Things To Do In The Scottish Borders Itinerary

Retreat away from the crowds and enter the peaceful oasis that is Dawyck Botanic Garden. Home to a stunning collection of trees and shrubs, you'll be impressed by its vibrant bursts of colour all year round. When spring has sprung see swathes of snowdrops or immerse yourself in autumn colours, with hues of mustard yellows, glowing oranges, and vibrant reds to help you celebrate this picturesque season.

After exploring the garden, you'll have no doubt worked up an appetite. Stop off and soak in the views at the café. You'll find lots of tasty dishes to choose from and with their Taste Our Best accreditation, you can never go wrong on quality here.

Did you know? Dawyck Botanic Garden is just one of the many attractions that can be found along the John Buchan Way. This 13-mile route which starts in Peebles and finishes in Broughton boasts stunning scenery and a wide variety of attractions. Highlights include Caidemuir Hill, Stobo Kirk, John Buchan Centre and Neidpath Castle.

If you're willing to explore more of Peebles on foot, check out these other fantastic walking routes.

Fancy an adrenaline rush this morning? Explore the Borders' natural beauty on two wheels with Innerleithen 7Stanes. Located at Innerleithen Forest, this is a prime location for downhill riders and offers four main tracks to hone your skills. If you really want to test your mountain bike out, take on the challenging red-graded Innerleithen XC trail. This thrilling single-track route is complete with lots of jumps and drop offs for a challenging but fun ride.

It's not just mountain biking that Innerleithen is renowned for. Cool down and take a leisurely stroll through the forest with lots of walking trails to choose from or take in the beautiful scenery while on horseback.

It's fair to say that Scotland has a few tales to share from its historic past. Extend your stay in Innerleithen by visiting Traquair House. Once a hunting lodge for the kings and queens of Scotland, discover more about its turbulent history from Catholic priests seeking refuge in times of danger to the involvement of the Stuarts of Traquair during the Jacobite era.

Today, Traquair House helps visitors relive its past through its range of collections of embroideries, letters and much more. There is even a working brewery where it is believed that Mary Queen of Scots enjoyed a tipple or two. Stock up on a few ales or bring back home a souvenir for friends and family.

We're very lucky to share with you wonderful stories of Scotland's historic past, and Melrose Abbey is no exception. Originally founded by David I in 1136 for the Cistercian Order, the abbey is believed to be the final resting place of Robert the Bruce's heart. Although largely destroyed by Richard II's English army in 1385, you can take an audio tour around the site and see its striking architectural details up close. A few significant features to spot include hobgoblins, cooks with ladles and even a bagpipe playing pig. The question is, can you find them all?

Why visit one Borders abbey when you can visit another three, you're on holiday after all! Discover the magnificent ruined abbeys of Dryburgh, Jedburgh and Kelso along The Borders Abbeys Way. This 103 km walk takes you on a colourful journey through history dating back to the 12th century. Admire the picturesque scenery as you stop off to explore the pretty towns and villages or if you're looking to catch a bite, head to the River Tweed and River Teviot for a bit of morning fishing.

Scotland has produced many great literary figures throughout the years, from Robert Burns to Val McDermid. No matter what your favourite genre is, there is lots of Scottish literature waiting to be added to your reading list. Today we're here to shine a spotlight on another of the country's finest writers, Sir Walter Scott.

Helping to capture the imaginations from readers around the world, step inside his home and see where it all began! You'll stumble across shelves upon shelves of books in his personal study, a grand library and lots of artefacts on display relating back to some of his most famous works. Outside, adults can enjoy the peaceful setting of the Regency Walled Gardens while the fun awaits at the Play Trail for younger visitors, complete with a wooden fortress and seven-metre tunnel slide.

2021 celebrates 250 years since the birth of Sir Walter Scott and Abbotsford are gearing up to celebrate in true birthday style. Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming events due to take place throughout Scotland's Year of Stories in 2022.

We have another opportunity for you to visit a beautiful garden on this trip. Enjoy a slice of paradise at Harmony Garden where you will wander around freshly cut lawns and view spectacular displays of flowerbeds full of vibrant colour. Make sure you have your camera at the ready, the garden is a great location to admire the ruins of Melrose Abbey and the Eildon Hills from a distance.

Fancy staying that wee bit longer? The garden also offers self-catering accommodation, perfect if you're looking to rest your head for the night.

Impressively grand and very much still intact, Scotland's largest inhabited castle is impressive even without its 5-star status. Built in 1721 by architect William Adam, it has been a family home to the Innes-Ker family for over 300 years.

With so much to see and do, one day may not be enough to view its vast collection of fine art, porcelain and tapestries, extensive gardens and woodlands walks, as well as its child-friendly adventure playground.

Make food & drink a priority during your travels by exploring Scotland's culinary scene at Born in the Borders. The region prides itself on showcasing local produce and you'll find everything under the sun when it comes to foodie delights. Enjoy alfresco dining at the Pizza Garden or a spot of afternoon tea at the café. You can also try some classic Scottish dishes including cock-a-leekie soup and smoked salmon or if it's a burger you're craving, we highly recommend ordering the Buckfast Burger. To wash it all down, take a tour around the brewery and quench your thirst at the end with a refreshing pint. If you simply can't get enough of Scotland's food & drink, make sure to pop into the shop where you'll find craft gin, Tunnocks tea cakes and much more to take away in your suitcase.

Anyone for grass sledging? Yes, you read that right! This unique but fun activity is the latest craze currently sweeping the Borders. Grab your helmet and sledge as you uncontrollably zip down grassy slopes. The attraction is also a haven for osprey watching so be sure to bring your binoculars to see these magnificent birds of prey in action.