you can explore all what the Scottish Borders and Lowlands have to offer, from its vast rolling countryside to expansive coastline. 

  • By bus

    Enjoy the scenic views on public transport with the Lowlands and Borders bus services. Find bus routes along the Borders with Borders Buses, and in the popular Dumfries and Galloway area, use Stagecoach Bus for timetables and route updates.

  • By bike

    Looking beyond the Borders and Lowlands' immense open space will lead you to a biking adventure. Follow a trail of expansive bike routes in the Scottish Borders for trips to bike-friendly towns and beautiful landscapes.

  • By car

    Getting around the Borders and Lowlands by car is simple. Being well-connected to England and main road networks leading to both Edinburgh and Glasgow means there’s no better time to jump in a car and explore the area. The Scottish Government is implementing a network of electric vehicle charging points across the Borders.

  • By train

    Travel along the Borders Railway connecting places all along the southern reaches of Scotland. For train journeys through the Lowlands use ScotRail to help plan your journey. For an all-in-one ticket option, use the Borders Explorer pass, connecting you to and from Edinburgh alongside bus routes through villages and towns.

Want to know more?

Get the inside knowledge and top travel tips from VisitScotland.

  • The Scottish Borders, known locally as the Borders, is located in the Southern Uplands of Scotland – the most southeastern part of mainland Scotland. The area is particularly rural and hilly but also hosts various historic sites, including the home of Sir Walter Scott. Two of Scotland’s National Scenic Areas are located here, Eildon and Leaderfoot as well as and Upper Tweeddale, making it ideal for lovers of nature and scenery.  

    The Borders are just over an hour’s journey from Edinburgh by car, meaning there are a range of day trip options from the Scottish capital. 

  • The Lowlands is an area in south-central Scotland. Its name comes from the region’s relatively flat terrain compared to other parts of the country and includes Scotland’s capital Edinburgh, as well as Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city by population.  

  • Dumfries is a market town located in Scotland’s Dumfries and Galloway council area, within the Scottish Borders. It has strong historical links to Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns, home to various statues and his mausoleum. It’s where the poet lived in the final years of his life, with his home now transformed into a museum where visitors can learn about his story. 

  • Peebles is another market town in the Scottish Borders, located along the River Tweed. It’s home to an array of picturesque Victorian architecture and is popular among those who love the outdoors due to its fishing scene and natural beauty. It also has its own castle, known as Neidpath – viewable via private tours – and a variety of arts hubs and festivals such as Beltane.  

  • Also located in the Scottish Borders, Melrose is similar to its counterparts, with a balance of historic sites and natural beauty. It’s particularly known for Melrose Abbey, related to Robert the Bruce, and for being the birthplace of Rugby Sevens, with the first Melrose Sevens tournament taking place in 1883. The Eildon Hills are right on its doorstep too, offering a range of hiking trails for various abilities.