Things to see and do in the Scottish Borders

Lose yourself amongst the spectacular scenery of the Scottish Borders and experience a wonderful array of things to see and do. Take in the dramatic history and vibrant culture of the land of Sir Walter Scott at ruined castles and exciting festivals, uncover a wonderful arts and crafts scene, witness the Scottish Borders Common Ridings, enjoy delicious local produce and explore miles of rolling hills, leafy valleys and the beautiful Berwickshire coast.

Landscapes

Find and explore the landscapes of the Scottish Borders, which are full of beautiful hills, rolling fields and other stunning scenery.

Looking over to Coldingham, Scottish Borders

Activities & sports

Find activities and sports in the Scottish Borders to enjoy during your stay, with a selection of activities available on land and water.

Two mountain bikers on a woodland track in Glentress Forest, Tweed Valley Forest Park

Golf

Find golf courses and activities in the Scottish Borders, which has much to offer golfers, with internationally renowned courses, spectacular scenery and plenty of hidden gems to discover.

Two golfers on the fairway of the 7th hole at Roxburghe Golf Club near Kelso

Historic buildings

Find many historic buildings and homes which you can visit in the Scottish Borders to learn about the region’s tumultuous past.

A hot air balloon floating above Floors Castle, Scottish Borders

Parks & gardens

Find the many beautiful parks and gardens of the Scottish Borders. Explore the vast grounds of an estate, relax in the walled gardens or take in the stunning array of native and exotic plants.

Looking across the garden of Paxton House, Scottish Borders

Food & drink

Find restaurants, cafes and food & drink attractions in the Scottish Borders. Bring back local delicacies from farmers’ markets or treat yourself to slice of fruity Selkirk Bannock.

Local produce on sale at Borders Fayre in Duns

Museums & galleries

Find museums and galleries of the Scottish Borders, which are home to a number of unique and high quality exhibitions and displays. Learn about the geography of the area and witness the story of the rural community over the last century.

A model of Jim Clark's Lotus car on display at the Jim Clark Room, Duns

Abbeys

Find the beautiful abbeys of the Scottish Borders. Walk amongst the magnificent ruins of the medieval abbeys of Melrose, Jedburgh, Kelso and Dryburgh, and see the remains of a Trinitarian Friary at Cross Kirk.

Inside of Jedburgh Abbey, Scottish Borders

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Looking across moorland to Hermitage Castle, north of Newcastleton

Battles on the border

The calm countryside of the Scottish Borders belies a turbulent past that can still be seen at ancient ruins and grand estates.

Scene from Brave - Merida follows a wisp with standing stones and tall trees in the background

Brave

Bring Brave to life across the Scottish Borders and uncover a great selection of activities and attractions.

An exhibition room in the Borders Textile Towerhouse, Hawick

Fashionable fabrics

The Scottish Border is renowned throughout the world for its luxury knitwear and also boasts a burgeoning arts and crafts scene.

A table set for a high tea of fish and chips and baked treats at the Black Bull, Lauder

Soor Plooms and Jethart snails

The Scottish Borders boasts a delectable array of home-grown produce including mouthwatering boiled sweets.

Cyclists heading to St Abbs on the Coldingham to St Abbs Head Local Cycling Trail

Walking and cycling the Borders

The Scottish Borders offers a variety of outdoor activities in beautiful surroundings from tranquil walks to mountain biking.

Looking towards the House and gardens of Abbotsford, Melrose

Literary connections

The landscape and history of the Scottish Borders have strong literary connections to many writers including Sir Walter Scott.

Scottish Borders events

Riders returning from the Selkirk marches galloping at the Toll
Common Ridings

The Scottish Borders boasts an ancient equestrian heritage that is celebrated every year during the Common Ridings Festival.

Classic cars travelling through Selkirk in the Scottish Borders
Classic cars

The Scottish Borders is a great region to explore in a classic car and there are several events where you can see classic cars.

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Things to do around Scotland