The John Buchan Trail
Scottish Borders
This tour will visit many places mentioned in John Buchan's work, and introduce you to the scenery and history that inspired him. Born in Perth, Buchan spent many childhood holidays in Tweeddale and this area had such a huge impact on him, he took the name Lord Tweedsmuir, after his elevation to the House of Lords.
Day by day trip details
Buchan Country
From Peebles take the A72 and stop off at Neidpath Castle (1). Turn left for Broughton and Stobo onto the B712, passing Dawyck Botanic Garden (2).
Continue along B712 and turn right onto the A701 through Broughton, to visit the John Buchan Visitor Centre (3).
Return by the A701 towards Moffat, follow the road past The Crook Inn to Tweedsmuir itself where you must take the turning on the left for Talla (4) and St Mary's Loch (5). Follow the single-track road (with passing places) over a steep ascent after Talla. Once at the top it is worth looking at the panoramic views behind. Join the A708 at Cappercleugh and turn left to Selkirk at the scene of the Battle of Philiphaugh (1645) now the present rugby ground. Passing Philiphaugh turn right into the town of Selkirk where you can find Sir Walter Scott's Courtroom (6).
Selkirk & Traquair
Retrace your route back through Selkirk and take a right onto the A707 through Fairnilee. Beyond Caddonfoot take the left hand turning signposted Eilbank, which runs parallel to the A72 on the other side of the Tweed. Continue on to the village of Traquair and Traquair House (7), turning left to St Mary's Loch and then right to Peebles on the B7062.
Continue through Cardrona and Kirkburn. Visit Kailzie Gardens (8) on your right before returning to Peebles.
Places on route
Why not stop off at some of the following places of interest along your way?
