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Sir Walter Scott’s house, a spectacular tapestry, stunning abbeys, a Buddhist monastery, a plunging waterfall and a very mysterious chapel. All are within just a short distance of the Tweed Valley.
So much to see and do in the Tweed Valley, but there are many treasures nearby too!
Follow the Tweed east towards Galashiels and you can explore one of the world’s largest community art projects. The Great Tapestry of Scotland charts the nation’s history, heritage and culture in textile form, and is the handiwork of 1,000 Scottish crafters. It’s hugely impressive, and a day is rarely enough time to cover it all.
A little further down the valley and you will arrive at Abbotsford, the sumptuous (and almost ruinous as it turned out) home of Sir Walter Scott, one of the most famous Scottish writers of all. This fairy-tale house set in gorgeous grounds on the banks of the Tweed is a must-visit.
If heading to Abbotsford, you really must also try to visit nearby Melrose Abbey. A magnificent ruin on a grand scale, it is said to be the final resting place of Robert the Bruce’s heart. It might even give you inspiration to explore the three other Borders abbeys at Dryburgh, Jedburgh and Kelso.
But what about travelling in other directions? Head south over the hills to the Ettrick Valley and you will come across the somewhat incongruous site of Samye Ling, a monastery and international centre of Buddhist teaching. It’s a truly fascinating – not to mention deeply peaceful – place to visit.
Nearby, on one of the hill roads to Moffat, is a natural rather than man-made wonder. Fed by the waters of Loch Skeen, the Grey Mare’s Tail is a dramatic waterfall that plunges more than 60m down the hillside. There are walks beside the waterfall and beyond to Loch Skeen – with rare upland plants and fabulous wildlife for company (including wild goats!).
Others will be pulled north in the direction of the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel. A much-visited site for generations, it’s profile was raised considerably following the publication of Dan Brown’s novel The Da Vinchi Code and subsequent film. A whole day can be spent combining a visit to the chapel and visitor centre with a walk in nearby Roslin Glen.
And on the way there (or back), don’t forget to drop into the grounds of Barony Castle at Eddleston to see the remarkable Great Polish Map of Scotland – a three dimensional scale-model of Scotland believed to be the largest terrain relief model in the world.
Further information
For much more on the many attractions found throughout the Scottish Borders and wider South of Scotland, visit the South of Scotland Destination Alliance.