This is a land of ancient abbeys, weaving and textile traditions, wooded river valleys and a love of horses where visitors can join in the excitement of the Common Ridings – great mounted gatherings which take place in many Border towns during the summer months. The Borders are home to a great choice of stately homes open to visitors: Manderston House, near Duns with its famous silver staircase, Floors Castle by Kelso, the largest occupied house in Scotland and the impressive Adam mansion, Paxton House, just inside the Scottish border.
Discover a fascinating heritage with a visit to Sir Walter Scott’s home, Abbotsford House near Melrose or a tour around the border abbeys of Jedburgh, Melrose, Kelso and Dryburgh, which present a dramatic portrayal of medieval life and wars of independence.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Borders offers extensive mountain bike and walking trails and the beautiful wooded river valleys offer plenty of activities for fishing, riding and pony trekking enthusiasts. Take part in the Scottish Borders Festival of Walking at Eyemouth in September and learn about the history, wildlife and culture from a local expert.