Things to Do in the Scottish Borders: Our Personal Highlights Guide
- Uta Varty
- 13 minutes ago
- 6 min read
The Scottish Borders has a habit of surprising people. Visitors who planned a day or two often find themselves extending their stay, lured in by another abbey, another walking route, another evening in a good restaurant they had not expected to find this far from a city.
Here at Bowden House, we have spent years watching guests discover just how much there is to do right on our doorstep. This guide covers our personal highlights -- the things we genuinely love about living and hosting here, and the experiences we think every visitor to the Borders should try to fit in.
The Borders Abbeys: Scotland's Most Beautiful Ruins
Four great abbeys rose across the Scottish Borders in the 12th century, each still whispering its own stories and secrets, sure to evoke the inner poet in anyone who wanders through their ruins. Melrose Abbey, closest to us at just three miles from Bowden House, is arguably the most elusive -- with its carved stonework and the legend of Robert the Bruce's heart buried within its walls, lend the ruins an air of mysticism and half-forgotten magic. Whether a cold foggy day or dazzling sunshine, its a trip that never disappoints, with optimal seating under a large oak serving as the place to read about Borders traditions. Dryburgh, where Sir Walter Scott lies buried, is the most serene of the four, with magnificent century old trees and a view overlooking the river Tweed, it makes for the perfect picnic spot or daydreaming nook. Jedburgh, stands most triumphantly, as the best preserved, with every step along the nave transporting you into outlander, preparing for a royal crowning. Kelso Abbey, completes the quartet waving to you from across the river as you drive into the historic town. We recommend at least 2 hours at Melrose Abbey and Dryburgh Abbey or if you have time, a pilgrimage to all four will have you romanticising the good old borders life as you learn about the rich history of the Border Abbeys. Pair your visit with the 4 Abbeys Cycle Route for one of the great Borders adventures.
Walking the Eildon Hills
The three peaks of the Eildons rise directly behind Bowden House, and are proudly verified as great hikes according to our two dogs. The Eildon Hills and the spectacular 360 degree view of the Borders are really special to us, even making their way into our family rings. The circular route from Melrose takes around two to three hours and is one of the finest short walks in southern Scotland, for the views from the summit stretch across the Tweed valley and on a good day far beyond, to seek out the Cheviots.
Of course Bowden House keeps a selection of walking maps for our lovely guests to borrow, and we are happy to suggest routes suitable for any and all abilities. After a day on the hills, our boot room and drying facilities mean you can arrive back in any weather and be comfortable within minutes, knowing that while your clothes are drying, a hot cup of tea or coffee awaits you upon welcome.
St Cuthbert's Way
Sitting on the doorstep to Bowden House, the greatest treasure of the Scottish Borders, the St Cuthberts way, meanders through our little part of the world. Starting in Melrose, the beautiful long-distance walking route, has you following in the divine footsteps of St Cuthbert himself on his journey to Lindisfarne, known today as Holy Island. Through troughs and turns, the 62-mile route takes around six days. Though if you would prefer a taster of the trail, we particularly recommend the Melrose section of the walk. It makes for a gorgeous day tour through the Borders countryside and with packed lunches and a smile we will wave you goodbye as you delve into what is sure to be a walk you won't forget.
Cycling: From Gentle Trails to Epic Routes
The Borders is excellent cycling hub. The 4 Abbeys Cycle Route is a 55-mile circular taking in all four Borders Abbeys and is widely regarded as one of the most rewarding rides in Scotland. The Tweed Cycleway follows the river for 89 miles through some of the most beautiful valley scenery in the country. For mountain bikers, Glentress near Peebles offers award-winning trails from green beginner tracks to testing black routes.
We provide secure storage for all bikes at Bowden House, along with our dedicated drying room for wet kit -- because this is Scotland, and the weather has its own ideas.
Abbotsford House: Sir Walter Scott's World
One of the most remarkable houses in Scotland, Abbotsford House — home to the iconic Sir Walter Scott — sits a mere 15-minute drive from Bowden House. Scott built it on the banks of the Tweed as a monument to his love of Scottish history and landscape, filling its halls with extraordinary collections gathered over a lifetime. From the armoury to the vast library, there is a palpable essence of the man himself throughout the house. So we welcome you to explore the magnificent garden and lovely tea room... just don't forget to smile at the fabulous volunteers.... if you get lucky, you might even spot my daughter :)
Golf: Courses With a View
The Scottish Borders has almost as many golf courses as it does sheep, outnumbering any other county in the country. We can count over 20 within easy reach of Bowden House. Melrose Golf Club, founded in 1880, sits with the Eildon Hills as its backdrop and is one of the most scenically situated courses in the Borders, and lucky for you is a mere 5 minute drive or hours walk from your Bowden hub. St Boswells, Minto and Hawick all offer excellent golf at excellent value as herons sit and watch your drive from the neighbouring Tweed. As avid Golfers, we would be more than happy to help you plan your rounds.
Fishing on the Tweed
The River Tweed runs through the valley below Bowden House and is one of the great salmon rivers of Britain. The Borders stretch attracts anglers from around the world, particularly during the autumn run. If you are planning a fishing trip, let us know in advance and we will help with everything we can -- from pointing you towards a local ghillie to making sure your kit is stored and dried properly.
The Gardens and Great Houses of the Borders
The Borders has a remarkable concentration of outstanding gardens. Harmony Garden in Melrose, with its walled garden and views of the Abbey, is a five-minute walk from the town centre. Floors Castle near Kelso -- the largest inhabited castle in Scotland -- has exceptional formal gardens and is well worth a visit. Dawyck Botanic Garden near Peebles, part of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, is extraordinary in spring during the rhododendron blossom. Our personal favourite, however, is possibly the best rose garden in Scottland. Check out Carolside Gardens in Earlston to be entchanted by the amazing horticulture held within the beautiful grounds and gardens.
Great Food Near Bowden House
Melrose is not large, but it eats well. The restaurant scene has developed considerably in recent years and there are some excellent options within easy reach. Ask us when you arrive as our recommendations change with the seasons and we will always tell you the hidden treasures where we personally like to eat. Of course, aside from our vast breakfast, we also offer packed lunches on request for days out on the hills or the river.
Making Bowden House Your Base
Everything in this guide is within reach of our front door. We are three miles from Melrose, 10 minutes from Tweedbank station and perfectly placed for exploring the wider Borders. We keep walking maps, can help plan cycling routes, arrange packed lunches and store all your outdoor kit. And Edinburgh is just 55 minutes by train from Tweedbank, so a day in the city is always on the table too. A fabulous outing is just as important to us as a comforting stay, so please don't hesitate to ask for advice as we want Bowden and the area to seem just as homely to you as it is to us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in the Scottish Borders?
Top experiences include Melrose Abbey, the Eildon Hills walk, Abbotsford House, the 4 Abbeys Cycle Route, salmon fishing on the Tweed and golf at Melrose or St Boswells. Ask us for personal recommendations when you arrive -- we know this area well.
Is the Scottish Borders good for walking?
Yes. The Eildon Hills, St Cuthbert's Way and the Southern Upland Way all offer excellent walking, with options from 2-hour circuits to multi-day long-distance routes. A hidden gem remains the Duchess route, with fewer walkers but just as splendid a scenery. We provide walking maps and boot storage for guests.
What is the best base for exploring the Scottish Borders?
Bowden House is 3 miles from Melrose, with free, secure/gated parking, a boot room, bike storage, walking maps/books on loan and packed lunches on request. Everything in the Borders is within easy reach.
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