Castles & Stately Homes in the Scottish Borders

Abbotsford is the extraordinary home of Sir Walter Scott, a well knows 19th century novelist and biggest author of his day.

Floors Castle is the largest inhabited castle in Scotland and has been home to the Dukes of Roxburghe since it was built in 1721 .

Beautiful building with collection of fine art, porcelain, tapestries, grand rooms and superb views over the River Tweed and the Cheviot Hills to the south. Extensive grounds with lovely gardens and good cafes.

Listed as one of Britain's best stately homes by The Telegraph, Mellerstain is a must-see. "A treasure, wonderful gardens and beautiful house!"

Experience one of Scotland's finest stately homes. This outstanding Georgian mansion house is a unique eg. of Adam design, built in two stages - the two wings in 1725 by Scottish architect William Adam and the large central block completed in 1778 by his more famous son, Robert. Some say this is one of Robert Adam's finest works, complemented by the fine art, period furniture, china and embroidery collections within.

Its idyllic location does not disappoint, set in acres of parkland and formal gardens with breathtaking views over the lawns and ornamental lake to the Cheviot Hills.

The 65 ft Smailholm Tower was built by a well-known Scottish Borders family in the first half of the 15th century. You can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside from Smailholm Tower’s battlements.

Inside the tower is a model of this Pringle residence and a charming collection of costume figures and tapestries relating to Sir Walter Scott's Minstrelsy of the Scottish Borders.

Spanning nearly a thousand years of Scottish history, Traquair today is a unique attraction for all ages. Trace the footsteps of the kings of Scotland as you climb the turnpike staircase and discover how priests escaped in times of danger. See the wonderful collections of embroideries, letters and relics of former times.

Outside you can wander in the extensive grounds and woodlands, entertain children in the maze and adventure playground or simply relax for lunch or tea in the 1745 Cottage Restaurant.

Manderston is an Edwardian mansion set in 56 acres of formal gardens, located just outside of Duns in the Scottish Borders.

Manderston is a stunning example of Edwardian architecture, the supreme country house in Scotland of it’s era, Manderston’s buildings, park and gardens form an ensemble that is unique in Britain. It was built in 1905 for Sir James Miller by the architect John Kinross who, when he asked how much he could spend, was told it simply didn’t matter. As a result the house shows a detail and quality of craftsmanship that is rarely seen, and incorporates all Edwardian modern conveniences, such as electricity, plumbing and central heating.

Manderston offers sumptuous state rooms including a most charming and beautiful ball room, the only silver staircase in the world, marble floors and unexpected insights into life at the turn of the century both upstairs and downstairs. The original kitchens are particularly well designed for their time. A definite must-see.