Monymusk

Monymusk, hidden among woodlands on the hillside just outside the Borders town of Galashiels, across the Tweed from Sir Walter Scott's Abbotsford, is a fascinating and most unusual house. Built in 1958 and restyled 20 years later, it is one of these oneoff, architect-designed, cutting-edge modern houses which were the last word in chic in the 1970s.
Owned by the same family since 1970, it has now been carefully brought up to date, while retaining the style of its period. Centrally heated with open fire in the sitting room and most comfortably appointed, it makes a memorable holiday home.
Its setting, too, is second to none. From its extensive garden (furniture, barbecue), one can walk right out on to Gala Hill, from the brow of which, wrote local poet Roger Quin, you can 'gaze on Scotland's Eden', looking towards Melrose (4m) and the Eildon Hills.
Galashiels (all facilities, swimming pool, cinema) is ideal for touring in all directions whether to the Berwickshire coast, Edinburgh, or into the Border Hills. Walking, cycling, riding, fishing, golf, visiting stately homes and castles - all these activities may be enjoyed locally.